(713) 722-0136 Bryce Dallas Howard of Jurassic World had to Strengthen Ankles to Run in High Heels
In the new Jurassic World movie, Bryce Dallas Howard was often seen running away from dinosaurs in high heels. Although it would seem strange to have a character not change into a more stable shoe to run around in, Howard believed it was a proper fit for the movie and trained her ankles accordingly for the role. With the help of UFC winner Pete Williams, she participated in balance and ankle exercises to help reduce any potential injuries of running around in high heels. “I remember about half-way through I thought to myself, ‘Man, my ankles are so strong,’” the actress stated.
Running in high heels can cause many problems for the feet and ankles. If you have any concerns about your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Memorial Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because they are associated with femininity. Despite their appeal, they can cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
What parts my body will be affected by high heels?
· Ankle Joints
· Achilles Tendon – may shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
· Balls of the Feet
· Knees – heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
· Back – they decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain. Also, the vertebrae of the lower back may compress.
What kinds of foot problems can develop from wearing high heels?
· Corns
· Calluses
· Hammertoe
· Bunions
· Morton’s Neuroma
· Plantar Fasciitis
How can I still wear high heels and maintain foot health?
If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems. Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising. If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work. Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock; you can buy either full inserts or metatarsal pads.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Texas. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Yoga Stretches Helpful in Relieving Plantar Fasciitis Pain
Michele Fife of WOTV 4 has come up with a few a few yoga tips to help reduce pain caused by plantar fasciitis. No matter what physical activity you are partaking in, Fife suggests massaging the soles of the feet beforehand to reduce pain, especially after just waking up when heel pain tends to be the strongest. Then, sitting in virasana with the knees bent with the heels parallel to the hips to stretch and relax the fascia bands in the foot. Additionally you can place the balls of one foot against a wall and frame the rest of the body in a lunge position to stretch the arching part of the foot.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, visit one of our podiatrists of Memorial Podiatry PLLC. Our doctors can treat your heel pain as well as any other foot or ankle condition.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of a the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
· Excessive running
· Non-supportive shoes
· Overpronation
· Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
How Can It Be Treated?
· Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
· Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
· Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
If you have any questions, please contact our office in Texas. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
New York Yankees Gets New Orthotics after Foot Flare Up
Brian McCann of the New York Yankees has been fitted with new orthotics after experiencing some arch pain while on the field. “I had the same mold for the last three years. The arch on my foot has changed” McCann stated, starting conversation on the importance of regularly ordering new orthotics to reflect changes in the foot. The hitter recalls how nerve wracking it was to have his foot flare up again leaving that asleep and tingly feeling in the foot and lower leg. After having an MRI and CT scan of the foot, McCann has no serious injuries, he just needed new orthotics.
If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists of Memorial Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What are Orthotics?
Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain, but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.
Over-the-Counter Inserts
Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct over arched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.
Prescription Orthotics
If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you, or if you have a more severe foot issue, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and more severe heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses, and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.
If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist on the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain free.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Texas. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Exercises for Pregnant Women and their Feet
Although soon-to-be moms have many things to take care of during pregnancy, it is additionally important that feet and ankles are paid attention to. During pregnancy many women experience natural weight gain in addition to swollen ankles, feet, and flat feet. Accordingly there are certain exercise techniques that can help reduce these foot ailments. If sitting for a long period of time, take short walks regularly to reduce swelling in the feet and ankles. To reduce over-pronation or flattening of the arch, stretch the calves, rotate the ankles in a circular motion, and try the reverse and standing calf raise.
Pregnancy can put a tremendous amount of stress on the feet. If you have any concerns contact one of our podiatrists of Memorial Podiatry PLLC. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What foot problems can arise during pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is over-pronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy, but tends to occur in the later stages.
How can I keep my feet healthy during pregnancy?
· Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
· Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
· Wear shoes with good arch support
· Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
· Elevate feet if you experience swelling
· Massage your feet
· Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Texas. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Al Sharpton’s daughter Suing NYC for Five Million
Al Sharpton’s daughter Dominique is suing New York City for five million dollars after she sprained her ankle on uneven pavement. According to her father’s company National Action Network, Dominique has been in continuous pain ever since the injury. Although a few months after the incident she was seen using both of her feet with ease at events in Washington, D.C. and Miami, she is still seeking a settlement for medical bills and future pain.
Ankle sprains are common, but need immediate attention. If you have any concerns about your potential ankle sprain contact one of podiatrist of Memorial Podiatry LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.
What are the Symptoms?
- Mild to moderate bruising
- Limited mobility
- Swelling
- Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)
Preventing a Sprain
- Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
- Stretching before exercises and sports
- Knowing your limits can aid in prevention
Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.
