Foot pain is a common problem that affects many people. When left untreated, foot pain can become chronic and cause permanent injuries. If you are experiencing foot pain and live in the Fort Worth and Weatherford area, Dr. Gary Driver can help. Dr. Gary Driver is a fellowship-trained and board-certified foot and ankle surgeon. He has been providing specialized treatment for foot pain in Fort Worth and Weatherford since 2021. Schedule an appointment today for improved mobility and relief from foot pain.
Risk Factors for Foot Pain
Only a small percentage of people are actually born with foot problems. In reality, unhealthy habits and aging are often at the core of foot pain. The following factors can contribute to the development of foot pain:
- Aging
- Injury
- Overuse
- Standing on your feet for prolonged periods
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Ingrown toenails
- Ill-fitting shoes
Medical Conditions that Cause Foot Pain
You may get diagnosed with one of the following conditions, for which Dr. Gary Driver will recommend the appropriate treatment.
Charcot Joint
Charcot joint is a condition in which a joint deteriorates due to nerve damage. It can cause numbness, tingling, redness, and swelling in the affected area and is most often caused by diabetes.
Achilles Tendon Rupture
An Achilles tendon rupture is an injury to the lower back of the leg, where the Achilles tendon connects the heel bone to the calf muscles. If you overstretch the tendon, it can rupture or partially tear, causing severe pain and swelling. This injury occurs mainly while playing sports or running, but it can happen to anybody.
Flatfoot
Flatfoot is a condition in which the soles of your feet have little to no arch when they touch the ground. It can occur in one or both feet and sometimes causes pain. Risk factors for flatfoot include injury, obesity, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis. However, you can also inherit flatfoot.
Bunion
A bunion is a bony protrusion that develops at the base of the big toe. It happens when the bones in the front of the foot shift out of alignment, often due to injury or prolonged pressure. This misalignment causes the big toe to turn toward the smaller toes, pushing the joint at the base outward and creating a bump. Bunions can be swollen, red, and painful.
Cavus Foot Deformity
Cavus foot deformity is a condition in which a person’s foot has an excessively high arch. When the arch of a foot is very high, it causes more pressure to be placed on the heel and ball of the foot, resulting in foot pain. It is often a degenerative condition, and symptoms can range from occasional discomfort to permanent skeletal deformities.
Foot Arthritis
Arthritis of the foot is characterized by stiff and damaged joints. A human foot contains 33 joints, and arthritis can affect more than 30 of these. The condition can decrease your balance and stability, making it difficult to stand, walk, and perform other physical activities.
Foot Trauma
Foot trauma is an injury to the bones, joints, and soft tissues of the foot. These injuries can be minor or severe. Sometimes, a minor injury can become severe if proper treatment is not followed. For instance, a foot sprain is a common injury that can heal in as little as two weeks with the appropriate treatment. However, if left untreated, the injury can get worse and lead to serious complications.
Foot Fracture
A foot fracture, or broken foot, is a common injury that can involve any of the 26 bones in your foot. Accidents while playing sports can lead to a fractured foot. A broken foot can be very painful and requires immediate treatment.
Stress Fractures in the Foot
Stress fractures are tiny cracks in the bones often caused by overuse or osteoporosis. A stress fracture can result from repetitive force over time rather than sudden impact. Athletes are at a greater risk of developing stress fractures in the feet. Symptoms include pain and swelling of the affected area.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is among the most frequent causes of foot pain. It is the inflammation of the tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. This condition causes stabbing pain near the heel and is usually at its worst when you take your first few steps after waking. As you start moving, the pain should gradually ease. However, it may return after standing for extended periods or when you stand up after being inactive for a while. People with occupations that require them to stand all day are at a greater risk of developing plantar fasciitis.
Metatarsalgia
Metatarsalgia, or forefoot pain, is a condition characterized by inflammation and discomfort in the ball of the foot. People who participate in activities that involve jumping and running are at a greater risk of developing this condition. Other risk factors include foot deformities and ill-fitting shoes. Metatarsalgia is not a serious condition, but the pain can impact your daily activities, so it’s better to be proactive and get it treated.
