Keeping your feet strong and flexible is essential for preventing pain and injuries. Regular foot exercises can improve circulation, build muscle strength, and maintain mobility. Toe taps are a simple way to get started. Sit with your feet flat on the floor and tap your toes while keeping your heels down. This boosts blood flow and flexibility. Another effective exercise is arch rolls, where you use a small ball, like a tennis ball, to roll under the arch of your foot, relieving tension and toning muscles. Heel raises are also great for strengthening. Stand and slowly lift your heels off the ground, balancing on your toes, then lower down gently. Repeat 10 to 15 times for the best results. If you experience persistent foot discomfort or pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for expert advice and personalized care to keep your feet healthy.
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 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 and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to 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.
Painful deformities, such as hammertoes, can be treated. Stop living with foot pain, and have beautiful feet again!
The feet are often overlooked, but they can provide important insights into overall health. Many symptoms occur in the feet before they are noticed elsewhere in the body. For instance, changes in foot appearance or structure, such as swollen or red feet, may indicate underlying issues like heart disease or diabetes. Conditions like athlete’s foot, fungal infections, or bunions are common signs of foot problems, while persistent foot pain can suggest joint issues, such as arthritis or gout. In some cases, poor circulation in the feet can be an early sign of peripheral artery disease or diabetes. Numbness, tingling, or changes in skin color may indicate nerve damage or systemic health issues. By paying attention to these signals and seeking early treatment, individuals can prevent more serious health problems. It is suggested that you consult a podiatrist when unusual symptoms arise. This type of doctor can treat various foot conditions and provide valuable insight into one’s 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 Barry P. Weinstein, DPM from Bellaire Podiatry. Our doctor 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 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.
Falls are a major concern for older adults and can result in serious injuries. As people age, they may experience a decline in muscle strength, balance, and coordination, which increases the risk of falling. Vision and hearing impairments, common in older adults, can make it difficult to detect obstacles or changes in the environment. Certain medications can also cause dizziness or affect coordination, contributing to falls. In addition, conditions like arthritis, osteoporosis, and neurological disorders can impair mobility and stability. To prevent falls, it is important to engage in regular physical activity to improve strength and balance. Wearing proper footwear with non-slip soles and removing tripping hazards in the home, such as loose rugs, can also help reduce the risk. By staying active and making adjustments at home, older adults can significantly reduce their risk of falling. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury from falling, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective remedies for treatment.
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 Barry P. Weinstein, DPM from Bellaire Podiatry. Our doctor 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:
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 one of our offices located in Bellaire and Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Gout is a form of arthritis that causes sudden and severe pain, often affecting the joints, particularly the big toe joint. The condition occurs when excess uric acid builds up in the body, forming crystals in the joints. The most common sign of gout is intense pain, typically starting in the middle of the night, along with swelling and redness in the affected area. The joint may become warm to the touch and feel tender, making movement difficult. In some cases, gout attacks can recur, leading to joint damage over time. Elevated uric acid levels in the blood can result from factors such as diet, dehydration, obesity, or kidney problems. Excessive consumption of purine-rich foods like red meat, seafood, or alcohol can trigger or worsen gout attacks. If you have had one or more gout attacks, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and management tips.
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.
Ingrown toenails occur when the edges of a toenail grow into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, and swelling. Common causes include improper nail trimming, tight footwear, and foot injuries. Symptoms include throbbing pain and discomfort, especially when wearing shoes. Treatment typically begins with conservative measures like soaking the foot and using roomy shoes. However, for persistent cases, the Winograd procedure may be necessary. This surgical method involves removing the ingrown portion of the nail and the underlying tissue to prevent the nail from growing back incorrectly. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, minimizing discomfort and ensuring a quick recovery. A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating ingrown toenails, providing personalized care and expert guidance. If you are experiencing symptoms, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. They can offer effective treatments, including the Winograd procedure, to relieve your pain and restore your foot health.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Barry P. Weinstein, DPM of Bellaire Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.
Causes
Prevention
Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right 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 and ankle needs.
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, is a common cause of foot pain and discomfort. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that causes the cartilage in the joints to break down, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. In the feet, it can affect areas like the toes, ankles, and the arch. Common symptoms include joint tenderness, limited movement, swelling, and difficulty walking. The causes of osteoarthritis in the foot can range from age and genetics to previous injuries or repetitive stress. Over time, the wear and tear on the cartilage causes painful friction between bones. If you are experiencing foot pain or stiffness, a podiatrist can offer effective treatments. This type of doctor can recommend custom orthotics, pain management options, targeted exercises, or surgical procedures if needed. Seeking expert care early can help manage symptoms and improve mobility. If you are suffering from painful arthritis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to get the relief you need.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, 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.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.
In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.
Alleviating Arthritic Pain
It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.
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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Diabetic foot disease, or DFD, is a serious complication of diabetes that significantly impacts quality of life. Its prevalence has increased due to predisposing factors such as prolonged high blood sugar levels, poor circulation, and impaired immune function. These factors heighten the risk of infections, slow wound healing, and contribute to conditions like diabetic neuropathy, which reduces sensation in the feet. This loss of feeling can lead to unnoticed injuries that develop into diabetic foot ulcers, a common precursor to lower limb amputations. Without proper care, these ulcers can become severely infected, making amputation necessary to prevent life-threatening complications. Podiatrists play a critical role in managing diabetic foot wounds, utilizing advanced treatments such as debridement, specialized dressings, and offloading devices to promote healing and prevent recurrence. If you have diabetes,it is suggested that you schedule regular podiatric appointments to reduce the risks associated with diabetic foot disease.
Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Barry P. Weinstein, DPM from Bellaire Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Wound Care?
Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic.
What Is the Importance of Wound Care?
While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.
How to Care for Wounds
The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.
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.
Podiatry plays an important role as the elderly population often faces unique foot health challenges. As people age, they experience changes in their feet such as decreased circulation, joint stiffness, and weakened muscles, which may lead to conditions like arthritis, diabetes-related foot issues, and balance problems. Podiatrists treating geriatric patients can provide tailored care to address these concerns, helping to prevent falls, improve mobility, and enhance overall quality of life. Proper foot care is essential for seniors, as untreated foot problems can lead to more serious complications, including infections and disability. Podiatrists also play an important role in educating patients and caregivers on proper foot hygiene, suitable footwear, and exercises to maintain foot strength and flexibility. If you are elderly, or caring for an elderly patient, it is suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist who can expertly manage foot care for seniors.
If you need your feet checked, contact Barry P. Weinstein, DPM of Bellaire Podiatry. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.
Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.
It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.
Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities.
Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.
Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.
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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
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