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May 2023

Maintaining proper foot care is important for diabetic patients. Many people who are diabetic have neuropathy, which is the inability to feel existing cuts or scrapes on the feet. This can be caused by elevated blood sugar levels that can happen from the foods that are eaten. An untreated wound on the foot may lead to incurring a foot ulcer, which is an infected wound. Serious consequences may occur if prompt medical attention is not received. It is beneficial to implement a good diabetic foot care routine daily. It can begin with washing and drying the feet thoroughly, especially between the toes. This can be followed by closely inspecting the bottom of the feet for cuts that cannot be felt. Many people use a mirror to accomplish this, or a family member or caregiver may help to do this. Trimming the toenails once per week may help to prevent an ingrown toenail from developing, which can cause severe pain and discomfort. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, 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.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

  • Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
  • Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
  • Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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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Published in Blog
Tuesday, 23 May 2023 00:00

The Importance of Daily Foot Care

To say the feet are critical to functioning is an understatement. They absorb the full impact of the body’s weight, while keeping the body balanced and upright. A host of problems can affect the feet, which can impact comfort and reduce mobility. These can include cracked skin, ingrown toenails, and injured bones. Following a simple foot care routine can help keep the skin, bones, and muscles of the feet functioning properly.  Wearing well-fitted shoes that are supportive and comfortable are key factors in maintaining good foot health. If you shop for new shoes, it is important to do so later in the day when the feet are at their largest. The feet are then measured with the socks that will be worn with the intended shoes. It is beneficial for the feet to be exercised to stay strong, and simply walking can fulfill this need. Washing, drying, and moisturizing the feet daily, in addition to wearing socks that can add shock absorption, may help to protect the feet. If foot conditions develop, or if you would like more information about how you can take better care of your feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

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.

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Published in Blog
Tuesday, 16 May 2023 00:00

Ankle Pain and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Many people are currently living with a condition known as rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, which is an inflammatory disease that attacks the joints. Individuals who have or are developing rheumatoid arthritis often experience certain symptoms that are highly indicative of the condition. For example, the joints in the body may ache, and more specifically, the ankles may be affected. Sometimes, the aching and pain can be symmetrical in the ankles, which means that both of the ankle joints may ache. Importantly, those whose ankles are affected by rheumatoid arthritis may also experience some amount of swelling in the ankle joints. If you think that you have rheumatoid arthritis and your ankles are being affected, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for an appointment.

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:

  • Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
  • Ankle sprains
  • Broken ankles
  • Achilles tendinitis
  • Achilles tendon rupture
  • Stress fractures
  • Bursitis
  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome
  • Plantar fasciitis

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.

 

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Published in Blog
Tuesday, 09 May 2023 00:00

Feet Stretching for Beginners

Various injuries can happen to the feet, and stretching the feet may be beneficial in strengthening the affected foot. It is helpful to be aware of existing pain levels, and beginning slowly will accomplish this. Intensity and repetition may be increased as the foot becomes stronger, and stretching will become easier. Calf stretches can help the heel and Achilles tendon. A calf stretch is done by standing on a step and lowering one heel until a gentle stretch is felt. It is helpful to monitor pain levels as stretches are performed, and this can be an accurate gauge of building strength. It is suggested to hold the stretch for 30 seconds and perform several repetitions. If you would like more information about the benefits of stretching the feet, it is recommended that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you with the knowledge you are seeking.

Why Stretching Is Important for Your Feet

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 to determine 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.

  • Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
  • Similar to the previous exercise, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
  • Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
  • Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising to ice and rest the foot. It is advised that you 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.

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Published in Blog
Saturday, 06 May 2023 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.

Published in Blog
Tuesday, 02 May 2023 00:00

Types of Ankle Sprains

Spraining an ankle is a common injury that results from overstretching one or more ligaments that helps to hold the ankle joint together. Signs of an ankle sprain are pain, swelling, and bruising. There are three main types of ankle sprains. A grade 1 sprain is the least serious injury. The ligaments are stretched, but not torn, and the joint remains stable. A grade 2 sprain is more severe and painful, and may indicate that more than one ligament has partially torn. This causes the ankle joint to become less stable, and bearing weight is more difficult. With a grade 3 sprain, more than one ligament is torn, and ankle movement is impossible. If you have this type of sprain, seeking immediate medical attention is imperative. Ignoring an ankle sprain can be permanently damaging to the joint. For that reason, if you believe you may have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, 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 are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

  • Pain at the sight of the tear
  • Bruising/Swelling
  • Ankle area is tender to touch
  • In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
  • Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further 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.

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