Items filtered by date: November 2019

The growing need for foot care can be seen in all age groups across the globe. Podiatrists specialize in ailments that affect the feet and ankles, in addition to performing surgery. They generally finish a four year program, followed by completing a hospital residency. The choice of a working environment can range from private practice to long-term care facilities. Research has indicated the number of podiatrists will increase significantly in the future, which may be a result of people becoming more aware of specific foot conditions, and the necessity of receiving proper treatment. If you would like to pursue a career in podiatry, please consult with a podiatrist who can help you to determine if this is a correct career path for you.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to 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 a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

• Physical therapy
• Drugs
• Orthotic inserts or soles
• Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

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.

Research has indicated it is beneficial to perform specific stretching techniques that may be helpful in preventing running injuries. It is wise to choose running shoes that fit correctly, assuring the heel and toes feel comfortable. The joints, muscles, and tendons can remain flexible when yoga is routinely practiced, which may help to increase the enjoyment of running. Additionally, many runners practice strength training, this can keep the muscles strong which may add to endurance. Any tension that is present may be alleviated when a massage is performed, helping this to aid the body in feeling relaxed. If you are contemplating the sport of running, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can advise you on how to prevent running injuries. 

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. James Kutchback of James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

• Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
• Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
• “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
• Cross-Training is Crucial
• Wear Proper Running Shoes
• Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury

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.

The medical term that is known as peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is described as excess fatty deposits in the arteries. This condition may inhibit blood supply to the feet, and it may be difficult to walk. Patients who are afflicted with PAD may experience a loss of feeling or a tingling sensation in the feet and legs, open sores which do not heal in a timely fashion, and the nails may become brittle. There are a variety of reasons why this condition may occur. These can consist of smoking, having elevated blood pressure, or being diabetic. Painful symptoms may be gradually diminished when gentle stretching techniques are frequently practiced, in addition to implementing healthy eating habits. If you are suffering from PAD, it is recommended  that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this ailment.

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.