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April 2020

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.

Published in Blog
Monday, 20 April 2020 00:00

How Does Morton’s Neuroma Develop?

Patients who are afflicted with Morton’s neuroma often feel pain and discomfort in the ball of the foot. This condition can occur as a result of thickened tissues between the toes, and the pain may be more severe while walking. Additional symptoms may include a numbing or tingling sensation, limited mobility, and it may be difficult to wear shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. It may develop from existing foot conditions, or from frequently participating in running or jumping activities. There are several methods of diagnosis, which can include having an X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI performed. If you have pain in this area of your foot, and think it may be Morton’s neuroma, it is strongly advised that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can begin the correct treatment plan for you.

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?

  • Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
  • Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
  • Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

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.

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Published in Blog
Monday, 13 April 2020 00:00

Pain in the Calf and Heel Area

Patients who have endured an Achilles tendon injury are often aware of the debilitating pain and discomfort this condition may cause. It can occur as a result of frequently participating in running and jumping activities, and can be a common injury among tennis players. The consistent jumping and turning may cause the Achilles tendon to become weak, which is located on the lower part of the calf. The function of this tendon is to connect the heel to the calf muscles, and can be quite painful if it becomes torn and inflamed. Patients who have endured an Achilles tendon injury may find mild relief when the affected foot is elevated, and it may help to perform specific stretching techniques. If you feel pain in the calf and heel area, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible so the correct treatment can begin.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. 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 Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

  • Inflammation
  • Dull to severe pain
  • Increased blood flow to the tendon
  • Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

  • Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
  • Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

  • Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
  • Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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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Published in Blog

Research has indicated that there are many benefits of running. People who enjoy this sport are often aware of the positive aspects cardiovascular exercise can provide. These may include producing endorphins, keeping the heart and body healthy, and shedding excess weight. Many runners know the importance of warming up before and after a run, as this may be helpful in preventing running injuries. Achilles tendonitis is a common running injury. This tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel, and can become quite painful if it becomes torn or injured. This type of injury can possibly be prevented by performing heel raises, and this may be beneficial in strengthening the calves. Additionally, patients may experience plantar fasciitis. This is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is the portion of tissue that connects the heel to the toes. A common prevention technique can include wearing shoes that fit correctly, and practicing specific foot stretches. If you would like additional information about how running injuries can affect the feet, please consult with a podiatrist.

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 How to Prevent Running Injuries
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