How is the Cause of Foot Pain Diagnosed?
The success of treatment for foot pain largely depends on the root cause being accurately identified. To get a proper diagnosis, Dr. Gary Driver will review your medical history and perform a detailed physical examination of your foot. He may also use X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs to confirm the diagnosis. Once your condition is diagnosed, Dr. Gary Driver will develop a personalized treatment plan to help you heal and regain mobility. His goal is always to restore functionality and alleviate pain without resorting to surgical procedures.
Foot Pain Treatment Options in Fort Worth and Weatherford, TX
Based on your condition and preferences, Dr. Gary Driver may suggest one or more of the following treatment options:
Non-Surgical Treatment
- Steroid injections
- Physical therapy
- Toe exercises
- Orthotics (pads and arch supports)
- Anti-inflammatory medication
Surgical Treatment
- Foot reconstruction
- Cavus foot reconstruction
- Flatfoot reconstruction
- Charcot reconstruction
- Foot and ankle cartilage repair
- Bunionette surgery
- Metatarsal surgery
- Plantar fascia release
A number of these surgeries are minimally invasive and are performed as a last resort when non-surgical treatment has failed to produce results.
Why Choose Dr. Gary Driver for Foot Pain Treatment?
Dr. Gary Driver has been practicing in Forth Worth and Weatherford since 2021, helping patients regain their strength and mobility through personalized treatment. In addition to being double board-certified and receiving the Fort Worth Top Doctors Award multiple times, here are several reasons why patients place their trust in Dr. Gary Driver:
Advanced Treatment Techniques
Dr. Gary Driver makes use of the most recent advances in flatfoot surgical and non-surgical treatment to provide patients with exceptional care. With the help of specialized equipment and imaging technology, he provides accurate diagnoses that identify the root cause of flatfoot symptoms. His advanced treatment techniques maximize recovery and promote lasting wellness.
Patient-Centered Care
Dr. Gary Driver offers personalized treatment centered around your needs. His core values are integrity, honesty, and fairness, and he makes a point of embodying these qualities in his medical practice.
Convenient Locations
Dr. Gary offers his services in Fort Worth and Weatherford clinics. You can book an initial consultation at whichever location is closest to you.
Fellowship-Trained
Dr. Gary Driver is a fellowship-trained ankle and foot surgeon. He had the opportunity to complete his fellowship in Roanoke, Virginia, at one of the best foot and ankle fellowship programs in the USA.
Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Gary Driver Today
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your foot, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Gary Driver for the best foot pain treatment in Fort Worth and Weatherford, TX. You can call or use the form on our website to book an initial consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I seek treatment for foot pain?
If you experience sudden or severe foot pain, you should seek treatment. You should also schedule an appointment with a doctor if you experience pain that does not go away in 2 weeks.
How long does it take to recover from a foot injury?
Minor to moderate injuries require 2 to 4 weeks to heal. If you sustain a severe injury, it may take 6 to 8 months to get back to normal. The exact recovery period depends on your injury, your physical condition, and any underlying or existing medical conditions you may have.
Do I need surgery for foot pain?
Sometimes foot pain can be alleviated with non-surgical treatment like physical therapy, foot injections, exercises, and orthotics. However, if the foot pain persists even after following a non-surgical treatment plan, you may require surgery.
Does insurance cover foot pain treatment?
Yes, many insurance plans cover treatment for foot pain. Make sure to check with your insurance provider before making an appointment.
What should I expect during my initial consultation for foot pain?
During your initial consultation, Dr. Gary Driver will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and existing conditions. He will then conduct a physical examination of your foot in order to provide a diagnosis, which he may confirm using X-rays, an MRI, or a CT scan. Once the cause of your foot pain is diagnosed, Dr. Gary Driver will give you treatment recommendations based on your condition and individual needs.
How much does foot pain treatment cost in Fort Worth and Weatherford, TX?
The cost of foot pain treatment in Fort Worth and Weatherford, TX, depends on various factors, including the severity of the condition you are diagnosed with and the duration and complexity of the recommended treatment. Following your diagnosis, Dr. Gary Driver will give you an estimate of how much the treatment is going to cost.