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Hitting the Pavement Without the Pain: How Runners Can Conquer Heel Pain

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Carrolton Foot Center is all in favor of regular running! It’s an incredibly beneficial form of exercise that delivers consistent benefits, boosting both physical and mental well-being. However, there’s no such thing as a free lunch, and running is no exception.

Heel pain and Achilles tendonitis are among the common costs runners must confront, and like any podiatric problem, they create serious stumbling blocks when left untreated. The blog below should help you stay fit, flexible, and focused on your goals.

Preventing Heel Pain with a Strong Foundation

You can keep heel pain from starting with some of these preventative measures.

  • Supportive Shoes: Invest in well-fitting running shoes with proper arch support and cushioning specifically designed for your running style. Replace them every 300-500 miles to maintain optimal shock absorption.
  • Stretch It Out: Regularly performing calf stretches and foot mobilizations helps maintain flexibility and range of motion, reducing stress on the heel.
  • Gradual Progression: Don’t jump into high mileage or intense training too quickly. Gradually increase distance and intensity to allow your body to adapt and strengthen.
  • Cross-Training: Mix up your routine with low-impact activities like swimming or cycling to provide recovery periods for your heels.

Managing Heel Pain: When Prevention Isn’t Enough

Sometimes, you’ll need to handle pain that’s already present, and RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) isn’t always enough.

  • Custom Orthotics: Podiatrists can create custom orthotic inserts that address your specific biomechanical imbalances, providing targeted support and pressure relief to prevent conditions like plantar fasciitis and overpronation.
  • Pain Relief Options: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort.

Treating Persistent Heel Pain: Advanced Strategies

If pain persists despite conservative measures, your podiatrist may recommend:

  • Leneva® Fat Pad Injections: These injections replenish lost cushioning in the heel pad, promoting pain relief and tissue healing, which is particularly helpful for plantar fasciitis.

Board-certified podiatrist Dr. Naghmeh Lilly Khavari is committed to helping patients in Carrollton, TX. With advanced treatment methods, she offers assistance with everything from ingrown toenails to sophisticated surgical solutions. Contact Carrollton Foot Center’s office at 469-998-3668 to schedule an appointment today!

How Certain Foods Affect Arthritis Symptoms

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We all know how closely related our diets are to our physical and mental health, but one connection that’s frequently overlooked is the relationship between our food choices and our foot health. In honor of National Nutrition Month, Dr. Khavari of Carrollton Foot Center, PLLC, wants to bring our feet into the equation, exploring a very common foot condition that is greatly affected by what’s on our plates – arthritis.

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is the swelling of one or more joints, and with 33 joints in the foot, there’s plenty of room for arthritis to develop. Arthritis in the feet can manifest in various forms, all of which result in joint discomfort and limited mobility.

The Impact of Poor Nutrition:

Inflammatory Foods

Consuming a diet rich in inflammatory foods can cause inflammation in the body. Processed foods, sugary snacks, and excessive red meat intake are known to trigger inflammation, intensifying arthritis symptoms in the feet.

Lack of Antioxidants

Antioxidants play a crucial role in neutralizing free radicals, which can contribute to joint damage. A deficiency in antioxidants found in fruits, vegetables, and nuts may leave the joints vulnerable to oxidative stress, worsening arthritis symptoms. Anti-inflammatory foods, such as fatty fish, leafy greens, berries, and nuts, can help reduce inflammation and alleviate arthritis symptoms in the feet.

Omega-6 Fatty Acids Imbalance

An imbalance between omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids can promote inflammation. Diets high in processed oils and fried foods, which are abundant in omega-6 fatty acids, need to be balanced out with omega-3 to maintain joint health. Incorporating sources of omega-3, such as flaxseeds, chia seeds, and fatty fish, while minimizing the consumption of processed oils and fried foods is key!

Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies

Inadequate intake of essential vitamins and minerals can contribute to weakened bones and joints. This deficiency may lead to an increased risk of arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis in the feet. Make sure to incorporate enough vitamin D, calcium, and antioxidants into your diet to support joint health.

