Many individuals might be surprised to learn that their alcohol consumption can actually have a negative effect on the health of their feet. For example, excessively drinking alcohol can be dangerous for those who are suffering from gout in the feet. Gout is a kind of arthritis that can manifest symptoms in the feet. Gout is essentially triggered by uric acid, which is produced when the body is in the process of breaking down purines. Since alcohol, specifically beer, can contain many purines, someone can exacerbate their gout if they drink high quantities of beer. If you are someone living with gout and you frequently experience gout flares, it might be a good idea to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who will help you manage these symptoms.
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.
A stress fracture of the foot can be painful, and it may cause challenges in completing daily activities. It is also known as a hairline fracture, and will gradually worsen if not treated promptly. This type of break is defined as a tiny crack in any of the foot bones, or it may occur in the lower leg. It is a common injury among people who enjoy participating in running and jumping activities, and the bones may gradually become weaker from repetitive use. Additionally, it may happen as a result of increasing speed or mileage too quickly while running. Patients who have nutritional imbalances or who have had previous stress fractures may be prone to having them occur again. This type of fracture is generally treated by resting the affected foot and temporarily stopping the activity that caused this condition. Research has indicated that a complete recovery generally takes approximately eight weeks, and may be accelerated by performing low impact exercises like swimming or cycling. If you have endured a stress fracture, please consider speaking with a podiatrist who can help you with the treatment plan that is correct for you.
Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, 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.
How Are They Caused?
Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon. Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.
Risk Factors
Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.
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.
Toddlers are usually flat-footed when they start to walk, and their feet may turn inward known as in-toeing. Flat feet should resolve as bones develop and the feet become stronger. In-toeing should also improve with age. Toddlers should go barefoot or wear soft-soled shoes to promote balance, posture, and coordination. Children receive important sensory information from the soles of their feet touching the ground and they develop muscle strength this way. When children have been walking confidently for some time, they can begin to wear firmer-soled shoes. Footwear can help protect their feet from injury and temperature. Their feet should be professionally measured for length and width. Kids' feet grow quickly, and their shoe size may change every few months. Shoes that are too tight can negatively affect a child’s walking pattern and cause other problems like ingrown toenails. Instead, children’s shoes should be comfortable, with plenty of room in the toe box. They should have a flexible, flat sole that can bend near the toe. The front of the shoe should be wider than the heel, to match the foot's natural shape. The shoes need to be secured with laces or straps that prevent the foot from moving or slipping. See a podiatrist if your child is experiencing foot pain or if you are concerned with how they walk.
The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, 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.
Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
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.
People who have endured an Achilles tendon injury are often not mistaken about it. A common sign is an immediate pain and discomfort, and it can be extremely difficult to walk. It can happen as a result of increasing running speed and mileage too quickly, and this type of injury can fall into two categories. Noninsertional Achilles tendinitis affects the middle of the tendon, and younger people are prone to developing this type of injury. The lower part of the tendon is affected where it attaches to the heel bone during insertional Achilles tendinitis and can affect people of all ages. Additional symptoms can include heel and calf pain, and there can be a limited range of motion. Some people develop Achilles tendon injuries from not warming up or cooling down properly, in addition to wearing shoes that do not fit properly. This is an injury that needs prompt medical attention for a complete recovery so it is suggested that a podiatrist be contacted who can guide you toward the best treatment techniques.
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
Rupture Symptoms
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:
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.
Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.
Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is considered to be a fungal skin infection. It is generally found between the toes or on the soles of the feet. The fungus enters the body through small cracks in the skin and may develop into a chronic infection. This type of fungus lives in warm and moist environments and is contagious. Some of the places where appropriate shoes are urged to be worn are public swimming pools, shower room floors, and locker rooms. There are methods that can be implemented to help prevent the spread of athlete's foot. These include keeping the toenails trimmed and airing shoes out while alternating them every other day. It is beneficial to wear shoes and socks that are made of breathable materials, which helps to keep the feet clean and dry. Athlete’s foot generally does not heal on its own, and a podiatrist is often consulted who can provide an accurate diagnosis and offer correct treatment options.
Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.
What Is Athlete’s Foot?
Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.
Prevention
The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:
Symptoms
Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.
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 common foot condition among diabetic patients is a foot ulcer. Foot ulcers often occur from the inability to feel existing cuts, bruises, or scrapes which can be a result of neuropathy. Therefore, it is imperative to check the soles daily. Additionally, engaging in a gentle exercise routine may be beneficial in increasing circulation to the feet. A diabetic foot ulcer generally requires immediate medical care, and this may help to prevent an impending infection that could ultimately lead to amputation when left untreated. A diabetic foot ulcer can cause severe pain and discomfort, and it is suggested to refrain from putting any weight on the affected foot. Some people choose to wear shoes that are designed specifically for diabetic patients as well as compression wraps that help to improve circulation. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat and help you to manage this condition.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, 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.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
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.
There are many causes of blisters but the most common is friction. The formation of a friction blister is the body’s way of protecting the layers of skin. They often appear on your feet after walking or running for long periods. If the feet are warm or damp, the risk of a blister developing increases. The friction on the outer layer of skin on the toe or heel against the inside of a shoe can cause the blister to tear. This causes a plasma-like fluid to leak and fill the gap. The fluid encourages new skin cells to develop as well as form a new covering. Eventually, a new top skin layer forms and the blister subsides. But that sequence of events is largely dependent upon stopping the activity that caused the friction and replacing the shoes too. Putting on protective bandages can help to eliminate pain. If you have a blister that has become extremely painful or possibly infected, it is wise to visit a podiatrist for proper treatment.
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)
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.
Ankle pain can be a result of a sprain, rolling the ankle, arthritis, gout, nerve damage, injury, blocked blood vessels, or infection in the joint. An ankle sprain is the most common cause of ankle pain, and is often caused by rolling or twisting the ankle so that the outside of the ankle moves towards the ground. With a sprain, the ligaments of the ankle holding bones together can get strained or torn. Arthritis - especially osteoarthritis - can also cause pain and inflammation of the joint because it causes wear and tear on the joint. Immediate action to take for ankle pain is rest and elevation of the foot. Compression of the ankle may also help. When the pain subsides, it is a good idea to exercise the ankle by rotating it in circles and flexing it up and down, which can help improve range of motion and reduce swelling. If these actions do not stop the pain completely and/or if there is extreme swelling or bruising, it is time to see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.
Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle 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.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and 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 care needs.
If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!
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