Blog Archive

How to Prevent Severe Bunion Pain from Flaring Up Nov 13th, 2023

In many people, bunions cause minor pain or no pain at all. Others, however, can get severe pain. If you identify with the latter group, you’re in the right place. Our providers at Arizona Foot and Ankle Medical Center in Mesa, Laveen, and Chandler, Arizona, are experts in treating bunions....

Understanding Your Diabetic Neuropathy Diagnosis Sep 30th, 2023

As you adjust to life with diabetes, things can take some getting used to. That’s especially true if you develop diabetic neuropathy, which is a condition that affects about half of people with diabetes.  Diabetic neuropathy usually makes the lower extremities — and particularly the feet — feel different. You...

4 Injuries That Can Cause Chronic Ankle Pain Sep 1st, 2023

While ankle pain can have a wide range of causes — from arthritis to gout — it often arises due to injury. This is important to know, because understanding the root causes of chronic pain can help you find appropriate treatment.  Here at Arizona Foot and Ankle Medical Center in Mesa, Laveen, and Chandler,...

Is Hammertoe Hereditary? Aug 1st, 2023

When you have hammertoe, you become keenly aware of things people take for granted — like being able to wear any pair of shoes or walk without developing a blister. This toe deformity can leave you hobbled, especially if you let it go unchecked.  Fortunately, we can intervene. Our team at Arizona Foot...

I Have a Painful Ingrown Toenail - What Should I Do? Jul 11th, 2023

Your toenails are supposed to protect the tips of your toes. But, if one starts growing down into your skin, what should be providing protection can instead create pain. If this is happening to you, you no doubt want to remedy the situation as quickly as possible. Even so, you...

Bye, Bye Bunions: Getting Ready for Your Bunion Surgery Jun 1st, 2023

A bunion is a condition in which the big toe gets misaligned and angles in toward the other toes, which causes the base of the big toe to jut out and form a bump at the side of the foot. Bunion surgery can straighten your toe and relieve the associated...

5 Reasons You May Have Arthritis May 4th, 2023

Arthritis takes a heavy toll in the United States. Across the country, nearly 25% of Americans deal with this condition, and it’s also the leading cause of work disability nationwide.  There are many types of arthritis, but in simple terms, having the condition means you have inflammation in one or more joints. Here...

When is It Necessary to Remove a Wart Surgically? Apr 2nd, 2023

If you have a plantar wart on your foot, you may have tried at-home treatments or over-the-counter solutions. However, not all plantar warts respond to this kind of care. That’s where we come in. At Arizona Foot and Ankle Medical Center in Laveen, Chandler, and Mesa, Arizona, our providers offer...

What’s the Difference Between Corns and Calluses? Mar 13th, 2023

Our feet go through a lot as they move us throughout our day. It’s no surprise, then, that the skin on them can start to show signs of wear. Most of us are no strangers to a blister when a shoe rubs an area of skin too much, for example....

Does Neuropathy Resolve on Its Own? Feb 14th, 2023

If any nerves — other than those in the brain or spinal cord — get damaged, the condition is called neuropathy. And, unfortunately, this condition can cause a range of unwelcome symptoms. For example, you might experience tingling and numbness in your extremities, muscle weakness in the affected areas, or loss...

Start the New Year on the Right Foot: Learn How To Clip Your Toenails Properly Jan 18th, 2023

Some of your new year’s resolutions are probably proactive. You might be aiming to read more books or get more exercise, for example. But, don’t forget that some of the best ways to improve the coming year come down to prevention.  For example, wouldn’t you like to prevent getting ingrown...

When Ankle Pain Is Cause for Concern Dec 8th, 2022

If you’re like most people, you've experienced ankle pain at some point in your life. As you read this, you can probably think back to a time when you rolled your ankle and lived with discomfort for a few days.  However, just because ankle pain is common doesn’t mean it...

