If you need a more accessible version of this website, click this button on the right. Switch to Accessible Site

Blog

Blog

Tuesday, 09 December 2025 00:00

Neuropathy and Its Effects on the Feet

Neuropathy occurs when nerves become damaged, often affecting sensation and movement. In the feet, it can cause tingling, burning, numbness, or sharp pain that worsens over time. Common causes include diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, infections, and certain medications. Poor circulation, alcohol use, and metabolic disorders increase the likelihood of developing nerve damage. Over time, neuropathy can lead to balance issues and injuries that go unnoticed due to loss of feeling. A podiatrist can evaluate nerve function, identify underlying causes, and recommend treatments such as medication, therapy, or specialized footwear. If you are experiencing unusual sensations or pain in your feet, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists from McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

  • Numbness
  • Sensation loss
  • Prickling and tingling sensations
  • Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
  • Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Neuropathy
Tuesday, 02 December 2025 00:00

Blisters on the Feet

Blisters on the feet are often caused by friction, pressure, or irritation. Friction blisters, the most frequent type, typically form when ill-fitting shoes rub against the skin, leading to the buildup of fluid between layers of skin. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and the formation of a small, raised bubble filled with clear fluid. They can be painful, especially while walking or standing. Common causes of blisters include wearing new shoes, prolonged walking, or activities that cause repetitive rubbing, such as running. Excessive moisture or sweaty feet can also contribute to blister formation. A podiatrist can help by assessing the severity of the blister and offering safe and sterile wound care. If a blister is infected or causing persistent pain, a podiatrist may recommend drainage, dressing techniques, or the use of specialized footwear to prevent further irritation. Custom orthotics or padding may also be suggested to reduce friction. If you frequently develop foot blisters, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer relief and prevention tips.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can 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.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

  • Bubble of skin filled with fluid
  • Redness
  • Moderate to severe pain
  • Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Blisters

Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

Tuesday, 25 November 2025 00:00

Causes of Tendon Problems in the Ankle

Pain in the ankle tendons often develops from repetitive strain, overuse, or biomechanical imbalances that affect how the foot moves and bears weight. The tendons surrounding the ankle include the posterior tibial, peroneal, and tibialis anterior, each serving a unique role in stabilizing and supporting the foot during walking or running. When these tendons are stressed, inflammation or degeneration can develop, leading to pain and weakness. The posterior tibial tendon, which supports the arch, can cause pain along the inner ankle when strained. Pain on the outer side of the ankle often involves the peroneal tendons, especially in people with high arches or a history of ankle sprains. The tibialis anterior tendon, located at the front of the ankle, can become painful from repetitive lifting of the foot. A podiatrist can evaluate tendon pain through a detailed exam and imaging to determine the best treatment. If you are experiencing ankle pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Various Causes of Ankle Pain
Tuesday, 18 November 2025 00:00

Understanding Pain in the Smaller Toes

Pain in the front of the foot, particularly around the smaller toes, can develop from irritation, overuse, or structural changes in the joints and soft tissues. Wearing tight shoes, high heels, or repetitive stress can inflame the tendons, ligaments, or nerves that support the toes, leading to discomfort or swelling. Sometimes the issue involves joint misalignment or a buildup of pressure beneath the ball of the foot. Advanced imaging such as an MRI scan can help identify hidden causes like soft tissue injury or early joint damage that may not appear on X-rays. Treatment focuses on relieving pressure, improving foot mechanics, and reducing inflammation through custom orthotics, footwear modification, and targeted exercises. If you experience ongoing pain in the lesser toes, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can pinpoint the cause and recommend effective options for restoring comfort and balance.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Toe Pain
Tuesday, 11 November 2025 00:00

Ankle Arthritis and Surgical Treatment Options

Ankle arthritis is a condition where the cartilage in the ankle joint wears down, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness that limit mobility. When conservative treatments are not effective, ankle surgery may be recommended. Ankle arthroscopy uses small instruments to remove damaged tissue and smooth the joint. Ankle fusion joins the bones of the ankle to eliminate pain and increase stability. Additionally, joint replacement replaces the damaged joint with an artificial implant to restore movement. A podiatrist can assess your condition, recommend the best treatment, and provide exercise  guidance for long term success. If arthritis is affecting your ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to explore whether surgical options are right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

  • Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
  • Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
  • Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

  • Bunionectomy for painful bunions
  • Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
  • Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Foot Surgery
Tuesday, 04 November 2025 00:00

Who Is Prone to Getting Cuboid Syndrome?

The cuboid bone is located on the outer edge of the foot, and is responsible for maintaining movement while walking. A sudden injury or gradual decline can cause the cuboid bone to shift, and this can make completing daily activities difficult. Cuboid syndrome occurs when this bone shifts and the surrounding tendons and ligaments become inflamed. Patients who frequently wear high heels can endure a cuboid bone injury, and ballet dancers often notice this is as a common ailment. The pain that is generally felt with this condition is on the outside and sole of the foot, which can cause severe pain and discomfort. If you are afflicted with cuboid syndrome, it is strongly suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment options. 

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with one of our podiatrists from McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

  • Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
  • Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
  • Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Cuboid Syndrome
Friday, 31 October 2025 00:00

Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

Tuesday, 28 October 2025 00:00

Athlete’s Foot and Its Causes

Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet, often developing between the toes. It thrives in warm, moist environments, such as sweaty shoes or public locker rooms. Causes include prolonged dampness, poor foot hygiene, and walking barefoot in public places. Symptoms include itching and burning between the toes, redness, foul odor, a scaly rash, and sometimes painful blisters. If left untreated, it can spread to the toenails or other parts of the body. A podiatrist can diagnose the infection, recommend anti-fungal treatments, and provide guidance on preventing recurrence. For professional care and lasting relief from athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

  • Thoroughly washing and drying feet
  • Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
  • Using shower shoes in public showers
  • Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
  • Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

  • Redness
  • Burning
  • Itching
  • Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Athlete's Foot
Tuesday, 21 October 2025 00:00

The Causes of Ticklish Feet

Ticklish feet are a common sensation that can make some people laugh uncontrollably, while others may find it uncomfortable. The sensitivity in the feet is due to the presence of approximately 8,000 nerve endings that respond to various stimuli. The sensation of tickling can be broken down into two types, which are known as knismesis and gargalesis. Knismesis refers to a light, often gentle touch that can cause itching or mild tickling sensations, while gargalesis is a more intense form of tickling that often results in laughter and can trigger an involuntary response. People vary in their sensitivity to tickling, as factors such as genetic makeup, nervous system sensitivity, and psychological aspects play a role. The feet are particularly sensitive due to their high concentration of nerve endings, which makes them more susceptible to ticklish sensations when touched or stimulated. Ticklish feet can be bothersome while having pedicures performed or getting foot massages. It may also indicate diabetes. If you have particularly sensitive feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can educate you on this condition.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Foot Pain
Page 1 of 35
Connect with us
Podiatrist, Foot Doctor Pasadena, TX 77505, Baytown, TX 77521, Houston, TX 77089 & 77023, League City, TX 77573, Pearland, TX 77584 on Twitter Follow McKinney Podiatric Associates on Twitter Follow Us McKinney Podiatric Associates on Instagram Podiatry blog of Podiatrist, Foot Doctor Pasadena, TX 77505, Baytown, TX 77521, Houston, TX 77089 & 77023, League City, TX 77573, Pearland, TX 77584
 
Recent Texas Podiatry Blog Posts