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The Severity Levels of Sprained Ankles
Sprained ankles are an extremely common injury among athletes and are a result of ligaments in the ankle being overstretched or torn during activity. Sprains can be mild, moderate, or severe. A mild sprain, sometimes referred to as a Grade 1 sprain, is characterized by overstretched ligaments and possible microscopic tears which can cause mild pain, swelling, and light bruising. A moderate sprain, called a Grade 2 sprain, is characterized by partial tearing in the ligaments and abnormal looseness of the joint, moderate pain, noticeable swelling, moderate bruising, and joint instability during weight-bearing activities. The most severe type of sprain, a Grade 3, is characterized by a complete tear of the ligaments, causing intense pain, significant swelling, severe bruising, and major joint instability. If you have sprained your ankle, it is strongly recommended that you seek out a podiatrist for treatment.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, 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.
Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Plantar Fasciosis
- Achilles Tendinitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
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.
Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked
Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.
Treating and Managing Peripheral Artery Disease
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a condition that causes poor circulation to the lower extremities due to a buildup of arterial plaque. Common symptoms include painful leg cramps, especially after walking, and leg and foot numbness and weakness. Having PAD can increase your risk of heart attack and stroke, which makes diagnosing and treating this condition a top priority. For PAD patients, doctors often recommend lifestyle modifications to manage symptoms and reduce the risk of having a stroke or heart attack. These modifications may include quitting smoking, changing your diet to lower your cholesterol, controlling hypertension and diabetes through medications, and exercising. Treatment options for PAD differ based on the severity of the disease. A doctor might recommend an exercise regimen to increase mobility and medications to improve circulation and reduce pain. Consult with a podiatrist to find the treatments and management strategies that are right for you.
Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Dr. James Kutchback from James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.
Symptoms
Symptoms of PAD include:
- Claudication (leg pain from walking)
- Numbness in legs
- Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
- Paleness of the skin
- Erectile dysfunction
- Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
- Coldness in one leg
It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.
Diagnosis
While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.
Treatment
Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.
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 care needs.
How to Determine If I Have Flat Feet
The condition that is known as flat feet can be noticeable while standing on the floor. The arch area of the feet will lie flat on the floor, and the feet may feel achy. The majority of babies are born with flat feet, and the arch typically develops throughout childhood. The arch provides flexibility between the front and back of the foot, in addition to dispersing body weight while standing up. Many patients with flat feet choose to wear custom made orthotics, and this may help to provide mild relief with additional cushioning. If you have pain in your feet and think you may have flat feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose you and offer treatment options.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. James Kutchback from James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Are Flat Feet?
Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms
- Pain around the heel or arch area
- Trouble standing on the tip toe
- Swelling around the inside of the ankle
- Flat look to one or both feet
- Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
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.
Types of Foot Pain
Each foot consists of twenty six bones, numerous ligaments, muscles, and tendons. Everyday wear and tear or an injury can compromise general foot function, and uncomfortable foot conditions may occur. A bunion is a bony formation that develops on the side of the big toe, and can happen from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Blisters can occur on the back of the heel or on the bottom of the feet, and this is generally a result of increased friction. A corn is a hardened area that can gradually develop on top of the toes or between them, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. If you have these or other conditions that can lead to chronic foot pain, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment techniques.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. James Kutchback from James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Bunions
- Hammertoes
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Bone Spurs
- Corns
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Ingrown Toenails
- Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
- Flat Feet
- Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
- And more
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
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 care needs.
It's Time for Beautiful Feet
You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.
Causes of Cracked Heels
Cracked heels or heel fissures are a common foot condition that can cause discomfort and sometimes pain. The first sign of cracked heels is having areas of dry, thickened skin, known as calluses, around the rim of your heel. As you walk the fat pad under your heel expands, causing the calluses to crack. Some factors for cracked heels to develop can be weight gain or obesity, standing on hard surfaces for extended periods of time, and open back shoes that do not provide adequate support for the heel of the foot. Most of the time cracked heels don't really hurt, but as the cracks deepen, they may bleed or cause standing and walking to become painful. To prevent cracked heels, it is recommended to apply a good moisturizer to the feet daily. Patients with diabetes should check their feet regularly, if the fissures go unnoticed, they could turn into diabetic foot ulcers. If your cracked heels are severe, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can guide you towards correct treatment options.
If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, 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.
Cracked Heels
It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.
Ways to Help Heal Them
- Invest in a good foot cream
- Try Using Petroleum Jelly
- Ease up on Soaps
- Drink Plenty of Water
Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels
- Moisturize After Showering
- Skip a Shower
- Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
- Don’t Scrub Your Feet
If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need.
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 care needs.
Read more about Solutions for Cracked HeelsHeel Pain And Plantar Fasciitis
There is a portion of tissue that is located on the bottom of the foot that is referred to as the plantar fascia. This part of the foot can gradually become damaged from standing on hard surfaces for the majority of the day, in addition to wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. This can cause plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of this band of tissue. A common symptom that many patients experience is heel pain, and this can cause difficulty in walking. The pain may be worse in the morning after arising, and may lessen during the day. People who are overweight may be prone to developing plantar fasciitis, in addition to people who have flat feet. Mild relief may be found when the feet are elevated, and it may be helpful to practice specific foot stretches. If you are afflicted with plantar fasciitis, it is advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you with correct treatment options.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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.
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 The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Hammertoe and Shoes
The medical condition that is known as hammertoe can occur as a result of wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. It affects the second and third toes and causes them to bend at the middle joints, which often makes them resemble hammers. Patients may develop calluses on top of the affected toes, and this is the result of friction as the toes rub against the shoes. Effective treatment methods for mild cases can consist of wearing shoes that fit properly, and it may help to perform specific stretches. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to permanently straighten the toes. If you are afflicted with hammertoe, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can help you with proper treatment management.
Hammertoe
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. James Kutchback from James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.
Symptoms
- Pain in the affected toes
- Development of corns or calluses due to friction
- Inflammation
- Redness
- Contracture of the toes
Causes
Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible
Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur
Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe
Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe
Treatment
Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it
Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used
Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option
If you have any questions please 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.
Heel Pain Can Be Treated!
Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek professional help and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.