Items filtered by date: February 2024

Foot pain affects up to 30 percent of older adults. This discomfort not only diminishes their overall health but also contributes to impaired balance and reduced physical function. The result is an increased risk of falls. Studies show that the link between foot pain and falls becomes increasingly significant with age. More than a third of those aged 65 and above experience a fall at least once a year, a percentage that rises to over 40 percent for those 75 and older. Recurrent falls are particularly common among individuals suffering from severe foot pain, and certain foot postures, such as flat feet, are linked to a higher risk of falls. By addressing foot pain and taking measures to improve foot function and posture, older adults can lower the risk of falls. For help with foot pain and its related risk of falling, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and guidance.

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 one of our podiatrists from Houston Foot and Ankle Care. Our doctors 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 our offices located in Inner Loop, Southwest, Greater Heights, and Pearland, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Hammertoe, a prevalent foot deformity, manifests as an abnormal bending of the toe joints, causing toes to resemble a hammer's shape. This condition typically affects the second, third, or fourth toe, resulting from an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments that control toe movement. Common causes of hammertoe include wearing ill-fitting shoes, toe injuries, and underlying foot conditions like arthritis or bunions. Over time, hammertoes can become rigid and painful, making walking and wearing shoes uncomfortable. Recognizing the signs, such as toe stiffness, corns, or calluses, is vital for early intervention and treatment. While conservative measures like wearing roomy shoes, toe exercises, and padding can alleviate symptoms, severe cases may require surgical correction to realign the toe joints and restore functionality. With proper care and attention, individuals can manage hammertoe effectively, minimizing discomfort and maintaining optimal foot health. If you have developed hammertoe, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Houston Foot and Ankle Care. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Inner Loop, Southwest, Greater Heights, and Pearland, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Running requires minimal gear, with a good-fitting pair of shoes as the essential requirement. Additional running accessories like well-constructed and breathable socks, gear, and watches are optional. However, your choice of running shoe can vary depending on your running conditions and preferences. To determine how many running shoes you need, start with at least one pair that suits you. Having two pairs and rotating them is beneficial for those running on the same terrain frequently, especially if it is several times a week. If you diversify your running terrain, you may consider purchasing additional pairs, as specific shoes cater to trails, tracks, speed workouts, and everyday runs. Trail shoes are suitable for rugged or slippery trails, providing waterproofing and extra traction. Track shoes, lightweight with minimal cushioning, benefit those preparing for track races or track workouts. Treadmill shoes should be cushioned, while speed work and race day shoes are designed to boost confidence and speed. Depending on your running goals and variety of terrain, you may need multiple shoes to optimize your training and performance. If you run or plan to run on different terrains, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss how many pairs of running shoes may be suitable for your running goals.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Houston Foot and Ankle Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

• Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
• Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
• Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Inner Loop, Southwest, Greater Heights, and Pearland, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Neuropathy, a condition characterized by damage to the nerves, frequently manifests with distinct symptoms in the feet. Sensory disturbances are common, with individuals experiencing tingling or a sensation akin to pins and needles. Numbness is another hallmark symptom, contributing to a reduced ability to perceive temperature and touch. Many individuals with neuropathy report a burning or stabbing pain in their feet that often disrupts daily activities. Muscle weakness may accompany these sensations, leading to difficulties in maintaining balance and coordination. The symptoms of neuropathy can be progressive, and as the condition advances, individuals may face challenges with mobility and foot function. Early recognition of these common symptoms is important for timely diagnosis and intervention. If you have neuropathy that is affecting your feet, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can guide you toward relief and management techniques.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists from Houston Foot and Ankle Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Inner Loop, Southwest, Greater Heights, and Pearland, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.