A broken toe occurs when one of the small bones in a toe cracks or breaks. The injury can range from a small hairline crack to a break in which pieces of bone move out of their normal position. Broken toes can result from stubbing a toe, dropping a heavy object on the foot, or forcefully bending a toe. A stress fracture, which is a small crack caused by repeated pressure, can also develop after a sudden increase in activities like running or walking. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and bruising. Some patients hear or feel a snap or pop when the injury happens. The injured toe can also appear crooked or out of position.

A podiatrist can evaluate a painful toe to determine whether a fracture is present and how serious the injury is. The examination can include checking the toe for tenderness, swelling, and changes in position. An X-ray can help confirm a fracture or determine whether the toe is dislocated. Treatment depends on which toe is injured and where the break is located. The severity of the fracture also affects treatment decisions. Injuries to the big toe can require more medical attention because this toe has an important role in balance and movement. A podiatrist can determine the appropriate treatment and monitor the toe as the bone heals.

Podiatric treatment for a broken toe focuses on keeping the injured bone in a proper position and protecting it while it heals. Depending on the fracture, a podiatrist can use buddy taping, a splint, or a cast to stabilize the toe. Buddy taping means securing the injured toe to a neighboring healthy toe for support. More serious fractures can require additional treatment, and surgery can be an option for a severe break. A podiatrist can also determine when it is safe to return to regular activities. Proper treatment is important because an untreated fracture can lead to lasting pain, limited movement, or a change in the toe's shape. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Richard Galperin, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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

Swelling of the feet can develop when excess fluid collects in the tissues of the feet, ankles, or lower legs. This buildup is called edema. Swelling can affect one or both feet and can sometimes extend into the legs. Gravity can make swelling more noticeable in the lower body, especially after standing for long periods of time. Long airplane flights or car rides can also contribute to swollen feet and ankles. In some cases, swelling follows an injury or surgery involving the foot, ankle, or leg. The area can feel tight, heavy, or uncomfortable.

Several health problems can cause swelling in the feet. Poor circulation in the leg veins can allow fluid to collect in the lower limbs. A blood clot or infection can also cause swelling, particularly when one leg is affected. Swelling can also be connected to problems involving the heart, kidneys, or liver because these conditions can cause excess fluid to remain in the body. Certain medications can contribute to swelling as well. Sudden swelling deserves attention, especially when the foot or leg becomes red or warm. Swelling accompanied by chest pain or shortness of breath requires immediate emergency care.

A podiatrist can examine swollen feet and ankles and look for signs that help identify the cause. The evaluation includes discussing when the swelling began, whether one or both feet are affected, and what other symptoms are present. A podiatrist can assess circulation and examine the skin for changes linked to swelling. Diagnostic testing can also help determine what is causing the problem. Treatment depends on the underlying cause rather than the swelling alone. If your feet or ankles have become swollen, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Richard Galperin, DPM of Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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

Foot blisters from hiking are fluid-filled pockets that form when repeated friction irritates the skin. They commonly appear on the heel, toes, or ball of the foot while walking. Symptoms include tenderness, redness, and a raised fluid-filled area. The first few days of hiking are important because your feet are adjusting to increased distance and footwear. Blisters often develop in the same spot when friction continues against vulnerable skin. Recognizing early irritation can help prevent a hiking blister from worsening.

Poorly fitting hiking boots can allow foot movement, while tight shoes can create pressure points. Moisture from sweat can soften the skin and increase friction. Rough socks, longer hikes, and sudden increases in mileage may also contribute. Uneven trails can cause your feet to slide inside footwear, creating repeated rubbing. A blister may recur because that area remains vulnerable to friction. Properly fitted boots can lower risk.

If a blister develops, protect the area and avoid popping it to avoid an infection. Keep the area clean and covered. A podiatrist can examine the blister, check for infection, and determine whether drainage is needed. If necessary, the podiatrist can clean the area using sterile techniques. The podiatrist may recommend padding or footwear changes to reduce friction while healing. Increasing redness, swelling, or pain should receive prompt attention.

Preventing hiking blisters starts before hitting the trail. Break in hiking boots gradually and watch for hot spots. Stop when you notice rubbing and adjust your footwear. Keep feet dry and use padding over blister-prone areas. Inspect your feet after hiking and allow irritated skin to recover. If you frequently have foot blisters from hiking, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and prevention tips.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Richard Galperin, DPM of Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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