Orthotics are inserts that are placed inside the shoe. They can be purchased in a store or can be custom-made to correct a specific foot condition. These can include bunions, hammertoe, plantar fasciitis, or neuromas, and choosing the right type of orthotic may help to reduce existing pain and discomfort. People who have flat feet or other foot abnormalities may benefit from wearing orthotics. An over-the-counter orthotic is generally chosen based on what the foot condition and shoe size is, whereas kiosk orthotics are chosen by having a foot scan performed. When orthotics are custom-made, an evaluation of activity level, medical conditions, height and weight is done to determine what type of materials the orthotics will be made from. If you have a foot abnormality and are interested in learning about different kinds of orthotics, it is strongly suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can determine which type is best for you.
If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Barry P. Weinstein, DPM from Bellaire Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Are Orthotics?
Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.
Over-the-Counter Inserts
Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.
Prescription Orthotics
If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.
If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.
If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Bellaire and Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Gout is a common form of arthritis that in many cases affects the joint of the big toe. It is sudden and painful, and may affect other joints in the body. Men are more likely to develop gout, but women may become more at risk after menopause. The cause of gout is connected to an overabundance of uric acid in the system. Uric acid forms when the body breaks down purines, which are contained in various types of food. If not flushed out of the kidneys, uric acid tends to migrate to joints where it forms into crystals. These then cause extreme pain, swelling, tenderness to the touch, and redness in the affected area. Stress, poor diet, and drinking excess alcohol can contribute to the onset of gout. One sure way to stave off the likelihood of a gout attack is to adjust the way you eat. Avoiding seafood, red meat, certain vegetables, and sugary drinks can be helpful. Losing weight and drinking plenty of water are other suggested methods of prevention. While gout cannot be cured, certain medications are known to help in combating it. For more information on dealing with gout, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Barry P. Weinstein, DPM from Bellaire Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.
Symptoms
Risk Factors
Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bellaire and Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
The foot condition that is known as Morton’s neuroma is painful. It is caused by wearing shoes that do not have enough room in the toe area and it affects the nerve between the third and fourth toes. High heels can fall into this category, and women can develop this condition if high heels are worn often and for long periods of time. Patients may feel this affected nerve can be malignant, however, it is considered to be a benign growth. The pain is often felt in the ball of the foot, and it may be difficult to walk. Temporary relief may be found when wider shoes with lower heels are worn. There may be swelling that accompanies this ailment, and it can be helpful to elevate the feet. In severe cases, some patients may choose surgery that can remove the nerve, and normal activities may be resumed. If you have foot pain from for Morton’s neuroma, it is strongly suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and offer the correct treatment methods.
Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Barry P. Weinstein, DPM of Bellaire Podiatry. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.
What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?
Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bellaire and Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Hammertoe is a common foot condition that can happen from an imbalance of muscles surrounding the toe joints. Hammertoe can be categorized as classic hammertoe, mallet toe, and claw toe. In classic hammertoe, the affected toe will bend down at the joint and resemble a hammer. As toes are important to the balance of the foot and control pressure distribution, hammertoe can cause problems with walking. The affected toe can appear deformed, calluses can form on them, and it may be painful to wear shoes. Relief options for hammertoe pain can include choosing shoes with wide toe boxes, using toe pads, and wearing orthotics. If these conservative options are not successful and pain persists or worsens, surgery may be an option to straighten the toe. If you suffer from a painful hammertoe, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an evaluation and to receive treatment that is personalized to your specific situation.
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Barry P. Weinstein, DPM of Bellaire Podiatry. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.
