Falls around the house are a major concern for seniors and can lead to serious foot problems, such as fractures, sprains, and wounds that take longer to heal. Prevention begins with simple daily habits. Do not rush when moving from place to place, and have medications reviewed to reduce side effects that affect balance. Additionally, wear supportive shoes indoors and outdoors, and have vision and hearing checked regularly to improve awareness of surroundings. A podiatrist can treat foot or ankle injuries from falls, recommend proper footwear, and provide strategies to improve stability and safety. If you or a loved one have foot pain from falling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot and ankle injuries, and guide you on additional falls prevention tips. 

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Houston Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Kingwood, Humble, The Woodlands, and Conroe, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Running places significant strain on the feet and ankles, as each stride transfers force through them hundreds of times per mile. Pain from running may develop from common issues like ankle sprains, tendon problems, stress fractures, or irritation of nerves and ligaments. Overuse, poor biomechanics, or returning to running too soon after a previous injury often increase the risk. Conditions such as Achilles tendinopathy, plantar fasciitis, or posterior tibial tendonitis can cause ongoing discomfort, if not addressed properly. Even footwear that lacks adequate support, such as worn out running shoes or flip-flops, can increase stress on the foot and ankle and lead to recurring pain. A podiatrist can perform a thorough exam and order imaging tests if necessary to diagnose the problem. Treatment options include orthotics, immobilization, or surgery, for more serious injuries. If you are suffering from foot and ankle pain after running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment solutions.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Houston Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries? 
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Kingwood, Humble, The Woodlands, and Conroe, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The medical term for cracked heels can be referred to as heel fissures. They are defined as cracks in the outer edge of the heel that can be a result of dry skin. This can occur from wearing shoes that have an open back, or from standing on hard surfaces for the majority of the day. This condition can cause pain and discomfort, and in severe cases, bleeding may occur. There are many patients who find mild relief when the feet are soaked in warm water, followed by applying a good moisturizer. Additionally, a pumice stone may be used that can help to remove dead skin. Ignoring cracked heels can lead to fissures and increased risk of infection. For that reason, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who is able to offer safe treatment and suggest prevention techniques.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Houston Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Kingwood, Humble, The Woodlands, and Conroe, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A sedentary lifestyle may be linked to numerous health issues, including diabetes and high blood pressure.  For these individuals, it may be necessary to increase the amount of time standing during the day. This may be helpful in easing potential back problems as well as improving posture and strength.  There are many ways to incorporate standing throughout the work day, such as portioning your lunch time to include walking.  Meetings that consist of walking instead of sitting around a table may be beneficial as well. Standing desks may be another option, which can help increase alertness and therefore increase productivity.  Another helpful habit to acquire is using the stairs instead of an elevator, in addition to parking your car further away from the building you are entering to promote walking. If you are experiencing foot problems from sitting all day at work, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Houston Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Kingwood, Humble, The Woodlands, and Conroe, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.