Walking on a foot stress fracture can seem like a feasible option in certain situations, but it carries both advantages and disadvantages. On the positive side, continuing to walk may help maintain mobility and prevent muscle atrophy, especially if the fracture is minor and does not cause severe pain. It can also be convenient for individuals with busy schedules or obligations that require them to stay on their feet. However, walking on a stress fracture can exacerbate the injury, delaying healing and potentially causing further damage. It may prolong recovery time and increase the risk of complications such as a complete fracture or chronic pain. Additionally, ignoring the need for rest and proper treatment can lead to long-term consequences, including decreased bone density and recurrent injuries. Ultimately, while walking on a foot stress fracture may offer short-term benefits, it is essential to prioritize rest and medical guidance to ensure a full and efficient recovery. If you have endured a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide proper recovery treatment.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, 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.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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 broken ankle occurs when the bones forming the ankle joint suffer fractures. This injury often arises from sudden impacts, twists, or repetitive stress on the ankle. Symptoms typically entail intense pain, swelling, bruising, difficulty walking, and potential deformity surrounding the ankle area. Managing a broken ankle depends on factors like the extent and location of the fracture. Treatment options may include immobilization using a cast or splint, rest, elevation, and occasionally surgical intervention to realign and stabilize the bones. If you have broken your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer specialized expertise in diagnosing and treating foot and ankle conditions, including fractures.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, 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 Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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.

If you have a bump forming at the base of your big toe or experience discomfort while wearing certain shoes, you might be dealing with a bunion. This foot deformity, medically known as hallux valgus, develops gradually due to various factors. Included are genetics, wearing tight or high-heeled footwear, rheumatoid arthritis, or Marfan's syndrome, which causes a loosening of joints. Symptoms of a bunion are a noticeable bump, pain, and redness of the big toe. Corns or calluses, limited toe movement, and a burning sensation or numbness may also occur. While initial treatment involves wearing proper footwear, more severe cases may require custom orthotics, toe spreaders, or surgery. A podiatrist can offer guidance on ways to manage symptoms, prevent further complications, and determine if surgery is needed to realign the toe and alleviate pressure on the joint. If you have a bunion that is causing pain or impeding daily activities, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, 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.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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.

Multiple sclerosis, or MS, is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system, disrupting communication between the brain and the rest of the body. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective myelin sheath surrounding nerve fibers, leading to inflammation, scarring, and nerve damage. MS can cause a wide range of symptoms, including fatigue, weakness, numbness, coordination difficulties, and cognitive impairment, significantly impacting quality of life. Foot symptoms such as numbness, tingling, weakness, or difficulty in walking are common manifestations of MS. If you have MS and are experiencing foot symptoms, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide personalized care to help you maintain optimal foot health and overall well-being.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact one of our podiatrists from Houston Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

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.

Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is a condition where the arteries that supply blood to the legs and feet become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup. This decreases blood flow to the lower extremities. Symptoms of PAD can vary but often include leg pain or cramping while walking or climbing stairs, which typically eases with rest. Some people may also experience numbness, weakness, or a cold sensation in their lower legs or feet. Changes in the color of the skin or slower growth of the nails may also occur. In more severe cases, PAD can lead to wounds or ulcers on the feet or legs that heal poorly or not at all. Getting diagnosed early is important because PAD can be a sign of more widespread arterial disease, which could increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. Early treatment can help manage symptoms, improve mobility, and reduce the risk of more serious complications. It is suggested that you consult a podiatrist, or foot doctor, for help if you are experiencing any symptoms that sound like PAD. 

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with one of our podiatrists from Houston Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

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.