Four Symptoms of Athlete's Foot - The Texas Foot Specialists

Athlete’s foot like the term implies is a common foot condition among athletes. But this does not excuse anyone from being infected. Good thing about athlete’s foot is that it is not as resilient as its hosts. Treatments are available and it does not cost much and some could even be conveniently found in your kitchen.

But before we go exploring into the different way of treating Athlete’s foot we must first learn how to identify its signs and symptoms. Below are possible signs of Athlete’s foot.

1. Itchy and burning sensations on the feet and between the toes
2. Dry, scaly and flaky skin areas on the foot
3. Pain due to cracked skin exposing raw tissue underneath
4. Toes become thick and discolored

Just because you could easily tuck your feet inside a pair of nice looking shoes doesn’t mean that it is a medical condition that you could easily sweep aside. Athlete’s foot when left untreated can lead to complications. Touching the infection makes it easier to spread. Any type of foot infection can be serious for diabetics. For any sign of foot infection consult a podiatrist. Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum are Podiatrists who specialize in foot care and treating foot disorders.

Treating Athlete’s Foot

Anti-fungal ointments are readily available. If Athlete’s foot is treated immediately, this could be done in as little as a day or a week. But if left untreated and allowed to progress, symptoms may last for month or years. If symptoms persist for more than two week consult a podiatrist.

• Soak the feet for 5 to 10 minutes in half a liter of warm water added with 2 teaspoons of salt
• Tea contains tannic acid a natural astringent. Soak your feet in a tea bath for half an hour
• Using yogurt as an ointment can help treat a fungal infection. it contains acidophilus bacteria which checks the growth of fungi
• Add a few drops of mustard oil into the foot bath. Soak your feet for half an hour.
• Let your feet breath. Wearing open shoes

Give these home remedies at least a few weeks to work. If Athlete’s Foot remains untreated, it can lead to skin cracks or open wounds that could cause more serious infections to set in.

 The Texas Foot Specialists located in Sugar Land, Pasadena and Houston, we specialize in helping people with foot disorders. To schedule an appointment call Sugar Land (281) 242-4448, Pasadena (281) 991-0600 and Houston (713) 664-6677.

Seven Tips for Diabetic Foot Care - The Texas Foot Specialists

Diabetes is a disease that have a lot of compilations. Diabetes can damage blood vessels in the body including the feet. It can lead to neuropathy or nerve damage because of the decreased blood supply in the legs and feet.

Once neuropathy develops, foot injuries and infections become harder to detect. And it could lead to amputation if left untreated. Proper foot care is essential for diabetics. Consult a podiatrist about proper foot care techniques. Dr. Gregory Mangum and Dr. Bruce Miller are Podiatrists who specialize in helping people with foot disorders.

Seven Tips For Diabetic Foot Health

1.       Washing and drying the feet thoroughly is essential for a diabetic person. Make sure that you take extra effort in drying the areas between the toes.

2.       Examine your feet and toes for sores and redness even if you are not experiencing any pain. Also examine your feet from the bottom to ensure that you do not leave any area unattended.

3.       Avoid wearing colored socks. This will prevent infections brought about by the dye. Also wear socks that are well-fitted to your feet.

4.       Let a podiatrist cut your nails so that it will be correctly trimmed. Also visit a podiatrist if you are having foot problems.

5.       Consult a diabetic physician and allow him to monitor your blood levels, particularly your blood sugar. A physician will also prescribe a medicine to help you with neuropathy.

6.       Be extra cautious when you remove calluses as severe diabetics can no longer feel pain sometimes.

7.       Apply cream to help heal dryness.

Diabetics must make it a habit to check their feet on a daily basis. If something out of the normal is observed, consult a podiatrist immediately. Do not wait for a blister or a wound to become severe as this can be an ideal entry point for infections. It could quickly turn gangrenous and lead to amputation.

Gangrene can lead to sepsis and it is considered a very serious infection too. Aside from wounds, it is important for people with diabetes to look for ulcers as these are sores that are brought about by tissue loss on the skin. This will require intensive treatment. Hence, everyday inspection and early treatment is essential to staying healthy. 

The Texas Foot Specialists located in Sugar Land, Pasadena and Houston, we specialize in helping people with diabetes. To schedule an appointment call Sugar Land (281) 242-4448, Pasadena (281) 991-0600 and Houston (713) 664-6677.

Corns: What are Three Treatments? The Texas Foot Specialists

Many of us may not be familiar with the medical term heloma. But simply put, it is the medical term for a corn. Corns are thick areas found on the skin’s surface. If left untreated it can become painful and irritating.

What are corns?

Often confused with a callus, a corn is mostly surrounded by inflamed skin and usually smaller compared to calluses. It is circular or cone-shaped. It can be a raised bump which is painful to touch, and the thick area may become rough, dry or waxy. Corns develop in areas where there is pressure or friction. It can develop when the little toe rubs against the shoe.

Consult a podiatrist for chronic corn problems. Dr. Gregory Mangum and Dr. Bruce Miller are Podiatrists who specialize in helping people with foot disorders.

What are some of the treatments for corns?

1. Primary treatment for corns is to remove dead skin that has already built-up on the affected area.
2. Salicylic acid. Purchased over-the-counter, salicylic acid is the most common treatment being used to get rid of corns. It can come in different forms such as drops, creams, or medicated pads. The acid functions as a dissolving agent for keratin, which is the protein that forms corns. If you are a diabetic person though, you should consult your doctor first as salicylic acid is contraindicated for you to use. Using salicylic acid is very easy, you can simply apply the medication directly on your corn. The uppermost layer of the corn will become white after use. Once the change in color occurs, you can peel away the layer of the skin and make the corn smaller.
3. Orthotic inserts. Orthotic inserts should be fitted by a podiatrist. These inserts will allow you to walk correctly as it helps adjust how your foot fits into your shoe. Inserts will help you reduce your chances of having corn formation and can even eradicate existing corns by decreasing friction caused by rubbing.
4. Surgery. This is the very last resort in corn treatment and is rarely used. It focuses more on the underlying tissues that causes the formation of corns. If the surgery is performed, the bone is shaved and the abnormalities are corrected so that there will be a reduced friction while walking.

