Items filtered by date: January 2022

Ankle sprains result when the ligaments, which connect the bones to each other, get overstretched or torn. Common signs of an ankle sprain include a “snap” or “crack” sound at the moment of injury. Sprains can also lead to bruising, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight. Ankle sprains usually result from the ankle getting twisted or rolled, and are one of the most common injuries that athletes deal with. Sports like soccer, football, and basketball that require a variety of quick movements leave players at a higher risk for ankle sprains. Athletes who have previously sprained an ankle are at a greater risk of re-spraining it. Patients who believe that they have sprained their ankle may wish to consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis, because the symptoms of an ankle sprain and a fracture can be similar.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, 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.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further 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.

Sometimes we tend to take our feet for granted. But as we get older, the need for proper foot care increases, especially as it becomes more difficult to reach the feet and toes. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to give your feet the attention they so well deserve. One way is to soak your feet in Epsom salts for about 10 minutes. Dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes. Next, treat your feet to lotion or cream to keep them from drying out and cracking, as that may lead to sores and infection. Keep the toenails trimmed straight across to avoid the formation of ingrown toenails, which can be painful and possibly become infected. Wear comfortable and stable shoes that have non-slip soles and provide good support. Be sure to examine your toes and feet often and look for any changes to the skin, such as blisters, corns or calluses. Most importantly, if you experience pain in the feet or toes, be sure to make an appointment with a podiatrist for a full examination and possible treatment options.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, 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.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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.

A bunion is a painful deformity that occurs over time, causing a bony protrusion at the base of the big toe joint. Aside from being unsightly, a bunion can become quite painful and inflamed. Bunions are often caused by high heels that force the foot forward, or footwear that is pointy, tight at the toes, or puts pressure on the big toe joint. Heredity and diseases that affect the joints can increase the risk of a bunion developing. If you have a bunion, it’s suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. There are a variety of methods that can be used to correct the deformity and restore the natural alignment of your big toe. After examining and assessing the bunion, your podiatrist will explain their findings and go over your treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Surgery Specialists of Texas. 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 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.

There are many causes of blisters, which are small sacs of fluid that form on the body. One of the main causes is new, tight, or ill-fitting shoes. The harder areas of the shoe can rub against your heels, soles, and toes, and if the friction is repeated for long periods, blisters often form. These become very painful, especially if you continue the activity. Excessive moisture or perspiration, which happens more frequently during warmer weather, may also cause blisters in runners. There are a few precautions you can implement to prevent blisters. Keep the feet dry and put powder on them to reduce sweating, as well as wearing moisture-wicking socks. Wearing softer, more flexible shoes can reduce the chance of a blisters formation and ceasing the activity will allow the skin time to heal on its own. If a blister pops open, is extremely large, or won’t heal, it is a good idea to seek the professional care of a podiatrist who can safely drain the area and help stave off infection.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Surgery Specialists of Texas. 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 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.