The sport of running or jogging can be more enjoyable when the muscles are properly stretched. Many runners practice static stretching, which enables the muscles and tendons to become more flexible. However, research has shown this type of stretch may inhibit nerve contraction, which may have a negative impact on how fast you can run. It may be more advantageous to perform stretches than can increase the range of motion before embarking on a run. Additionally, it is important to stretch the calves after a run is completed, as this may help to loosen any tight muscles. If you’re interested in learning more about the benefits of stretching the feet before and after running, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.
Why Stretching Is Important for Your Feet
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
Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first to determine if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.
It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising to ice and rest the foot. It is advised that you then see a podiatrist for help.
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.
Luka Doncic is a guard for the Dallas Mavericks and had to miss the game that was played against the Bucks after he sprained his ankle. The injury happened during the game against Miami, and the Mavericks lost during overtime with a score of 122-118. His injury was a significant factor in losing points for the team. The injury occurred when his right foot landed on the foot of another player. This is the first game he has currently not been able to play in, and has missed ten games in his rookie season as a result of minor injuries.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. 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.
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:
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 Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Neuropathy is a condition that affects the feet, specifically causing them to lose feeling. This can be incredibly dangerous, especially if you have developed a serious foot condition and can not feel the symptoms of it. Neuropathy may also alter the shape of your foot. Your arch may be raised, your toes can begin to bend downward, and the bones at the ball of your foot may protrude outward. When the shape of the foot changes, it in turn changes its overall function as well. To keep your feet comfortable, you may want to look into wearing shoes with extra support. Other signs that indicate you may have developed neuropathy include sensations of numbness, stinging, burning, and stabbing aches and pains. Hypersensitivity, as well as dry or cracked skin may develop due to neuropathy. In order to receive a proper diagnosis, and a suggested plan for treatment, we recommend you consult with a podiatrist for professional care.
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 McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. 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:
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 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.
Research has indicated that the condition known as cracked heels may be more prevalent among women than men. This may be a result of frequently wearing high heels, or shoes that do not have a back, such as flip flops. There may be additional causes of cracked heels that can include excessive heat and humidity, nutrient deficiencies, or changes to the hormone levels. Many patients find moderate relief when the feet are soaked in warm water, followed by using a good moisturizer. This may be beneficial when frequently practiced in keeping the skin relatively soft. If you are afflicted with cracked heels, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.
Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Cracked Heels
Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.
How Do You Get Them?
Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.
Promote Healing
Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.
Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.
Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.
Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin.
Change in Diet
Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.
Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed.
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.
A painful foot injury can take the joy out of running. It can happen suddenly, or develop gradually, and may never completely disappear. There are methods that may help to prevent running injuries from occurring. These can consist of performing stretches and exercises that can keep the body strong. Research has indicated it is beneficial to have strong glute muscles, and this a critical factor in maintaining strength and power while running. Additionally, muscle soreness may be diminished when foam rolling is implemented, and this may also help to improve range of motion. When running shoes are purchased, it is important to choose shoes that fit correctly, and support your body as the miles are increased. If you would like to learn about additional stretches that can help to prevent running injuries, please consult with a podiatrist.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.
What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.
Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.
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.
Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
A condition that is referred to as an ingrown toenail typically affects the big toe. It happens as a result of the sides of the toenail growing into the skin surrounding it, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. The symptoms that often accompany ingrown toenails can consist of redness, swelling, or a possible discharge at the edge of the nail. There are a variety of reasons why this condition may develop. These can include trimming the toenails improperly, wearing shoes that are too tight, or having a toe injury. Moderate relief may be found when the feet are washed and dried thoroughly, followed by using a small piece of cotton to gently push the affected nail away from the skin. Additionally, it generally helps to wear shoes that are larger in the toe area, as this may help to accelerate the healing process. If you have an ingrown toenail that has become infected, it is advised that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can properly diagnosis and treat this condition, which may include surgery for removal of the nail.
Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, 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.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.
Causes
You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.
Symptoms
Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.
Treatment
Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
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.
Damage that occurs to the joints and ligaments surrounding the cuboid bone may lead to a condition that is known as cuboid syndrome. Cuboid syndrome typically occurs when the nerve becomes compressed. This condition is often caused by participating in activities that involve running and jumping. The pain that typically accompanies this condition is felt on the outside of the foot, and can cause severe discomfort. Additional symptoms may include a tingling or burning sensation, and it may be difficult to walk. Relief may be found when larger shoes are worn, and it may also be beneficial to wear custom made orthotics that are designed to perfectly fit your feet. In severe cases, surgery may be a necessary treatment method. Once the ligament is cut, there may be adequate room for the affected nerve to expand. If you feel you have developed this ailment, it is advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.
Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, 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.
Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.
Causes
The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:
Symptoms
A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.
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.
The area of the foot where the condition known as Morton’s neuroma develops generally occurs between the third and fourth toes, or the second or third toes. It may happen as a result of an injured nerve, which may come from wearing shoes that are too tight. The symptoms that are typically associated with this condition can consist of tingling, numbness, and a burning pain in the toes. Additionally, Some patients may not be able to feel their toes. Rubbing the area may bring temporary relief, which may also help to move the injured nerve back into position. If you have Morton’s neuroma, a podiatrist may suggest wearing specific pads which can provide adequate arch support, or recommend surgery that can permanently remove the neuroma.
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?
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.
Elderly people may experience a certain amount of instability, which may lead to falling. This unnatural movement has the potential of causing serious health ailments. Many patients who have fallen have developed a fear of falling, and this may prevent them from being as active as they once were. This may possibly cause the body to lose strength and flexibility. There are methods that can be implemented which may help to reduce the risk of falling. These can consist of increasing the lighting in the household, installing grab bars in the toilet and shower areas, and removing any existing loose carpeting. Research has indicated it may be beneficial to have a routine physical examination, and this may be helpful in determining the effectiveness of current medications. If you would like additional information about how falling can affect the feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.
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 McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. 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:
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 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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