Prevention

• When talking about corn prevention, the primary goal is to reduce friction.
• Wear shoes that fit well.
• Do not rub your feet. You can buy some pads if you notice that there is some rubbing.
• Wear cushioned insoles in your shoes as it always reduces friction.

The Texas Foot Specialists located in Sugar Land, Pasadena and Houston, we specialize in helping people with foot disorders. To schedule an appointment call Sugar Land (281) 242-4448, Pasadena (281) 991-0600 and Houston (713) 664-6677.

Taking at Close Look at Five Causes Of Foot Blisters - The Texas Foot Specialists

Foot blisters are a common occurrence among people who wear tight or ill-fitting shoes that causes rubbing between the feet and the skin. While this is often dismissed as a simple discomfort, it can affect how we go about our normal daily routine. Walking or running could become difficult. So before we dismiss it, let us take a closer look into foot blister and possible ways of treating and preventing it.

What is a blister?

A blister is a small fluid-filled pocket. It mostly forms in the upper layers of the skin since these layers are often loose which allows blisters to form easily. The usual fluid found in a blister is a clear and watery-like liquid and is not a major cause for concern. But this can be alarming when a blister is already filled with blood and if you can already see pus.

When foot blisters become severe and chronic, consult a podiatrist. Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum are Podiatrists who specialize in helping people with foot disorders.

Five causes of blisters

1. Shoes rubbing against the foot
2. Friction
3. Shoes that do not fit properly
4. Walking for long periods of time
5. Moist foot

What should I do?

• Blisters may cause infection and pain. Hence, the number one priority for any blister treatment is to prevent infection and lessen complications. You can do so by doing these simple home treatments:
• Cover the blister with a sterile bandage. This will help the healing process as well as prevent any bacteria from infecting it.
• Using a sterilized pin, you can try to pop the blister. However, if you are afraid to do this by yourself, you can just wait for it to pop by itself as a new skin will form under it.
• If you can already see pus or blood forming in your blister, you need to consult with a doctor immediately. This may mean that the blister is already infected or that it cuts deep in your skin. Your doctor may give you antibiotics to kill the bacteria inside the blister. However, do not self-prescribe any antibiotics to yourself. It is still best if you check with your doctor what his proper prescription is.

Prevention

• Keep feet dry and ensure that the pair of shoes that you are wearing fits properly. Shoes that are too tight or too loose will only allow your feet to slide against it and can cause blisters.
• Place a bandage on the area where you think a blister is about to form so that the bandage can serve as a barrier between your foot and your shoe. 

The Texas Foot Specialists located in Sugar Land, Pasadena and Houston, we specialize in helping people with foot disorders. To schedule an appointment call Sugar Land (281) 242-4448, Pasadena (281) 991-0600 and Houston (713) 664-6677.

You don’t have to be in Sports to have Athlete’s Foot - The Texas Foot Specialists

Almost everyone is familiar with the foot condition called Athlete’s foot. This is a contagious infection caused by a fungus. Signs of this fungal infection include burning, itching, flaking and dry feet. The fungus tinea pedis is responsible for Athlete’s foot. It thrives in moist and dark areas.

Nine common places of infection:

1. Gyms
2. Shower floors
3. Socks and shoes
4. Public changing areas
5. Common areas
6. Bathrooms
7. Locker rooms
8. Public swimming pools
9. Dormitory style houses

Consult a podiatrist for more information on proper foot care Dr. Gregory Mangum and Dr. Bruce Miller are Podiatrists who specialize in helping people with foot disorders.

How does the fungus spread?

• Direct contact with an infected person’s body part
• Sharing contaminated clothing
• Touching other objects or body parts that were exposed to the fungus
• Athlete’s foot is hard to treat considering the highly contagious nature of the fungus.

Most commonly affected parts of the fungus

• Hands
• Groin
• Scalp
• Feet

The feet is an ideal location for the fundus to spread and grow. The term Athlete’s foot is used because the fungus is commonly found in the area but this could easily spread to other parts of the body.

Some signs and symptoms of athlete’s foot

• Mild to moderate flaking
• Intense itching and burning
• Redness
• Cracking and bleeding skin
• Pain experience while walking or standing
• Formation of blisters
• Prevention and treatment

The best way to treat athlete’s foot is through prevention because of the recurring nature of the tinea fungus. There are a lot of helpful preventive measures that you can do to counter the fungus. Here are some of the preventive measures that you can do:

• Wear flip flops or sandals while you are in the locker rooms or public showers to minimize your contact with the floor.
• Keep your feet clean and dry. You can apply foot powders to help keep them dry.
• Allow your feet to breath. Expose them to light and cool air to prevent tinea growth.

If you already have athlete’s foot, use topical medicated, ointments, sprays and creams. These medications will help eliminate and prevent the fungus from coming back.

It has been said that almost 70% of the population had suffer from a tinea infection at least once in their lives. The Texas Foot Specialists located in Sugar Land, Pasadena and Houston, we specialize in helping people with foot disorders. To schedule an appointment call Sugar Land (281) 242-4448, Pasadena (281) 991-0600 and Houston (713) 664-6677.

Kelly Ripa - Calcaneonavicular Coalition - The Texas Foot Specialists

Kelly Ripa is an amazing dancer but right after breaking her foot, it was found that she was suffering from calcaneonavicular coalition. This is a congenital deformity seen on the feet. Some show symptoms or pain while others don’t have any symptoms at all.

What is calcaneonavicular coalition?

Calcaneonavicular coalition or tarsal coalition is a medical condition in which two or more bones in the foot are joined. Patients with this congenital condition usually shows symptoms during adolescence but there are also cases that presentations of symptom happen during adulthood.

To learn more about Trench feet, consult a podiatrist. Dr. Gregory Mangum and Dr. Bruce Miller are Podiatrists who specialize in helping people with foot disorders.