If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Texas. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
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German Researchers Create Sock that Can Prevent Amputations on Diabetic Feet
Researchers fromWurzburg and Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits in Erlangen, Germany have recently created a pressure sensing sock to aid diabetics suffering from diabetic neuropathy. Often times those with neuropathy are unable to sense pressure on their feet and can obtain wounds that could lead to issues such as gangrene and amputations. The device has over 40 sensors made of a silicone film where pressure points on the feet are combined and mapped to help prevent further issues. Although the sock is a great innovation for the diabetic community, researchers are still working to make the device less bulky and more accessible
Diabetic patients are often at a high risk for neuropathy, amputations, and other issues. If you have any concerns about your diabetic feet, Contact one of our podiatrists of Memorial Podiatry PLLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. Diabetes can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, including the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
- Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
- Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
- Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels because blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Texas. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
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Heels Spurs Commonly Associated With Plantar Fasciitis
When pain is experienced while walking, a calcaneal spur or heel spur may be the culprit. A spur typically occurs when a calcium deposit forms on the bottom of the heel. Since heel spurs are often associated with other foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis, there are many treatments to easily resolve the pain. Foot orthotics are one of the most common ways in treating a heel spur since it cushions the heel and makes it comfortable to walk again. The orthotic also helps cushion the area as well as correct any walking habits that may have been another cause of the pain.
Heel spurs can be incredibly painful, and sometimes might make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, call one of our podiatrists of Memorial Podiatry PLLC. Our doctors will do everything they can to treat your bone condition and help you make a complete recovery.
Heels Spurs
Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be a cause from small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching it to the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot. Bone may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.
Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs. Pain sometimes intensifies with age. Heel spurs are known to cause a substantial amount of pain. One of the main associations spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.
Pain
The pain associated with spurs is often times because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to poke and affect other boners and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.
Treatments
There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain there are several methods for healing. Medicines, surgery, and herbal care are some options.
For more information about Heel Spurs, follow the link below.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our office in Texas. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Ultrasound Effective in Treating Heel Pain
Doctors attempting to find the cause behind heel pain in their patients may be creating more problems if their examinations do not include an ultrasound. An estimated 10 percent of people will experience heel pain at least once in their lives. Plantar fasciitis is often pegged as the most common cause of heel pain. Other causes, however, including a tear in the ligament or a fatty cyst could be behind the pain.
Anyone can wind up suffering from heel pain. If your heel is hurting, see one of our podiatrists of Memorial Podiatry PLLC. Our doctors will treat your heel pain symptoms in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
Causes of Heel Pain
• Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.
• Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.
• Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.
Why Might Heel Pain Occur?
- Wearing ill-fitting shoes
- Wearing non-supportive shoes
- Weight change
- Excessive running
Treatments
Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a thing of the past.
With the advancements in technology and greater knowledge of how muscles and joints work, physical therapists can turn things around dramatically.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office in Texas. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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Young Student Breaks Ankle after Getting Hit by a Car at Bus Stop
A student from Berlin, CT was injured and suffered a broken ankle after running into oncoming traffic. According to the police report, the student was supposed to get onto a school bus, but did not want to go to school. This resulted in the young boy running into the street where a car swerved to avoid hitting him. The child was then transported to Hartford Hospital where he was treated for a broken ankle. The driver of the car was not charged.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact one of our podiatrists of Memorial Podiatry PLLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.
When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle and the following symptoms may be present.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you'll be on the way towards recovery.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Texas. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about broken ankles.Dancing with the Stars Instructor Suffers from Broken Toe during Rehearsal
Derek Hough, five time champion instructor on Dancing with the Stars, has suffered a broken toe after rehearsing for the show’s 10th anniversary special. Derek will have to stay in Los Angeles until his injuries are rehabilitated. For now his understudy will take over for the New York Spring Spectacular in New York City. As for Dancing with the Stars, Hough was unable to compete with Nastia Liukin, but pro-dancer Sasha Farber stepped in temporarily. “He’ll come back harder, better, faster, stronger,” his co-star stated.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns contact one of our podiatrists of Memorial Podiatry Pllc. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What to Know About a Broken Toe
Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
- throbbing pain
- swelling
- bruising on the skin and toenail
- the inability to move the toe
- toe appears crooked or disfigured
- tingling or numbness in the toe
Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.
Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.
If you have any concerns please feel free to contact our office located in Texas. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
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Lionel Messi of Barcelona Should Recover From Foot Injury in Due Time
Argentine forward and world renowned soccer superstar Lionel Messi is recovering from an injured foot he sustained during the recent El Clasico win over Real Madrid. Messi was forced to sit out of both of Argentina’s friendlies against El Salvador and Ecuador over his clubs international break due to the injury. However, he was soon able to participate in light running and stretching activities. According to Barcelona officials on their website, “The inflammation of Messi’s Foot has improved and the player will attempt to join the rest of internationals tomorrow.
