Blog
Benefits of Stretching the Arch of the Foot
The arches of the feet play an important role in everyone’s daily life, as they help you walk by keeping the foot flexible. The arches of the feet also support your weight when you stand, walk, run, or jump. Stretching exercises specifically targeting the arches can keep them strong and healthy. They can increase blood flow, improve flexibility, relieve pain, improve balance, and reduce the chances of injury. Among the stretches thought to be useful for the arches are the seated foot stretch and the stair stretch. First, sit in a chair with the affected foot crossed over the opposite leg. Pull the toes toward the ankle and hold for 10 seconds. Repeat two or three times and switch legs. Second, stand on a step with the heel hanging over the edge. Be sure to hold onto a rail or banister. Lower the heel gently until you feel a slight stretch in the arch and calf. Hold for 15 seconds and release. Repeat two to four times and switch legs. If you experience arch pain more often and for longer periods, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and further information on stretches that can help.
Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet 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.
Stretching the Feet
Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.
- Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
- Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
- Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
- Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.
It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.
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.
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.
How to Deal With Wounds on the Feet
Parents have been experts on wound care for their family for many years. Bandages and antiseptic medications are standard medicine cabinet items in most houses. Certain areas of the body, such as the feet and toes, can be a bit more problematic when dealing with wounds. Any time you sustain an injury, such as a puncture wound or injury that will not stop bleeding, it is essential that you seek immediate medical help. But for other types of wounds, injuries, or sores, home care may be sufficient. For instance, in most cases, a blister on the foot will heal itself, given enough time. But if a blister pops, the risk of infection increases and protecting it with a bandage that provides cushioning is a good idea. Sores on the feet and toes can pose additional problems that can be solved with special bandages that fit odd-shaped areas. Keeping these dry and changing them regularly is essential. For any type of sore or wound on the foot that is causing increased pain or showing signs of infection, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist.
Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, 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.
What Is Wound Care?
Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic.
What Is the Importance of Wound Care?
While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.
How to Care for Wounds
The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.
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.
Hammertoe and Flip-Flops
Hammertoe is a particular condition of the foot in which the joints of the toes point upward in a “v” shape at the center of the toe. The toe ultimately has a hammer-like shape. This condition can be caused by many different things. Specifically, wearing flip-flops may contribute to the onset of hammertoe. When an individual wears flip-flops, they must essentially scrunch up their toes to keep the flip-flop on their feet. This is an unnatural and strenuous task for the toes. As a result, the muscles in the toes might experience an imbalance. Hammertoe can result. If you are someone that wears flip-flops frequently, you might be at an increased risk of developing foot conditions such as hammertoe. It is suggested that you reach out to a foot care specialist such as a podiatrist to receive treatment or attention.
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.
Exercise and Stronger Feet
Exercising the feet regularly is a good way to keep them healthy and strong. An effective toe stretch is done by sitting in a chair with the feet on the floor. Raising the heels while keeping the toes on the floor, followed by reversing the order can be successful in stretching the feet. Each position can be repeated several times until a good stretch is felt. A toe splay is done when the heels remain on the floor with the toes spread apart. This can be repeated up to ten times. The sole can be strengthened by crossing one leg over the opposite knee and pulling the toes back toward the shin. There are numerous stretches and foot exercises that are easy to perform. If you would like additional information about exercising your feet, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can guide you in having stronger feet.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, 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.
Exercise for Your Feet
Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.
Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual.
Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.
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.
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.
Psoriatic Arthritis and the Feet
Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes red patches of skin with silvery scales. Psoriatic arthritis or PsA is a kind of inflammatory arthritis that affects people who suffer from psoriasis. PsA causes pain, swelling, and tenderness in joints, and it can affect the feet, toes, and toenails. In fact, these are some of the unique traits of this type of arthritis. When PsA leads to swelling of the toes, it is called dacylitis of the toes. This swelling, caused by tenosynovitis or inflammation of the tendon sheath, usually impacts the entire toe rather than a single joint, and the toe can look like a sausage. Psoriatic arthritis can also result in swelling and tenderness in the ankles and heels, accompanied by a red or purple tint of the skin. Furthermore, PsA sufferers can develop enthesitis, which is inflammation where the tendons and ligaments connect with bone. This often affects one's Achilles tendon, which connects the heel to the calf muscles. This, too, leads to swelling and pain in the back of the heel and ankle, as well as the sole of the foot. The effects on the feet from psoriatic arthritis are numerous. If you have developed this condition, it is strongly suggested that you have a podiatrist on your medical team who can help you navigate the uncomfortable symptoms you may feel.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, 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.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain. The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it. Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.
Symptoms
- Swelling
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Decreased Range of Motion
Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.
Risk Factors
- Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
- Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
- Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
- Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
- Age – Risk increases with age
- Gender –Most types are more common in women
- Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary
If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is 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 care needs.
Two Activities Requiring Different Shoes
Walking and running are considered to be different hobbies that require appropriate shoes to be worn for the chosen activity. Both have excellent health benefits and engage many of the same muscles, but this is where the similarities end. The joints in the feet move differently during walking and running, and the body absorbs approximately twice the body weight as it lands. With running, the feet strike the ground with more impact than with walking, and create different types of wear and tear patterns in the shoe. Running shoes can offer more cushioned support in the arch and midfoot, and can help the body to propel forward. Conversely, walking shoes have the flexibility that can ensure a good range of motion. If you would like more information about the differences between walking and running shoes, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can help you to choose what type of shoe is best for you.
For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Dr. James Kutchback from James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.
Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes
There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.
You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.
Differences
Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.
Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.
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.
Am I Wearing the Right Shoe Size?
There are various ways to determine your shoe size and ensure a proper fit. Using a Brannock device is an effective measuring tool that is found in most shoe stores. However, many people opt to know their shoe size before going to the store and this can be accomplished at home. The first step is to trace the foot on a piece of paper while wearing the intended socks. This is followed by using a size conversion chart and matching the length of the traced foot to its corresponding size. When a shoe fits properly, there is adequate room for the toes to move freely, and the heel and midfoot fit snugly. It is beneficial to measure the feet each time new shoes are purchased. The best time of day to measure the feet is in the afternoon when the feet are at their largest. If you would like more information on how to find shoes that fit properly, please speak with your local podiatrist.
Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. James Kutchback from James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Proper Shoe Fitting
A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:
- Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
- Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
- Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
- Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity
Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.
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.
Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?
If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!