What are some ofthe causes of calcaneonavicular coalition?

Calcaneonavicular coalition can be a genetic error during fetal development can be triggered by:

• Infection
• Trauma to the area
• Self-fusion of the joint
• Genetics is most likely the cause of calcaneonavicular coalition

What are some of the signs and symptoms of calcaneonavicular coalition?

Most children with calcaneonavicular coalition are born with the disorder. The following are some of the signs and symptoms of calcaneonavicular coalition:

• Pain on the outside and top of the foot
• Rigidity and stiffness of the affected foot
• Flat feet or flat foot
• Difficulty walking on uneven ground
• Pain that worsens while increasing any activity
• Limited range of motion

How is calcaneonavicular coalition diagnosed?

Calcaneonavicular coalition is diagnosed through a couple of physical examination to the foot, medical history of the patient, and X-rays. Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography scan is used to confirm the diagnosis and to determine the location of the affected joints.

What are some of the treatments for calcaneonavicular coalition?

There are number of non-surgical treatments for calcaneonavicular coalition. Nonsurgical treatment involves (always check with your podiatrist before treatment):

1. Resting. Stop or reduce high impact activities that makes the pain worse to relieve discomfort and pain.
2. Othotics. Use inserts and place it inside the shoe to relieve pain and reduce pressure on the tarsal.
3. Cast or walking boot. This will temporarily immobilize the affected foot.
4. Cortisone injections. The use of steroids will reduce pain and discomfort.

When these treatments are not effective, surgery is required. When there is no arthritis present, the main goal of the surgery is to remove the growth of abnormal bones to restore range of motion.

Surgical treatments can be resection. This is the most common type of surgery and is often performed in younger patients. This procedure involves removing the coalition and replacing it with muscles or tissues. This will restore normal range of motion and proper function by separating the bones that were not connected properly.

The Texas Foot Specialists located in Sugar Land, Pasadena and Houston, we specialize in helping people with foot disorders. To schedule an appointment call Sugar Land (281) 242-4448, Pasadena (281) 991-0600 and Houston (713) 664-6677.

Katie Holmes has a not so perfect feet? The Texas Foot Specialists

Katie Holmes, one of the richest and most famous celebrities in Hollywood also has her own share of physical flaw. The popular actress is rumoured to have corns and calluses on her feet. But what are corn and calluses?

Corn and calluses are a painful thickening of the skin that usually occurs on the feet and is caused by friction or pressure. A callus is a more diffuse, flat area of the thick skin while the appearance of corn is a waxy, flaky, and translucent. Corns and calluses usually occur in feet and causes pain and discomfort when walking.

To understand more about corns and calluses, consult a podiatrist. Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum are Podiatrists who specialize in helping people with foot disorders.

What are some of the causes of corn and calluses?

• Repeated pressure on the feet like walking or running
• Dry skin
• Deformities in the foot
• Incorrect walking motion
• Reduced fatty padding
• Wearing high-heeled shoes
• Wearing of ill-fitting shoes
• Wearing shoes or sandals with no socks

What are the possible sign and symptoms of corn and calluses?

The following are some of the signs and symptoms of corns and calluses:

• Area of flaky, dry skin
• Skin is bumpy
• Pain or tenderness
• Pain felt under the skin
• Skin is thick and has a hard patch

How to treat corns and calluses?

With the help of some medicated products, treating corns and calluses is possible. Always check with your podiatrist first before treatment. Treating corns and calluses involves the removal of the thickened skin as well as getting rid of the pressure and friction.

• Hard skin removal
• Protective corn plasters
• Use of silicone wedges that redistribute pressure evenly
• Soft padding or foam insoles
• Special rehydration cream intended for corns and calluses treatment
• Salicylic acid patches
• Wearing of comfortable flat shoes instead of high-heeled shoes
• Do not wear high-heeled shoes again

If you happened to notice that your corn and calluses are swelling or you are in pain, see your doctor right away.

Can we prevent corns and calluses?

By reducing or eliminating activities that lead to increased pressure on the feet, it is possible to prevent the development of corns and calluses. By looking at your feet, you are helping yourself to prevent corns and calluses.

• After washing, dry your feet thoroughly and apply a moisturizing foot cream
• Wear only the right pair of shoes
• Never hesitate to visit a podiatrist if you are already feeling pain
• To remove hard skin, use pumice stone or foot file
• Wear shoes that are perfectly and comfortably fitted to your foot

At The Texas Foot Specialists located in Sugar Land, Pasadena and Houston, we specialize in helping people with foot disorders.  To schedule an appointment call Sugar Land (281) 242-4448, Pasadena (281) 991-0600 and Houston (713) 664-6677.

Toenail Fungus Hits Madonna? - The Texas Foot Specialists

Madonna the Queen of Pop, hit-making icon, and a performer that created a legacy of hard to forget songs. Who would have thought that this feminist force of nature had all the classic symptoms of toenail fungus?

What is toenail fungus?

Toenail fungus is the common term for Onychomycosis. It is a very common foot problem caused by fungi. Toenail fungus usually affects the tissues under the nails and the infection spreads quickly. Dr. Gregory Mangum and Dr. Bruce Miller are Podiatrists who specialize in helping people with toenail fungus and other types of foot conditions.

What are some the causes of toenail fungus?

Toenail fungus usually occurs from the overgrowth of fungi in, on, or under the nail. The warm and moist environment can cause fungi to overpopulate. These fungi can cause nail infections especially if you come in contact with someone with a fungal infection. You are at high risk if you walk barefoot in public areas such as locker rooms, showers, and swimming pools.

What does it look like?

The following are the visible signs of toenail fungus:

• Scaling under the nail
• Crumbling corner or tip of the nail
• Yellow spots at the bottom of the nail
• A distorted nail
• Brittle or thickened nail
• White or yellow streaks of the nail
• Flaking white areas on the nail’s surface
• Loss of the nail, and
• An odor coming from the infected nail

Some infections that affect the nails also have the same symptoms as toenail fungus. The best way to confirm a diagnosis is to visit a doctor and let him examine you.

