If you need a more accessible version of this website, click this button on the right. Switch to Accessible Site

Blog

Blog

Monday, 29 April 2019 00:00

Different Types of Running Shoes

Research has indicated the most common form of running is done on roads. The hard ground may play havoc on the human body, and it is beneficial to wear running shoes that are correct for you. It is helpful to know how your foot strikes the ground. This is easily accomplished by looking at a current pair of running shoes and noticing where the sole is worn. Additionally, having good support in a shoe is important to consider if long distance running is preferred. When there is adequate cushioning in the shoe, it will be easier to run much more comfortably. Many runners have a recovery shoe, and this is worn after running a race, or if an injury to the foot has occurred. If you would like additional information about the different types of running shoes, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have.

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, 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.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

  • Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
  • There should be little to no slipping at the heel
  • Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
  • Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
  • Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our 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.

Read more about Choosing the Right Running Shoe
Tuesday, 23 April 2019 00:00

Possible Causes of Foot Pain

If you have pain and discomfort on the outside of your foot, this is referred to as lateral foot pain. It may be difficult to stand and walk and can occur from a variety of reasons. These include inflammation of the tendons, pinched nerves, or stress fractures in the foot or ankle. Additional symptoms include tenderness and swelling in the affected area, and it may be common for ankle sprains to occur. Other types of foot pain can come from cuboid syndrome, bunions, and arthritis. If the cuboid bone becomes dislocated, the inflammation that develops will cause a condition that is known as cuboid syndrome. Bunions can be quite painful as weight is put on a portion of the foot to compensate for the protrusion on the side of the big toe. Rheumatoid arthritis will typically affect joints in the ankle and can cause extreme pain. If you are experiencing any type of foot pain, it is advised that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can properly diagnosis and treat any type of foot pain.

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:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

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.

Read more about Foot Pain
Thursday, 18 April 2019 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.

Tuesday, 16 April 2019 00:00

Possible Treatments for a Broken Toe

The bones that exist in the toes are fragile and small, and may easily break if a heavy object is dropped on them. Patients may realize their toe may be broken if it appears to be crooked, or if an open wound occurs after the injury happens. Additional symptoms may include pain, difficulty in moving the toe, and swelling. Mild relief may be found while elevating the foot, which may help to decrease swelling. It is suggested to keep the foot as still as possible, and this may be accomplished by resting the foot frequently during the day. Taping the injured toe to the toe next to it may provide stability while the healing process occurs. If you feel you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnosis and treat this condition.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • Throbbing pain
  • Swelling
  • Bruising on the skin and toenail
  • The inability to move the toe
  • Toe appears crooked or disfigured
  • Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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.

Read more about What to Know About a Broken Toe
Monday, 08 April 2019 00:00

Possible Ways to Prevent Toenail Fungus

The condition that is known as toenail fungus is a fungal infection that may attack one or more of the toenails. There may be existing medical conditions that may precede the development of this ailment, including diabetes, nail psoriasis, or a weakened immune system. The fungus that causes this condition typically thrives in moist and warm environments. These may include public pools, shower room floors, and surrounding areas. It typically enters the body through small cuts in the skin, or may lodge in between the nail and the nail bed. There are several symptoms that are associated with toenail fungus. These may include a change in nail texture and color, pain when the nail is touched, or it may easily break. There are measures that can be implemented which may prevent this ailment from occurring. These may include wearing appropriate footwear while in public areas, choosing to wear shoes that are made of breathable materials, and keeping the nails clean and trimmed. If you have developed toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can properly diagnosis and treat this condition.

For more information about treatment, 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.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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.

Read more about Toenail Fungus
Thursday, 04 April 2019 00:00

It's Time for Beautiful Feet

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

Monday, 01 April 2019 00:00

Causes of Bunions

Research has indicated that bunions may be caused by genetic factors. Additional reasons why bunions may develop may be from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. This may result in the big toe pointing toward the other toes, and the bone may protrude on the side of the big toe. There may be medical conditions that exist which can precede the formation of bunions. These may include gout and rheumatoid arthritis.  Many patients choose to treat the symptoms of bunions with orthotics or bunion pads. If the symptoms are severe, having surgery performed may be a viable option for permanent removal of the bunion. An effective way of preventing this condition from developing may be to wear shoes that fit correctly and have a lower heel. If you have severe bunions, it is suggested to speak to a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment.

If you are suffering from bunions, 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 a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

  • Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
  • Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
  • Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
  • Orthotics or foot inserts
  • 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.

Read more about What Are Bunions?
Thursday, 21 March 2019 00:00

Heel Pain Can Be Treated!

Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek professional help and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.

Monday, 18 March 2019 00:00

Can Falling Be Prevented?

Each year, many people incur injuries as a result of falling. Some of these injuries may be serious, such as hip fractures or head or brain injuries. Research has shown the fear of falling may prevent certain activities from being performed, even if an injury has not occurred. Many falls occur at home, and there are measures that can be implemented to potentially help reduce falling. These measures include removing loose carpets and improving the lighting in the house. It may also be helpful to install grab bars in the bathroom and shower area and use non-slip mats to help prevent falling. Many patients have found it beneficial to take their time while walking through the house or up and down the steps, in addition to keeping their living environment free of clutter. If you would like additional information on how to prevent falls, speak to a podiatrist who can properly answer any questions you may have.

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:

  • Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
  • Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
  • Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
  • Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
  • Utilizing a walker or cane
  • Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
  • Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

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.

Read more about Falls Prevention

Patients who experience foot pain may recognize the benefit of wearing custom-made orthotics. They are defined as inserts that are placed inside the shoe, and may help to provide the support that is needed for daily activities. They may also be effective in correcting abnormal walking patterns,  in addition to relieving pressure on a specific part of the foot. There are several foot conditions that may benefit from the use of orthotics. These may include bunions, plantar fasciitis, high arches, or rheumatoid arthritis. If you have any type of foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can discuss treatment options, and properly fit you for custom-made orthotics.

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.

Read more about Foot Orthotics
Page 28 of 32
Connect with us
Podiatrist, Foot Doctor Pasadena, TX 77505, Baytown, TX 77521, Houston, TX 77089 & 77023, League City, TX 77573, Pearland, TX 77584 on Twitter Follow McKinney Podiatric Associates on Twitter Follow Us McKinney Podiatric Associates on Instagram Podiatry blog of Podiatrist, Foot Doctor Pasadena, TX 77505, Baytown, TX 77521, Houston, TX 77089 & 77023, League City, TX 77573, Pearland, TX 77584
 
Recent Texas Podiatry Blog Posts