Items filtered by date: January 2024

Plantar fasciitis, a common and painful foot condition, is influenced by various risk factors. Age plays a role, with the condition being more prevalent in individuals between 40 and 60 years old, as the plantar fascia tends to lose elasticity with age. Engaging in high-impact activities, like running or dancing, can strain the plantar fascia, making physical activity another risk factor. Abnormal foot mechanics, such as flat feet or high arches, alter the distribution of pressure on the plantar fascia, increasing the risk. Obesity adds extra stress to the feet and can lead to plantar fasciitis, while jobs requiring prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces can also contribute. Improper footwear choices lacking arch support or cushioning can strain the plantar fascia, as does having a tight Achilles tendon. Finally, sudden increases in physical activity intensity or duration can overload the plantar fascia, causing inflammation. If you have heel pain that does not abate, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment options that are appropriate for you.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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.

Plantar warts, small growths caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, often appear on the soles of the feet. Unlike common warts, which typically grow on the hands, plantar warts can be painful due to the pressure exerted on the soles when walking or standing. These warts may have a rough, grainy appearance with tiny black dots, which are actually clotted blood vessels. Several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing plantar warts. Close contact with the virus, such as walking barefoot in damp and communal areas like locker rooms, swimming pools, or public showers, can put your feet at risk. Additionally, those with a weakened immune system, such as individuals with diabetes or HIV, are more susceptible to plantar warts. Constantly moist or sweaty feet can provide an ideal environment for the virus to thrive. If you have developed a plantar wart, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide relief with appropriate treatment methods.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot Surgery Specialists of Texas. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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.

Ingrown toenails, a common foot woe, occur when the edges or corners of the nails grow into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, and swelling. This condition, medically known as onychocryptosis, typically affects the big toe and can be triggered by various factors. Improper nail trimming, where the nails are cut too short or not straight across, is a primary cause, as it encourages the toenail to dig into the skin during growth. Wearing ill-fitting shoes, particularly those that squeeze the toes, can also contribute by exerting pressure on the toenails. Trauma or injury to the toe, such as stubbing or dropping something on it, may lead to ingrown toenails. Furthermore, genetic predisposition, poor foot hygiene, and conditions like fungal infections can heighten the risk. If you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer treatment methods.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, 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.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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.

Heel spurs, also known as calcaneal spurs, are bony outgrowths on the bottom of the foot, often extending from the heel toward the arch. These pointy, hooked, or shelf-like formations, when seen on X-rays, can measure up to half an inch. Heel spurs are a result of long-term strain on muscles and ligaments and can occur as soft tissues in the heel wear out. Also, trauma, such as bruising the heel or tearing its protective membrane, can contribute to their development. Age plays a role, too. The natural wear and tear of heel pads, diminishing shock absorption, can make the heel more susceptible to calcium deposits, which form heel spurs. Various factors increase the risk of heel spurs, notably athletic activities like running and jumping. Engaging in these activities on hard surfaces, a common occurrence in sports, can accelerate wear and tear on the heel. Age and gender also play a role, with older individuals and women more prone to developing heel spurs. Weight problems and wearing improper footwear, such as non-supportive shoes or flip-flops, can further elevate the risk. If you are experiencing heel pain that may be caused by heel spurs, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot Surgery Specialists of Texas. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our offices located in River Oaks and Sharpstown in Houston, TX . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

In the dynamic world of retail, where hours on one's feet and constant movement are the norm, the significance of wearing proper footwear cannot be overstated. Retail workers face the daily challenge of balancing customer service, stocking shelves, and navigating various surfaces. The right shoes play a vital role in promoting comfort, reducing fatigue, and preventing potential foot problems. Opting for supportive footwear with adequate arch and heel support can alleviate the stress on the feet and lower limbs during prolonged periods of standing. Additionally, shoes with non-slip soles provide essential traction on polished retail floors, minimizing the risk of slips and falls. Considering the diverse tasks and environments encountered in retail, shoes with breathable materials contribute to overall foot health by reducing moisture and the likelihood of discomfort. If you are experiencing foot problems related to your retail job, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide you with treatment options and information on proper footwear.

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 Foot Surgery Specialists of Texas. 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 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.