Field Notes From Our Foot & Ankle Clinic
The TMFA Journal · Vol. 1
Plain-English answers to the questions our patients actually ask — written by Dr. Valenti and Dr. Litherland. Browse by what's bothering you, or skim the index below.
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Conditions
foot health & prevention
athlete & Active health
patient education
treatments & procedures
What Does a Podiatrist Do? Your Guide to Foot and Ankle Specialists
Podiatrists diagnose, treat, and prevent foot, ankle, and lower limb conditions. Learn what to expect, when to see one, and how they're trained.
How Foot and Ankle Function Changes With Age
Feet change in predictable ways as we age. Learn what to expect, what to address, and how to maintain mobility throughout life.
Foot Blisters: Causes, Care, and Prevention for Active Coloradans
Blisters from running, hiking, and new shoes are common but preventable. Learn what causes them, how to treat them, and when to see a podiatrist.
Morton's Neuroma: Why That Burning Pain in the Ball of Your Foot Won't Go Away
Morton's neuroma causes burning, tingling, or shooting pain in the ball of the foot. Learn the causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
Children's Foot Care: Preventing Cuts, Injuries, and Long-Term Problems
Kids' feet are growing, active, and prone to specific injuries. Learn how to prevent cuts and foot problems and when to see a pediatric podiatrist.
Misdiagnosed Foot Pain: Cuboid Syndrome and Outer Foot Pain Causes
Pain on the outside of the foot is often misdiagnosed. Learn the most common causes — including cuboid syndrome — and how Boulder podiatrists diagnose it correctly.
Bunion Causes and Symptoms: Why They Form and How to Recognize Them
Bunions develop slowly over years. Learn the causes, recognize the early symptoms, and understand when professional evaluation makes a difference.
What Your Feet Can Reveal About Your Overall Health
Your feet can be early warning signs for diabetes, circulation issues, thyroid problems, and more. Learn what symptoms warrant a closer look.
Ingrown Toenails: Causes, Treatment, and How to Prevent Recurrence
Ingrown toenails cause significant pain and can lead to infections. Learn what causes them, how to treat them properly, and prevent recurrence.
What Custom Orthotics Can Actually Accomplish (and What They Can't)
Custom orthotics are powerful, but they're not magic. Learn what they actually do, who benefits most, and how they differ from drugstore insoles.
Foot Wound Care: Reconstructive Options for Complex Wounds and Diabetic Ulcers
Complex foot wounds require specialized care. Learn about skin layers, wound healing, and the reconstructive ladder of treatment options for difficult wounds.
Athlete's Foot Infections: Recognizing, Treating, and Preventing Tinea Pedis
Athlete's foot is the most common fungal skin infection. Learn how to recognize it, treat it effectively, and prevent recurrence.
The Importance of Biomechanics in Podiatry
Biomechanics is the foundation of effective podiatric care. Learn how foot mechanics affect everything from heel pain to back pain.
Plantar Fibromatosis (Ledderhose Disease): Multiple Foot Arch Nodules
Plantar fibromatosis (Ledderhose disease) involves multiple nodules in the foot's plantar fascia. Learn the causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
Diabetic Foot Conditions: Ulcers, Blisters, and Daily Care
For diabetic patients, foot care is non-negotiable. Learn about diabetic ulcers, blisters, neuropathy, and the daily practices that prevent serious complications.
Arthritic Foot Care: Managing Foot and Ankle Arthritis
Foot and ankle arthritis affects millions. Learn the types, symptoms, and treatment options that maintain mobility and reduce pain.
How to Handle a Long Work Day on Your Feet
Nurses, teachers, retail workers, and others spend their days on their feet. Learn strategies for managing pain and preventing injury.
Plantar Fibroma: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of Foot Arch Nodules
A plantar fibroma is a benign nodule in the arch of the foot. Learn what causes them, when treatment is needed, and your options from Colorado podiatrists.
Exercises for Strong, Pain-Free Feet
Strong feet are healthy feet. Learn the exercises that build foot strength, improve flexibility, and prevent common foot problems.
Heel Pain Decoded: Plantar Fasciitis, Heel Spurs, Bursitis, Heel Bruises, and More
Heel pain has many causes — plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, bursitis, fissures, fascia ruptures, and more. Learn the differences and when to see a podiatrist.