A podiatrist is a medical specialist who focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions of the foot and ankle. They care for issues such as heel pain, bunions, ingrown nails, sprains, fractures, and diabetic foot problems. Preparing for your first visit helps ensure a smooth experience. Bring a list of symptoms, a list of medications, any recent lab results, and check with your insurance company to confirm coverage. A podiatrist will examine your feet, discuss your concerns, and create a treatment plan that supports comfort, mobility, and long-term wellness. If you have ongoing foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions for various foot and ankle conditions.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact David Williams, DPM from El Paso Feet. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

• Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
• Use innovative methods to treat conditions
• Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
• Correct walking patterns and balance
• Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in El Paso, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toenail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, occurs when fungi invade the nail bed, nail plate, or surrounding tissue. The infection can develop from dermatophytes, yeasts, or molds and often begins at the edge of the nail before spreading deeper. As the fungal infection progresses, the toenail can become thick, brittle, and discolored, turning yellow, brown, or white. In some cases, the nail separates from the nail bed, causing discomfort or pain while walking or wearing shoes. Affected nails can also produce a foul odor and crumble at the edges. Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, making feet enclosed in tight shoes or damp socks more vulnerable. A podiatrist can diagnose the type of fungal infection through visual examination and laboratory testing, helping determine the most effective course of treatment to restore healthy nail growth. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment options, which may include prescribed medication.

For more information about treatment, contact David Williams, DPM of El Paso Feet. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in El Paso, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Peroneal tendinitis occurs when the tendons running along the outer ankle become inflamed or weakened due to overuse, repetitive strain, or injury. These tendons, which connect the peroneal muscles to the bones of the foot, help stabilize the ankle, point the foot downward, and turn it outward. People with high arches, a history of ankle sprains, or those who frequently engage in running or sports involving quick pivoting are at a higher risk. Symptoms include gradual pain on the outer ankle that worsens with activity, stiffness in the morning, and discomfort when the foot is turned inward. A podiatrist can diagnose peroneal tendinitis through an examination and imaging, and provide treatment to reduce inflammation, correct abnormal foot mechanics, and restore tendon strength. In more severe cases, immobilization or surgery may be required if the tendon has significant tearing. If you have symptoms of peroneal tendinitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with David Williams, DPM from El Paso Feet. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in El Paso, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetes can quietly damage the nerves that allow you to feel sensations in your feet, a condition known as diabetic neuropathy. When blood sugar levels remain high for long periods of time, the tiny blood vessels that nourish the nerves become weakened. Over time, this limits circulation and causes the nerves to lose their ability to send signals properly. Many people first notice tingling, burning, or numbness in their toes or soles, which can lead to unnoticed injuries or sores. Without early care, these wounds may become infected and difficult to heal. A podiatrist can help manage diabetic neuropathy by checking for changes in sensation, recommending protective footwear, and advising on daily foot inspections. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can prevent nerve-related complications and maintain foot health.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact David Williams, DPM from El Paso Feet. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in El Paso, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.