Baytown, TX (281) 837-8371
Monday, 14 December 2020 00:00
Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
Stress fractures are small breaks in the bone that are caused by repetitive stress. They typically occur due to overuse, forcing the bones of the foot or ankle to continually absorb the full impact of each step taken. Stress fractures can also be caused by abnormal foot structure, osteoporosis, bone deformities, or wearing improper footwear during exercise.
Stress fractures are common for individuals whose daily activities cause high levels of impact on their feet and ankles. Those who run, play tennis or basketball, or practice gymnastics tend to experience these fractures more frequently. Anyone is susceptible to this problem, though. Individuals who are normally sedentary and suddenly begin an intense, high impact workout may sustain stress fractures. This is because their muscles are not yet strong enough to handle and cushion the intensity of their activity. Osteoporosis may also cause someone to get stress fractures, because the disease weakens an afflicted person's bones and makes it easier for them to break down.
Pain from stress fractures typically occurs in the general area of the fracture. Pain can also manifest as “pinpoint pain” or pain that is felt when the site of the injury is touched, and can be accompanied by swelling. It may occur during or after activity, and it may disappear while resting and return when standing or moving. Engaging in any kind of activity, high impact or otherwise, will aggravate the pain. If the intensity of the activity increases before the stress fracture has properly healed, it can cause a full fracture.
Treatment can vary depending on the individual and the degree of injury. The primary way to treat a stress fracture is to rest the hurt foot. Some fractures will heal quickly with only a little bit of rest, while others may require a long rest period and the use of crutches, immobilization, or physical therapy. Under certain circumstances, surgery may be required to install support pins around the fracture to assist in healing.
If you are undergoing a new exercise regimen in running or some other kind of high impact activity, set incremental goals on a weekly basis so you can build up muscle strength. Make sure to wear supportive shoes to better protect you feet.
If you begin to experience any symptoms of stress fractures, you should stop exercising and rest. If the symptoms persist, consult with your podiatrist. Remembering these tips can help you prevent stress fractures to your foot and ankle, and allow you to continue living normally.
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Monday, 14 December 2020 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.
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Monday, 07 December 2020 00:00
Scans to Detect Peripheral Artery Disease
Computed tomography angiography (CTA) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) are two kinds of noninvasive imaging studies that can be used to visualize the blood flow in different areas of your body, including your lower limbs. A podiatrist may request that you undergo one of these imaging studies if they suspect that you might have peripheral artery disease, a condition that causes poor circulation to the lower limbs. Both of these tests require the patient to lie down on a motorized bed that moves through a scanner, which takes images of your lower legs. CTAs require the injection of an intravenous contrasting agent and the use of radiation in order to see your blood flow, while an MRA may or may not require the use of a contrasting agent, but does not use radiation. For more information about these and other tests to assess blood flow in the lower limbs, please speak with a podiatrist.
Vascular testing plays an important part in diagnosing disease like peripheral artery disease. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, or diabetes, consult with Abeer M. Foteh, DPM from Greater Houston Foot Centers. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Vascular Testing?
Vascular testing checks for how well blood circulation is in the veins and arteries. This is most often done to determine and treat a patient for peripheral artery disease (PAD), stroke, and aneurysms. Podiatrists utilize vascular testing when a patient has symptoms of PAD or if they believe they might. If a patient has diabetes, a podiatrist may determine a vascular test to be prudent to check for poor blood circulation.
How Is it Conducted?
Most forms of vascular testing are non-invasive. Podiatrists will first conduct a visual inspection for any wounds, discoloration, and any abnormal signs prior to a vascular test.
The most common tests include:
- Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) examination
- Doppler examination
- Pedal pulses
These tests are safe, painless, and easy to do. Once finished, the podiatrist can then provide a diagnosis and the best course for treatment.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Baytown, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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Monday, 07 December 2020 00:00
Vascular Testing in Podiatry
In foot care, vascular testing may be required in the diagnosing and treatment of certain podiatric conditions. Vascular testing is particularly relevant for patients with high-risk diabetes, poor circulation, peripheral artery disease (PAD), and chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). Procedures typically involve the examination of blood vessels throughout the body for blockages or buildup.
Vascular testing is very important for the diagnosis of various conditions, including peripheral artery disease and chronic venous insufficiency, as these conditions can greatly affect one’s quality of life and cause pain in the lower limbs. Circulatory problems in the feet and ankles can reflect issues throughout the body, making testing of the blood vessels pertinent.
Testing methods vary between practitioners and can be specific to certain foot and ankle problems. Modern technology has brought about the ability to perform vascular testing using non-invasive methods, such as the cuff-based PADnet testing device. This device records the Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI)/Toe-Brachial Index (TBI) values and Pulse Volume Recording (PVR) waveforms. Contact your podiatrist to determine what vascular testing is available for your needs.
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Monday, 30 November 2020 00:00
Solutions for Sweaty Feet
Roughly 5 percent of people suffer from plantar hyperhidrosis, also known as excessively sweaty feet. This primarily occurs when the sweat glands are activated longer than they should be, and this often leads to issues such as soggy footwear, athletes foot, fungal nail infections, and constantly cold feet. Managing this condition requires a few key steps. First, make sure to wash and dry your feet daily. Secondly, use an antifungal powder to keep the feet dry, and find an antiperspirant to use at night. Breathable shoes and socks are also helpful in managing sweaty feet. Those who continue to suffer from plantar hyperhidrosis should visit a podiatrist. A podiatrist will be able to suggest treatment options such as medication, botox, and iontophoresis.
If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact Abeer M. Foteh, DPM of Greater Houston Foot Centers. Our doctor can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
Hyperhidrosis of the Feet
Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.
Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.
Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.
In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.
