Items filtered by date: May 2025

Heel pain may be a sign of bursitis, which occurs when one of the fluid-filled sacs in the back of the heel becomes inflamed. These sacs reduce friction between the heel bone, skin, and Achilles tendon. Bursitis can develop from repeated pressure, poorly fitting shoes, or underlying issues like arthritis or heel bone abnormalities. The pain is often located at the back of the heel and may be accompanied by swelling and tenderness. In some cases, redness and warmth are present. A podiatrist can determine whether bursitis is the cause of heel pain by performing an exam and using imaging studies, if needed. Medical treatment may include anti-inflammatory measures, fluid drainage, custom orthotics, or protective padding. When bursitis does not respond to initial care, surgery may be required to remove the inflamed bursa or correct structural problems in the heel. If you are experiencing heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Raul Hidalgo DPM of South Texas Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

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 condition of the past.

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

When a bunion becomes too painful or begins to interfere with daily life, removal surgery may be the best option. The procedure corrects the misalignment at the base of the big toe by reshaping the bone, tendons, or ligaments. It is usually done on an outpatient basis, and while there are different surgical methods, all aim to reduce pain and restore function. After surgery, rest is key. Most patients will need to wear a special shoe or boot and avoid putting weight on the foot for a few weeks. Swelling, stiffness, and soreness are normal during healing. Gentle exercises and follow-up care help regain strength and flexibility. Full recovery can take several months, but many people return to walking comfortably with improved alignment. If your bunion pain limits your movement, it is suggested you see a podiatrist to see if bunion surgery is right for you.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Raul Hidalgo DPM of South Texas Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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

Burning sensations on the bottom of the feet can arise from several underlying medical issues, including nerve damage and circulatory problems. Conditions such as peripheral neuropathy, often caused by diabetes, alcoholism, or vitamin deficiencies, also can lead to nerve hypersensitivity. This may result in persistent burning, numbness, and weakness. Poor blood flow linked to peripheral artery disease may also produce burning pain, especially during physical activity. Foot-specific conditions, including Morton’s neuroma, metatarsalgia, and tarsal tunnel syndrome can affect the nerves and soft tissues, causing intense discomfort. Infections like athlete’s foot or injuries such as fractures may provoke acute burning sensations. To determine the cause of burning foot pain a podiatrist can perform a detailed exam and order nerve conduction studies, blood tests, or imaging tests. Based on the diagnosis, treatment may involve medication, custom orthotics, or, in more advanced cases, surgery to alleviate nerve compression or restore circulation. If you experience the sensation of burning feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Raul Hidalgo DPM from South Texas Foot & Ankle Care. 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 San Antonio, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A Lisfranc fracture is an injury to the midfoot, where the metatarsal bones connect to the tarsal bones. This type of fracture can occur from a fall, a twist of the foot, or direct trauma, such as dropping something heavy on the foot, or a sports-related impact. Symptoms often include swelling, bruising on the top or bottom of the foot, pain while standing or walking, and an inability to bear weight. It may feel like a sprain at first, but without proper treatment, it can lead to long-term complications, like chronic pain or arthritis. A podiatrist can diagnose a Lisfranc fracture through a physical exam and imaging tests like X-rays or MRI scans. Treatment depends on the severity and may include immobilization with a cast or boot, or surgery to realign and stabilize the bones with screws or plates. Early diagnosis and care are essential for a full recovery. If you have this type of foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment to see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Raul Hidalgo DPM from South Texas Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in San Antonio, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.