Falls are a major concern for older adults, often leading to injuries that affect mobility and independence. Foot health plays an important role in maintaining balance and stability. The feet provide a foundation for standing and walking, helping the body adjust to uneven surfaces. When foot pain, weakness, or reduced sensation develops, maintaining balance may become more difficult. Conditions such as arthritis, bunions, and nerve damage may affect how the feet function during everyday activities. Poorly fitting footwear may also increase the risk of slipping or losing stability. Shoes that lack proper support or have worn soles may make walking less secure. Understanding the connection between foot health and fall prevention is important for individuals experiencing changes in mobility as they age.

Several foot-related problems increase the likelihood of falls. Persistent foot pain sometimes causes individuals to change their walking patterns, affecting balance and coordination. Reduced sensation in the feet, often associated with peripheral neuropathy, makes it harder to detect changes in the ground beneath them. Limited ankle movement or weakened foot muscles often interfere with stability. Footwear is another important consideration in falls prevention. Shoes with secure fastenings, supportive heels, and slip-resistant soles provide greater stability during movement. In contrast, loose-fitting shoes or footwear with poor traction increase the risk of stumbling. Changes in foot shape, including painful toe deformities, also make finding supportive footwear more difficult. These problems sometimes develop gradually, making changes in walking ability less noticeable. Recognizing foot discomfort and balance difficulties helps identify factors that contribute to falls.

Podiatric care supports falls prevention by identifying foot problems that affect walking, balance, and stability. A podiatrist evaluates foot structure, joint mobility, and areas of discomfort to determine whether these factors contribute to an increased risk of falling. During an examination, the podiatrist may assess walking patterns and review footwear for proper fit and support. Depending on the findings, treatment may address painful foot conditions, improve pressure distribution, or provide recommendations for supportive footwear. Custom orthotics may also be prescribed when additional foot support is appropriate. Podiatric care focuses on maintaining comfortable movement and addressing physical limitations that may affect stability. Regular evaluations are particularly valuable for older adults experiencing changes in foot function. If you are experiencing foot pain, balance difficulties, or concerns about falling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate falls-prevention care.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Richard Galperin, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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.

Pickleball injuries are often the result of  quick starts, stops, and sharp side-to-side movements. These common actions place stress on the feet and ankles. Ankle sprains can happen when the foot rolls inward or outward. Achilles tendon strains and tears can result from pushing off quickly. Players can develop heel pain, broken toes, or fractures in the long bones of the foot. Repeated pressure can lead to toenail damage or stress fractures, which are small cracks in a bone. Risk increases when players return to activity too quickly after a break or play on a slippery court.

Proper preparation can lower the chance of injury. A warm-up helps prepare the muscles, tendons, and joints for fast movement. Because running shoes are made mainly for forward motion, they may not offer enough stability for pickleball.  Players should wear court shoes that fit and provide good side-to-side support. Worn-out soles can reduce traction and support. A podiatrist can examine a player’s foot structure, walking pattern, and pressure points. Based on the findings, the podiatrist can recommend suitable shoes, custom orthotics, or activity changes. These steps can improve balance and reduce strain while allowing players to enjoy the game.

Pain, swelling, or difficulty placing weight on the foot should not be ignored. A popping sound, sudden weakness, or a visible change in shape can signal an injury. A podiatrist can perform an examination and order imaging tests to determine whether a bone, tendon, or ligament has been damaged. Treatment includes bracing, immobilization, or other care based on the injury. Early diagnosis can prevent the problem from becoming worse and guide a safe return to the court. It also helps patients avoid changing how they walk, which can create pain elsewhere. If you have injured your foot or ankle while playing pickleball, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions, enabling you to return to this popular sport.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Richard Galperin, DPM of Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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 pain while walking makes daily activities more difficult. Pain may affect the heel, arch, or toes. Plantar fasciitis, tarsal tunnel syndrome, and bunions are common causes. Plantar fasciitis involves irritation of the tissue supporting the arch. It often causes heel pain with the first steps after resting. Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when the tibial nerve is compressed at the ankle. It can cause burning, tingling, or numbness along the bottom of the foot. Bunions develop when the big toe shifts toward the other toes, creating a noticeable bump.

Symptoms vary by condition. Plantar fasciitis may result from repetitive stress, tight calf muscles, or poor mechanics. Tarsal tunnel syndrome may develop from swelling, an ankle injury, or pressure around the nerve. Bunions may be linked to inherited foot structure, arthritis, or shoes that place pressure on the toes. Risk factors include prolonged standing, increased body weight, or unsupportive footwear. Age may increase the chance of foot pain.

A podiatrist determines why walking hurts through a symptom review and foot examination. The exam checks gait, joint movement, and tenderness. Certain imaging tests may be ordered to complete the diagnosis. Treatment options include supportive footwear, custom orthotics, or medication for pain and inflammation. A podiatrist also addresses swelling or pressure surrounding the affected nerve. Severe bunions or persistent problems may require a discussion about surgery.

Foot pain should not be something that is accepted as part of daily life. Identifying the cause can help protect mobility and prevent symptoms from becoming harder to manage. If pain continues, worsens, or interferes with walking, care from a podiatrist is a next step. If you have foot pain while walking, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Richard Galperin, DPM from Texas. 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 Oak Cliff area of Dallas, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A foot corn is a hard, cone-shaped bump of thickened skin that usually develops on the top surface of a smaller toe over a joint. Corns can also form along the pinky toe, especially where footwear creates repeated pressure. The thickened area develops as the skin protects itself from friction and stress. It can become painful when pressure pushes the hardened center into deeper tissue. Symptoms can include tenderness, aching, and pain while walking or wearing shoes.

The main causes of foot corns are repeated friction and pressure. Tight shoes can press against the toes, while a narrow toe box may force smaller toes into an uncomfortable position. Socks that bunch inside shoes can add rubbing. Toe deformities, including hammertoes, can also place a joint against the inside of footwear. The pinky toe is vulnerable because it can rub against the side of a shoe. People who spend long periods standing or walking may experience greater pressure.

A podiatrist can determine whether a corn is causing your discomfort and check for an underlying toe problem. Treatment may begin with gently removing excess thickened skin when appropriate. Your podiatrist may recommend wider shoes, protective padding, or custom orthotics to reduce pressure. Do not try to remove a corn yourself because this can injure healthy skin and cause an infection.

A painful foot corn should not be ignored. Changing footwear can help reduce pressure, but recurring corns may signal a structural issue that needs attention. A podiatrist can explain why the corn developed and create a treatment plan focused on healing and prevention. Properly fitted shoes can make walking easier while protecting your toes. Foot corns can be painful and may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have a foot corn, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Richard Galperin, DPM of Texas. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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.