Making informed dietary choices is essential in alleviating arthritis pain and discomfort. Board-certified podiatrist Dr. Khavari in Carrollton, TX, is committed to helping her clients prioritize their foot health so they can feel their best. Contact our office at 469-998-3668 to schedule an appointment!

Two New Ways to Treat Toenail Fungus

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Nail fungus, or onychomycosis, isn’t just unsightly – it can be painful and persistent, too. While traditional treatments can work, they often involve months of topical medications or oral antifungals. And frankly, they also tend to produce mixed results and potential side effects.

Podiatry is a field that’s friendly to innovation, however. That’s why the expert team at Carrollton Foot Center is proud to employ two innovative tools when treating toenail fungus: The Lunula Laser and KeryFlex nails. Used in tandem, these dynamic new treatments are revolutionizing the way our DPM approaches onychomycosis. Read on to learn how!

Shining a Light

  • The Lunula Laser utilizes painless, low-level laser therapy.
  • Its unique dual-wavelength approach targets the fungus directly while stimulating the nail bed to promote healthier growth.
  • This non-invasive treatment requires no downtime and boasts a high success rate, making it a patient-friendly option.

Adding Strength and Beauty

  • KeryFlex nails are flexible, resin-based prosthetics that seamlessly adhere to the damaged nail.
  • They offer immediate cosmetic improvement, hiding discoloration and restoring a natural appearance.
  • Their benefits go beyond aesthetics: KeryFlex nails create a protective barrier, preventing further fungal invasion and promoting healthy nail growth underneath.

The Synergistic Duo

Combining Lunula Laser’s fungus-fighting power with KeryFlex’s protective shield creates a powerful one-two punch against onychomycosis. The laser tackles the infection at its source, while the KeryFlex nail provides a favorable environment for healthy nail growth, preventing reinfection.

Compared to traditional methods, this duo offers several advantages in the fight against fungus:

  • Painless and non-invasive: No needles, harsh chemicals, or uncomfortable side effects.
  • Faster results: Visible improvement in weeks, compared to months with traditional treatments.
  • Higher success rates: Studies show high efficacy with both Lunula Laser and KeryFlex, often exceeding oral antifungals.
  • Improved patient experience: Comfortable, convenient, and cosmetically appealing.

Are you still struggling with fungal toenails? Our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Naghmeh Lilly Khavari, is here to help. She treats various conditions such as bunions, corns, calluses, diabetic foot conditions, ingrown toenails, plantar fasciitis, and more. Our team provides superior service to patients in Denton, Dallas, and Collins counties. Contact our office at (469) 998-3668 for your foot and ankle solutions! Our office is at 4221 Medical Parkway, STE 450, in Carrollton, TX.

Custom Orthotics Cater to Feet of All Ages

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Sometimes, we all need a little extra support to function. And when it comes to your feet, that’s especially true! Tired arches and aching heels don’t usually mend themselves, and leaving problems untreated can lead to further complications. This holds true for both our youngest patients and the senior citizens that we treat at Carrollton Foot Center.

In many cases, conservative interventions can make all the difference. That’s where custom orthotics come in, offering personalized solutions for both children and adults. Take a look at the information below to find out what these sole savers can do for you!

Growing Strong: Orthotics for Developing Feet

  • Children’s feet are constantly growing and evolving, and sometimes, that growth can lead to misalignments like flat feet or high arches.
  • Custom orthotics, crafted to mold perfectly to a child’s unique foot shape, can promote proper development, guiding growing bones into correct alignment while reducing the risk of long-term problems like hip and knee pain.
  • Early intervention with orthotics can address issues like heel pain and ingrown toenails, improving a child’s overall comfort and participation in activities.
  • By providing stability and support, orthotics can improve balance, coordination, and endurance, giving young athletes a boost in their chosen sports.

Stepping Ahead: Orthotics for Adult Feet

  • Whether it’s plantar fasciitis, arthritis, or simply tired feet, orthotics can redistribute pressure and provide cushioning, leading to pain relief and improved mobility.
  • Orthotics can address problems like foot pronation or supination, preventing further damage and improving overall posture and gait.
  • For individuals with diabetes or neurological issues, orthotics can play a crucial role in preventing foot ulcers and promoting wound healing.

