If you need a more accessible version of this website, click this button on the right. Switch to Accessible Site

Blog

Blog

Tuesday, 22 June 2021 00:00

Ingrown Toenails in Infants

An ingrown toenail is more common in adults, but can affect anyone of any age, including infants. An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin rather than over it. This causes redness, swelling, and pain, and may lead to an infection if left untreated. Usually the first symptom of an ingrown toenail in an infant is the area at the edge of the nail slowly becoming raised due to the toenail growing underneath it. At first the raised area is flesh-colored, but over time it can turn red and become painful. Just as in adults, ingrown toenails in babies are usually the result of improperly trimming the toenails or wearing shoes that are too tight in the toe area. Applying a warm, wet compress to the affected toenail can soften the skin and reduce discomfort. If you notice that the area is becoming increasingly red, warm, or painful, it is suggested that you take your child to see a podiatrist for treatment.  

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about How to Care for Your Child's Feet
Tuesday, 15 June 2021 00:00

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

At the lower end of the calf, the two calf muscles (gastrocnemius and soleus) join and become one long band of fibrous tissue known as the Achilles tendon. The Achilles tendon connects the calf with the heel and helps the foot bend. The Achilles tendon may become injured, torn, or ruptured during physical activities that involve sudden starts and stops, jumping or running. It can also occur during regular activities in people aged 40-64 who have diabetes, high cholesterol, or a problem with weight. A snapping, cracking, or popping sound may occur at the moment of injury or when pressure is applied to the damaged tendon. Other symptoms may include: pain, swelling, bruising, or stiffness in the back of the foot and tendon area—which can be worse upon waking or after exercise—a weakened leg, reduced mobility, or sensitivity to touch. If you suspect you may have injured your Achilles tendon, seek the care of a podiatrist to receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors 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 Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about What are Achilles Tendon Injuries
Tuesday, 08 June 2021 00:00

Treating Blisters

Blisters are fluid filled lesions that are a result of pressure and friction, and they can be very painful. Blisters can form from a variety of factors that include wearing shoes that don’t fit properly, stiff shoes, wrinkled socks, having too much moisture on the feet, and as a result of various foot deformities. Common methods for preventing blisters include keeping the feet dry, wearing the right sized socks, wearing properly fitting footwear and checking the feet for any rubbing or tenderness. Patients who do have blisters on their feet should make sure not to pop them. Blisters will usually last 3-7 days and clear up on their own. However, if the blisters continue to persist, or if you have diabetes, you should consult with a podiatrist to get proper care for the blister.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can 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.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

  • Bubble of skin filled with fluid
  • Redness
  • Moderate to severe pain
  • Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Blisters
Tuesday, 01 June 2021 00:00

Supportive Shoes May Help Flat Feet

The condition that is known as flat feet may cause pain and discomfort in many patients. It is defined as a foot structure abnormality, and is noticeable as the foot lies completely flat while standing on the floor. Research has indicated the muscles and ligaments can become strained, and may cause pain while walking. It can become more prevalent in people who are obese, have high blood pressure, or are diabetic. Patients who find their feet ache as a result of flat feet may find mild relief when supportive shoes are worn. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you seek the professional advice of a podiatrist who can choose the proper treatment for flat feet.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

  • Pain around the heel or arch area
  • Trouble standing on the tip toe
  • Swelling around the inside of the ankle
  • Flat look to one or both feet
  • Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Flatfoot

Morton’s neuroma is a thickening of nerve tissue in the foot which generally occurs between the third and fourth toes. The pain most typically associated with Morton’s neuroma occurs in the ball of the foot and can feel like you have a pebble in your shoe. You may also experience burning, stinging or numbness in the area. In some cases, the cause of Morton’s neuroma is unknown, however, it can typically be attributed to injuries, irritation, stress, or pressure from running or wearing shoes that are too tight. A podiatrist can do a thorough examination and may perform various imaging and range-of-motion tests to rule out other conditions and make a proper diagnosis of Morton’s neuroma. They may suggest icing, rest, anti-inflammatory medications, or injections to reduce pain and swelling, or even electric currents (radiofrequency ablation) to erode the growth. Custom orthotics may also be created to reduce pressure on the inflamed nerve tissue. If these non-surgical treatments do not provide you with adequate relief, surgery to remove the growth may be an option.

 

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors 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 Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Morton's Neuroma

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.

Tuesday, 18 May 2021 00:00

Increasing Ankle Flexibility

Many athletes, particularly swimmers, find that having flexible ankles is important for success in their sport. Ankle flexibility can be increased by stretching the ankles. One stretch that can help improve flexibility is the ankle flex. To do this stretch, sit on the floor with your legs straight out in front of you. Place a towel roll under the ankle that you are stretching and wrap a resistance band around the same foot. Holding the band, point your toes away from you. Then pull back on the band and slowly move your foot back toward you. Repeat for three sets of 10 on each leg. For more information about how to improve the flexibility of your ankles and the benefits of foot and ankle stretches, please consult with a podiatrist.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our podiatrists from McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

  • Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
  • Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
  • Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Stretching Your Feet
Monday, 10 May 2021 00:00

Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury

An Achilles tendon injury can cause severe pain and many people even experience difficulty walking. This tendon is located at the back of the leg and connects the calf muscles to the heel. An injury to this tendon can happen suddenly by twisting the leg, or it may gradually develop because of tendon weakness. Some of the symptoms that patients associate with this injury include pain, stiffness, and swelling in the back of the heel, as well as limited mobility. Resting the affected foot is recommended as the healing process takes place, in addition to performing specific stretches. Some ways to help reduce the risk of an Achilles tendon injury is by wearing shoes that fit correctly, warming up and stretching properly before and after strenuous activities, and it is important to rest in between workouts. If you have endured an Achilles tendon injury it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can offer you various treatment options.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors 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 Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Achilles Tendon Injuries

Many children can develop blisters on their feet. They appear to be small areas that are filled with liquid, and this is the body’s natural defense in protecting raw skin. These bubbles will gradually drain as new skin grows in the damaged area. They are generally caused by excess friction that can happen from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Other causes can include sunburn, frostbite, or they can develop as a result of an allergic reaction to an insect bite. It is beneficial to protect the blister by covering it with a protective bandage, which may help to prevent it from draining prematurely. If the blister on your child’s foot becomes infected, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this ailment.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. 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 one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Blisters on the Feet
Page 17 of 30
Connect with us
Podiatrist, Foot Doctor Pasadena, TX 77505, Baytown, TX 77521, Houston, TX 77089 & 77023, League City, TX 77573, Pearland, TX 77584 on Twitter Follow McKinney Podiatric Associates on Twitter Follow Us McKinney Podiatric Associates on Instagram Podiatry blog of Podiatrist, Foot Doctor Pasadena, TX 77505, Baytown, TX 77521, Houston, TX 77089 & 77023, League City, TX 77573, Pearland, TX 77584
 
Recent Texas Podiatry Blog Posts