October 2023

Swollen feet, also known as edema, is a common condition that can affect individuals of all ages. This ailment presents as an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the feet and ankles, causing them to appear larger than usual and often accompanied by discomfort. There are numerous reasons why feet may become swollen, ranging from minor to more serious causes. Among the most common triggers are prolonged sitting or standing, particularly in hot weather, which can lead to fluid retention. High salt intake, obesity, and certain medications can exacerbate this effect. Injuries and strains, such as a twisted ankle, may also result in localized swelling. Underlying health conditions, such as heart, kidney, or liver disease, can contribute to generalized edema throughout the body, including the feet. Furthermore, issues like deep vein thrombosis and lymphedema can cause foot swelling. Pregnancy, too, often leads to edema due to hormonal changes and increased blood volume. It is important to differentiate the cause of swollen feet, as some instances can indicate underlying health problems. If you have swollen feet, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can help you determine the cause and offer effective relief options.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Robert Graser of Graser Podiatry and Bunion Surgery Institute. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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

A broken ankle occurs when one of more of the three bones that make up the ankle joint is injured. This includes the tibia and fibula, which are calf bones and the talus, which is a web-shaped bone inside the joint. Following are common causes of a broken ankle. Car accidents can often be the source of crushing injuries that can result in an ankle fracture. Also, if you jump from a height and land on your feet, it can result in ankle bone injuries. When a heavy weight falls on your foot, it can break your ankle. Sometimes, when you miss a step while climbing up the stairs or walking down, you can break your ankle. The weight-bearing bones in your feet and ankles are prone to stress. Strong, repetitive forces or overuse, like running for long distances, can result in tiny cracks in them. Stress fractures and bone thinning conditions, such as osteoporosis, can also result in ankle bone injuries. Falling on slippery and wet surfaces, tripping, or stepping into a hole can cause ankle fractures and injuries. When you place the foot down in a wrong manner, twist the ankle, or apply excess pressure on your foot, you can break your ankle. If you believe that you have broken a bone in your ankle, it is strongly suggested that you seek immediate medical attention from a podiatrist.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Robert Graser from Graser Podiatry and Bunion Surgery Institute. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

With the physical demands of basketball, players are constantly at risk of injuries. Among these, ankle injuries are the most common for basketball players. Others basketball-related injuries include sprains, fractures, impingement, and Achilles tendon problems. Basketball demands repetitive jumping, rapid changes in motion, and explosive movements, all of which make a player prone to musculoskeletal injuries. Ankle injuries alone account for nearly a quarter of all basketball-related injuries. Sprained ankles occur when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn, often due to sudden changes in direction or landing improperly from a jump. Fractured ankles happen when the bones in the ankle, such as the tibia, fibula, or talus, break. They are often a result of high-impact collisions or awkward landings. Ankle impingement occurs when soft tissues, such as tendons or ligaments, become compressed within the ankle joint. This can lead to pain and a limited range of motion. The Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, can be especially vulnerable in basketball. Overuse, sudden acceleration, or deceleration can lead to such injuries as tendonitis or ruptures. If you or your child regularly plays basketball and ankle problems have developed, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Dr. Robert Graser of Graser Podiatry and Bunion Surgery Institute. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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

The human body is a marvel of engineering. This is evident in the biomechanics of the feet working together to maintain balance. Our feet consist of 26 bones and numerous ligaments and tendons that form a dynamic structure. At the foundation of this balance are the arches of the feet, formed by the interaction of these bones. The longitudinal arch runs along the length of the foot, while the transverse arch spans its width. These arches act like springs, absorbing shock and adapting to various surfaces. The ankle joint serves as a stabilizing pivot point. When we stand, walk, or run, our foot and ankle bones function as a cohesive unit, distributing our body weight evenly and absorbing the impact of each step. This can help us to adjust our posture and movements continuously. This intricate interplay of bones and joints allows us to navigate a wide range of terrains with grace and stability. It underscores the importance of caring for our feet and ankles, ensuring they remain in optimal condition for a lifetime of balanced mobility. If you would like more information about the interaction between foot and ankle bones, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Robert Graser from Graser Podiatry and Bunion Surgery Institute. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

Plantar fasciitis can be an agonizing condition, characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot. While rest, wearing proper footwear, and professional guidance are key to recovery, certain foot exercises may also help provide relief. Toe curls are an effective stretch, and are done while sitting in a chair and placing a towel on the floor. Scrunch the towel toward you using your toes, then release, and repeat several times. Many patients feel the benefits of performing the ankle alphabet. This is accomplished by writing the alphabet in the air with the big toe while seated. Heel raises are done by standing, and raising the heels off the ground, then lowering them slowly. Repeat to strengthen calf muscles. The towel stretch is performed while sitting with your legs extended. Place a towel around your toes and gently pull it toward you to stretch the plantar fascia. These exercises can help to improve flexibility, strength, and blood circulation in the foot, which can aid in plantar fasciitis recovery. If you have plantar fasciitis, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you find relief by recommending other specific stretches.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Robert Graser  from Graser Podiatry and Bunion Surgery Institute. 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 Boerne, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.