Tips for Protecting Your Achilles Tendon Nov 1st, 2022

All of your tendons do a lot to keep you mobile. They play the key role of anchoring your muscle to your bone, allowing you to move while keeping you stable and balanced. Clearly, they have their work cut out for them. That’s particularly true when it comes to your...

What to Know About Wearing Orthotics While Working Out Oct 1st, 2022

You probably know that your shoes make a big difference in how you get around. If you’ve worn uncomfortable or unsupportive shoes in an athletic event, you know how painful that can be. That’s why our team at Arizona Foot and Ankle Medical Center offers custom orthotics at our offices in Laveen, Chandler, and Mesa, Arizona....

Ballet Dancer? Here's What You Should Know About Your Risk for Foot Problems Sep 1st, 2022

When people think of a ballerina, they think of grace and strength. But, when they think about their feet, the picture is less pretty. Images of ballet dancers’ feet have circulated on the internet, showing just how much of a toll this style of dance can take. We want to...

When Does a Fracture Need a Cast Instead of a Splint or Brace? Aug 1st, 2022

A lot of people think that a fracture and a broken bone are different conditions. However, both terms are interchangeable and are used to describe a crack or break in bone tissue. And that means any type of fracture warrants dedicated care.  Fortunately, as fracture specialists, our team at Arizona Foot and Ankle Medical...

Why Am I So Prone to Corns? Jul 1st, 2022

Do you have corns? If you do, you know that these small patches of tough skin, which have a hard center and are softer around the edges, can cause pain and discomfort. Corns can develop for a number of reasons, but in many cases they’re preventable. Here at Arizona Foot and...

Are These Foods Causing Inflammation and Contributing to Your Arthritis? Jun 1st, 2022

There’s something particularly problematic about arthritis that affects the joints of your feet and ankles. No joint pain is welcome, but when your feet hurt, it can make doing even small tasks — such as walking to the sink for a glass of water — an uncomfortable activity.  At Arizona Foot and...

Here’s How to Cut Your Toenails to Prevent Ingrown Toenails May 4th, 2022

While an ingrown toenail isn’t the biggest health concern you’ll likely face, it’s not a welcome scenario, either. It might make your favorite shoes unwearable or cause discomfort with every step you take. Plus, if it gets infected, you’ll have a much bigger problem on your hands. Fortunately, there are...

Myths and Facts About Neuropathy Apr 1st, 2022

Neuropathy is a condition in which your peripheral nerves — which are the nerves that reside outside of your brain and spinal column — get damaged. These nerves send signals back to your brain, but if they get damaged, they can start sending the wrong signals. This can result in...

3 Reasons Why Custom Orthotics are Better Than Store-Bought Mar 1st, 2022

Good news: A wide variety of issues — from back pain to foot problems — can potentially be solved by simply slipping something into your shoe. But before you head out and buy some mass-produced orthotics, you should know that the best results come from custom orthotics.  That’s why our...

Can I Prevent Ingrown Toenails? Feb 1st, 2022

Toenails play an important role in our feet, helping to protect them from injury and infection. But, as much as they help, they can also be the source of problems, such as ingrown toenails. If you get an ingrown toenail, don’t fret! Our providers at Arizona Foot and Ankle Medical...

Try These Exercises to Strengthen Your Achilles Tendon Jan 1st, 2022

Along the back of each leg, you have a thick tendon that connects your calf to your heel. These Achilles tendons are the biggest, strongest tendons in your body, capable of withstanding about four times your weight. But just like the Achilles of legend, these tendons aren’t completely impervious. Because...

Warning Signs of Neuropathy Dec 6th, 2021

Your peripheral nervous system — which contains all of the nerves outside of your brain and spine — does a lot for you. This network of nerves carries signals that allow you to move your limbs and feel sensations in them. Unfortunately, if problems develop with any of the nerves...

Tips for Avoiding Ankle Pain Nov 3rd, 2021

We don’t think much about our ankles until they develop a problem. But the joints, ligaments, and tendons in your ankles are some of the most important in your body. Without them, you can’t get from one place to another or stabilize yourself while standing. All told, your ankle health...

