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Arthritis Can Cause Pain in the Feet and Ankles
If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.
Why People May Hide Their Feet
Many people often neglect the care of their feet during the winter months. This may lead to reluctance in purchasing summer shoes, and having exposed feet at the beach or at the pool. There are simple everyday foot care practices that can alleviate the need to hide the feet. These include washing and drying the feet daily, followed by using a good moisturizer. Additionally, it is beneficial to properly have the nails trimmed regularly by cutting them at an angle. This may help to reduce the risk of developing an ingrown toenail. The feet will generally feel good when the correct size shoes are worn, which is determined by properly measuring the feet. It is suggested to keep the feet as dry as possible, which may help to prevent a fungal infection from starting. If you would like more information about the importance of and how to practice an effective foot care routine, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have.
Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. James Kutchback from James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Everyday Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.
It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Swollen Feet and Salt
Swollen feet occur when your feet increase in size due to a concentration of fluids in the feet. It can also commonly impact the ankles. There are many different causes of swollen feet. For example, pregnancy, injuries, insect bites, and infections are just some of the many potential causes of swollen feet. However, one cause of swollen feet that is sometimes overlooked is high salt intake. A diet that is high in salt facilitates the retention of water in the body, which can ultimately cause swollen feet. To prevent this from occurring, an individual might consider adjusting their diet. Not only can one reduce their salt intake by not using salt shakers, but avoiding packaged/processed foods that are high in salt can also be helpful. Salt can be frequently found in these packaged foods as a kind of preservative. You might also consider reducing the number of processed meats that you consume, as some of these meats are high in salt as well. Salt substitutes such as potassium iodide might also be worth incorporating into your diet to limit salt intake. As with anything, it is always best to consult first with a medical professional. If you have swollen feet and believe that it might be linked to your salt intake, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today.
Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. James Kutchback of James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:
- Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
- Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
- Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
- Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
- Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.
Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet.
Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Treating Toenail Fungus
Onychomycosis, also called tinea unguium, is a fungal infection affecting the nails. Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments which can cause them to overpopulate. The same fungi that cause jock itch, athlete’s foot, and ringworm can cause nail infections. Such an infection might present itself as yellow or white spots on the toenail, the nail may raise from the nail bed, the skin surrounding the affected toenail may darken, the nail can become brittle and thick, and there may be a foul odor. Complications can arise from toenail fungus, so early intervention is suggested. Toenail fungus is contagious as well. It can spread between nails, onto the skin, and to other people. If you have any of these symptoms, see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis. Fungal infections can mimic symptoms of other conditions. Once confirmed, a podiatrist will be able to recommend treatment for your specific toenail issue.
For more information about treatment, contact Dr. James Kutchback of James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.
Antifungals & Deterrence
Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.
Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Gout Pain Can Be Managed
Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.
Preventing Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is a common infection that can affect a wide range of individuals. This fungal infection is caused by ringworm, and it can be spread by walking barefoot on highly trafficked public surfaces like pool sides. It is important to note that the fungus causing ringworm thrives in environments that are both warm and moist which is why athlete’s foot is often developed after walking barefoot in public locker rooms. There are several steps you can take to avoid developing athlete’s foot. First, you might consider wearing socks, shoes, or slippers when walking around the house. If a member of your household has athlete’s foot, the infection can be spread to others through bath mats, floors, and other surfaces. Second, it might be wise to wash and disinfect items that make frequent contact with the feet. Namely, you could diligently wash any towels, socks, or sheets that encountered another person’s bare feet. If you believe that you have athlete’s foot or want to learn more about methods of prevention, contact a podiatrist.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. James Kutchback from James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
- Hydrate your feet by using lotion
- Exfoliate
- Buff off nails
- Use of anti-fungal products
- Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop
Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Working On Your Feet While Pregnant
Many individuals throughout the American workforce spend a significant amount of the workday on their feet. For example, cooks, construction workers, and hairstylists spend most of their time on the clock standing on their feet. There are a few things to be mindful of, however, for pregnant women who hold jobs that require them to stand all day. Standing for prolonged periods while pregnant can not only be dangerous, but it can also be difficult or painful. It is recommended that pregnant women stand for no more than four or five hours while taking frequent breaks throughout the workday. Since pregnant women’s feet are prone to swelling, it is more important to listen to your body and give your feet the rest that they need. As the pregnancy progresses, a woman might notice standing becomes increasingly difficult throughout the workday. Pregnant women might choose to lie down during breaks as well as stay hydrated and elevate their feet. Working on one’s feet is certainly nothing to take lightly, particularly if you are pregnant or are planning to be. Consult with a podiatrist for the best advice on maintaining the health of your feet.
