If you need a more accessible version of this website, click this button on the right.Switch to Accessible Site
Click here for an important statement on the Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Our office is Open! (972) 335-9071

Please contact our office to schedule an appointment or for more information.

To keep you and your loved ones safe, know that we have taken all recommended state and medical association precautions. Please click on the button to view the precautions before coming in for your appointment.
Precautions for Coronavirus - Click Here

(972) 335-9071


Southwestern Foot and Ankle Associates, P.C
11500 Highway 121, Building 700, Suite 710
Frisco, TX 75035

September 2023

Tuesday, 26 September 2023 00:00

Causes and Prevention of Athlete's Foot

Athlete's foot, medically known as tinea pedis, is a common fungal infection that primarily affects the feet. This condition is characterized by itching, burning, and peeling of the skin, often between the toes. It thrives in warm, moist environments, such as sweaty shoes and communal areas like locker rooms and swimming pools. The root cause of athlete's foot is a group of fungi called dermatophytes, which feed on the keratin found in our skin and nails. Athlete's foot is contagious, easily spreading through direct contact or contact with contaminated surfaces. Preventing athlete's foot begins with maintaining good foot hygiene. Ensure your feet are clean and dry, especially between the toes. Choosing moisture-wicking socks and breathable shoes may help to reduce sweat buildup. It is beneficial to avoid walking barefoot in public areas, and consider wearing flip flops in communal showers. Regularly change and clean your socks and shoes, and never share footwear with others. Additionally, over-the-counter antifungal powders or creams can be used for prevention if you are prone to the infection. If you would like more information about more advanced prevention techniques for athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Thomas Tran from Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C..  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

  • Hydrate your feet by using lotion
  • Exfoliate
  • Buff off nails
  • Use of anti-fungal products
  • Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

Read more about Athlete’s Foot
Tuesday, 19 September 2023 00:00

How to Safeguard Your Home From Falls

Our homes are our sanctuaries, places of comfort and security. However, they can also harbor hidden hazards that pose risks of falls, especially for children and older adults. Safeguarding your home from falls is essential for ensuring the well-being of your family. Effective fall prevention techniques can begin with good lighting. Adequate illumination in hallways, staircases, and entryways helps everyone navigate safely. Placing non-slip mats and rugs can prevent slipping on slick surfaces, such as bathroom tiles or hardwood floors. Installing handrails on staircases and in bathrooms can help to provide support, especially for those with mobility issues. Keeping walkways clear of clutter and making sure cords and cables are neatly tucked away may help to avoid tripping. Additionally, it is beneficial to regularly check and maintain the condition of flooring and stairs, and repair any loose or damaged areas promptly. By implementing these measures, you can create a safe haven, free from fall-related risks in your home. Falling can affect the feet, possibly causing daily activities to be compromised. If you would like additional information about effective fall prevention strategies, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist. 

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 Dr. Thomas Tran from Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. 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 Frisco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Falls Prevention
Tuesday, 12 September 2023 00:00

How to Prevent Running and Jogging Injuries

Running and jogging are fantastic ways to stay fit and healthy, but they can also be strenuous on the body, potentially leading to injuries if precautions are not taken. One of the primary steps to injury prevention is warming up correctly. Dynamic stretching and light jogging before running can help prepare the muscles and reduce the risk of strains. Additionally, wearing the right shoes for your foot type and gait can make a significant difference. Regularly replacing old or worn-out shoes can help to maintain proper support. Maintaining good running form by keeping your body aligned and using a mid-foot strike can help minimize the impact on your joints. Avoiding overtraining and incorporating rest days into your routine can allow your body to recover. If you feel pain or discomfort, it is beneficial to listen to your body, and not push through it. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the benefits of running and jogging while minimizing the risk of injuries. It is suggested that you contact a podiatrist for more information on how to protect your feet while running.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Thomas Tran of Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

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

Read more about How to Prevent Running Injuries
Sunday, 10 September 2023 00:00

Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

Tuesday, 05 September 2023 00:00

Footwear and Healthy Feet

Proper footwear is paramount for maintaining healthy feet. Ill-fitting shoes can lead to any number of foot problems and even increase the risk of injury. To safeguard your foot health, it's important to select shoes that not only fit well but also provide adequate support. When making your choice, consider the nature of your activity, the type of surface you'll be on, and the need for proper support. For instance, people who spend substantial time on hard surfaces may be more susceptible to heel and forefoot pain, as well as calluses and corns. Supportive shoes with softer soles and arch supports may help. High heels, which force the feet into unnatural positions, can result in long-term postural changes and increase the chances of toe deformities, such as bunions. For active people, the right footwear can ensure proper shock absorption and stability. Seek sports shoes that offer flexibility at the ball of the foot and ample heel support. If foot problems develop or persist, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Thomas Tran from Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.

Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting

  • Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
  • Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
  • Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
  • Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
  • Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.

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

Read more about How to Get a Proper Shoe Fit
Connect with us
google reviews