If you need a more accessible version of this website, click this button on the right.Switch to Accessible Site

Blog

Blog

Friday, 03 May 2024 00:00

It's Time for Beautiful Feet

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

Tuesday, 30 April 2024 00:00

Running Injury Prevention and Management

Preventing and managing running injuries requires a multifaceted approach due to their multifactorial nature. Common risk factors include overtraining, wearing improper footwear, biomechanical imbalances, and inadequate recovery. To mitigate these risks, it is helpful for runners to incorporate a variety of strategies, including proper warm-up and cool-down routines, gradual increases in mileage, strength training, and flexibility exercises. Additionally, ensuring proper footwear selection and addressing any biomechanical issues through gait analysis and orthotic interventions can help prevent injuries. In the event of an injury, treatment may involve rest, compression, elevation, and in some cases, less conservative interventions. If you are a runner and have sustained a running injury, or if you want to make sure you avoid injuries in the future, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer expert advice in foot and ankle biomechanics, gait analysis, injury assessment, and customized orthotic interventions.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Barry P. Weinstein, DPM of Bellaire Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

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.

Read more about Preventing Running Injuries
Tuesday, 23 April 2024 00:00

Changes in Feet During Pregnancy

Throughout pregnancy, the body adapts to accommodate the developing baby. The uterus enlarges, shifting the body's center of gravity forward and upward, improving stability and balance. Relaxin, a hormone mainly found in the third trimester, relaxes ligaments, causing the feet to lengthen, flatten, and widen. These foot changes can become permanent for some women. Additionally, the combination of structural adjustments, increased weight, and greater pressure on the lower limbs frequently leads to swelling in the legs and feet. Despite these transformations, proactive measures can mitigate discomfort and promote foot health during pregnancy. Opting for supportive footwear, elevating the feet when feasible, engaging in gentle exercises, and maintaining a healthy weight are advisable. If you are pregnant and experiencing concerning changes in your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can further aid in managing foot-related issues, as they offer tailored solutions to alleviate discomfort and support overall foot health throughout pregnancy and beyond.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Barry P. Weinstein, DPM from Bellaire Podiatry. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

  • Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
  • Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
  • Wear shoes with good arch support
  • Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
  • Elevate feet if you experience swelling
  • Massage your feet
  • Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to 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.

Read more about Pregnancy and Foot Health

Custom-made orthotics offer significant benefits to individuals who are physically active by providing better alignment, balance, and improved mechanics. These orthotic shoe inserts are tailored to each individual's unique foot structure and biomechanics, ensuring optimal support and stability during physical activity. By correcting imbalances and redistributing pressure, custom orthotics help alleviate pain and reduce the risk of injuries, such as shin splints, plantar fasciitis, and stress fractures. Additionally, orthotics can improve gait efficiency, enhancing performance in activities, such as running, jumping, and sports. The precise fit and support offered by custom orthotics help maintain proper alignment of the feet, ankles, and lower limbs, minimizing strain on muscles and joints. If you are physically active, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss if custom-made orthotics can support your active lifestyle and improve more comfortable performance.

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.

Read more about Ankle Foot Orthotics for Athletes
Tuesday, 09 April 2024 00:00

Complete Foot Care

Maintaining healthy feet is essential for overall well-being. An easy foot care routine combines at-home care with professional guidance from a podiatrist. Start with regular at-home pedicures, soaking feet in warm water with Epsom salts to soften skin, followed by gentle exfoliation and moisturizing to prevent dryness and cracking. Trim toenails straight across to avoid ingrown nails and file them smooth. Seeing a podiatrist is equally important for comprehensive foot health. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist can detect early signs of issues like bunions, corns, or fungal infections. A podiatrist can also provide personalized advice on proper footwear, foot exercises, and preventive measures. If you want to invest time into taking proper care of your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for thorough foot maintenance and early intervention for any underlying conditions.

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.

Read more about Everyday Foot Care
Wednesday, 03 April 2024 00:00

Heel Pain Can Be Treated!

Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.