Customized for You

  • Unlike the one-size-fits-all approach of over-the-counter inserts, custom orthotics are made specifically for each individual’s foot.
  • The precise fit minimizes pressure points, providing targeted support exactly where it’s needed.
  • High-quality materials ensure your orthotics withstand the demands of daily life.
  • With proper care, custom orthotics can offer years of improved foot health and comfort.

Wondering if orthotics are right for you? Come ask board-certified podiatrist Dr. Naghmeh Lilly Khavari! Committed to helping all her clients in Carrollton, TX, she offers a wide variety of treatments, from ingrown toenails to advanced surgical solutions. Contact Carrollton Foot Center’s office at 469-998-3668 to schedule an appointment today!

Shockingly Effective: Non-Invasive RSWT Nixes Nasty Heel Pain

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Heel pain can derail your day, and unfortunately, it can also be a stubbornly persistent problem. Typically caused by weakened or strained plantar fascia, untreated heel pain can spiral into further complications and become intensely painful.

At Carrollton Foot Center, many of our patients have active lifestyles, so they’re eager to return to their normal daily activities. And because we utilize the latest in advanced medical technology, we often recommend RSWT, or Radial Pulse Shockwave Therapy, to help repair your heels and get your routine back to normal.

This post is devoted to explaining the ins and outs of RSWT, covering what it can treat, how it works, and why it might just be the perfect choice for your aching heels!

What is RSWT?

Radial Pulse Shockwave Therapy may be sophisticated technology, but in some ways it’s simple:

  • This FDA-approved method has been shown to speed up the rate of recovery for soft tissue tendinopathy and related conditions.
  • Of all the non-invasive, conservative treatments available, it is the most advanced.
  • It uses sound waves to trigger your body’s natural healing response.

What Can It Treat?

RSWT can be a great option for treating a variety of issues, but most of them pertain directly to soft tissue dysfunction or similar problems, such as:

How Does it Work?

Chronic pain can trick your response systems; if it endures long enough, it will cause your body to stop recognizing that there is an injury in the afflicted region. Once this occurs, the healing process is halted, but the pain will remain. That’s when RSWT really comes in handy:

  • Ballistic sound waves penetrate deeply into the soft tissue and cause a minor inflammatory issue in the chosen area.
  • The soundwaves and inflammation reactivate your body’s natural healing process.
  • Additionally, energy emissions cause the cells in surrounding tissue to exude biochemical substances that empower your boy’s healing capabilities.
  • Said biochemical substances enable the construction of new blood vessels and soft tissue as needed.

When it comes to innovation, Dr. Naghmeh Lilly Khavari is always raising the bar in Carrollton, TX. She offers a variety of treatments, from conservative interventions to advanced surgical solutions. Contact our office at 469-998-3668 to schedule an appointment today!

Lapiplasty Repair: Your Best Bet for Beating Bunions

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When you’re out on the town or working in the office, you are more likely to wear high heels, flats, or loafers. And although fashionable footwear can make you look more professional and stylish, it comes with a cost. Unfortunately for your feet, these shoes are often too narrow, too high, or restrictive. They provide little support or stability, and over time, they can produce issues with bunions.

What is a Bunion?

A bunion is a joint that has been moved or displaced. It usually occurs between the big toe and the long bone behind it. At first, your toe might look like it has a bump or a callus growing on the side of it. As time goes on, this bulge gets larger. The big toe will start to point in the opposite direction as it increases in size, which can be painful. Bunions can occur in males and females alike, but according to the American Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Society, they are ten times more likely to afflict women than men.

How do I treat a bunion that’s gotten out of control?

When bunions form, treatment isn’t always straightforward. Some methods include:

  • Changing to shoes that take pressure off the big toe.
  • Anti-inflammatory medication.
  • Cortisone injections.

