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September 2021

Wednesday, 29 September 2021 00:00

Treatments Options for Foot Rashes

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

  • Hydrate your feet by using lotion
  • Exfoliate
  • Buff off nails
  • Use of anti-fungal products
  • Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

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.

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Tuesday, 21 September 2021 00:00

What Is Retrocalcaneal Bursitis?

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?

  • 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 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.

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Tuesday, 14 September 2021 00:00

Treatment for Corns

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:

  • Well-fitting socks
  • Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
  • Shoes that offer support

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.

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Monday, 13 September 2021 00:00

Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked

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.

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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:

  • Claudication (leg pain from walking)
  • Numbness in legs
  • Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
  • Paleness of the skin
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
  • Coldness in one leg

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.

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Published in Blog
Wednesday, 01 September 2021 00:00

How to Buy Shoes That Fit You

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

  • Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
  • Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
  • Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
  • Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
  • Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

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.

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