Your Podiatrist Helps You Stay Active

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April is National Foot Health Awareness Month and this year’s campaign is: “Today’s Podiatrist Keeps America Active.” At Texas Foot Specialists we know that you may not be thinking about us when you step out onto the field or court, but we want our patients to be aware of all the ways we can aid in your fitness pursuits through good podiatric care.

Analyzing Your Feet for Sports

If you plan to participate in a sport or fitness activity two or more times a week, it’s important to get a podiatric checkup in our Sugar Land 281-242-4448, Pasadena 281-991-0600 or Houston 713-664-6677 offices. Our podiatrists, Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum, will start by doing a complete examination of your feet and ankles. If you have a chronic condition such as weak ankles or plantar fasciitis, the foot doctor will be able to suggest accommodations and training modifications that will improve comfort and performance. The podiatrist is also able to analyze your gait and make some specific recommendations regarding shoes. In some cases, a custom orthotic may be prescribed to enhance comfort and protect your feet.

Sports Shoe Savvy

It’s important that the shoes you choose not only accommodate any existing foot conditions that you have, but also that they are designed for the movement required of your feet by the sport you’ve chosen. Basketball, for example, requires extra ankle support for quick direction changes; runners need good shock absorption to minimize the damage from repetitive pounding. The podiatrist can also instruct you on the best way to lace your shoes for maximum foot protection and give you tips on getting the proper fit.

Injury Prevention and Treatment

There are several ways to prevent foot and ankle injuries during fitness activities. Your podiatrist may recommend stretching exercises to use for warming up or strengthening exercises for muscles that support ankle ligaments to reduce sprains. He can also tell you the warning signs of an overuse or acute injury and instruct you on how to care for an injured foot or ankle until you can be seen by a medical professional.

Don’t wait until you suffer a sports injury to visit the podiatrist. Contact us and let us help you be proactive in protecting your feet during sports and fitness activities.