Conservative methods don’t always cut it. If they don’t succeed, surgery is sometimes the best or only option. We prefer minimally invasive, modern options whenever possible. Carrollton Foot Center, PLLC, seeks to offer the most sophisticated, comprehensive treatment available. And one of the most innovative of these is called Lapiplasty surgery. This surgery can:

  • Correct deformity in three dimensions, as opposed to a 2D correction fixing just one direction.
  • A small incision and specialized instruments let us hold bones in place with a titanium plate.
  • Faster healing means patients can start walking in days, returning to normal activity in weeks.

If you are considering bunion surgery, contact and schedule a meeting with Dr. Nagmeh Lilly Khavari. A renowned podiatrist with extensive surgical training, Dr. Khavari served as chief resident of the Kern program at Michigan Surgical Hospital for several years. Our team is passionate about providing best-in-class treatment to patients in Denton, Dallas, and Collison counties. Give us a call at (469) 998-3668.

How To Find Your Correct Shoe Size

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Having your feet measured professionally is a good idea when shopping for shoes. As we age, our feet grow when the tendons and ligaments lose elasticity. The results are that the toes spread out, the arch flattens, and the feet become longer and wider.

Using The Brannock Device

This strange-looking metal device used to measure your feet in shoe stores is called a Brannock Device. It has been in use for almost 100 years!

Charles F. Brannock came from a shoe industry family and wanted an improved means of measuring the length and width of your feet and the height of the arch. The foot-measuring device that we know today as the Brannock device gives accurate measurements of both right and left feet and is the international footwear industry standard.

There are models for men’s shoe sizing, women’s and children’s, and specialized types for athletic shoes and ski boots. Even the Smithsonian Institution recognizes its contribution to the American industry and houses samples of some of the first Brannock devices.

Getting the Right Shoe Fit Is Important

Studies show that only about 37% of people wear shoes of the correct length and width! Are you one of them? Wearing shoes that are too short, too narrow, or too tight can cause some significant foot problems, including:

  • Neuropathy: Pins and needles in the feet and decreased sensation can be caused by tight-fitting shoes that put pressure on the nerves.
  • Hammertoe: Shoes that are too narrow in the toe box can force toes to bend unnaturally into the hammertoe shape. Besides being painful, the skin of the hammertoe can have corns and calluses from footwear pressure against bony spots.
  • Ingrown toenails: Pressure on the toe from poorly fitting shoes can force the edge of a toenail to grow into the skin and become infected.
  • Bunion: Although tight shoes won’t cause a painful bunion, they can worsen it by pushing the big toe.

Foot pain from poorly-fitting shoes can also cause mobility issues and falls. Play it safe – measure both feet at least twice yearly for foot comfort and safety.

Board-certified podiatrist Dr. Naghmeh Lilly Khavari is committed to helping her clients in Carrollton, TX. She offers a wide variety of treatments, from ingrown toenails to advanced surgical solutions. Contact Carrollton Foot Center’s office at 469-998-3668 to schedule an appointment today!

Common Misconceptions About Foot & Ankle Arthritis

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Do you have arthritis? Because your feet each have 30 joints, you’ll likely experience pain and discomfort in your lower extremities. Most people have heard of arthritis but don’t know enough about it, especially when it comes to how this disease can affect your feet. Let’s clear up some myths about foot and ankle arthritis.

Myth: Arthritis causes all joint pain

Bursitis, tendonitis, and soft-tissue injuries can also cause joint pain. Visit your podiatrist for an accurate foot or ankle pain diagnosis.

Myth: Arthritis is only for the elderly

The risk of osteoarthritis increases with age. But people of any age, even children, may suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, where the body’s immune system attacks the joints and cartilage.

Myth: Sharp pain is the only arthritis symptom

Arthritis can cause sharp pain or dull throbbing pain, as well as joint swelling, joint tenderness, and difficulty walking.

Myth: Surgery is the only treatment option for an arthritic joint

Non-surgical treatment options are our first choice. These include lifestyle modifications such as losing weight and exercising, physical therapy, using an assistive device like a cane or brace, wearing custom-fitted orthotics, anti-inflammatory medication, and cortisone shots. Surgery is typically recommended if your pain is severe and disabling.

