Flip-flops are not the best type of footwear because they typically do not offer the support, structure, or cushioning your feet need. However, wearing them in places like public pools, locker rooms, and showers is a good way to protect your feet from infections like athlete’s foot and toenail fungus—provided the flip-flops are well-made and you wear them in moderation. The following tips will help you purchase flip-flops that are less harmful to your feet. Look for a contoured footbed that is anatomically shaped with great cushioning to help with shock absorption, plenty of support for the arch, and a heel cup. There are advanced construction and material features in better flip-flops that restrict your foot from rolling inwardly and flattening your arches (pronation)—which often occurs when wearing flip-flops. Also, a wider footbed will allow the toes to move. Outsoles should be slip-resistant and durable. Padding or lining on the thong provides additional comfort and prevents rubbing or chafing between the toes. A podiatrist can offer additional advice on choosing footwear that is appropriate for your type of foot.
Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
Flip-Flops and Feet
Flip-flops have managed to become a summer essential for a lot of people. While the shoes may be stylish and easy to slip on and off, they can be dangerous to those who wear them too often. These shoes might protect you from fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, but they can also give you foot pain and sprained ankles if you trip while wearing them.
When Are They Okay to Wear?
Flip-flops should only be worn for very short periods of time. They can help protect your feet in places that are crawling with fungi, such as gym locker rooms. Athlete’s foot and plantar warts are two common fungi that flip-flops may help protect your feet against.
Why Are They Bad for My Feet?
These shoes do not offer any arch support, so they are not ideal for everyday use. They also do not provide shock absorption or heel cushioning which can be problematic for your feet. Additionally, you may suffer from glass cuts, puncture wounds, and stubbed toes since they offer little protection for your feet.
More Reasons Why They Are Bad for Your Feet
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.
Discovering the cause of pinky toe pain can be challenging. Its strategic placement on the outside of the foot helps the pinky toe work in tandem with the heel and big toe to balance the body during movement. However, this very location and its petite size make the pinky toe more susceptible to injury. For instance, stubbing, or dropping something heavy on it can cause one or more of its three bones to break. Stress, or hairline, fractures may also occur from repeated motions and activities such as running and jumping. One of its bones may separate from the others, causing dislocation (complete separation), or subluxation (partial separation). If ligaments become damaged, this can result in a sprain. Other conditions that may cause pinky toe pain include tailor’s bunions (a bunionette that forms on the outside of the pinky toe), or deformities such as hammer toe, claw toe, or overlapping pinky toe. Any chronic pain, swelling, or malformation in your pinky toe should be diagnosed by a podiatrist, followed by an appropriate course of treatment.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, 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.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
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.
If you have a rash on your feet, it is important to know what is causing it prior to beginning treatment. Effective treatments vary depending on the underlying cause. Athlete’s foot, a fungal infection that causes a red, scaly, itchy rash on the feet, is best treated by topical or oral antifungal medications. Allergic reactions, such as irritant contact dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, and atopic dermatitis, can be treated with topical corticosteroids and oral antihistamine drugs. Certain medical conditions, such as viral infections, Lyme disease, or psoriasis, can cause a rash to develop on the feet and may require other types of treatments. If you have a rash on your feet, please schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can diagnose the underlying cause and prescribe the right treatment for you.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.
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.
Retrocalcaneal bursitis is an inflammation of the fluid-filled sac (bursa) located at the back of the heel. It is a common cause of heel pain and occurs due to issues such as overuse, wearing high heels or ill-fitting shoes, having tight calf muscles, a heel injury, a Haglund’s deformity, or another medical conditions like gout or arthritis. Symptoms of retrocalcaneal bursitis include heel pain and tenderness, swelling, and ankle stiffness. This condition generally responds well to conservative treatments such as resting and icing the heel, taking anti-inflammatory medications, and wearing orthotics and comfortable shoes. Calf stretches and specific exercises for heel bursitis can also help. If you are experiencing any heel pain, please consult with a podiatrist.
Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, 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.
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?
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 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.
Corns are small lumps that can form on the feet in response to friction. They may be hard or soft, depending on their location. Hard corns might form on the tops of the toes or on the soles of the feet, while soft corns usually form in between the toes. Though they are typically not serious, corns can be annoying and uncomfortable. A variety of home treatments can be used to find relief. For example, soaking your feet and rubbing dry areas of skin with a wet pumice stone can help soften hard corns. Moisturizing your feet regularly and wearing comfortable, well-fitted shoes can help prevent corns from developing. If you have painful, inflamed corns, or if you are diabetic, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for proper treatment.
If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.
Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:
Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctors to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
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.
Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.
The peripheral nervous system transmits signals between the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and organs and limbs. For example, peripheral nerves would send a signal to the central nervous system regarding pain in the foot and the brain would direct the body to respond accordingly—that is, when this messaging system works correctly. In peripheral neuropathy there is damage to the peripheral nerves, which impedes this messaging system. Peripheral neuropathy is commonly caused by diabetes, but may also be present due to heredity, side effects of chemotherapy, drug or alcohol abuse, and other illnesses. Peripheral neuropathy can trigger symptoms in the feet such as numbness or an inability to perceive pain or temperature, cramping, muscle weakness, or tingling. Diabetic neuropathy can be particularly problematic as even minor cuts or abrasions can go undetected and turn into wounds or ulcers. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed, contact a podiatrist for a full examination and evaluation to determine if you may have peripheral neuropathy.
Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, 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.
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.
Symptoms
Symptoms of PAD include:
It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.
Diagnosis
While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.
Treatment
Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.
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.
Happy feet start with shoes that are comfortable and fit well. When purchasing shoes, do your shopping in the afternoon when your feet are usually their largest. Have your feet measured every time to make sure your size has not changed, as can happen over time. If you are like most people, one foot will be slightly larger than the other; choose the size that accommodates the larger foot. Ensure that the ball of your foot fits the widest part of the shoe comfortably. Check the length of the shoe to make sure there is ample room for your toes, and choose shoes that are shaped similarly to your feet. Remember that shoe sizes can fluctuate based on brand and other factors, so always try them on. While standing, check to make sure the width of your finger fits comfortably between the top of your toes and the tip of the shoe. Walk around the store to make sure they feel good and do not slip or rub you uncomfortably. If the shoes do not feel great in the store, don’t rely on them stretching out with wear. A podiatrist can make other specific recommendations based on your foot structure and needs, and also provide custom orthotics for additional support, or to correct any gait issues you may have.
It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Proper Shoe Fitting
Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.
Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting
The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.
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.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome can occur when the posterior tibial nerve that runs along the back of the ankle is pinched due to swelling or trauma. This can lead to symptoms that may include tingling, numbness, burning, or shooting pain in the affected leg. While anybody can get tarsal tunnel syndrome, it most frequently affects adults, and particularly those who have arthritis and other systemic diseases or previous injuries to the ankle area. To diagnose this condition, a podiatrist may take your medical history, conduct a physical examination, and perform a nerve conduction study or EMG. Imaging studies, like MRIs, may be used to rule out other causes for your symptoms. If you are experiencing any lower limb pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, 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.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.
Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.
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.
Gout, a condition which commonly affects the feet is often accompanied by intense pain and discomfort. The joints in the big toe are typically the most affected by gout. Common symptoms can include debilitating pain which can often make walking difficult or even impossible. Gout is caused by an excess of purines in the blood and can develop as a result of different factors like genetics and frequently eating foods that have high purine levels. These types of foods can include shellfish, alcohol, red meat, or drinks that have large amounts of sugar. Some patients have found mild relief from gout attacks by minimizing the pressure that is put on the affected foot. Additionally, it may be beneficial to elevate the foot as this may help to reduce a portion of the existing swelling. If you are affected by gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.
Symptoms
Risk Factors
Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.
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.
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