Podiatrists play a vital role in maintaining and improving foot health through comprehensive assessments and tailored care. During an exam, these doctors evaluate the structure, alignment, and function of the feet, looking for issues like abnormal gait, skin changes, or signs of underlying conditions. They assess footwear choices and advise on proper shoe fit to prevent problems like bunions or calluses. For those with specific conditions like diabetes, podiatrists focus on preventing complications by examining the skin and checking circulation and nerve function. If issues like nail infections, corns, or chronic pain are present, podiatrists provide targeted treatments, which may include orthotics, wound care, or recommendations for daily foot care routines. If you would like to make sure you are tending to proper foot care or if you have specific concerns about your feet or ankles, it is suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist who can monitor changes over time, address any emerging concerns, and promote long-term foot health.
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.
If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.
As people age, natural changes in gait can affect mobility and stability. Reduced calf muscle strength often leads to taking shorter steps, while balance issues may increase the period in the walking cycle when both feet are on the ground simultaneously. In younger adults, this phase typically makes up about 18 percent of the cycle, but it may increase to 26 percent or higher as people age or experience balance challenges. This added time on both feet offers greater stability, helping to lower fall risk. Joint changes, like reduced ankle flexibility, may further impact stride length. To maintain balance, older adults might shift their weight or adopt postural changes, leading to a wider stance and a less fluid movement. Neurological changes can make coordinating each step more difficult, slowing pace and reducing synchrony in body movement. A podiatrist can assess specific gait challenges in seniors and suggest exercises or custom orthotics to restore stability and improve gait mechanics. If you have trouble walking while carrying out daily activities, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a gait analysis, exam, and treatment options.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, 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.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
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.
A foot sprain occurs when the ligaments in the foot stretch or tear, often the result of sudden twisting motions during strenuous activities or sports. Symptoms of a sprained foot include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot. Severe sprains may produce a popping sound when the ligament tears. A podiatrist can assess the severity of a foot sprain through an exam and digital imaging. A grade 1 foot sprain involves mild stretching of the ligament, a grade 2 sprain has partial ligament tears causing joint instability, and a grade 3 sprain includes complete ligament tears and significant foot instability. Recovery times vary, with mild sprains healing within weeks, while more severe cases can require several months. Treatment may involve braces, controlled movement, and rehabilitation exercises to aid healing and restore mobility. If you believe you have sprained your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment methods.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot 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.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
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.
Turf toe, also known as a hyperextension injury of the big toe, occurs when the toe is forcibly bent upward, straining or tearing the ligaments around the joint. This injury is common in athletes, particularly those playing on artificial turf, where shoes can grip too firmly, restricting toe flexibility. Football players, dancers, and gymnasts are especially at risk due to frequent, intense foot movements. Turf toe causes pain, swelling, and bruising at the base of the big toe. Patients often feel a sudden pain when the injury occurs, which worsens with movement, especially when pushing off the toe while walking or running. Treatment includes rest and elevation. Severe cases may require immobilization or even surgery. With proper care, most individuals recover fully, but untreated injuries can lead to long-term stiffness, joint instability, and chronic pain. If you have injured your toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, 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.
What Causes Toe Pain?
Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.
Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
When to See a Podiatrist
Diagnosis
In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
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.
Ankle pain is a frequent complaint with various underlying causes, often resulting from injury or overuse. One of the most common causes is a sprained ankle, which occurs when the ligaments are overstretched or torn, usually from twisting the foot. Tendonitis, especially involving the Achilles tendon, can also cause significant pain due to inflammation from overuse or sudden increases in physical activity. Arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, can lead to chronic ankle pain, stiffness, and swelling. Stress fractures, tiny cracks in the ankle bones that can happen from repetitive activities or excessive weight-bearing, are another frequent culprit. Ankle impingement, where soft tissues become compressed, may cause pain, particularly with certain movements. Additionally, gout, a form of arthritis caused by uric acid buildup, can trigger sudden, intense ankle pain. If you have ankle pain that is not getting better, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment solutions.
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.
Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.
Ankle fractures can severely impact both physical mobility and psychological well-being, disrupting daily life and causing significant emotional stress. These injuries often limit a person’s independence, leading to frustration and feelings of helplessness. The pain and discomfort associated with fractures frequently interfere with sleep, causing fatigue and irritability, which can further slow the recovery process. Podiatrists diagnose ankle fractures through physical exams and imaging, such as X-rays or CT scans, and create a tailored treatment plan. This may include casting, splinting, or surgery, depending on the fracture's severity. Key factors in recovery involve keeping weight off the injured ankle, following podiatrist instructions, and monitoring for signs of infection or improper healing. Early intervention and compliance with medical advice help reduce the risk of chronic ankle pain, instability, or arthritis. If you have broken your ankle, it is strongly suggested that you promptly visit a podiatrist.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. 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.
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
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 one of our offices located in Bellaire and Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
An acute ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn, often due to a sudden twist, turn, or impact. This injury is common among athletes, but can happen to anyone during everyday activities. Symptoms typically include immediate pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot. The impact of an ankle sprain can vary in severity, from mild stretching to complete tears, and recovery times can differ significantly. If left untreated, an ankle sprain can lead to chronic instability and recurring injuries, affecting overall mobility. To ensure proper healing and to regain strength, it is key to seek professional advice. If you suspect an acute ankle sprain, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. They can provide a thorough evaluation, recommend an effective treatment plan, and guide you on rehabilitation to get you back on your feet safely.
Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. 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.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.
What Are the Symptoms?
Preventing a Sprain
Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.
If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.
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.
As people age, foot care becomes increasingly important to maintain mobility and comfort. Common issues among the elderly include bunions, corns, and blisters. Blistering skin lesions on the feet of the elderly can be a common and concerning issue. These lesions, often filled with fluid, can result from various factors, including friction, pressure, and decreased skin integrity associated with aging. The skin of elderly individuals tends to become thinner, drier, and more fragile over time, making it more susceptible to damage and blister formation. If left untreated, blistering skin lesions can increase the risk of infection and other complications, particularly in elderly individuals with compromised immune systems. If you are elderly and experiencing such blisters, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, 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.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
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.
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