This is Why You Shouldn’t Buy Orthotics at the Store Oct 6th, 2021

Your feet do a lot. And because of this, sometimes they can need some extra support. That’s where orthotics come in. Orthotics — which you slip into your shoes like inserts — can help your feet function the way they should and minimize everything from foot pain to mobility problems. ...

Shoe-Buying Tips for Athletes Sep 6th, 2021

When you’re playing a sport, your shoes can make all the difference. The right shoes can cushion and support your feet, ankles, and other parts of your body as you run, shift, and make other quick maneuvers.  And while Kyle Durfey, DPM, Brian Hiapo, DPM, and our team at Arizona...

Risk Factors for Gout, and What to do About Them Aug 9th, 2021

While all types of arthritis can cause joint pain, there’s nothing quite like gout. This type of arthritis causes sudden, severe pain in the affected joint, which is often the big toe. The joint might feel hot or swell, and the pain can be so intense that it wakes you...

Are Foot Calluses a Medical Problem? Jul 19th, 2021

Calluses are a normal occurrence. These rough patches of thickened skin develop on feet because of friction. They have an increased chance of developing if you wear shoes that don’t fit properly or if you do a lot of walking. In most cases, calluses aren’t painful, and if friction is...

Signs of an Achilles Tendon Rupture Jun 17th, 2021

As the biggest tendon in your body, your Achilles tendon does a lot. As you move throughout your day, it helps you flex your foot and makes it possible for you to walk, run, and jump. Ultimately, a lot of your movement is supported by this tendon, which connects your...

How Combined Therapies Can Help Your Arthritis May 5th, 2021

Arthritis is uncomfortable in any part of the body, but it can be especially debilitating if it affects the feet or ankles. There, it can make even getting up to get a glass of water feel like a daunting task. Fortunately, you have a variety of options that can treat...

Could That Foot Pain Signal a Stress Fracture? Apr 1st, 2021

When you think about fracturing a bone, you probably imagine a single traumatic incident, such as a car accident or a sports injury. Actually, though, the strain you put on your body throughout your day can take its toll over time, culminating in what’s called a stress fracture. Stress fractures...

Why Early Treatment of Ankle Injuries is Paramount Feb 1st, 2021

If you strain something in the upper half of your body, it may be relatively easy to rest that area. However, if you hurt your ankle, you’re faced with a difficult choice. Do you stay off it and inhibit your movement throughout your day? Or do you hobble along and...

5 Conditions Linked to Your Shoes Jan 1st, 2021

Shoes changed the way we exist as humans. They allow us to traverse the world with less risk of getting hurt. As our shoes have changed, our society has changed, too. All told, shoes matter. This isn’t an area to ignore comfort or functionality. In fact, a number of common...

Diabetic Foot Conditions Dec 1st, 2020

Having diabetes isn’t just about taking the necessary steps to control your blood sugar. You also need to pay attention to the rest of your body, including your feet. At Arizona Foot and Ankle Medical Center in Laveen, Arizona, Kyle Durfey, DPM, and Brian Hiapo, DPM, are dedicated to helping...

Is an Ingrown Toenail Serious? Nov 1st, 2020

An ingrown toenail can cause pain with every step you take and seriously impair your ability to go about your day. It may be tempting, though, to wait it out and assume it will heal on its own. However, if it’s left untreated, an ingrown toenail can worsen, even to...

Foot Conditions That May Make You a Candidate for Orthotics Oct 1st, 2020

Problems with your feet can hold you back. If you’re dealing with foot discomfort, even walking across the house may feel daunting. And you may turn down doing activities you used to love because you fear foot pain. However, there is good news. You may be able to treat a...

Is It a Corn or a Callus? Sep 10th, 2020

Your feet are excellent at holding up under pressure. They help you get everywhere you need to go, even if you keep them confined in shoes most of the day. But every once in a while, they can run into problems. Corns and calluses — two of the most common...