Myth: Arthritis is inevitable

You can lower your risk of osteoarthritis by maintaining a healthy weight, staying active and exercising regularly, quitting smoking, avoiding foot and ankle overuse, and wearing the right protective gear during sports activities.

Do you have painful arthritis that affects your ability to be active and experience comfort in your feet? Give us a call today!

Board-certified podiatrist Dr. Naghmeh Lilly Khavari is committed to helping her clients in Carrollton, TX. She offers a wide variety of treatments, from ingrown toenails to advanced surgical solutions. Contact Carrollton Foot Center’s office at 469-998-3668 to schedule an appointment today!

Back-To-School Foot Care Tips

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August is back-to-school month! Are you starting to prepare your kids for early mornings, homework, and fall sports? One of the best things you can do for your child’s health this school year is to start or continue prioritizing foot care.

Here are some easy ways to include healthy feet in your back-to-school prep and checklists:

 

Start Fresh with New Shoes and Socks

Back-to-school shopping can be costly. When you consider shopping for shoes and socks, it can be overwhelming. If there is one investment that we cannot underestimate, it is comfort and support for your children and their feet. Poor foot hygiene at a young age can lead to more problems in the future.

Bring Them for a Yearly Podiatry Appointment

Check with their podiatrist if your child is still healing from an ankle sprain from a summer sport. Ankle sprains are common injuries that can lead to prolonged symptoms, including weak ankles or arthritis. From blisters and bunions to ingrown toenails, now is the time to address foot issues. Schedule an appointment with your podiatrist today.

Discuss Healthy Foot Care Habits and Hygiene Tips

Does your child know that sharing shoes is not a good idea? Are they wearing shoes in the locker room if they play sports? There are key hygiene habits to share with your child before returning to school. From athlete’s foot to fungal toenails, sharing germs is an unfortunate part of sharing common spaces in school. But these can easily be prevented with some simple switches and reminders.

 

Board-certified podiatrist Dr. Naghmeh Lilly Khavari is committed to helping her clients in Carrollton, TX. She offers a wide variety of treatments, from ingrown toenails to advanced surgical solutions. Contact Carrollton Foot Center’s office at 469-998-3668 to schedule an appointment today!

Is Your Heel Pain Plantar Fasciitis?

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Heel pain often goes hand-in-hand with the arch pain you get from plantar fasciitis. If this is the case for you, you’re not alone. Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common conditions podiatrists diagnose. How can you tell if your heel pain is simply due to a tough morning run or the beginning of something more serious? Let’s take a closer look.

Signs and Symptoms

The first and most common sign you have plantar fasciitis is a stabbing pain in the bottom of your foot, typically near your heel. This pain usually is worse first thing in the morning or after a period of overactivity. You may also experience stiffness, swelling, and tightness in your foot and heel.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

Most patients develop this condition due to:
  • Inadequate arch support. Wearing incorrectly sized shoes with little support (like flip flops or high heels) can wear your muscles down over time.
  • Carrying more weight. Your extra weight is multiplied fourfold in your feet and ankles, increasing the stress and pressure on the arches.
  • Repetitive stress injury. Dancers, professional athletes, and people on their feet all day for work are more likely to develop injuries to the plantar fascia and other foot and ankle problems.

What Are Your Options?

First and foremost, call your podiatrist. Foot pain is not normal and shouldn’t be ignored. Your foot doctor will be able to diagnose and treat you. In the meantime, here are some other treatment options that you can try at home:

  • I.C.E. treatment – Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation
  • A wide variety of physical therapy exercises for the calf muscles and Achilles tendon can help improve arch and foot alignment and prevent pain and discomfort.
  • Always wear properly fitted shoes with the proper arch support to treat existing arch problems and prevent arch problems from starting in the first place.

Board-certified podiatrist Dr. Naghmeh Lilly Khavari is committed to helping her clients in Carrollton, TX. She offers a wide variety of treatments, from ingrown toenails to advanced surgical solutions. Contact Carrollton Foot Center’s office at 469-998-3668 to schedule an appointment today!

Contact Us

We’d love to hear any question or concern you have.

4221 Medical Parkway
STE 450
Carrollton, TX

(469) 998-3668

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