What are the treatments for toenail fungus?

The following are the treatment options for toenail fungus:

• Oral anti-fungal drugs. These drugs will help a new nail to grow free from infection and will replace the infected part.
• Medicated nail polish. Paint it on your infected nail and the surrounding skin once a day to cure the infection.
• Medicated nail cream. Rub the antifungal cream into your infected nails after soaking.
• Nail removal. Your doctor may suggest removing your nail if the infection is severe and is extremely painful.
• Laser beams. This method will help your nails to improve.

How to prevent toenail fungus?

These habits may help prevent toenail fungus and reinfection:

• Keep your nail clean and well-trimmed
• Wash hands thoroughly after touching an infected nail
• Choose a trustworthy salon that you can have a manicure and pedicure
• Wear socks that minimize moisture
• Reduce using artificial nail and nail polish
• Regularly use antifungal sprays or powders
• Dry your feet well after shower
• Avoid walking barefoot in public places

The Texas Foot Specialists located in Sugar Land, Pasadena and Houston we specialize in helping people suffering from toenail fungus and other foot conditions. To schedule an appointment call Sugar Land (281) 242-4448, Pasadena (281) 991-0600 and Houston (713) 664-6677.

Jennifer Garner – Toe Deformity - The Texas Foot Specialists

Jennifer Garner, one of Hollywood’s popular celebrities has a physical foot deformity. One of her pictures shows that she has an overlapping toe in her right foot. The overlapping toe is a genetic condition wherein one of the five long bones of the foot is short. This condition is commonly known as brachymetatarsia.

What is brachymetatarsia?

Brachymetatarsia is referred is the presence of an overlapping toe and commonly involves the fourth metatarsal. It is also described as a floating toe. This genetic condition is a growth disturbance and not a defect present at birth. Brachymetatarsia can occur in one foot or both and may also affect people with Down syndrome.

What are the known causes of brachymetatarsia?

One of the most common causes of brachymetatarsia is genetic, but trauma is also a big part of it. Brachymetatarsia is a congenital condition that is most common in women than in men, which is attributed to the abnormal shortening of the metatarsal bone. To understand more about foot deformities, consult a podiatrist. Dr. Gregory Mangum and Dr. Bruce Miller are Podiatrists who specialize in helping people with foot disorders.

Can this be prevented?

Since brachymetatarsia is hereditary or traumatic, it means that you are born with it or it is caused by a trauma. Getting early treatment may prevent the development of its symptoms.

What are the signs and symptoms of brachymetatarsia?

The following are some of the common reasons why people tend to seek treatment for brachymetatarsia:

• Difficulty in fitting shoes
• Walking activities interference
• Ball of the foot pain
• Feeling of embarassment
• Unsightly appearance
• Worsening problem

Is there a non-surgical treatment for brachymetatarsia?

In some cases, surgical grafting of the bone is an option. But there are also non-surgical treatment available. This treatment of brachymetatarsia depends on the severity and the nature of the affected bone. The following non-surgical treatment aims to reduce the symptoms of brachymetatarsia:

• Custom foot orthotics to support and align the foot. Orthotics also distributes the weight across the foot evenly.
• Activity modification
• Spot stretch shoes
• To prevent pressure in shoes, use splint or pads
• Make use of arch support
• Have shoes with wide toe box
• Wearing an appropriate and supportive shoes

Brachymetatarsia deformity is diagnosed using an x-ray and visual examination of the foot. A person suffering from brachymetatarsia can ask help from a doctor to find a treatment based on your unique situation.    

At The Texas Foot Specialists located in Sugar Land, Pasadena and Houston, we specialize in helping people with foot disorders.  To schedule an appointment call Sugar Land (281) 242-4448, Pasadena (281) 991-0600 and Houston (713) 664-6677.

Ashton Kutcher - Webbed Feet - The Texas Foot Specialists

Ashton Kutcher, one of Hollywood’s heartthrob also has a physical flaw. In an interview, he gamely shows off his webbed toes proving that not all celebrities in Hollywood are perfect. Some of them have flaws like Ashton.

What is the meaning of webbed toe?

A webbed toe affects 1 out of 2500 infants born. This kind of physical deformity is commonly known as syndactyly that usually occurs between the second and third toes. Syndactyly can be classified as simple or complex. When you say simple syndactyly, it is present at birth and the toes are only joined by soft tissues.

Complex syndactyly on the other hand is usually part of a syndrome and the toes are joined together by the bones or nails. Webbed toes or syndactyly is a failure of differentiation wherein toes fail to individually separate in its appendages. Consult a podiatrist for more information on webbed toes. Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum are Podiatrists   who specialize in helping people with foot disorders.

What are some of the causes of webbed toes?

Some people speculate that webbed toes are hereditary. It is also associated with the nutritional intake and smoking of a pregnant woman. The following conditions are associated with webbed toes:

• Aarskog-Scott syndrome
• Amniotic band syndrome
• Apert’s syndrome
• Berdet-Beidl syndrome
• Carpenter’s syndrome
• Cornelia de Lange syndrome
• Down syndrome
• Edward’s syndrome
• Familial syndactyly
• Fetal hydantoin effect
• Holt-Oram syndrome
• Miller syndrome
• Pfeiffer syndrome
• Poland syndrome
• Smith-Limli-Opitz syndrome
• Timothy syndrome

What are some ofthe signs and symptoms of webbed toes?

Webbed toes are visible at birth and also in utero while using a fetal ultrasound. At the sight of syndactyly, the doctor will refer you to a specialist that will guide you to a more detailed and specific treatment plan.

What is the possible treatment for webbed toes?

• Webbed toes can be treated as early as possible to separate the joined toes.
• Medical therapy. A surgical intervention in infants aged 5 to 6 months.
• Surgical therapy. If there are two or more toes are involved, a surgery is needed as early as possible.

How to prevent webbed toes?

