Falls can affect a person’s safety, independence, and ability to complete daily activities comfortably. Many falls happen because of changes in balance, muscle strength, foot function, or the environment around a person. The feet and ankles play an important role in stability because they help support the body and maintain proper movement. Problems like foot pain, poor balance, or difficulty walking can increase the risk of falls. Symptoms that may contribute to fall concerns include weakness, unsteady movement, and reduced confidence while walking. A podiatrist can evaluate foot and ankle health to identify factors that may increase fall risk and recommend ways to improve stability.

This foot doctor performs a detailed examination to understand how foot health affects balance and mobility. The evaluation includes checking foot structure, strength, flexibility, walking patterns, and footwear choices. A podiatrist also reviews a patient’s history and movement concerns to identify possible causes of instability. Treatment includes personalized care focused on improving foot function, supporting safer movement, and addressing conditions that affect balance. A podiatrist may recommend treatment for foot problems like painful joints, pressure areas, or changes in foot alignment. A podiatrist also evaluates footwear because shoes that lack proper support can affect stability and increase the chance of losing balance.

Research shows that foot and ankle health are important parts of fall prevention because they influence balance and movement. A podiatrist helps patients understand how their feet affect overall stability and creates a care plan based on their specific needs. Professional foot care can support better mobility and help patients feel more secure while completing daily activities. Treatment plans are personalized according to examination findings, health concerns, and lifestyle needs. Regular evaluations allow a podiatrist to monitor changes in foot function and address concerns that may affect balance. If you have fallen and have injured your foot or ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Afsha Naimat-Shahzad, DPM from Leander Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Bunions are bony bumps that develop at the base of the big toe, while the joint gradually shifts out of its normal position. As the big toe moves toward the smaller toes, the joint becomes more prominent and may become painful over time. Bunions often develop slowly and may be influenced by inherited foot structure, arthritis, or long-term pressure on the joint. As the deformity progresses, walking and wearing shoes can become increasingly uncomfortable. The skin over the bunion may become irritated, and the surrounding joint may lose flexibility. Because bunions tend to worsen without proper care, a professional evaluation is important to determine the severity of the problem and recommend appropriate treatment. Early podiatry care may also help preserve joint function and reduce discomfort.

Symptoms of a bunion vary depending on its size and progression. Many people experience pain, swelling, or redness around the base of the big toe. Others notice stiffness or difficulty bending the toe during walking. As the joint changes shape, shoes may fit poorly and place additional pressure on the affected area. Some individuals also develop corns or calluses because the toes begin rubbing against one another. Ongoing discomfort can interfere with work, exercise, and everyday activities. Identifying the problem early allows treatment to begin before the deformity continues to progress and affects overall foot function.

A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating bunions and other foot conditions that affect mobility. During an examination, the podiatrist evaluates the alignment of the foot, reviews symptoms, and determines the extent of the bunion before creating an individualized treatment plan. Treatment focuses on relieving pain, improving joint function, and slowing further changes to the affected joint whenever possible. Early podiatry care may also help patients remain active and improve overall foot health. If you are experiencing bunion pain, swelling, or difficulty walking, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Afsha Naimat-Shahzad, DPM of Leander Foot & Ankle. 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 Leander, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Tiny cracks in the bones of the foot can develop from repeated strain rather than a single sudden injury, often causing discomfort that gradually worsens with movement. Because symptoms may begin subtly, diagnosis is not always straightforward, especially when early testing does not clearly show the problem. A podiatrist will consider symptom history, physical examination findings, activity patterns, foot structure, and overall health factors that may affect bone strength. When discomfort continues despite an unclear initial evaluation, more detailed scanning may be used to identify the source of pain. Treatment depends on which bone is affected and how severe the injury appears. Many cases require protecting the foot with supportive devices that limit motion while healing takes place. Temporary changes in physical activity are often necessary to prevent the injury from worsening. Early diagnosis can help avoid longer recovery times or more serious complications. If foot pain continues to worsen with activity, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Afsha Naimat-Shahzad, DPM from Leander Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

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

The Achilles tendon is the strong band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It plays an important role while walking, running, and pushing off the foot. When this tendon becomes irritated, stretched, or torn, it can make everyday movement painful. Achilles tendon injuries can develop from repeated stress on the tendon or from a sudden movement that places too much force on it. The risk also increases when the calf muscles are tight or when wearing shoes that lack proper support. Pain usually develops at the back of the ankle or just above the heel. Swelling, stiffness, and tenderness also are common. Some patients notice pain at the beginning of activity that becomes worse after continued movement. A complete tear can cause a popping sensation followed by severe pain and weakness.

A podiatrist performs a thorough examination to identify the type and severity of the injury. The evaluation includes checking the foot and ankle for swelling, tenderness, and range of motion. The podiatrist also observes how the patient stands and walks to identify changes caused by the injured tendon. Imaging tests, like ultrasound or MRI scans, provide a clear view of the tendon and help confirm a partial or complete tear. Finding the injury early helps prevent additional damage and allows treatment to begin before the condition becomes more serious.

Treatment depends on the condition of the tendon and the patient's activity level. A podiatrist develops a treatment plan that reduces stress on the tendon while helping restore strength and flexibility. Care includes custom orthotics to improve foot support and reduce strain on the tendon. It also includes guided stretching and strengthening exercises.  If you have symptoms of an Achilles tendon injuries, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment solutions.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Afsha Naimat-Shahzad, DPM of Leander Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Leander, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.