Bunions are a foot problem that can change the shape of the big toe joint. A bunion forms when the big toe moves toward the other toes while the joint at its base becomes more prominent. This can create a bump along the inside of the foot. Bunions may develop slowly, and symptoms can seem minor. Over time, the area may become painful, swollen, or irritated by shoes.

Several factors can contribute to bunion development. Genetics can play an important role because inherited foot structure may make someone more likely to develop a bunion. Wearing high heels can increase pressure on the front of the foot and push the toes into a narrow space. Arthritis can contribute to changes that encourage bunion formation. Causes include abnormal foot mechanics and repeated stress. Bunions are not caused by one factor alone.

Common symptoms include pain around the big toe, redness, and tenderness. People may develop thickened skin or a callus where the foot rubs against footwear. The big toe may lean toward the second toe, making shoes difficult to wear. Risk factors include arthritis and footwear that squeezes the toes. Activities that place repeated pressure on the forefoot may also make symptoms noticeable.

A podiatrist can examine the foot, evaluate alignment, and determine whether arthritis or another condition is contributing to symptoms. Treatment may begin with wider shoes, protective padding, or other ways to reduce pressure. Custom orthotics may help improve foot mechanics when appropriate. If pain continues, a podiatrist may discuss treatment options and determine whether surgery is needed to correct alignment. If you have developed a bunion, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions. 

If you are suffering from bunions, 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 Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Podiatrists often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your provider.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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.

Cracked heels develop when the skin around the heel becomes dry, thick, and less flexible. Pressure from walking can cause hardened skin to split, creating visible lines or deeper fissures. Symptoms may include roughness, flaking, and painful cracks. Environmental conditions often contribute. Heat and humidity can increase moisture loss, while cold weather can leave skin dry and irritated. Frequent bathing and harsh skin cleansers may remove natural oils, making the heel skin more likely to crack.

Risk factors include long periods of standing, walking, and wearing open-back shoes that allow the heel to spread. Age can also increase risk because skin gradually loses moisture and elasticity. Repeated exposure to hot water, dry indoor air, and aggressive scrubbing may worsen dryness. People with certain health conditions affecting skin or circulation can develop persistent cracked heels. Recognizing these factors can make prevention easier and help you address dryness before painful fissures develop.

A podiatrist will examine the heels, assess crack depth, and look for irritation or infection. Treatment may include professional removal of thickened skin and a moisturizing cream containing urea or another ingredient. Your podiatrist may also recommend supportive footwear that reduces heel pressure. If infection or inflammation is present, medication may be needed. You may be advised to avoid harsh cleansers, prolonged hot showers, and excessive scraping while keeping the heels moisturized regularly.

Preventing cracked heels requires consistent care and attention to environmental triggers. Use a gentle cleanser, apply moisturizer after bathing, and wear supportive shoes that protect the heel. During cold weather, protect your feet from dry air and avoid very hot water. Seek podiatric care if cracks become deep, painful, or difficult to heal. If you have painful cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, 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.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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.

Foot pain from wearing sandals is common when footwear does not provide enough support for the arch or heel. Flat sandals can allow the foot to roll inward while walking. Thin soles may also increase pressure on the bottom of the foot. Symptoms can include aching or tenderness after walking. Risk factors include prolonged walking, existing foot problems, and suddenly switching from supportive shoes to sandals. People with poor arch support needs may notice discomfort quickly.

Wearing unsupportive sandals also can aggravate certain conditions. Plantar fasciitis is irritation involving the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot. It often causes heel pain after rest. Bunions are structural changes that cause the big toe to move toward the other toes. They may cause swelling and pressure near the big toe joint. Morton’s neuroma involves irritation around a nerve between the toes. It can cause burning pain beneath the forefoot. Seeing a podiatrist can help deal with any of these conditions.

A podiatrist begins by reviewing your symptoms, footwear habits and medical history. The foot is examined for tenderness, swelling, and pressure areas. Imaging may be recommended when structural problems need evaluation. Treatment depends on the diagnosis and may include wearing supportive footwear, custom orthotics, or medication, if appropriate. A podiatrist may also recommend stretching exercises, if suitable. Persistent bunions or nerve pain may require additional treatment if conservative care does not provide relief.

Choosing sandals with arch support, cushioning, and a secure fit can help reduce strain during walking and daily activities. Avoid unsupportive sandals for long periods of time when your feet already hurt. Gradually increase walking time and pay attention to changes in pain. Persistent symptoms should not be ignored because early care may prevent worsening. If foot pain caused by wearing sandals continues, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief tips, and guidance on choosing more appropriate shoes.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot 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.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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.

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.