Unfortunately, there is no known prevention for syndactyly as it is believed to be genetically passed from generation to generation. Hence, if a child is born with webbed toes, what the doctor will do is to immediately check for more signs to see if he has a more complex condition. In this case, an x-ray is needed to see whether the bones or the soft tissues are connected or not.

At The Texas Foot Specialists located in Sugar Land, Pasadena and Houston, we specialize in helping people with foot disorders.  To schedule an appointment call Sugar Land (281) 242-4448, Pasadena (281) 991-0600 and Houston (713) 664-6677.

Achilles Tendon Injury hits Nikola Pekovic - The Texas Foot Specialists

Minnesota Timberwolves center Nikola Pekovic recently suffered an injured Achilles tendon. It was later announced that the center will be out indefinitely after undergoing a procedure to repair his Achilles' tendon. It is hoped that he will fully recover from the injury and will return to the team.

What is an Achilles tendon injury?

The Achilles' tendon is a band of tissue that can be found at the back of the ankle and above the heels that allows the foot to extend. The Achilles' tendon is also likely to suffer from and injury especially among amateur and professional athletes. It is important that you consult with a podiatrist for the first signs of a foot injury. Dr. Gregory Mangum and Dr. Bruce Miller are Podiatrists who specialize in helping people with foot pain and other types of foot conditions.

What are the causes of Achilles tendon injury?

Achilles tendon can be injured when a sudden force or stress is applied to it. Activities such as football, tennis, diving, basketball, even running that uses a forceful push can cause an Achilles tendon injury. It can also be damaged by accidents like falling or a deep cut at the back of the ankle. Sometimes an Achilles' tendon become weak making it prone to injuries or rupture. Wearing high heeled shoes is also one of the causes of Achilles tendon injury.

What are the symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury?

Signs and symptoms may come immediately right after a sporting activity or injury. The following are some of the symptoms of Achilles tendon injury:

• The foot is difficult to flex
• Stiffness
• Tenderness
• A snapping or popping sound after the accident
• Swelling
• Pain when stretching

What are the treatments for an Achilles tendon injury?

An Achilles tendon injury should be treated immediately. Check with your Podiatrist before any treatment. The following conservative treatments will help the injured tendon to heal naturally:

• To protect your injured Achilles tendon from stretching, using a heel lift is advised.
• Using anti-inflammatory painkillers such as Ibuprofen and Naproxen will relieve the pain and swelling
• Elevate your injured foot using a pillow especially when sitting or lying
• Compressing your injured foot will relieve the swelling
• Apply an ice compact on your injured foot until the pain disappears
• Use crutches to avoid putting extra weight on your injured Achilles tendon

At The Texas Foot Specialists located in Sugar Land, Pasadena and Houston we specialize in helping people with suffering from foot problems. To schedule an appointment call Sugar Land (281) 242-4448, Pasadena (281) 991-0600 and Houston (713) 664-6677.

Patrick Duffy Suffering from Morton’s Neuroma? Texas Foot Specialists

Patrick Duffy is an accomplished American actor that is best known for his role as Bobby Ewing in Dallas. The National Enquirer reported that he is suffering from Morton’s Neuroma, a painful foot condition.

Morton’s Neuroma is a condition that affects the nerves of the feet, most commonly the area between the third and fourth toes. These causes the nerves around the feet to enlarge that will cause pain in the feet.

How does Morton’s Neuroma occur?Morton’s Neuroma occurs as a response to irritation, pressure, or injury to one of the nerves of the foot. Consult a podiatrist for any chronic foot pain. Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum are Podiatrists who specialize in helping people with chronic foot pain and other types of foot conditions.

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes. High heeled shoes and tight shoes can put extra pressure on your toes and on the ball of your foot.
• High impact exercise. Participating in certain sports such as running, hiking, or jumping will cause your feet to repetitive trauma.
• Walking incorrectly. People who have bunions, hammertoes and other foot deformities are at higher risk of developing Morton's neuroma.

What are the symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma?

• Burning sharp pain and numbness on the bottom of the foot
• The pain increases while walking and is gone when resting
• Tingling sensation in the spaces between your toes

These symptoms can also be caused by wearing high heeled shoes and standing for a long period of time. If the symptoms of Morton's Neuroma is persistent, the best way to do is to visit a podiatrist so he can suggest measures to reduce the symptoms or to recommend treatments.

Treating Morton’s Neuroma

Make sure you check with your Podiatrist before treating your neuroma. The treatment depends on how long you have had the condition and its severity. If your Morton's Neuroma is painful, your doctor will start treating you using conservative and non-surgical methods.

The following are some the non-surgical ways on how to treat Morton's Neuroma:

• Change your footwear. Avoid using high heeled and narrow shoes. Ease the pressure on the nerve of your foot by wearing orthotic pads such as metatarsal pads and good arch support.
• Losing weight. Exercising and losing weight will reduce the strain on your feet.
• Painkillers. Using anti-inflammatory drugs will reduce the pain
• Injections. A steroid injection medication will offer real pain relief that will last for some time.

Can Morton's Neuroma be prevented?

It is not always possible to prevent Morton’s Neuroma but you can reduce the risk by wearing and using low-heeled, well-fitting and wider shoes. The symptoms will come and go and sometimes, it will go away completely. At The Texas Foot Specialists located in Sugar Land, Pasadena and Houston we specialize suffering from Morton's Neuroma. To schedule an appointment call Sugar Land (281) 242-4448, Pasadena (281) 991-0600 and Houston (713) 664-6677.

Toenail Conditions and Prevention - The Texas Foot Specialists

Toenail care often take a backseat to fingernail care. This is because fingernails are more visible compared to its toe counterparts. Toenail care is disregarded since hiding imperfections can easily be done by wearing shoes.

Keeping out toenails healthy should never be taken lightly. Simple foot care can go a long way to keeping these looking great and healthy.  Visit a podiatrist to learn more about proper toenail care. Dr. Gregory Mangum and Dr. Bruce Miller are Podiatrists who specialize in helping people with foot conditions.

