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Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often affecting the big toe. It can develop suddenly, causing intense pain, redness, warmth, and swelling in the affected joint. Causes include high levels of uric acid in the blood, which may result from eating certain foods, dehydration, or kidney problems. Risk factors include obesity, high blood pressure, family history, and excessive alcohol intake. A podiatrist can diagnose gout through a physical examination and testing, then provide relief through medications, lifestyle guidance, and ongoing management. If you are experiencing sudden joint pain in your foot or ankle, it is suggested that you promptly visit a podiatrist who can help you manage this painful condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Terri Quebedeaux, DPM from Agave Podiatry . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe, causing the joint to stick out as the toe shifts inward. They often result from genetics, wearing tight or narrow shoes, flat feet, or arthritis. Bunions are more common in women, likely due to fashion footwear like high heels and pointed shoes. Over time, the misalignment worsens, leading to pain and inflammation. Symptoms include a visible bump on the side of the foot, swelling, redness, soreness, and limited movement of the big toe. It may feel like a dull, aching pain that worsens with walking or wearing certain shoes. A podiatrist may suggest shoe modifications, padding, custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory medications, or targeted exercises. In severe cases, surgery, called a bunionectomy, may be necessary to realign the toe joint.  If you are dealing with a painful bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Terri Quebedeaux, DPM of Agave Podiatry . 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 offices located in Seguin, LaVernia, Gonzales, and Lockhart, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toddlers should begin wearing shoes when they start walking outdoors to protect their feet from rough surfaces and potential injury. Indoors, bare feet or non-slip socks help develop balance and strength. The right shoes should be flexible, lightweight, and provide enough room for natural foot movement. A wide toe box, breathable material, and a firm but gentle sole are ideal. Wearing ill-fitting shoes can lead to discomfort or long-term foot issues. A podiatrist can assess your child’s foot development and offer guidance on proper footwear and growth milestones. If you are unsure about the right time or type of shoes for your toddler, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for personalized care and expert advice.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Terri Quebedeaux, DPM of Agave Podiatry . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

A foot fracture is a break in one or more of the 26 bones in the foot, which can result from trauma, overuse, or repetitive stress. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, or dropping heavy objects on the foot. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. Treatment options range from rest and immobilization with a cast or boot to surgical intervention, in more severe cases. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury through physical examination and imaging, then develop a personalized treatment plan to promote healing and restore mobility. If you suspect a fracture or are experiencing ongoing foot pain, it is suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist to ensure a proper diagnosis and professional care for a safe and effective recovery.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Terri Quebedeaux, DPM from Agave Podiatry . 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 offices located in Seguin, LaVernia, Gonzales, and Lockhart, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Achilles tendonitis refers to inflammation of the tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, often resulting from repetitive strain on the lower leg and heel. Athletes and runners frequently experience Achilles tendonitis when sudden increases in training intensity, sprinting movements, or overuse place excessive pressure on the tendon fibers. There are two primary forms of this injury. Insertional Achilles tendonitis affects the area where the tendon attaches to the heel bone. Non-insertional Achilles tendonitis involves fibers in the midportion of the tendon, more common among  younger and more active individuals. Common signs of Achilles tendonitis include pain at the back of the heel worsened by activity or after rest, or swelling and thickening near the tendon. If nonoperative measures do not reduce inflammation or if damage is severe, surgery may be considered. If you have injured your Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Terri Quebedeaux, DPM of Agave Podiatry . 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 offices located in Seguin, LaVernia, Gonzales, and Lockhart, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A nail that turns yellow, thickens, or starts to crumble can be more than a cosmetic issue. Fungal infections often start small, then slowly spread deeper into the nail bed, if left untreated. These infections thrive in warm, moist environments, like sweaty socks or damp shoes, and can be stubborn to eliminate once they take hold. Some people notice an unusual odor or a change in the shape of the nail, while others simply see a dull or brittle appearance. Over time, untreated fungal nails can become painful or lead to secondary problems, especially in people with diabetes or circulation issues. While mild remedies exist, they are often not enough for deeper infections. If your nails have changed in texture, color, or thickness, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Terri Quebedeaux, DPM of Agave Podiatry . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Seguin, LaVernia, Gonzales, and Lockhart, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

As people age, the feet undergo natural changes that can lead to discomfort and mobility challenges. Age-related foot conditions, such as thinning skin, reduced circulation, and joint stiffness, often combine with chronic medical issues like diabetes and arthritis. Cognitive impairment may make self care more difficult, increasing the risk of complications. A podiatrist educates older adults and caregivers about proper foot hygiene, footwear, and fall prevention strategies. Common foot concerns such as plantar fasciitis, ingrown toenails, and skin problems can be treated effectively with regular care. If you or a loved one has foot pain, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and offer effective tips on foot care.

If you need your feet checked, contact Terri Quebedeaux, DPM of Agave Podiatry . Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

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

Foot stress fractures are small cracks in the bones that often occur from repetitive impact, commonly affecting the metatarsals, heel bone, or navicular in the foot. Stress fractures are frequently linked to activities such as running, jumping, or sudden increases in training intensity. People who start new sports or increase workout duration too quickly may be at higher risk. Stress fractures can also result when the foot muscles become fatigued and are no longer able to absorb impact, transferring excessive force to the bones. Risk factors include poor foot structure, low or high arches, and inadequate footwear that fails to support the foot during movement. Women may face added risk due to hormonal influences on bone density, especially with irregular menstrual cycles. Previous stress fractures, osteoporosis, or changes in training surfaces, such as moving from grass to pavement, may also increase vulnerability. If you are suffering from foot pain after activities, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment options.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Terri Quebedeaux, DPM from Agave Podiatry . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Seguin, LaVernia, Gonzales, and Lockhart, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Poor dorsiflexion, or limited upward movement of the foot toward the shin, can interfere with walking and increase strain on other joints. Poor dorsiflexion is often the result of tight calf muscles, especially the gastrocnemius and soleus, which can restrict ankle movement. Previous ankle injuries, such as sprains that did not heal fully, may also lead to scar tissue or stiffness, further limiting motion. In some cases, compression or injury of the deep peroneal nerve, which controls the muscles responsible for dorsiflexion, may prevent the foot from lifting properly. Ankle joint restrictions or structural limitations related to genetics may also play a role. When dorsiflexion is impaired, the body may adapt by altering gait, which can place excessive stress on the knees, hips, and lower back. A podiatrist can evaluate the ankle’s range of motion, identify the underlying cause of the restriction, and recommend medical treatment or surgery, if necessary. If you have problems flexing your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Terri Quebedeaux, DPM from Agave Podiatry . 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 offices located in Seguin, LaVernia, Gonzales, and Lockhart, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.