Patient Questions

Jonathan Kletz is an Expert Contributor on FindaTopDoc. Here are some of their recent answers to patient questions.

Podiatrist (Foot and Ankle Specialist)
Jonathan Kletz

Trauma to the nail complete can sometimes affect how toenail grows in the future. If the toenail root is affected by trauma, such as blunt force than this could affect how the toenail grows in the future. If the nail shattered into three pieces I would recommend the have and looked at by physician, and possibly x-rays to make sure is no injury to the underlying bone. Sometimes the nail needs to be removed to allow for proper healing.  Jonathan M. Kletz, DPM Texas Foot WorksDallas, Athens and Gun Barrel City Texas214-340-8885

Sometimes MRIs can be read differently by different radiologist. If you're concerned that the MRI might have been read incorrectly recommend asking the MRI facility to have another radiologists look at it for a second opinion. Also, it depends of the MRI was done with contrast because this can show other issues that may not be evaluated on a noncontrast MRI. I hope this helps. Jonathan M. Kletz, DPM Texas Foot WorksDallas, Athens and Gun Barrel City Texas214-340-8885

Any study can be read wrong. But if you had an x-ray, bone scan had an MRI and they all or negative for any type of problem, then there is probably a good chance that there is not structural damage. If you are concerned about condition can have MRI looked at again by radiologist to see if anything was missed in the original interpretation. Jonathan M. Kletz, DPM Texas Foot WorksDallas, Athens and Gun Barrel City Texas214-340-8885

Usually, a tailors bunion is on the side of the foot next to the fifth metatarsal head, and that is where the fifth toe connects to the foot. It is usually not located under the pinky toe. This could be some other type of issue. I recommend you get it evaluated and have an x-ray.

Plantar warts are caused by a virus. Sometimes topical medications can be used to eradicate them. Surgical excision and lasers are other alternatives. Jonathan M. Kletz, DPM, FACFAS Dallas, Athens, and Gun Barrel City 214-340-8885

The best way to manage a broken toe. If it is not displaced is to splint the toe to the toe next to it using some type of tape. Also, would recommend wear some type of stiff soled shoe so that the toe is immobilized. Jonathan M. Kletz, DPM

Typically, you take an X-ray to evaluate the bone. Jonathan M. Kletz, D.P.M.

There are x-ray techniques that can be done under anesthesia. MRI can be performed to look at the ankle ligaments. Jonathan M. Kletz, DPM Texas Foot Works Dallas, Athens and Gun Barrel City Texas 214-340-8885

Plantar fasciitis surgery can be quite effective. Endoscopic plantar fasciotomy is about 80% successful. Also EPAT procedure which is not covered by most insurances can be about 80% effective as well. It does not require an incision or an injection. I would first try conservative treatment first.   Jonathan M. Kletz, DPM

If your child is having pain in his arm and leg after falling off of a bike. I would recommend to have him evaluated by a pediatrician to make sure that there is no significant injuries. Jonathan M. Kletz, DPM

Depending on the degree of tear, sometimes surgery is not required. Best is to get an MRI to determine what degree the ligament is torn.   Jonathan M. Kletz, DPM

There are numerous exercises for the foot that can be done at home. This depends on the particular medical condition you may have. You can stretch the plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, and other tendons depending on where you are having the particular issue. Jonathan M. Kletz, DPM

Yes being overweight can cause excess stress on the ankle, creating more strain on the joint and the surrounding ligaments and tendons. Weight alone is not always a reason to have ankle pain. Jonathan M. Kletz, DPM Texas Foot Works Dallas, Athens and Gun Barrel City Texas 214-340-8885

It depends on what type of surgery are having. It is just a normal surgery of cutting the skin and soft tissue as well as bone, then the healing is mainly associated with the soft tissue and bone. Nerves take a little bit longer than normal tissue to heal so it depends on the type of procedure that is being done.  Jonathan M. Kletz, DPM Texas Foot WorksDallas, Athens and Gun Barrel City Texas214-340-8885

Applying ice, elevation, and some light compression can help. Depending on the severity of the injury, sometimes X-rays are needed to evaluate the bone to see if there is a fracture. Anti-inflammatories can be taken if you don't have any allergies or any interaction with any other medications that you currently take. Getting evaluated by a physician is always a good idea.  Jonathan M. Kletz, DPM

You can start with buying over-the-counter orthotics which can help improve alignment and function of the foot. You can also perform stretching exercises. Jonathan M. Kletz, DPM

This could be caused by irritation of two round bones, called the sesamoids. This could also be pain under the joint due to excess pressure. I would recommend X-rays to evaluate condition and see a physician. Jonathan M. Kletz, DPM

Would recommend evaluation of the ankle injury to determine the severity of the injury. This would include X-rays and possible MRI. Jonathan M. Kletz, DPM

It depends on the severity of the injury to the ankle. I would recommend X-rays of the ankle and potential MRI if warranted. Depending on the type of fracture, it'd take from four weeks much longer. This is why X-rays are important. Jonathan M. Kletz, DPM

Depends on what is causing the pain. Just leaning on your right leg should not necessarily cause ankle pain. You may have another underlying issue that could be causing discomfort. I would recommend having it evaluated with potential X-ray. Jonathan M. Kletz, DPM