Here are several tips on how to keep your toenails healthy and in a perfect condition.

• Eating healthy and Vitamin supplements
• Keratin is a protein which helps in keeping your nails healthy. This is why you should take proteins to keep your nails healthy and brittle free. Good sources of protein are dairy products, beans, lean meat and eggs.
• Calcium is also essential in maintaining your nail’s health. Calcium found in milk, cheese and yogurt can do the trick.
• Vitamin A supplements and supplemental biotin will also help big time. Biotin helps increase your nail thickness and prevents it from cracking and breaking easily.

Wearing of correct shoes and socks.

Wear your shoes alternately and keep them dry. This helps prevent bacterial and fungal infection. When buying shoes, make sure that it fits correctly without touching or banging on your toenails. This can cramp your toes.

For socks, avoid wearing socks made of polyester or nylon. This prevents sweat from airing out and may cause bad odor to your feet. Instead, choose socks made from natural fibers such as wool. Proper ventilation keeps your toenails healthy.

Toenails and Health Disorders

Unhealthy nails are usually caused by external factors such as infection, improper trimming and pedicure. If you notice unusual signs on your nails this might be a result of an underlying medical condition that you need to check with your doctor.

• Pale nail beds – anemia
• Yellowish nails with a blush on the base – diabetes
• White nails – liver problem
• Sluggish growth, thickening and yellowing of nails – lung disorder

The Texas Foot Specialists located in Sugar Land, Pasadena and Houston, we specialize in helping people with Toenail disorders. To schedule an appointment call Sugar Land (281) 242-4448, Pasadena (281) 991-0600 and Houston (713) 664-6677.

Mike Conley - Achilles tendonitis - The Texas Foot Specialists

Memphis Grizzlies point guard Mike Conley is just one of the NBA players who recently suffered from a foot injury. His condition was later diagnosed as Achilles tendonitis. Mike Conley missed three games due to the pain in his left foot. After re-evaluation by team doctors, the decision was made not to allow Conley to return to the game. But what is Achilles tendonitis?

Achilles tendonitis is the inflammation of your Achilles' tendon. It causes pain along the along the back of your leg near the heel. It occurs when the tendon of your heel become swollen and painful. Consult a podiatrist any signs of chronic foot pain. Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum are Podiatrist who specializes in helping people with Achilles tendonitis.

Any repeated activity that strains the Achilles tendon can contribute to this problem. Achilles tendonitis is likely to occur if:

• Exercising without a proper warm up
• Your calf muscles are very tight
• Running on hard surface such as concrete
• Running too often
• Jumping a lot
• Not wearing shoes that give your feet proper support
• Your foot suddenly turns in or out and
• Wearing high heels daily

Symptoms of Achilles tendonitis are:

• Pain above your heel and the back of your foot especially when stretching
• Swelling
• Tenderness
• Snapping or popping noise during the injury
• Stiffness
• Difficulty in flexing your foot or pointing your noise

Your doctor might suggest a variety of treatments available for Achilles Tendonitis:

• Reducing your physical activity
• Switching to a different, less strenuous sport
• Elevating your foot to lessen the swelling
• Wearing a brace or elastic bandage to prevent movement
• Getting steroid injections
• Stretching and strengthening the calf muscles
• Applying ice in the area after an exercise or in pain
• Going to physical therapy
• Using anti-inflammatory medications for a limited time

There are times that the conservative treatments are not effective. In these cases, surgery is necessary to repair the Achilles' tendon.

Here are some tips on how to lower the risk of Achilles Tendonitis:

• Stretch your calf muscles every morning to improve your agility.
• Ease into a new exercise routine that will gradually intensify your physical activity.
• Combine a low and high impact exercises to reduce constant stress on your tendons.
• Choose a shoe that has arch support and proper cushioning.
• Gradually reduce the heel size of your shoes to allow the tendons to slowly stretch and increase its range of motion.

The Texas Foot Specialists located in Sugar Land, Pasadena and Houston, we specialize in helping people with Achilles tendonitis. To schedule an appointment call Sugar Land (281) 242-4448, Pasadena (281) 991-0600 and Houston (713) 664-6677.

Different shoe parts and how it helps your feet? The Texas Foot Specialists

Proper foot care involves choosing the right type of shoes. Wearing running shoes for example helps prevent injury while improving your performance. But choosing the right shoe is more than selecting the right size. We should also understand the basic components of the shoe and how it affects our feet.

The use of therapeutic footwear is just one of the treatments employed by podiatrist for managing the different symptoms of foot disorders. Those with toe deformities, hammertoes or bunions could benefit from using therapeutic shoes. A visit to a podiatrist can help explain the many benefits of using therapeutic shoes. Dr. Gregory Mangum and Dr. Bruce Miller are Podiatrists who specialize in helping people with foot conditions and disorders.

What are the different components of a shoe?

• The toe box is a space located the top of the shoe which is used to enclose the toes. A wider toe box is ideal for those suffering from hammertoes. It gives the toes more room to wiggle reducing pain.
• The sole is located at the bottom of the feet. It provides cushioning to absorb high intensity impacts. It helps reduce risks for foot injuries due to running or jumping. A specially designed sole could also offer additional support for people suffering from flat feet.
• The heels is another shoe part that provides additional foot support. However, the height of the heels have a direct effect on how weight is shifted in the feet. Shoes with “high” heels push our weight forward to the toe area.
  
• The vamp composes the top area of the shoe. This is usually the area where shoe laces are located. It can be used to adjust the tightness of the shoe for better fit.
• The sides as the name indicates comprises the sides of the shoes. A shoe made of flexible materials makes it easier for the shoes to conform with the foot’s shape. A therapeutic shoe designed with wider sides for example can be a source of relief for those suffering from bunions.

The Texas Foot Specialists located in Sugar Land, Pasadena and Houston we specialize in helping people with foot disorders. To schedule an appointment call Sugar Land (281) 242-4448, Pasadena (281) 991-0600 and Houston (713) 664-6677.

