An ankle sprain is one of the most common sports injury nationwide. A lower ankle sprain is experienced by most people who endure this type of injury, and this is defined as damage that is done to the tendons and muscles below the ankle. Conversely, a high ankle sprain affects the ligaments that support the leg bones which connect to the ankle. This can happen as a result of the foot twisting outward and stretching beyond its normal range of motion. The common symptoms that can accompany a high ankle sprain can include pain while walking upstairs, as the foot flexes upward. The ankle may also feel weak, and this can make walking difficult. Performing a squeeze test is often successful in determining an existing high ankle sprain. This is done by squeezing the patient’s leg under the knee, and observing if there is pain that radiates to the ankle area. Relief can be found when the affected foot is elevated, and existing swelling may be reduced when the foot is wrapped in compression bandages. If you have this type of injury, it is strongly advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can effectively treat an ankle sprain.
Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Barry P. Weinstein, DPM from Bellaire Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.
What Are the Symptoms?
Preventing a Sprain
Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.
If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bellaire and Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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.
An individual may develop a number of different kinds of wounds on their feet over the course of their lifetime. Diabetics are particularly prone to developing this kind of foot affliction. Arterial ulcers are a specific kind of wound that one ought to be aware of. This kind of wound is characterized by its rounded shape. Often these wounds will have very clearly defined lines around the affected area. In terms of location on the feet, arterial ulcers are usually found on the tips of toes and on the heels. While an individual with arterial ulcers may not experience any bleeding at the base of the wound, it is important to note that the wounds themselves are usually extremely deep. If you have an arterial ulcer, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist as these wounds can be highly painful. This foot specialist can help you mitigate and treat the problem.
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 Barry P. Weinstein, DPM from Bellaire Podiatry. 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 one of our offices located in Bellaire and Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
The inflammation and pain of the foot condition that is referred to as gout can be debilitating. It is a condition that affects the joints in the big toe and is caused by an abundance of uric acid in the blood. When there is excess uric acid, it can lodge in the big toe in the form of crystals and can be quite uncomfortable. There are specific types of foods that have high levels of purines, which can lead to having large amounts of uric acid in the bloodstream. These types of foods include red meat, shellfish, and sugary drinks. A gout flare-up may gradually improve within a few weeks, and methods can be implemented that may help to prevent future attacks from occurring. These consist of consuming a healthy diet, drinking plenty of water daily, and engaging in a gentle exercise program. Ideally, living a healthy lifestyle may significantly contribute to possibly avoiding gout attacks. If you suffer from this painful foot condition, it is strongly urged that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can guide you toward correct relief and prevention options.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Barry P. Weinstein, DPM from Bellaire Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.
Symptoms
Risk Factors
Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bellaire and Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
The feet are complex structures and research has shown the average person walks approximately 115,000 miles during their lifetime. It is important to practice everyday foot care which can help prevent unwanted foot conditions. One of the best things patients can do for their feet is to wear shoes that fit properly. People who have diabetes often need to pay extra attention to their feet as this may help to stop foot ulcers from developing. A good way to start each day is by washing and drying the feet thoroughly, followed by applying a good moisturizer. It is suggested that the toenails be cut weekly and trimmed straight across instead of curved. Proper everyday foot care may reduce the chances of obtaining unpleasant foot conditions. If you would like additional information about the benefits of proper foot care, please confer with a podiatrist who is an expert on the feet and ankles.
Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Barry P. Weinstein, DPM from Bellaire Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Everyday Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.
It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bellaire and Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
One of the many unsightly and unattractive conditions of the feet is known as cracked heels. Also known as heel fissures or split heel, this condition occurs when the skin on the heel becomes exceedingly dry. There are several signs of cracked heels that you can be on the lookout for. First, the most obvious sign of cracked heels is a developing callus on the heel that can be either a shade of yellow or brown. If the condition is relatively new, you might notice small cracks in the hardened skin callus. However, if this condition is older and has not been treated for a long period of time, then there may be deeper cracks in the callus. These deeper cracks might even bleed in severe cases, inviting infection. If you notice any of these signs, or you believe that you might have cracked heels, do not hesitate to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today.
Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Barry P. Weinstein, DPM from Bellaire Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Cracked Heels
Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.
How Do You Get Them?
Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.
Promote Healing
Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.
Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.
Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.
Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin.
Change in Diet
Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.
Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bellaire and Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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.
Practicing good foot care is essential for most people, and it is especially imperative for diabetic patients. Neuropathy can affect people who are diabetic. This is a condition that causes the inability to feel existing cuts, bruises, and scrapes on the feet. If these cuts do not get immediate medical attention, infection may occur, which may lead to gangrene, and possible amputation. Foot care can begin with washing and drying the feet thoroughly, followed by applying a gentle moisturizer. It is beneficial to have the toenails trimmed weekly, in addition to refraining from walking barefoot. Many diabetic patients appreciate the benefits of engaging in a gentle exercise regime, which may help to improve circulation. The importance of wearing shoes that are comfortable and fit correctly cannot be impressed upon enough to restore and maintain proper foot health. If you have diabetes, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can treat and help you to manage this condition.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Barry P. Weinstein, DPM from Bellaire Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bellaire and Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Hyperhidrosis is an excessive sweating that can affect the feet and other parts of the body. The medical terms are polyhidrosis and sudorrhea. This ailment is not life-threatening but can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. Many people who have this condition often notice signs in their teenage years, which can develop reasons such as obesity, diabetes, or a thyroid disorder. A common symptom that is associated with this ailment is profuse sweating on the soles of the feet that can often soak through the socks and shoes. The skin on the feet may ultimately be affected, and people who have hyperhidrosis may choose to refrain from having physical contact. If you have this condition, a podiatrist will be able to provide a proper diagnosis and guide you toward the correct treatment options. If more information is desired, it is strongly suggested that this type of doctor is contacted so relief can be found.
If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact Barry P. Weinstein, DPM of Bellaire Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
Hyperhidrosis of the Feet
Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.
Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.
Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.
In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.
A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bellaire and Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Most babies are born with flat feet, but the arch fully develops during the teenage years. There are some children that have a joint hypermobility condition, and this is referred to as low muscle tone. This may prevent the arch from developing, which could result in having flat feet in their adult years. One type of flat feet is called flexible flat feet. The ligaments hold the bones in place in addition to supporting the arches. Children who have joint hypermobility do not have the same support as those without it, and the ligaments are more flexible than normal. There are stretches and exercises that can be performed that may help to strengthen the arch. An effective stretch is done by standing up while slightly leaning back. This will propel the muscles in the front of the ankle to become stronger. Additionally, standing on one leg will activate the muscles in the ankle to maintain balance as well as stability. If you have questions about flat feet and would like to learn more about how to perform effective stretches, please schedule a consultation with a podiatrist.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Barry P. Weinstein, DPM from Bellaire Podiatry. 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
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 one of our offices located in Bellaire and Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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