Items filtered by date: September 2025

Plantar fasciitis is often explained simply as heel pain caused by irritation of the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot. While this is true, there is more to understand. The condition develops when repetitive stress causes small tears in the fascia, leading to inflammation. But not everyone with heel pain has plantar fasciitis, and not every case responds the same way. Factors like foot structure, tight calf muscles, and wearing poor footwear can worsen the strain. Long hours of standing or sudden increases in activity also play a role. Beyond basic stretching and rest, treatment may include custom orthotics, night splints, or other advanced podiatric options. Addressing plantar fasciitis early can shorten recovery time and prevent chronic heel pain. If discomfort in your heel is interfering with your routine, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Jon McCreary, DPM  from Fort Worth Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of 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 feel free to contact our office located in Fort Worth, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Common symptoms that are linked to poor circulation can include cold feet, tingling or burning sensations, and swollen feet. There are several reasons why this condition may develop. These can include plaque buildup in the arteries, diabetes, or if there is an existing blood clot. Additionally, patients who smoke, stand for extended periods of time throughout the day, or who are obese may be at risk of developing poor circulation. A diagnosis may consist of testing the blood for elevated glucose levels which may indicate diabetes, as well as performing an ultrasound that can examine your blood vessels. Patients may find moderate relief when compression stockings are worn, which may help to provide a comfortable level of support. If you are suffering from poor circulation, it is advised that you speak to a podiatrist who can offer you proper treatment techniques.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Jon McCreary, DPM of Fort Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is caused by compression of the posterior tibial nerve as it travels through the tarsal tunnel in the ankle. This pressure can result in pain, tingling, burning, or numbness in the foot and ankle. Causes include injury, flat feet, swelling, or conditions like arthritis. Risk factors may involve repetitive stress, obesity, or chronic inflammation. Symptoms can worsen with activity and may radiate into the toes. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition through examination and imaging, then create a personalized treatment plan that may include orthotics, or minimally invasive procedures. If you have persistent foot or ankle discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Jon McCreary, DPM of Fort Worth Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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

Crooked toes are a problem that often develops gradually. They may be caused by wearing shoes that squeeze the toes, arthritis that affects joint alignment, or structural issues such as flat feet or high arches. Injuries and muscle imbalances can also contribute, especially when tendons and ligaments no longer hold the toes in their normal position. Conditions like hammertoes, claw toes, and mallet toes are all examples of crooked toe deformities. Treatment depends on the severity. In the early stages, wearing wider shoes, using protective padding, and adding custom orthotics can ease pressure and slow progression. Stretching and strengthening exercises may also help maintain flexibility. If pain and deformity worsen, surgical options can realign the toes and relieve discomfort. If you have painful crooked toes, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Jon McCreary, DPM from Fort Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. Risk factors include wearing tight or narrow shoes, improper toenail trimming, genetic predisposition, and injury to the nail. Causes often involve repeated pressure, trauma, or abnormal nail shape. In severe or recurring cases, a podiatrist may perform a minor surgical procedure to remove part or all of the affected nail and prevent regrowth in the problem area. This type of doctor can also provide guidance on proper nail care, footwear, and preventive measures. If you are struggling with an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include minor surgery for removal. 

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Jon McCreary, DPM of Fort Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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