Items filtered by date: January 2023

The importance of practicing exceptional foot care for diabetic patients is crucial in preventing dangerous foot wounds from developing. It is beneficial to implement a simple, daily foot care routine. These can include washing and drying the feet, followed by checking the soles for any cuts or bruises that may have happened. Many people find it helpful to use a mirror to accomplish this, or it can also be done with the help of a family member or caregiver. Diabetes is caused by elevated blood sugar levels, and many times can be controlled by implementing healthy eating habits. Additionally, it is suggested for diabetic patients to stop smoking, as this can contribute to foot wounds. The risk can be reduced for an ingrown toenail to develop by properly trimming the toenails once per week. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition, and guide you toward additional foot care practices.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, 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.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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 and ankle needs.

The bones in the foot are small and may be easier to break than other bones in the body. There are 26 bones in each foot that can become fractured from falling, participating in sporting events, or from enduring a foot injury. An open fracture is noticeable when the bone protrudes through the skin, and it often requires prompt medical attention. Symptoms can include immediate bruising, swelling, and it is often difficult, if not impossible, to walk. It is necessary to keep weight off of the affected foot, and many patients can accomplish this by using crutches. Once a proper diagnosis has been performed, treatment can begin. This consists of having an X-ray taken, which is successful in determining the severity of the fracture, followed by wearing a protective boot or cast. It is beneficial to elevate the affected foot as often as possible, which may help to reduce the swelling. Recovery typically takes approximately six to eight weeks, and foot strengthening exercises may be performed at that time. If you have broken your foot, please consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with correct treatment options.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, 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.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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 and ankle needs.

The number of people who are over 65 years old that fall is staggering. Research has shown this occurs in approximately one out of three people across the nation, and can be a leading cause of injury. Older people who have fallen may develop a fear of falling, and this may hinder their desire to complete daily activities. Most falling episodes can be prevented when effective strategies are implemented. These can include improving lighting in the household, removing clutter, and wearing shoes that fit correctly. Many people find it helpful to have grab bars installed in the toilet and shower area, in addition to having routine physical and eye examinations. Having these performed is crucial in updating prescription medicine and eyeglasses, which may help to maintain a sense of balance. Additionally, the number of falls may be reduced as the body becomes stronger when a regular stretching and exercise regime is performed. Falling can affect the feet and compromise daily living. If you would like to learn about additional fall prevention techniques, please confer with a podiatrist.

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.

Having flat feet is a foot condition that affects groups of people from all walks of life. The majority of babies are born having little or no arch, and will generally normalize during the teenage years. Adults who retain this condition may have a genetic predisposition and may find relief in wearing custom-made orthotics. Flat feet is an ailment that is obvious. It is evident while standing on the floor, and noticing the foot lies completely flat. Some people have specific symptoms from this, including calf and shin pain, possibly limiting the type of activities that are pursued. Conversely, many people have no pain with flat feet but may realize their feet and legs can tire easily. If you have flat feet, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can regularly monitor this condition, and offer you correct relief options, if applicable.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Houston Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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 and ankle needs.

Anyone who runs a lot knows the pain of having blisters. Simply wearing a new pair of shoes or adding distance to your run too quickly can be enough for a blister to form. A blister is a sac of fluid beneath the first layer of skin that forms to protect the skin beneath it from friction. Blisters are nature’s way of taking care of your feet. Constant rubbing against the inside of a shoe can create a blister, but preventive measures can be taken. The three main reasons for blisters are friction, moisture, and shoes that do not fit properly. It follows that the first way to prevent the skin is to toughen it by building up running distances gradually. Wear socks that wick moisture instead of retaining it. Covering a problem spot with a gel bandage or special patch can keep a blister from forming. Check your footwear to see if your shoes have ample cushioning. If you have a blister that has become infected, it is suggested you see a podiatrist as soon as possible for the appropriate safe and sterile treatment.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Houston Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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.