Items filtered by date: January 2024

Podiatrists, specialized healthcare professionals, navigate the intricate landscape of foot and ankle care. Tasked with diagnosing, treating, and preventing a spectrum of conditions, their job encompasses addressing issues like foot deformities, injuries, and disorders related to gait. These specialists employ a diverse set of skills, from conducting thorough examinations and interpreting diagnostic tests to formulating personalized treatment plans. Qualifications for aspiring podiatrists involve completing a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine, or DPM degree, typically a four year program, following an undergraduate degree. Subsequently, a multi year residency allows them to refine clinical skills and gain hands-on experience. Podiatrists must be licensed to practice, meeting the requirements stipulated by each state. Individuals who have foot or ankle issues for any reason should contact a podiatrist who can offer the correct treatment method.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact one our of podiatrists from The Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

• Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
• Use innovative methods to treat conditions
• Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
• Correct walking patterns and balance
• Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Houston, Deer Park, and Mont Belvieu, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel pain is a common concern with various causes and corresponding treatment approaches. The pain can occur at distinct sites, stemming from different triggers. One common source of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, located at the bottom of the heel. This condition occurs when excessive pressure damages or tears the tissues, leading to inflammation and gradual, escalating discomfort. Another site of heel pain is the Achilles tendon, positioned at the back of the lower leg. Repetitive stress, tight calf muscles, or a sudden increase in exercise intensity can contribute to pain in this area. Additionally, heel pain may be felt on the side of the foot, with lateral foot pain affecting the outside and medial foot pain affecting the inside edge. These variations can result from conditions such as stress fractures, sprains, and tarsal tunnel syndrome. Regardless of the specific site, heel pain often develops gradually, becoming more severe over time. In cases of injury, particularly those accompanied by a popping sound, immediate and intense pain may be experienced, necessitating prompt medical attention. Understanding the different sites and symptoms of heel pain is needed for an accurate diagnosis and the formulation of an effective treatment plan. If heel pain is a concern, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment plan.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one our of podiatrists of The Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Houston, Deer Park, and Mont Belvieu, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel spurs are bony protrusions that form on the underside of the heel bone. They can cause intense heel pain, although the spur itself may not always be the direct source of discomfort. Heel spurs do not typically disappear on their own. However, the pain and discomfort they cause can often be managed effectively through various treatments. Treatment primarily focuses on addressing the underlying condition, such as plantar fasciitis, which is often the root cause of heel spur related pain. Common approaches to managing heel spur pain can include rest and stretching exercises to improve foot flexibility. Wearing supportive footwear with adequate cushioning and arch support can alleviate pressure on the heel. Orthotic inserts are often recommended to distribute pressure more evenly. Additionally, anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce pain and inflammation. In severe cases, advanced treatments like shockwave therapy may be considered. Surgery to remove the heel spur is reserved for situations where conservative treatments prove ineffective. If you have a heel spur, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an examination, diagnosis, and the best treatment plan for you.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one our of podiatrists from The Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our offices located in Houston, Deer Park, and Mont Belvieu, TX . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Walking and running shoes, though designed for the common purpose of moving on foot, exhibit distinct characteristics tailored to the biomechanics of each activity. Walking shoes prioritize stability and cushioning, supporting a heel-to-toe rolling motion characteristic of walking. These shoes often feature a flexible sole to accommodate the natural foot movement during a stroll. In contrast, running shoes prioritize impact absorption and energy return, catering to the repetitive, high-impact nature of running. They typically have enhanced cushioning in the heel and forefoot, coupled with a more significant emphasis on shock absorption to minimize the stress on joints. Additionally, running shoes tend to offer greater flexibility to facilitate the foot's rapid movement. Understanding these differences is vital for choosing the right footwear, as wearing shoes designed for the wrong activity can lead to discomfort, inefficiency, and even potential injury. If you have questions about what type of shoes to buy for your preferred walking or running activity, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with one our of podiatrists from The Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Houston, Deer Park, and Mont Belvieu, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot blisters are defined as fluid-filled sacs that form on the skin, and are often encountered during daily activities or as a result of wearing ill-fitting footwear. They develop as a result of friction or repeated rubbing, which separates the layers of skin, creating a pocket of clear fluid. Several factors can contribute to the formation of foot blisters. Tight or improperly fitting shoes can lead to excessive rubbing, especially while walking or running. Moisture, such as sweat or wet conditions, softens the skin and makes it more prone to blistering. Certain materials consisting of rough socks or shoes, can exacerbate the problem. Additionally, activities that place excessive stress on the feet, like hiking or long-distance running, are common culprits. Understanding the definition and causes of foot blisters can help you take preventive measures. If you have blisters on your feet, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can safely treat them and guide you on blister-prevention tactics. 

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one our of podiatrists of The Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Houston, Deer Park, and Mont Belvieu, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.