Orthotics are insoles that are worn in the shoes to provide additional support for the feet. They are used for different reasons, including overall foot health, abnormal foot structure, and various foot ailments. There are several kinds of orthotics to choose from. Orthotics that are prescribed by a podiatrist are designed to fit and correct an individual's unique foot and specific condition. They are made by taking an impression of the feet and can be successful in treating plantar fasciitis, flat feet, or heel spurs. Mass-produced inserts are referred to as prefabricated orthotics, and can fit a large range of foot types. They can be purchased in a pharmacy, and are available in numerous sizes and arch types. People who have mild foot pain may benefit from over-the-counter insoles, which may provide temporary relief. If you have any type of foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to choose the right type of orthotics based on the cause of your foot pain.
If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, 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.
What Are Orthotics?
Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.
Over-the-Counter Inserts
Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.
Prescription Orthotics
If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.
If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.
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.
The joint where the big toe connects to the foot is called the hallux. When this joint becomes stiff, it not only limits the ability to walk but also can become quite painful. This condition, termed hallux limitus, can result in arthritis and bone spurs. A callus may develop under the toe joint, and numbness and tingling may occur if nerves touch the bone spurs. Other symptoms of hallux limitus can include pain in the toe joint that worsens when you walk or flex the toe, and limping may result. Hallux limitus is thought to be caused predominantly by wear and tear in the joint. In some cases, abnormal foot structure, such as when the second toe is longer than the big toe, can possibly cause this condition. Wearing high heels that add pressure to the big toe joint is another potential reason hallux limitus can develop. A podiatrist can examine the toe joint with an X-ray to determine the extent of the condition. In some cases, custom orthotics can be prescribed to help correct the condition. If your big toe joint causes pain, especially while walking, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. 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 Causes Toe Pain?
Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.
Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
When to See a Podiatrist
Diagnosis
In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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
Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
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.
The summer months encourage people to wear lighter shoes, flip flops and sandals that can fit into this category. These types of shoes may be ideal for the beach and pool area but are not meant to be worn while in the work environment. The kind of work shoes that need to be purchased depends largely on the type of work that is being done. People who work around glass, nails, or other sharp objects may benefit from wearing work boots, which may help in preventing a foot injury. Additionally, wearing shoes that fit correctly may be beneficial in avoiding foot fatigue, which is a chronic foot ache. Foot fatigue may be reduced when the feet are rested and elevated during breaks. Many working environments require employees to wear shoes that are slip resistant and have adequate traction. If you would like more information about the best type of work shoes for your profession, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer you tips on how to buy work shoes that are right for you.
While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Working on Your Feet
Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.
Positive Changes
Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.
Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.
Eliminate Pain
Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.
Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen.
With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.
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.
Sometimes, when an individual purchases a new pair of shoes and wears them for the first time, a blister can develop on the back of their heels where the material rubs up against the skin. Although blisters can sometimes be small, they can cause a person great discomfort and pain. Heel blisters form essentially because of the friction against the skin. This is why it is essential for individuals to ensure that they are purchasing footwear that fits correctly in the first place. Shoes ought to be spacious enough that the toes and heels have sufficient room. However, shoes should not be so big that the feet ultimately fall out of the shoes. If you are someone that is currently struggling with blisters, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today about any potential treatment and prevention plans.
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.
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