How Custom Orthotics Can Help Relieve Joint Pain Aug 13th, 2020

Orthotics, which are custom-made medical devices that you insert into your shoes, can do a lot for your body. They can help correct problems with the alignment of the bones in your feet or take pressure off of certain areas. They’re also an effective tool for easing certain types of...

Can Bunions Be Prevented? Jul 14th, 2020

Bunions — which are bony bumps at the base of the big toe — can cause pain and embarrassment. And while bunions are treatable, there’s one thing better than treatment: not getting them in the first place.  Kyle Durfey, DPM, and Brian Hiapo, DPM, at Arizona Foot and Ankle Medical...

When It’s a Good Idea To Seek Care for Your Corns Jun 12th, 2020

Corns are uncomfortable and can feel embarrassing. While they might go away on their own if you alleviate the pressure that’s causing them in the first place, some corns need dedicated medical care. It can be tricky to know when you should try home care and when you should schedule...

Recognizing the Signs of Achilles Tendonitis May 13th, 2020

With every step you take, you rely on a large tendon that connects your calf to your heel. This tendon — your Achilles tendon — plays a crucial role in keeping you mobile. While this tough band of tissue is uniquely able to withstand the force of your gait as...

7 Tips for Avoiding Warts and Fungus Apr 9th, 2020

There’s good news about toenail fungus and plantar warts, which are warts on your feet. They’re both extremely treatable. That’s why we offer cutting-edge treatments for both warts and toenail fungus at Arizona Foot and Ankle Medical Center. At our office in Laveen, Arizona, Kyle Durfey, DPM, and Brian Hiapo,...

Warning Signs That You Have Arthritis in Your Feet Feb 26th, 2020

Foot pain isn’t a normal part of aging. But people often equate foot discomfort with the inevitable passage of time, because foot pain is so common. What’s the culprit of many cases of foot pain that can develop later in life? Arthritis. The continual pressure put on the joints of...

How Diet Affects Gout Feb 3rd, 2020

If you’re living with gout, you’re probably constantly looking for ways to relieve your sharp, stabbing foot pain. Even when you’re in between flares, you know that pain can come back at any moment.  Fortunately, our knowledgeable team at Arizona Foot and Ankle Medical Center can work with you to...

Walk It Off: How Footwear Can Help Your Hammertoes Jan 9th, 2020

Hammertoe, which is a condition that can affect all toes except your big toes, can cause one or both joints in a toe to bend upward and give your toe the appearance of a claw. Studies show that footwear can play a significant role in the development of hammertoe. Wearing...

Getting Active Again After an ACL Injury Nov 1st, 2019

If you’re suffering from a recent anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, you may not think about the role podiatry plays in your healing process since your ACL is a primary ligament in your knee. Yet, without the proper support and cooperation of your foot and ankle, your road to recovery...

Living with Plantar Fasciitis Oct 3rd, 2019

The alarm goes off, and you step out of bed to turn it off, only to have a sharp pain shoot up through your heel. The bottom of your foot feels cramped, your calves are tight, and you’re sure you look like a T-Rex as you limp to your dresser...

How to Keep a Sprained Ankle from Becoming Chronic Instability Sep 9th, 2019

Being “brave” about ankle injuries could mean signing up for more painful incidents in the future, and an ankle joint that ends up showing signs of chronic instability. Instead of toughing it out, see your doctor anytime an ankle injury causes significant pain, and prevent long-term problems.  At Arizona Foot...

7 Tips for Preparing Your Home for Your Bunion Surgery Aug 14th, 2019

A bunion occurs when your metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint, or the joint that attaches the base of your big toe to your foot, slips permanently out of place, forcing your big toe to angle inward and your joint to angle outward. To compensate for this abnormal repositioning, your MTP joint develops...

Why Every Diabetic Needs a Foot Care Specialist on Their Medical Care Team Jul 10th, 2019

If you have diabetes, you’re likely already used to closely monitoring your health. But what you may not know is that proper foot care is equally important. In fact, foot care issues are common complications of diabetes. Because the condition can affect blood supply, you could face potential nerve damage...