Frequently Asked Questions

If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain, we want to be your first resource. Pain is your body’s way of telling you something isn’t right, and early treatment can prevent long-term problems. Call Feet First Podiatry right away at 636-477-7300 or toll-free at 888-557-8333 so we can help you get back on your feet as soon as possible.

Feet First Podiatry is a complete foot and ankle care center. We treat a wide range of conditions including heel pain, bunions, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, ankle pain, flat feet, warts, calluses, skin lesions or masses, fungal toenails, arthritis, foot and ankle injuries or fractures, diabetic foot conditions, and chronic wounds. We also offer custom orthotics, laser treatments, PRP therapy, minimally invasive surgery, reconstructive surgery, and second opinions.

You should schedule an evaluation if your heel pain is a daily issue, interferes with work, school, or sports, or worsens after periods of rest. Heel pain may be caused by plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, tendinitis, arthritis, nerve irritation, or cysts. A podiatric physician is trained to determine the exact cause and recommend the most effective treatment.

Heel pain can often be treated conservatively with anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, padding, foot strapping, stretching exercises, orthotics, night splints, physical therapy, and footwear changes. For chronic cases, we also offer Tenex, a minimally invasive procedure that removes damaged tissue from the tendon or plantar fascia.

A bunion is a bone deformity at the base of the big toe that causes the joint to enlarge and shift out of alignment. Bunions do not heal on their own and may cause pain, stiffness, swelling, and redness. Treatment options range from padding, orthotics, and footwear changes to advanced surgical correction, including Lapiplasty® 3D Bunion Correction and minimally invasive bunion surgery.

Hammertoes occur when toe joints bend abnormally, often causing pain, corns, and calluses. Early treatment may include shoe modifications, padding, orthotics, and in-office corn care. If conservative treatments are not effective, minimally invasive surgical techniques may be used to realign the toe and relieve pain.

Ingrown toenails can become painful and infected if left untreated. Symptoms include redness, swelling, tenderness, drainage, or bleeding. Treatment typically involves numbing the toe and removing the ingrown portion of the nail. If you notice signs of infection, contact Feet First Podiatry immediately.

Ankle pain can result from sprains, fractures, tendon injuries, arthritis, nerve compression, Achilles tendinitis, gout, or bursitis. Pain that persists, worsens, or interferes with daily activities should be evaluated promptly to prevent further injury.

Flat feet may be present from childhood or develop later in life. While some people have no symptoms, others experience pain, swelling, instability, or frequent injuries. Treatment options include custom orthotics, supportive footwear, physical therapy, bracing, anti-inflammatory medications, and in some cases, surgery.

Yes. Warts are caused by a virus and can spread if untreated. Treatment options include padding, topical medications, cryotherapy, electrocautery, or prescription treatments. Corns and calluses caused by pressure or friction can be safely removed in-office for pain relief.

Custom orthotics are specially designed inserts that support your feet, improve alignment, and reduce pain. They can help with walking, exercise, and injury prevention. We also offer ankle-foot orthoses, braces, night splints, and walking boots when needed.

Foot and ankle injuries should be evaluated as soon as possible to avoid chronic pain or instability. Seek care if you cannot bear weight, have swelling, bruising, deformity, an open wound, or instability after an injury.

Arthritis treatment depends on severity and may include physical therapy, activity modification, medications, injections, custom orthotics, bracing, or surgery. Early treatment can slow progression and reduce long-term damage.

Fungal toenail infections often require professional treatment. Options include prescription topical medications, oral antifungal therapy, nail removal, and laser treatments. Early evaluation improves treatment success.

Diabetes affects circulation and nerve health, increasing the risk of ulcers and infections. Many diabetic foot wounds are preventable with routine evaluations and early treatment. Regular diabetic foot exams help reduce the risk of serious complications, including amputation.

We use the Nexus 10 Laser to treat heel pain, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, musculoskeletal pain, post-operative nerve pain, and fungal toenails. Laser therapy helps reduce pain, inflammation, and promote healing.

KeryFlex is an in-office nail restoration system that improves the appearance of damaged nails caused by trauma or fungal infections while allowing the natural nail to grow underneath.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) uses your body’s own healing properties to treat joint and soft-tissue pain. A consultation is required to determine if PRP is right for you.

Yes. Our wound care services focus on healing foot and ankle wounds while reducing infection and amputation risk. We use advanced dressings, debridement, and pressure-offloading techniques, especially for patients with diabetes or circulation issues.

A second opinion helps you feel confident about your treatment options. Different providers may recommend different approaches, and we support informed decision-making for your foot and ankle care.

Minimally invasive surgery uses small incisions and specialized tools to treat foot and ankle conditions with less pain, reduced scarring, and faster recovery compared to traditional surgery.