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Tuesday, 23 July 2024 00:00

Sharp pain in the big toe can be caused by various conditions, each requiring different treatments. Common culprits can include bunions, ingrown toenails, turf toe, arthritis, sesamoiditis, gout, and injuries like sprains or fractures. Bunions cause deformity and pain at the base of the toe, often due to wearing ill-fitting shoes or prolonged standing. Ingrown toenails, usually from improper nail trimming or pressure from tight shoes, can cause significant pain and swelling. Turf toe results from excessive stress on the big toe joint, which is common among athletes. Sesamoiditis, affecting the tiny bones under the big toe, causes dull, intermittent pain. Gout, a metabolic disorder, triggers sudden, severe pain due to uric acid crystal buildup. Lastly, sprains and fractures from trauma or overextension cause throbbing pain and swelling. Persistent or severe symptoms require an evaluation from a podiatrist. This foot doctor can diagnose the cause and suggest appropriate treatments, including orthotics, medication, or possibly surgery. If you are suffering pain in the big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

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:

  • Trauma
  • Sports injury
  • Wearing shoes that are too tight
  • Arthritis
  • Gout
  • Corns and calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Blisters
  • Ingrown toenails
  • Sprains
  • Fractures (broken bones)
  • Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

  • Severe pain
  • Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
  • Signs of infection
  • Continued swelling
  • Pain that prevents walking

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.

Read more about Toe Pain
Tuesday, 16 July 2024 00:00

Achilles tendon injuries can happen to anyone, but certain factors can increase the likelihood. Changes in training schedules or intensity, such as adding more miles to a running routine or incorporating explosive exercises can strain the Achilles tendon. Sudden switching of playing surfaces or footwear can also contribute to Achilles tendon injury risk. Tight or weak calf muscles, excessive pronation, or the rolling inward of the foot, and chronic ankle instability can place additional stress on the tendon. Regularly wearing high heels can shorten the Achilles tendon, making it more susceptible to injury. Excessive training, particularly running on hills, exposes the tendon to repeated micro-traumas. Increasing age reduces blood supply to tendons, making them more prone to injury. People with high-arched feet and certain types of arthritis are at a higher risk of developing Achilles tendinopathy. If you have suffered an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and expert treatment.

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.

Read more about The Causes, Types, and Treatments of Achilles Tendon Injuries
Tuesday, 09 July 2024 00:00

Dancers are prone to foot and ankle injuries due to the physical demands of their art. Risk factors can include inadequate warm-up, improper technique, and wearing unsuitable footwear. Overuse injuries, such as tendinitis and stress fractures, result from repetitive movements and intense training schedules. Acute injuries often occur from sudden movements or missteps, leading to sprains or fractures. Additionally, common ankle injuries in dancers include lateral ankle sprains, where the ligaments on the outside of the ankle are stretched or torn, and Achilles tendinitis, which causes pain and inflammation in the tendon connecting the calf muscle to the heel. Ensuring proper warm-up routines, using supportive footwear, and focusing on technique can help prevent these injuries. Regular strength and flexibility training also play a critical role in maintaining foot and ankle health for dancers. If you are engaged in any type of dance and have endured a foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment methods.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. 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.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Plantar Fasciosis
  • Achilles Tendinitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains 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 and ankle needs.

Read more about Sports Related Foot And Ankle Injuries
Wednesday, 03 July 2024 00:00

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.

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