Items filtered by date: October 2022

The medical term used when referring to excessively sweaty feet is plantar hyperhidrosis. Approximately five percent of the population is affected by this condition. Foot conditions like athlete’s foot and toenail fungus can accompany plantar hyperhidrosis in addition to an odor emanating from the feet. Hyperhidrosis results from the overproduction of sweat glands in the feet and may cause discomfort and embarrassment. Research suggests that it may be beneficial to keep a journal of sweating episodes to help pinpoint triggers, such as eating certain foods or emotions that may cause anxiety. It is best to avoid wearing socks that are made from nylon materials, unlike cotton socks which may help to ensure proper ventilation. Additionally, staying hydrated may lessen the intensity of sweaty feet. Please schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can perform tests to determine if your feet are excessively sweaty as well as the treatment method that is best for you. 

If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Surgery Specialists of Texas. Our doctors 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 offices located in River Oaks and Sharpstown in Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

There are many deformities that can inhibit your daily activities, cause pain, and affect all or part of the foot. Among the most common foot deformities are bunions, hammertoe, flat feet and high arches, claw toe, and clubfoot. Foot deformities are sometimes caused by lifestyle choices, such as wearing shoes that do not fit properly. Wearing high heels for long periods can result in bunions, as well as pain in the ball of the foot. Shoes with narrow and pointed toe boxes may also contribute to the formation of hammertoes, as well as other toe deformities, like claw toes. Other causes of deformities are injury and genetics. Additionally, foot deformities may be the result of underlying medical conditions, including several types of arthritis and diabetes. Rheumatoid arthritis, which is an autoimmune disease, often results in bony formations and distortions in the bones of the feet. Some foot deformities, such as clubfoot, are congenital. In many cases, this deformity can be corrected if treated early in the child’s life. Slightly deformed feet may sometimes be corrected with special bracing or custom orthotics. More severe deformities may require surgery. If you have questions about a deformity of your foot, please consult a podiatrist. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot Surgery Specialists of Texas. 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 our offices located in River Oaks and Sharpstown in Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The way the foot meets the ground differs in walking and running. Generally, the heel touches the ground first and the weight then rolls onto the ball of the foot and toes during walking. In fact, studies show that walking onto the ball of the foot takes about 50 percent more energy and walking on the toes takes about 80 percent more energy. Heel-first walking is considered to be the most economical way to move. However, this economy of movement does not necessarily transfer to running, some believe. Studies have shown that it is more efficient to land on the toes or ball of the foot while running, rather than on the heel first. In fact, the fastest runners in the animal kingdom – horses, gazelles, deer, and dogs – all land on their toes first. Many elite human runners, both sprinters and distance, do not land on their heels first. That said, many experts agree that your natural strike pattern, toe first or heel first, should remain constant, as it is less efficient to try to convert from one to the other. For more information on the effects of walking or running on your feet, please consult a podiatrist.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot Surgery Specialists of Texas. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in River Oaks and Sharpstown in Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many people who fall are reluctant to speak to their doctors about it. Research has shown that falling affects approximately 25% of the population and is the number one cause of injuries in people who are over 65 years of age. There are various foot injuries that can occur as a result of falling, including a broken toe, ankle, or foot. This can wreak havoc on completing daily activities, and it is beneficial when prevention methods are implemented. These can consist of removing clutter and worn rugs, improving lighting in the household, and it may help to avoid wearing pants that are too long. Additionally, many people install grab bars in the shower and toilet area, and using a bath mat may help to eliminate or reduce slipping accidents. Many older people choose to live on one floor, thus avoiding falling down the steps. If you would like more information about the importance of how to prevent falling, and simple methods that can allow that, please confer with a podiatrist. 

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 Foot Surgery Specialists of Texas. 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 our offices located in River Oaks and Sharpstown in Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.