A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Baytown, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Monday, 30 November 2020 00:00
Hyperhidrosis of the Feet
Hyperhidrosis of the feet, also termed plantar hyperhidrosis, is characterized by excessive sweating of the feet that can be onset by any cause, such as exercise, fever, or anxiety. Most people suffering from hyperhidrosis of the feet also experience hyperhidrosis of the hands, or palmar hyperhidrosis. Approximately 1-2% of Americans suffer from this disorder.
Sweating is a healthy process utilized by the body in order to cool itself and maintain a proper internal temperature, which is controlled by the sympathetic nervous system. In individuals with hyperhidrosis, the sympathetic nervous system works in "overdrive", producing far more sweat than is actually needed.
Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered primary hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis refers to excessive sweating that occurs in an area other than the feet, hands, or armpits, and this indicates that is related to another medical condition, such as menopause, hyperthyroidism, or Parkinson's disease.
Symptoms of hyperhidrosis of the feet can include foot odor, athlete's foot, infections, and blisters. Because of the continual moisture, shoes and socks can rot which creates an additional foul odor and can ruin the material, requiring shoes and socks to be replaced frequently. In addition to the physical symptoms, emotional health is often affected as this disorder can be very embarrassing.
If left untreated, hyperhidrosis will usually persist throughout an individual's life. However, there are several treatment options available. A common first approach to treating hyperhidrosis of the feet is a topical ointment. Aluminum chloride, an ingredient found in antiperspirants, can be effective at treating hyperhidrosis if used in high concentration and applied to the foot daily. Some individuals can experience relief this way, while others encounter extreme irritation and are unable to use the product. Another procedure is the use of Botulinum Toxin A, commonly referred to as Botox. This is injected directly into the foot, and is effective at minimizing the sweat glands in the injected area. These injections must be repeated every 4 to 9 months.
If these treatments are ineffective, oral prescription medications may be taken in an effort to alleviate the symptoms. Again, some will experience relief while others do not. Going barefoot reportedly provides relief for most sufferers.
A final approach to combating hyperhidrosis of the feet is through surgery. Surgery has been less successful on patients with plantar hyperhidrosis than on those with palmar hyperhidrosis. It is only recommended when sweating is severe and other treatments have failed to work. This kind of surgery usually involves going into the central nervous system, and cutting nerves to stop the transmission of signals telling the foot to sweat.
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Monday, 23 November 2020 00:00
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
A broken toe can be a very painful condition. It may happen as the result of a sudden injury, or from repetitive overuse while running or playing sports. Weakened bones, due to conditions like osteoporosis, can also lead to toe fractures. There are several symptoms of a broken bone that you should be aware of. If you have been suddenly injured, you may hear a popping or cracking sound at the time of injury. This could be indicative of a broken bone. Some broken bones can protrude through the skin or look deformed or misaligned. Other indicators of a broken bone include intense pain, numbness or tingling, swelling, bruising, and a loss of mobility. Broken toes require medical attention. If you have any symptoms of a broken toe, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Abeer M. Foteh, DPM from Greater Houston Foot Centers. Our doctor 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 our office located in Baytown, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Monday, 23 November 2020 00:00
What to Know About a Broken Toe
The forefoot is composed of five metatarsal bones and fourteen phalanges. Each toe has three phalanges except for the big toe which only has two. Our toes play an essential role to the walking process, which is why a broken toe could seriously disrupt one’s ability to move around. Toe fractures are common and can be very painful. Fortunately, these injuries rarely require surgery and usually heal with rest and a change in activity.
Broken toes typically result from a traumatic event such as falling, stubbing the toe, or dropping something on the toe. Traumatic toe fractures may be categorized as either minor or severe fractures. At times, one may hear a “pop” or “crack” sound when the bone breaks. Common symptoms of a traumatic toe fracture include pain, throbbing, bruising, swelling, and redness.
Another type of toe fractures is a stress fracture. These injuries usually appear in the form of small hairline breaks on the bone. Stress fractures develop after repetitive activity instead of a single injury. Stress fractures occur when the muscles in the bone become too weak to absorb impact. Consequently, the toe bone becomes vulnerable to any pressure and impact it endures. Symptoms for a stress fracture in the toe include swelling without bruising, tenderness to the touch, pain that goes away with rest, and pain after walking or running.
If you suspect that you have a broken toe, you should make an appointment with your podiatrist. He or she will likely diagnose you by performing a physical exam and an X-ray. Treatment for a broken toe may include the R.I.C.E. method, buddy taping, surgery, or antibiotics. The R.I.C.E. method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) is a common treatment method for many injuries because it decreases pain. Buddy tapping involves wrapping the injured toe next to an adjacent toe to keep it supported and protected. These two methods have proven to be effective in the healing process for toe fractures. The estimated healing time for a broken toe is approximately four to six weeks. If the injury becomes infected or requires surgery, the estimated healing time may take eight weeks or more.
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Saturday, 14 November 2020 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.
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Monday, 16 November 2020 00:00
Towel Toe Curls for Plantar Fascia Pain
The plantar fascia is the ligament that runs along the bottom of your foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. Sometimes, this ligament becomes inflamed due to injury or overuse, leading to foot pain. Stretching the feet can help alleviate foot pain from plantar fasciitis and prevent future injury by strengthening the foot. One simple foot stretch that you can do at home is the towel toe curl. To do this stretch, lay a towel on the floor and put your foot flat on the towel. Then, grab the towel with your toes by curling them around the fabric. Next, lift the towel up with your toes. Repeat this exercise on the opposite foot. For more information about stretches you can do to alleviate or prevent plantar fasciitis, consult with a podiatrist today.
Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Abeer M. Foteh, DPM from Greater Houston Foot Centers. Our doctor 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 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.
- Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
- Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
- Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
- Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.
It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Baytown, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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