Foot Gout, Management and Medication

Studies have shown that a tenth of the population is currently suffering from hyperuricemia, a leading cause of gout. And most cases of hyperuricemia are found in men. Foot gout causes pain which in some cases interfere with our normal daily activities. Consult a podiatrist when foot gout becomes a nagging problem Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum are Podiatrists who specialize in foot gout and treating foot disorders.

Foot Gout Management

• If an acute attack occurs- protect the affected joint. Elevate it and immobilize.
• Consume less amount of food containing purine.
• Have moderate alcohol intake
• Include a small amount of legumes in the diet
• Encourage a gradual weight reduction-  this will reduce the pressure on the inflamed joints, resulting to lesser pain
• Avoid salicylates – this could affect elimination of uric acid.
• Increase fluid intake- by increasing the amount of fluid in the body, the excretion of uric acid also increases thus preventing the formation of uric acid stones.

Foot Gout Medications

There are many different medications used for foot gout. Self-medication is highly discouraged. Consult a podiatrist for proper treatment and management of foot gout. Below are some of the medications that may be used.

• Non-steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs or NSAIDs (e.g. naproxen, indomethacin) to decrease joint pain and inflammation.
• Colchicine prevents deposition of uric acid into the joints, decreasing the inflammation. This can be given during acute attack.
• Allopurinol (e.g. Zyloprim) use as maintenance medication, decrease uric acid production. Clients with renal insufficiency or kidney problems should be inform that intake of this drug must be in a small amount only.
• Glucocorticoids or corticotropin (ACTH) this may be injected directly to the inflamed joints.  Suitable for patients with abnormal creatinine clearance, though its immunosuppressive effect might be questionable since this may prone the inflamed joints to infection.
• Febuxostat is a non-purine inhibitor of xanthine oxidase. It is hoped to avoid the serious but rare complications of allopurinol; whether that holds true will take years to establish.
• Uricosuric drugs inhibits urate anion reabsorption in the proximal tubule and enhance uric acid elimination.
• Probenecid – to increase the serum levels of antibiotics and it blocks with excretion of many drugs.
•  Benzbromarone- can’t be used in Switzerland and the USA, this drug is the only one registered and permitted to be use in Austria. Side effects are gastrointestinal symptoms, especially diarrhea. This has some effect on the liver that resulted in taking it out of the market.
•  Sulfinpyrazone- the third drug that was used in the past, but was later discontinued.

Self-medication is highly discouraged as this might result to dangerous complication. Consult a podiatrist for proper foot gout treatment.    The Texas Foot Specialists located in Sugar Land, Pasadena and Houston we specialize in helping people with foot gout.  To schedule an appointment call Sugar Land (281) 242-4448, Pasadena (281) 991-0600 and Houston (713) 664-6677.

Foot Drop, Causes, Symptoms and Diagnosis - The Texas Foot Specialists

Foot drop or commonly called drop foot is the weakening of the muscles that permits flex in your ankle and toes. This in turn makes you drag your front foot while walking. Usually a test is made to check for foot drop. If you suspect foot drop try walking on your heels. If waling on the heels is difficult, then foot drop might be present. Consult a podiatrist for accurate foot drop diagnosis. Dr. Gregory Mangum and Dr. Bruce Miller are Podiatrists who specialize in foot care and treating foot disorders.

Remember that foot drop is not a disease but a symptom of another medical condition which affects the muscles and nerves. It is important to identify possible causes of the foot drop so proper treatments can be administered.

Common Causes of foot drop:

• Lower back problems
• Diabetes
• Parkinson's disease
• Stroke/tumor
• Multiple sclerosis
• Foot or lower leg injury
• Diseases of the motor neurons
• Peroneal nerve damage brought by childbirth, excessive weight loss, hip or knee replacement surgery

Signs and symptoms of foot drop:

• Hip swinging outside
• Foot flop
• Decreasing muscle mass in the legs
• Muscle weakness
• Slight pain in the affected foot
• Tingling and numbness of the foot
• Difficulty using the front foot
• Steppage gait - this is the main sign of a foot drop. A person with a steppage gait walks while dragging his foot and toes.

Tests and diagnosis for foot drop:

• Physical test. Your doctor will ask you to walk and check for your gait. He may also check you for muscle weakness of the affected leg.
• Imaging tests. Imaging tests are usually done if there are suspected growth of cyst or tumor that presses on the nerve of the knee or spine. An overgrowth of bone may also be detected through imaging tests. These tests include x-rays, ultrasounds, computerized tomography scan and magnetic resonance imaging.
• Nerve tests. Nerve tests are good in detecting the area of the affected nerve that causes the foot drop. Electro-diagnostic studies such as electromyography is uses to identify possible nerve damage.

The Texas Foot Specialists located in Sugar Land, Pasadena and Houston we specialize in helping people suffering from foot drop and other foot injuries.  To schedule an appointment call Sugar Land (281) 242-4448, Pasadena (281) 991-0600 and Houston (713) 664-6677.

Plantar fasciitis - Peyton Manning - The Texas Foot Specialists

Peyton Manning, legendary Broncos Denver’s quarterback suffered from a partially torn plantar fascia in his left foot last season. He was then relegated to the sidelines and had difficulty walking for weeks. This was not uncommon, since foot injuries is a common occurrence among athletes.

Plantar fasciitis is a stabbing pain that usually occurs in the morning and will disappear after making few steps. This kind of injury is very common to runners and athletes who are involved in tough playing games. Consult a podiatrist for any type of foot injury. Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum are Podiatrists who specialize in helping people with chronic foot pain and other types of foot conditions.

Symptoms

• There is an aching, or burning pain in the sole of your foot
• Foot pain that occurs as you step out of the bed early in the morning
• Pain that will decrease after you’ve been on your feel for a while
• Sudden heel pain
• Foot pain that lasted for more than few days
• Pain in just one foot
• Swelling, heat feeling, or redness in the heel area
• Limping
• Plantar fasciitis is mistaken with other conditions that have the same symptoms such as arthritis or tarsal tunnel syndrome.

