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Tuesday, 15 August 2023 00:00

The Heels and Mobility

Various foot conditions can make movement difficult. Chief among them is cracked heels. As one ages, skin becomes thinner and dryer and the skin on the heels can form calluses, or dead skin, and can develop cracks. This often happens because the heels endure a lot of pressure from walking and the skin is dry. Cracked heels can become painful and make walking difficult. If they get bad enough, fissures can develop and the cracks deepen, can bleed, and be a breeding ground for infection. If one has diabetes, peripheral artery disease, or poor circulation, cracked heels can become serious foot wounds that are difficult to heal. Hydration and moisturizing the feet can help with cracked heels, as can wearing socks with cushioned shoes and temporarily cutting down on activities that put pressure on the heels. If you have cracked heels and the condition is causing you discomfort or it is worsening, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can make sure that is what you are dealing with and provide treatment.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, 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.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

  • Invest in a good foot cream
  • Try Using Petroleum Jelly
  • Ease up on Soaps
  • Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

  • Moisturize After Showering
  • Skip a Shower
  • Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
  • Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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 Solutions for Cracked Heels

The ankle, a vital joint in our body, plays a significant role in our movements and stability. However, some individuals may notice that their ankles are large or swollen, raising concerns. In most cases, the size and shape of our ankles are determined by genetics, and having larger ankles is not inherently unhealthy. However, certain health conditions can cause enlarged ankles, warranting attention and further investigation. One such condition is lipedema, a painful disorder where fat accumulates beneath the skin of the legs. Lipedema predominantly affects women, and its symptoms include easy bruising, sensitivity to pressure, and difficulty walking. Genetic factors and hormonal changes trigger this condition, and treatments involve dietary changes, exercise, and specialized therapy. Another condition that can lead to swollen ankles is lymphedema, which involves abnormal swelling due to a compromised lymphatic system. Damaged lymph nodes or cancer treatments can be contributing factors. Managing lymphedema includes gentle exercises, compression techniques, and massages. Furthermore, edema, or generalized swelling, can cause puffy ankles as can heat, venous insufficiency, deep vein thrombosis, congestive heart failure, liver disease, kidney disease, medications, and pregnancy. For those seeking to reduce ankle swelling, lifestyle changes such as exercises, reducing sodium intake, elevating feet, and staying active can be beneficial. If you are generally concerned about the size of your ankles and they are causing you discomfort, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can examine them and provide you with relief options.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. 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.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

  • Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
  • Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
  • Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
  • Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
  • Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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.


 

Read more about Swelling of the Feet

Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

Psoriatic arthritis, or PsA, is a type of inflammatory arthritis that can manifest in individuals with the autoimmune skin condition psoriasis. This form of arthritis primarily affects the feet and ankles, bringing about inflammation and pain in the joints and supporting structures. PsA is frequently associated with various other foot conditions, including Achilles tendonitis, dactylitis, and plantar fasciitis. Achilles tendonitis is characterized by a painful inflammation of the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel where it attaches to the heel bone. Dactylitis involves severe inflammation around the toe joints, leading to swelling that gives the toes a sausage-like appearance and induces rigidity and pain when flexing. Plantar fasciitis refers to inflammation where the plantar fascia attaches to the heel bone, causing discomfort and hindrance in movement. As PsA progresses, it can significantly impede walking and performing daily activities, imposing substantial discomfort and limiting one's ability to engage in regular life pursuits. A cure for PsA does not exist yet, but various treatment options are available to manage the condition, slow its progression, and alleviate the associated symptoms. If you suspect or experience symptoms indicative of psoriatic arthritis, it is strongly suggested that you seek help from a qualified podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment.

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 term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

  • Swelling
  • Pain
  • Stiffness
  • Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

  • Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
  • Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
  • Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
  • Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
  • Age – Risk increases with age
  • Gender –Most types are more common in women
  • Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is 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.

Read more about Arthritic Foot Care
Tuesday, 25 July 2023 00:00

Stretches for Flat Feet

Flat feet are an abnormal foot structure the majority of babies are born with. The arch generally develops during the teenage years, and adults who have never developed an arch may have endured a foot injury, or it may have occurred from genetic reasons. There are some adults who have a consistent achy sensation with flat feet, and performing certain stretches may help to alleviate this. These exercises can help people who have full or partial flat feet, causing the arch to become stronger. A towel scrunch is done by sitting in a chair and having a towel lying at the feet. The towel is grabbed with the toes, inch by inch until it is completely under the foot. Stair raises are performed by standing on a step with the toes and balls of the feet. This is followed by pushing in and raising the heels into that air, and holding for several seconds. It is beneficial to repeat this as often as possible throughout the day. If you have flat feet and are looking for appropriate stretches to perform, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can help you with proper information.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Barry P. Weinstein, DPM from Bellaire Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

  • Pain around the heel or arch area
  • Trouble standing on the tip toe
  • Swelling around the inside of the ankle
  • Flat look to one or both feet
  • Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of 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.

Read more about What is Flexible Flat Foot?
Tuesday, 18 July 2023 00:00

Toenail Issues Common to Runners

Distance runners often experience problems with their toenails, and the three main types are thick nails, bruised nails, and toenail loss. While in many cases the appearance of thick toenails can indicate a fungal infection, in runners they can also be a result of pressure from their shoes and socks, or wearing shoes that don’t fit properly. A toenail that looks blue or black is likely to be caused by a bruise underneath it. The change in color is caused by blood forming under the nail, often from direct trauma to the toe. In some cases, the blood will need to be drained in a medical procedure conducted by a podiatrist. Many runners are surprised when one of their toenails falls off. In most cases, a new nail will form. To avoid losing a toenail, experts recommend being sure that your running shoes fit well, keeping toenails properly trimmed, and making sure your shoes are completely dry before a run. If you notice a bruise, a thick nail, or a loose toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist sooner rather than later, before the matter worsens and prohibits you from running. 

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. 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

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

  • Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
  • Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
  • “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
  • Cross-Training is Crucial
  • Wear Proper Running Shoes
  • Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause 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.

Read more about How to Prevent Running Injuries

Research has shown that approximately 25 percent of Americans who are 65 years or older fall every year. Physical harm may happen as a result of falling, and the feet are often affected.  A broken foot or toe are common injuries after a fall has occurred, which can limit the ability to complete daily activities. People who fall and are fortunate enough to not become hurt may develop a fear of falling. This can lead to becoming inactive and sedentary, which may be a gateway into other physical conditions. There are simple methods that can be implemented that can effectively prevent falling. These can include having routine physical and eye examinations that help update existing medications and eyeglasses. Additionally, it is beneficial to install grab bars in the toilet and shower area and to improve lighting in the household. If you require more knowledge about fall prevention strategies, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide you with useful tips on foot protection.

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:

  • Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
  • Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
  • Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
  • Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
  • Utilizing a walker or cane
  • Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
  • Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

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.

Read more about Falls Prevention
Wednesday, 05 July 2023 00:00

Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

Tuesday, 04 July 2023 00:00

What Type of Orthotic Do I Need?

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.

Read more about Ankle Foot Orthotics for Athletes
Tuesday, 27 June 2023 00:00

Dealing With Gout

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

  • Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
  • Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
  • Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
  • Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

  • Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
  • Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
  • Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
  • Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
  • Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
  • Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

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.

Read more about Everything You Need to Know About Gout
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