Tuesday, 02 April 2024 00:00

Causes and Treatment of Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are benign growths caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, infecting the outer layer of the skin on the soles of the feet. They often appear as small, rough lesions with tiny black dots, known as wart seeds. These warts thrive in warm, moist environments such as showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools, making them common among barefoot individuals. Unfortunately, there is no singular quick-fix cure for plantar warts, as treatment methods vary and can take time to be effective. Diagnosis typically involves a visual examination by a podiatrist, sometimes supplemented by a biopsy or other tests. It is important to note that plantar warts can be mistaken for other conditions like calluses or corns. Prevention involves keeping feet clean and dry, avoiding walking barefoot in public areas, and wearing protective footwear, especially in communal spaces. If you or your child has a plantar wart, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Barry P. Weinstein, DPM from Bellaire Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

  • Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
  • Hard or thick callused spots
  • Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
  • Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

  • Freezing
  • Electric tool removal
  • Laser Treatment
  • Topical Creams (prescription only)
  • Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate 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 and ankle needs.

Read more about Plantar Warts
Tuesday, 26 March 2024 00:00

Tennis and Foot Cramps

Playing tennis is not only a great way to stay active but also a test of endurance and agility. However, foot muscle cramps can unexpectedly disrupt your game and cause discomfort. These cramps, often attributed to overuse, dehydration, or inadequate stretching, can occur in various foot muscles, including the arches, toes, and calves. The repetitive movements involved in tennis, such as sudden stops, pivots, and quick changes in direction, can strain the foot muscles, leading to cramping. Insufficient hydration and electrolyte imbalances can contribute to muscle cramps during intense physical activity. It is important to stay hydrated, maintain proper nutrition, and incorporate regular stretching and warm-up exercises into your routine while playing Tennis frequently. Wearing supportive footwear and orthotic inserts can also help alleviate strain on the foot muscles. By understanding the factors contributing to foot muscle cramps and implementing preventive measures, you can enjoy a more comfortable and uninterrupted tennis experience while safeguarding your foot health. If you enjoy playing tennis and have developed foot cramps, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Barry P. Weinstein, DPM from Bellaire Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

  • Achilles Tendonitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains
  • Broken Foot
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Stress Fractures
  • Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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.

Read more about Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Tuesday, 19 March 2024 00:00

Pain in Different Parts of the Foot

Various causes can lead to foot pain, requiring different treatments depending on the affected area. Toe pain, including big toe pain, may result from conditions like ingrown toenails or arthritis. Foot and ankle joint pain may stem from arthritis or injuries. Pain in the ball of the foot may arise from conditions like metatarsalgia. Morton's neuroma is characterized by pain in the ball of the foot. Arch pain may indicate conditions like plantar fasciitis. Heel pain is commonly caused by plantar fasciitis or heel spurs. Depending on the location of foot pain and its cause, treatment can include custom-made orthotics, injections, nail care, and in severe cases, surgery. If you are suffering from foot pain in any part of your foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment that will bring you relief.

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:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

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.

Read more about Foot Pain
Tuesday, 12 March 2024 00:00

What Can Cause Heel Pain?

Heel pain, a common complaint among individuals of all ages, can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life. One common reason is plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot, often resulting from overuse or strain. Another prevalent cause is heel spurs, which are bony protrusions that develop on the underside of the heel bone due to repetitive stress or biomechanical issues. Achilles tendonitis, characterized by inflammation of the Achilles tendon at the back of the heel, is another frequent source of heel pain, often stemming from overuse or wearing improper footwear. Other factors contributing to heel pain can include stress fractures, arthritis, nerve irritation, and heel bursitis. Identifying the underlying cause of heel pain through thorough evaluation and diagnostic testing is vital for developing an appropriate treatment plan tailored to address the specific issue and alleviate discomfort effectively. If you have heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and guide you toward appropriate treatment options.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, 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.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

  • Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
  • Wearing non-supportive shoes
  • Weight change           
  • Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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.

Read more about Heel Pain
Page 3 of 23
Connect with us