What are the risks in developing plantar fasciitis?

• Pronation. This is a condition when a plantar fascia doesn’t transfer weight evenly while walking.
• Overuse of the feet without proper rest
• Tightness, flat feet, or high arches at the back of the heel
• Obesity
• Standing or lifting heavy objects for a long period of time
• Ill-fitting or worn footwear
• Normal aging process
• Physical trauma to the foot

What are the treatments for plantar fasciitis?

A simple three step approach is all you need to experience immediate symptom relief: 

Give your feet a rest - adjust your daily habits to spend some time off your feet and let it rest. Ice brings cooling relief - you have to apply an ice pack to your injured heel for twenty minutes every two hours. This will numb the pain and control inflammation. Use of orthotics devices such as splints, shoe inserts, and wraps will lessen the pressure on your heel.

 How to prevent plantar fasciitis

•  You need to maintain a healthy weight.
• You have to warm up before participating in any sports.
• You need to wear shoes that cushion the heel and support the arch. 

The Texas Foot Specialists located in Sugar Land, Pasadena and Houston we specialize in helping people with plantar fasciitis and other chronic foot problems. To schedule an appointment call Sugar Land (281) 242-4448, Pasadena (281) 991-0600 and Houston (713) 664-6677.

New York Yankee Pitcher Bryan Mitchell Falls to Turf Toe Injury - The Texas Foot Specialists

New York Yankees pitcher Bryan Mitchell is rumored to have a grade 3 Turf toe. Mitchell is a professional baseball pitcher who suffered an injury in a game against Atlanta Braves. It is said that he was running to cover the first base. His injury will require him a surgery that will take him three months to fully recover.

Turf toe is the term used to describe the sprain of the ligaments around the big toe joint. This injury is caused when the big toe is jammed forcefully while running or jumping. Consult a podiatrist for any type of foot injury. Dr. Gregory Mangum and Dr. Bruce Miller are Podiatrists who specialize in helping people with chronic foot pain and other types of foot conditions.

 What are the signs and symptoms of Turf toe? 

• There is limited toe movement
• At a time of injury, a snapping or popping sound can be heard
• Your mobility is reduced
• Your toe is swelling
• Your big toe is bruising
• There is pain at the base of your big toe
• Tenderness
•  Pain and other symptoms are mild at first but it will gradually get worse. Not everyone will experience all these symptoms but everyone complains about pain. 

Tips on how to prevent turf toe

• With the help of a proper footwear, turf toe and other toe injuries can be avoided and prevented. You can also try various stretching exercises that will strengthen your toes.
• Instead of tennis shoes, it is much better if you will wear cleats
• Wearing proper shoes that provide protection most especially on your toes
• Toe walking - you must do this exercise slowly at first. It is simple as standing on your tiptoes and walk
• Pencil pick-up - you have to use your toe to pick up the pencil on the floor while you are sitting

Tips on how to treat a turf toe

• Rest - putting weights and pressures on your toes should be avoided when you are in the healing process
• Ice - should be applied on the injured part every hour that will take 15 to 20 minutes to lessen the pain
• Compression - it is important to tape your toes with the help of elastic bandages to prevent your toes from moving
• Elevation - with the help of pillows and cushions, you have to raise your injured foot above your heart level
• Anti-inflammatory drugs - over the counter medication like Ibuprofen can help to lessen the pain

It is said that turf toe can cause long-term problems even with proper medication and treatment. This can also lead to hyper flexion injuries. The pain will subside from two to three weeks with the help of proper treatment and medication. 

The Texas Foot Specialists located in Sugar Land, Pasadena and Houston we specialize in helping people suffering from chronic foot problems. To schedule an appointment call Sugar Land (281) 242-4448, Pasadena (281) 991-0600 and Houston (713) 664-6677.

Natural Treatments for Swollen Ankles - The Texas Foot Specialists

Swollen ankles can be caused by a variety of factors. Whether it is due to prolonged standing or a result of a disease such as kidney problems, ankles become swollen because of fluid buildup in the area. Visit a podiatrist to properly identify the cause of your swollen ankle. Dr. Gregory Mangum and Dr. Bruce Miller are podiatrists who specializes in helping people with foot disorders and injuries.  

Since most would want a natural way to help reduce the swelling of their ankles, I have here a list of the 5 natural ways that can help lessen your swollen ankles.

Immerse foot in tonic water

Tonic water contains quinine and its bubbles can help lessen inflammation. Aside from reducing the inflammation and swelling, soaking your feet in tonic water will help it to relax and soothes the swollen ankles.

Apply some grapefruit essential oil

1. Fill a bucket with warm water and apply a few drops of grapefruit essential oil.
2. Soak your feet for 15-20 minutes to soothe and relax it.
3. Take your feet and pat dry using a soft towel.
4. Mix few drops of grapefruit essential oil with carrier oil (preferably sweet almond or olive) and massage it to your feet up to the legs.
5. Make sure that your massage stroke is pointing upward in a circular motion to help the fluid have a better circulation.

Immerse in a Salt Water

Using Epsom salts when taking a bath is a sure way to make it more relaxing. Just make sure that the amount of Epsom salt you are mixing with water is a healthy dose.

Use support hose

Support hose is a great weapon to help fight swollen ankles as they prevent swelling. These support hose is also called compression gear which can be a knee or thigh-high or full-on compression stockings. They are very hard to put on because they are really tight but rest assured that they make wonders to your swollen ankle.

Elevate your feet    

The reasons for a swollen ankle and feet are the facts that the fluid is being retained and collected in your lower extremities and that your body has trouble in its circulation. Defy gravity to reduce your edema. If you are about to go to sleep at night, use one or two pillows to elevate your foot and make sure that it is above your heart. If you are in your office, you may have something under your table so that you can elevate it.

The Texas Foot Specialists located in Sugar Land, Pasadena and Houston we specialize in helping people with foot problems. To schedule an appointment call Sugar Land (281) 242-4448, Pasadena (281) 991-0600 and Houston (713) 664-6677.