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Foot and ankle tendonitis occurs when the strong bands of tissue that connect muscle to bone become irritated or inflamed. This condition often develops from overuse, sudden increases in activity, improper footwear, or biomechanical imbalance. Patients may notice aching, stiffness, or sharp pain that worsens with movement and improves with rest. The area can appear mildly swollen or warm, and the pain may feel worse in the morning or after prolonged activity. Left untreated, tendonitis can lead to weakness or more serious injury. A podiatrist begins with a detailed examination to identify the specific tendon involved and the underlying cause. Treatment may include activity modification, supportive footwear, custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory measures, and targeted exercises to restore strength and flexibility. Early care helps prevent long-term damage. If you think you may have foot or ankle tendonitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for proper evaluation and treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Loren Hansen, DPM from Ankle & Foot Medical Center. 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 Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that often affects the joints of the feet and progresses through distinct stages. Asymptomatic hyperuricemia occurs when uric acid levels rise, but no pain or swelling is present. Acute gout is marked by sudden flare episodes with intense joint pain, redness, warmth, and swelling, commonly in the big toe. Intercritical or interval gout refers to the symptom-free periods between flares, even though uric acid crystals remain in the joint. Additionally, chronic tophaceous gout develops after years of repeated attacks and involves ongoing pain, joint stiffness, and firm crystal deposits that can damage bone and soft tissue. Early stages may seem manageable, but progression can lead to lasting joint problems. Identifying the stage helps guide appropriate care and long-term management. If foot joint pain or repeated flares occur, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for appropriate care.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Loren Hansen, DPM from Ankle & Foot Medical Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A foot ulcer is an open sore that may appear as a shallow red crater or a deep wound extending to tendon or bone. Ulcers often develop on the bottom of the foot or toes and are most common among people with diabetes, nerve damage, or poor circulation. When sensation is reduced, pressure or friction may go unnoticed, allowing skin breakdown to worsen. Limited blood flow slows healing and increases the risk of infection, cellulitis, or bone involvement. Structural deformities, arthritis, and abnormal walking patterns can also create pressure points that lead to ulcers. A podiatrist evaluates depth, tissue health, circulation, and nerve function, and may order imaging or laboratory testing to detect infection. Treatment includes removing unhealthy tissue, relieving pressure, controlling infection, and addressing biomechanical causes to promote healing and prevent recurrence. If you have developed foot ulcers, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Loren Hansen, DPM from Ankle & Foot Medical Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Bone spurs are growths that can develop on the heel, the top of the foot or the toe. On the heel, they often form gradually, creating discomfort that can interfere with daily activities. Symptoms include sharp pain when standing up in the morning, aching after long periods of walking, and tenderness at the bottom of the heel. A heel spur may appear on imaging as a small hook-like projection, but it may not be visible from the outside, making the internal sensation of pressure or stabbing pain the most noticeable sign. Causes commonly include high impact activities or osteoarthritis. A podiatrist begins with a thorough evaluation that may include imaging studies to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment options include custom orthotics, stretching programs, footwear guidance, or targeted anti-inflammatory care. For persistent cases, advanced treatments may also be considered. If you are dealing with heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment plan.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Loren Hansen, DPM from Ankle & Foot Medical Center. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often 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 affect other bones 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. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.