Morton’s neuroma is a painful thickening of tissue surrounding a nerve in the ball of the foot. It is benign, meaning it is not cancerous. The condition usually develops between the third and fourth toes, although it can also form between the second and third toes. Pressure on the nerve can cause burning pain, tingling, or numbness. Some patients describe feeling as though a pebble is trapped beneath the foot or a sock is bunched under the toes. Symptoms can spread into nearby toes and become worse with standing or activity.

The exact reason Morton’s neuroma begins is not always clear. Wearing high-heeled shoes that have a narrow toe box can squeeze the front of the foot and increase pressure on the nerve. Running and other high-impact activities can also irritate this area. Certain foot shapes or movement problems may place added stress on the ball of the foot. A podiatrist examines the painful area and gently presses the sides of the foot to check whether this brings on the symptoms. X-rays can rule out a fracture or another bone problem. An ultrasound or MRI scan may be ordered when the diagnosis remains uncertain.

Treatment from a podiatrist focuses on easing pressure and calming nerve irritation. The podiatrist may recommend shoes with a wide toe box, a low heel, and proper support. Custom orthotics can improve how pressure is distributed across the foot. Special padding can also reduce stress near the affected nerve. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, the podiatrist may provide an injection to reduce pain and inflammation. When these treatments do not provide enough relief, surgery may be considered to create more room for the nerve or remove the damaged section. If you have symptoms of Morton's neuroma, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact David Williams, DPM of El Paso Feet. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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.

Plantar warts, also called verrucas, are thickened skin growths that develop on the soles of the feet and toes. They are caused by human papillomavirus, or HPV, which infects the skin’s outer layer. The virus can spread through direct contact with infected skin scales on damp public floors, including changing rooms, showers, and swimming-pool areas. Plantar warts can also spread to nearby skin through scratching or rubbing. They are not hereditary and are non-cancerous. A wart can be small or grow larger than one centimeter, and some appear in tightly packed groups called mosaic warts.

Plantar warts can develop anywhere on the sole, but those on weight-bearing areas can become uncomfortable or painful when walking. Their surface can look rough and raised, and tiny black dots can appear inside the growth. These dots are small, clotted blood vessels. A podiatrist can examine the area and determine whether the growth is a plantar wart or another problem, like a corn. This distinction matters because the conditions require different care. Some plantar warts disappear without treatment, while others remain stubborn. Warts can also return after successful treatment because treatment does not prevent a new HPV infection.

A podiatrist can recommend treatment when a plantar wart causes pain, spreads, or interferes with daily activity. Treatment can include salicylic-acid preparations, cryotherapy, or other office-based methods. Cryotherapy uses liquid nitrogen to freeze the wart and can cause temporary soreness or blistering. Surgery is another option for selected stubborn warts. Treatment results vary, and no method guarantees permanent clearance. Podiatrists can also advise patients on reducing pressure on painful areas and lowering the chance of spreading the virus. If you have developed one or more plantar warts, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief, treatment, and prevention tips.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact David Williams, DPM from El Paso Feet. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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.

Peroneal tendonitis is inflammation or irritation of the peroneal tendons along the outer side of the ankle. These tendons connect muscles in the lower leg to bones in the foot and help stabilize the ankle during activity. Symptoms can include outer ankle pain, tenderness, and difficulty moving. Some people notice weakness in the ankle or a burning sensation. Symptoms may become more noticeable after running, hiking, or activities that repeatedly stress the ankle. These structures support ankle balance.

Risk factors for peroneal tendonitis can include repetitive ankle motion, especially when activity increases too quickly. Running on uneven surfaces can place extra strain on the tendons. Ankle injuries, including sprains, may irritate these structures. Wearing poor footwear can contribute by providing inadequate support. Additionally, people with foot alignment concerns may experience additional stress because tendons work harder. Without care, continued irritation can make everyday movement uncomfortable. A history of repeated ankle sprains can also raise risk.

A podiatrist begins treatment by examining the ankle and reviewing symptoms and previous injuries. The foot and ankle may be checked for tenderness, swelling, and weakness. Imaging tests may be recommended to rule out another injury. Treatment can include reducing aggravating activities and using supportive footwear or bracing. A podiatrist may also recommend medication and provide guidance for a gradual return to activity. Severe tendon damage may require advanced treatment.

Paying attention to outer ankle pain can often help prevent worsening. Resting from activities that trigger symptoms can give irritated tendons time to recover. Wearing supportive shoes may reduce strain. Seek professional care if swelling, weakness, or burning persists, especially if pain interferes with walking. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat peroneal tendonitis. 

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be 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 tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• 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.

Runner's toe develops when a toenail repeatedly strikes the inside of a shoe. The pressure and friction can damage tiny blood vessels beneath the nail, causing blood to collect. The nail can look red, purple, or black. Pain, swelling, and pressure can also develop. The problem usually affects the big toe or second toe because one is often the longest. Long-distance running raises the risk, especially on downhill routes. Shoes that are too short, narrow, or loose can allow repeated contact with the toe. A long toe or changes in foot structure can add to the problem.

The injured nail can loosen, separate from the skin beneath it, or eventually fall off. A new toenail generally grows, but this process can take several months. Repeated injuries can cause the nail to become thick or misshapen. A dark toenail does not always indicate runner's toe. Fungal infections and other health concerns can cause similar changes. A podiatrist can examine the nail and determine why it has changed color. The evaluation includes questions about running habits, shoe fit, and recent injuries. The podiatrist can also check for infection or damage to the tissue that produces the nail. Severe pain or a dark mark that does not move as the nail grows deserves prompt attention.

Treatment depends on the injury and the amount of pressure beneath the nail. A podiatrist can safely drain trapped blood to reduce pain. The doctor can trim or remove a damaged nail and protect the sensitive skin below it. The podiatrist can also assess toe length, foot shape, and running motion to identify sources of pressure. Guidance can include choosing properly-fitted running shoes with enough toe room. It can also address lacing methods and suitable socks. These changes can reduce sliding and rubbing inside the shoe. If you have developed runner's toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief, treatment, and prevention tips.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, 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.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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.