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Podiatrist, Foot Doctor James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P located in The Woodlands, TX 77384 and Woodville, TX 75979 area

The Woodlands
Woodville
(936) 273-3311

 
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Items filtered by date: January 2019

The medical condition that is referred to as cuboid syndrome occurs when an injury happens that affects the cuboid bone and surrounding joints and ligaments. It is one of the seven tarsal bones, and the pain that is often associated with this syndrome is typically felt in the middle of the foot or at the bottom of the fourth and fifth toes. The bones in this area of the foot may become displaced or out of alignment and can be the result of overuse or an injury. There are specific symptoms that may be experienced with this ailment, including increased pain while walking, possible swelling, or a reduced range of motion. Anyone can incur this type of injury, even though it may be more common among athletes and dancers. These types of professions may engage in rapid side-to-side movements, which may incur damage to the cuboid bone and surrounding areas. If you have pain in the middle or on the outside of your foot, it is strongly suggested to consult with a podiatrist who can properly determine the cause.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, 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.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

  • Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
  • Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
  • Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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.

 

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Published in Blog
Monday, 21 January 2019 00:00

Changes in the Feet During Pregnancy

When pregnancy occurs in many women, the body undergoes temporary changes. These may occur in the feet, and she may notice that her feet look differently. The differences may include the disappearance of the arch as the body’s weight increases, leading to the condition that is known as flat feet, in addition to swollen feet and ankles. The skin on the heels can become dry, which may be connected to cracked heels. Hormonal changes can precede hot or burning sensations in the feet and may be enhanced if the mother-to-be is sleep deprived. It may be beneficial to elevate the feet, which may reduce a portion of the swelling, incorporating a gentle exercise program in the daily routine, and drinking plenty of fresh water every day. If you would like additional information about how the feet can become affected as a result of being pregnant, please consult with a podiatrist.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. James Kutchback from James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

  • Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
  • Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
  • Wear shoes with good arch support
  • Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
  • Elevate feet if you experience swelling
  • Massage your feet
  • Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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.

Read more about Foot Care for Pregnant Women
Published in Blog
Monday, 14 January 2019 00:00

How to Care for Corns

If you have developed a corn, it has most likely formed to protect the skin that may have been affected from wearing shoes that fit improperly. These types of shoes may cause the skin on one toe to rub together with the toe that is next to it. The body’s natural defense mechanism is to form a corn, which may help to shelter the skin of the affected toe. Moderate relief may be found in wearing a protective pad or cushion, which may aid in alleviating a portion of the pain and discomfort that is often associated with corns. If you experience any swelling, redness, or warmth surrounding the corn, it is suggested to speak to a podiatrist who can properly guide you in determining a correct diagnosis.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Dr. James Kutchback of James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

  • Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
  • Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
  • Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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.

Read more about Corns and Calluses
Published in Blog
Tuesday, 08 January 2019 00:00

Is Toenail Fungus Contagious?

If you notice your toenails becoming thick and turning a yellowish shade, you may have what is referred to as toenail fungus. Research has shown this fungus may attack nails that have incurred damage, which may have been the result of a weakened immune system, in addition to patients who have diabetes or poor circulation. The symptoms in severe cases of toenails fungus may include pain that is felt in the nail area when shoes are worn, extreme cracks in the skin or an itching feeling in the area surrounding the toenail. This type of fungus is contagious, and it thrives in warm and moist areas that typically include public pools, communal showers, or locker rooms. If you are frequently in these types of places, it is suggested to wear appropriate shoes, which may aid in the prevention of toenail fungus. If you feel you may have this unsightly condition, it is advised to consult with a podiatrist who can offer proper treatment options.

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.

Read more about How to Treat Your Toenail Fungus
Published in Blog
Wednesday, 02 January 2019 00:00

Diabetes and Neuropathy

The definition of neuropathy is nerve damage, and it may be a result of many medical conditions that may be present. There are several symptoms that may be indicative of this condition, including tingling in the feet, burning sensations, or extreme sensitivity or pain when touched. Additionally, many patients are aware of muscle weakness and may find it difficult to urinate. Neuropathy may develop as a result of elevated sugar levels in the blood, and research has shown that diabetes accounts for sixty percent of neuropathy issues. If you are a diabetic patient and are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is strongly suggested to confer with a podiatrist who can perform a proper diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment for you.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in 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 for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

  • Numbness
  • Sensation loss
  • Prickling and tingling sensations
  • Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
  • Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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 Neuropathy
Published in Blog