While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Dr. James Kutchback from James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor 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 The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
What Is a Plantar Fibroma?
If you notice a bump on the arch of your foot, it may be a plantar fibroma. It is defined as a benign growth that develops in the plantar fascia, which is the band of tissue on the sole of the foot. Its function is to connect the toes to the heels, and contributes to stabilizing the arch. A plantar fibroma can gradually increase in size, and can be present on one or both feet. It may begin as a lesion, and can lead to plantar fibromatosis, which is also known as Ledderhose disease. The common symptoms that many patients experience can be painless bumps in the beginning stages on the arch of the foot, and may eventually become worse if left untreated. It may be uncomfortable to walk or stand for an extended period of time, and wearing shoes may cause friction. Research has indicated it may be unknown why a plantar fibroma may develop, despite possibly being connected to specific medical conditions. These include diabetes, liver disease, or epilepsy. There are several treatment options for this ailment, and it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can help you with a plantar fibroma.
A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. James Kutchback of James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Plantar Fibroma
A plantar fibroma is a fibrous knot in the arch of the foot. It is embedded in the plantar fascia which is a band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. There can be multiple plantar fibromas in the feet at the same time. There are no known causes for this condition. If you have a plantar fibroma, there will be a bump in the arch of your foot that cannot be missed. Any associated pain is most often due to a shoe rubbing against the nodule. Non-surgical options, such as steroid injections, physical therapy, and orthotics should be tried first. Surgery is a last resort and is the only thing that will remove a plantar fibroma entirely. Consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the treatment regimen that is right for you.
What Causes a Plantar Fibroma?
While there are no specific causes identified, a plantar fibroma can possibly come from genetic predisposition or the formation of scar tissue that forms from healing the tears in the plantar fascia.
What Are the Symptoms of a Plantar Fibroma?
There will be a noticeable lump in the arch of the foot that may or may not cause pain. If pain is felt, it is typically because a shoe is rubbing up against the lump or when walking or standing barefoot.
Treatment and Prevention
A plantar fibroma will not disappear without treatment, but it can get smaller and be a non-issue. If pain persists, a podiatrist examines the foot and when the arch of the foot is pressed, pain can be felt down to the toes. An MRI or biopsy might be performed to help diagnose or evaluate the plantar fibroma. The following non-surgical options are generally enough to reduce the size and pain of these nodules:
- Steroid injections
- Orthotics
- Physical therapy to help apply anti-inflammatory creams on the bump
Surgery is considered if the mass increases in size and the patient continues to feel pain after non-surgical methods are tried.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?
Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.
Am I a Candidate for Foot Surgery?
Many people undergo foot surgeries when all other options for have failed. There are several types of foot surgery, which can be successful for permanent relief. An Achilles tendon rupture may require surgery, and this is accomplished by having a 3-inch incision cut at the back of the ankle where the tendon has ruptured. The tendon is sewn together with sutures. After closing the wound, the foot is typically placed in a protective boot as the healing process occurs. Bunion surgery is another common form of foot surgery. A bunion is a bony protrusion of the big toe that can develop from genetic factors or wearing shoes that are too tight. If the bunion becomes painful and completing daily activities becomes difficult, joint fusion may be a viable option. It is done by fusing the joint of the big toe. Another alternative may be to have a joint replacement performed. If you are considering any type of foot surgery, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can determine if you are a candidate.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. James Kutchback of James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:
- Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
- Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
- Cosmetic reconstruction
What Types of Surgery Are There?
The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:
- Bunionectomy for painful bunions
- Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
- Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage
Benefits of Surgery
Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.
Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.