Getting back into sports after foot and ankle injuries may sometimes be tricky due to possibilities of worsening any injuries. If you have any concerns about your foot and ankle needs contact one of our podiatrists of Memorial Podiatry PLLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Getting Back into Sports after Foot and Ankle Injuries
While one of the most common injuries among athletes may be a sprained ankle, there are still many other types of injuries that plague athletes in any sport. But for less severe foot and ankle injuries, it is recommended by physical therapists and sports medicine doctors that athletes use the R.I.C.E. method to help alleviate pain and to speed up the healing process.
The acronym R.I.C.E. stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation. These four steps help in the healing process, not only to reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation, but also to improve overall health of the affected area, allowing you to get back on to your feet again. Although resting is usually the key to all healing, it is necessary to see a doctor to ensure treatment for any other problems that may not be obvious to you right away.
It is best for injured athletes to allow themselves time to heal. Some athletes need hours of re-training, exercise, check-ups with their physical therapist, and other remedies. But with the right attitude and motivation, it is not hard to get back into sports after foot and ankle injuries.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Texas. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about getting into sports after foot and ankle injuries.
Tips to avoid Running Injuries during Training
Cory Smith of Phillymag calls the transition of the cold winter months into warmer, sunnier weather injury season. It is a time when all runners vamp up their training methods and are more likely to become injured. Smith has created five tips to help runners avoid injury during training.
Patience is key when it comes to running outside again. If you have not been running consistently, slowly start up your routine again to allow muscles to adapt to the stress again. Understand the differences between running on a treadmill and the higher difficulty of running outside. Forcing fitness before the feet and body are ready is a key way to obtain an injury.
Listen to your body, if you feel you need to take a rest day, then take it. If your shoes are worn or inappropriate for outdoor running get new ones that properly fit and function.
Runners can still be prone to running injuries even with proper precautions. If you are suffering from a running injury see one of our podiatrists from Memorial Podiatry PLLC. Our doctors will provide you with quality treatment and assist you with all of your foot and ankle concerns.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.
What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.
Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber, this will help you gain better flexibility.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Texas. We offer the newest diagnostic treatments and technologies for your foot and ankle needs.
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Proper Treatment and Prevention for Hammertoes
According to Health Hub, hammertoes occur due to a number of things such as genetics, improper footwear, and other foot issues. A hammertoe is when the joint of typically the last four toes points upward instead of resting flat. Surgery has been the best known way to treat hammertoes; however, there are a number of options available to avoid it. Wearing sensible shoes with a wider and deeper toe box as well as arch support can do wonders in reducing the discomfort of a hammertoe. At times, the bended joint will rub against the top of shoes causing a corn or callus, treat that with a pumice stone and provide extra padding to the top of the toes to prevent further irritation. Foot exercises such as stretching or curling the toes will strengthen the toe muscles may even help prevent hammertoes from occurring.
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. If you are suffering from hammertoes, contact one of our podiatrists from Memorial Podiatry PLLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Hammertoe
Hammertoe is little-known a painful condition that affects the second, third and fourth toes involving different joints of the toe and foot. Hammertoe can be caused by many other conditions such as RA (rheumatoid arthritis), osteoarthritis, trauma or injuries to your foot, it can be hereditary and it can also be caused by a cerebral vascular accident. If you wear shoes that are too narrow or short for your feet, it may exacerbate any pain you already have.
It is really important to your overall well-being to seek out medical attention at the first signs of foot pain or anything that may hinder your ability to walk in a normal manner. Taking care of your feet is one of the first steps to being able to live a full and healthy life.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Texas. We offer the newest diagnostic treatments and technologies for your foot and ankle needs.
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Study Finds Bunions Can Occur Due to a Wide Variety of Issues
According to the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research, 23% of people between the ages of 18 and 65 suffer from bunions, 35% of those ages 65 and older have a bunion, and women are more likely to have bunions occur on their feet than men. Often time people believe they are too young for bunions to occur or that they will not find themselves struggling with the issue at all, but bunions can form at any age of life due to a factors ranging from genetics, footwear, and injuries to the big toe joint. If you a bunion is starting to form, avoid wearing heels higher than two inches and wear shoes with a wider toe box. It may also be a good idea to wear a bunion pad inside your shoes to further slowdown bunion growth.
If you are experiencing bunion pain, you may want to see one of our podiatrists of Memorial Podiatry PLLC. Our doctors can diagnose the severity of your bunion and take the proper measures in treating the foot ailment.
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 by 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 cause bunions to form
How are Bunions Diagnosed?
Doctors 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 doctor.
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 feel free to contact our office located in Texas. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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