Symptoms
Risk Factors
Treatment
If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bellaire and Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Learning about the biomechanics of the feet can be useful for anyone concerned with maintaining the health of their feet. For instance, the ball of the foot is a critical part of the foot that serves many important functions. The ball of the foot is located near the front of the foot just underneath the toes. This area of the foot can be susceptible to pain for many different reasons. Specifically, pain in the ball of the feet may be caused by stress fractures, being overweight, or from wearing high heels. If nothing is done to address pain that is felt in the ball of the feet, it is possible that this might ultimately alter one’s natural gait. Upon seeking medical attention, you might be instructed by a podiatrist to do any number of different things to treat the pain. Your podiatrist might recommend that you rest or wear better-fitting shoes for instance. If you are someone that is experiencing pain in the ball of your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today.
If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Barry P. Weinstein, DPM from Bellaire Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Biomechanics in Podiatry
Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.
A History of Biomechanics
Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.
Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bellaire and Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.
Maintaining proper foot care is important for diabetic patients. Many people who are diabetic have neuropathy, which is the inability to feel existing cuts or scrapes on the feet. This can be caused by elevated blood sugar levels that can happen from the foods that are eaten. An untreated wound on the foot may lead to incurring a foot ulcer, which is an infected wound. Serious consequences may occur if prompt medical attention is not received. It is beneficial to implement a good diabetic foot care routine daily. It can begin with washing and drying the feet thoroughly, especially between the toes. This can be followed by closely inspecting the bottom of the feet for cuts that cannot be felt. Many people use a mirror to accomplish this, or a family member or caregiver may help to do this. Trimming the toenails once per week may help to prevent an ingrown toenail from developing, which can cause severe pain and discomfort. 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.
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 Barry P. Weinstein, DPM from Bellaire Podiatry. Our doctor 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
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 one of our offices located in Bellaire and Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
To say the feet are critical to functioning is an understatement. They absorb the full impact of the body’s weight, while keeping the body balanced and upright. A host of problems can affect the feet, which can impact comfort and reduce mobility. These can include cracked skin, ingrown toenails, and injured bones. Following a simple foot care routine can help keep the skin, bones, and muscles of the feet functioning properly. Wearing well-fitted shoes that are supportive and comfortable are key factors in maintaining good foot health. If you shop for new shoes, it is important to do so later in the day when the feet are at their largest. The feet are then measured with the socks that will be worn with the intended shoes. It is beneficial for the feet to be exercised to stay strong, and simply walking can fulfill this need. Washing, drying, and moisturizing the feet daily, in addition to wearing socks that can add shock absorption, may help to protect the feet. If foot conditions develop, or if you would like more information about how you can take better care of your feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.
Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Barry P. Weinstein, DPM from Bellaire Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Everyday Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.
It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bellaire and Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Many people are currently living with a condition known as rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, which is an inflammatory disease that attacks the joints. Individuals who have or are developing rheumatoid arthritis often experience certain symptoms that are highly indicative of the condition. For example, the joints in the body may ache, and more specifically, the ankles may be affected. Sometimes, the aching and pain can be symmetrical in the ankles, which means that both of the ankle joints may ache. Importantly, those whose ankles are affected by rheumatoid arthritis may also experience some amount of swelling in the ankle joints. If you think that you have rheumatoid arthritis and your ankles are being affected, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for an appointment.
Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Barry P. Weinstein, DPM from Bellaire Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bellaire and Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Various injuries can happen to the feet, and stretching the feet may be beneficial in strengthening the affected foot. It is helpful to be aware of existing pain levels, and beginning slowly will accomplish this. Intensity and repetition may be increased as the foot becomes stronger, and stretching will become easier. Calf stretches can help the heel and Achilles tendon. A calf stretch is done by standing on a step and lowering one heel until a gentle stretch is felt. It is helpful to monitor pain levels as stretches are performed, and this can be an accurate gauge of building strength. It is suggested to hold the stretch for 30 seconds and perform several repetitions. If you would like more information about the benefits of stretching the feet, it is recommended that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you with the knowledge you are seeking.
Why Stretching Is Important for Your Feet
Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Barry P. Weinstein, DPM from Bellaire Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Stretching the Feet
Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first to determine if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.
It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising to ice and rest the foot. It is advised that you then see a podiatrist for help.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bellaire and Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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