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Flat Feet in Children

Flat feet in children occur when the arches of the feet do not develop as expected, causing the entire foot to touch the ground. Some children outgrow flat feet as their muscles and bones strengthen, while others may develop persistent issues. Causes include having a tight Achilles tendon, tarsal coalition where foot bones fuse, and rigid flat feet that do not change with movement. A podiatrist can assess foot structure, recommend stretching exercises, orthotics, or treatment to improve comfort and prevent future problems. If your child has pain or difficulty walking from having flat feet, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment relief and treatment solutions.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Kutchback Podiatry. Our doctors 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 care needs.

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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.

Understanding Bunions and When Surgery May Be Needed

A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe, as the top of the toe leans inward. It may appear red, swollen, and feel painful or stiff, especially when walking or wearing tight shoes. Common causes include inherited foot structure, arthritis, or wearing narrow footwear. Symptoms range from mild discomfort to persistent pain, limited movement, and visible deformity. A podiatrist can diagnose a bunion through a physical exam and X-rays. Non-surgical treatments include custom orthotics, padding, anti-inflammatory medication, or shoe modifications to relieve pressure. If conservative methods fail and pain interferes with daily life, surgery may be considered. Surgical benefits include pain relief and improved foot alignment, but risks may include infection, nerve damage, or a lengthy recovery. Every case is unique, and a podiatrist can help determine the best course of action. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for proper evaluation and care.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact one of our podiatrists of Kutchback Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

  • Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
  • Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

  • Redness and inflammation
  • Pain and tenderness
  • Callus or corns on the bump
  • Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, 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.

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Risk Factors and Symptoms of Gout

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often affecting the big toe. It can lead to sudden pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness that makes walking difficult. Risk factors include genetic predisposition, diets rich in red meat or seafood, obesity, alcohol consumption, and underlying medical conditions such as kidney disease or hypertension. Symptoms range from intense joint pain to lingering discomfort and limited mobility. A podiatrist can provide a diagnosis, treatment, and guidance to prevent flare-ups while protecting joint health. If you have intense pain in your big toe, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you manage this painful condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Kutchback Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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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Risk Factors and Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot, also called tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet. It can involve the spaces between the toes, the soles, or the heels. Symptoms of athlete's foot include peeling, cracked, or scaly skin between the toes, blisters filled with fluid, burning sensations, and itching. In some cases, a musty odor is present. The infection thrives in warm, damp conditions, making people who sweat heavily or wear tight, enclosed shoes for long periods more prone to it. Walking barefoot in public showers, around pools, or locker rooms, as well as sharing footwear, can also increase the risk of athlete’s foot. Older adults, men, people with diabetes, or those with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop this condition. A podiatrist can diagnose the infected area, provide treatment, and help prevent it from spreading to toenails or other areas. If you have symptoms of an athlete's foot infection, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Kutchback Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

  • Thoroughly washing and drying feet
  • Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
  • Using shower shoes in public showers
  • Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
  • Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

  • Redness
  • Burning
  • Itching
  • Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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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