Items filtered by date: December 2023

Hammertoe is a common foot condition that can cause discomfort and pain. It occurs when there is an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. One of the leading causes of hammertoe is wearing ill-fitting shoes, especially those with high heels or narrow, pointy toes, which force the toes into an unnatural position. Additionally, genetics can play a role, as some individuals may be more prone to developing hammertoe due to their family history. Arthritis and foot injuries are other contributing factors. The symptoms of hammertoe are quite noticeable. The affected toe tends to bend at the middle joint, resembling a hammer, hence the name. This deformity can lead to pain, corns, calluses, and discomfort while walking. Over time, hammertoe may become rigid, making it even more challenging to manage. Early detection and appropriate footwear choices are important for addressing this condition effectively. If you have the symptoms of hammertoe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and offer treatment options for this condition.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Houston Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Kingwood, Humble, The Woodlands, and Conroe, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The Danis-Weber classification is a way to categorize ankle fractures based on X-rays. It helps podiatrists understand the type and location of the fracture. There are three types of fractures in this system. Type A is a lower ankle fracture below the joint. It is generally stable and may only need a cast or brace. Sometimes, surgery is necessary if the inner ankle is also damaged. Type B is a fracture that happens at the ankle joint level and moves upward along the outer bone. It can vary in stability. The inner ankle or ligaments may be affected. Type C fractures are fractures above the ankle joint and often involve the inner ligaments, which are unstable and typically require surgery. If you have sustained a broken ankle, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an imaging test and treatment based on which type of fracture is found.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Houston Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Kingwood, Humble, The Woodlands, and Conroe, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Edema, characterized by swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet, can be influenced by various factors, including extended periods of standing while working. This condition also often occurs after standing for a prolonged time, as well as during long plane flights or car rides. The act of standing for extended durations can lead to several health concerns. It may contribute to muscle fatigue in the legs and feet, leading to discomfort. Poor posture while standing can result in back pain and musculoskeletal issues. Moreover, it can strain the cardiovascular system, potentially causing conditions like edema. While standing is associated with increased physical activity and alertness, it is essential to strike a balance. Incorporating breaks to sit, stretch, and walk can alleviate the negative effects. Ergonomic adjustments to your workstation, supportive footwear, and exercises targeting leg and core muscles can help mitigate the challenges of prolonged standing. It is important to monitor persistent swelling in the ankles and feet, especially if accompanied by other concerning symptoms, as it can sometimes indicate underlying health problems. If you have continued edema, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an examination and care.

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 Houston Foot and Ankle. 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 Kingwood, Humble, The Woodlands, and Conroe, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

As we age, maintaining balance and preventing falls becomes increasingly paramount for overall well-being. Simple yet effective strategies can significantly reduce the risk of falls among seniors. Maintaining a regular exercise program, focusing on activities that enhance strength, flexibility, and balance, plays a pivotal role in promoting stability. Adequate lighting within living spaces ensures clear visibility and minimizes tripping hazards. Footwear with non-slip soles and proper support is essential in providing a stable foundation. Regular vision check ups contribute to spatial awareness and hazard detection. Home modifications, such as handrails and grab bars, offer additional support in high risk areas like bathrooms. Medication management, including regular reviews of potential side effects and interactions, is vital. Mindfulness while moving, taking deliberate and controlled steps, adds an extra layer of precaution. By incorporating these preventative measures into daily life, seniors can reduce the likelihood of falls and preserve their independence and well-being. The feet can be affected by falling, and it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist for additional fall prevention techniques.

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 Houston Foot and Ankle. 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 Kingwood, Humble, The Woodlands, and Conroe, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.