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August 2024

Friday, 30 August 2024 00:00

Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

Published in Blog
Tuesday, 27 August 2024 00:00

Diabetic Foot Problems

Diabetic foot problems are primarily due to poor circulation and nerve damage caused by high blood sugar levels. This can lead to reduced sensation in the feet, making injuries and infections less likely to be noticed. Common foot problems can include ulcers, infections, and poor wound healing, which can escalate if not addressed promptly. The primary causes of diabetic foot issues are neuropathy, which reduces feeling in the feet, and peripheral artery disease, or PAD, which impairs blood flow. This combination can lead to minor injuries becoming serious infections, as the body's ability to heal is compromised. To manage and prevent diabetic foot problems, daily foot inspections are important. Look for cuts, blisters, or swelling, and report any abnormalities to your podiatrist. Proper foot hygiene is key. Wash and dry your feet thoroughly, and keep your toenails trimmed and clean. Wearing well-fitting shoes that offer support and protection helps to prevent injuries. To address any diabetic foot problems, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can regularly monitor your foot health. 

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 Dr. Douglas Webb from Texas. 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

  • Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
  • Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
  • Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

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 Alvin and Webster, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Published in Blog
Tuesday, 20 August 2024 00:00

Tips for Choosing Walking Shoes

Choosing the right walking shoes is important for comfort and injury prevention, as walking is an easy and inexpensive way to exercise. Unlike running shoes, walking shoes should provide specific features tailored to walking motions. Opt for motion-controlled shoes to enhance stability and prevent excessive foot movement. Ensure the shoes bend easily at the ball of the foot to facilitate natural walking motions. The insole should contour to your foot for added support, cushioning, and shock absorption. A snug heel fit is essential to prevent slipping, but it should not be tight to avoid discomfort. Additionally, the toe box should be spacious enough to allow your toes to move freely, preventing blisters and bunions. Investing in proper walking shoes will make your walks more enjoyable and beneficial. If you need further assistance in choosing the right walking shoes, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can give you additional tips.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Dr. Douglas Webb from Texas. 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 one of our offices located in Alvin and Webster, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Published in Blog
Tuesday, 13 August 2024 00:00

Foot and Ankle Edema in Pregnancy

During pregnancy, many women experience swelling, or edema, in their feet and ankles. This common issue is caused by the increased fluid retention in the body as it adjusts to support the growing baby. Gravity tends to pull these extra fluids down, leading to a noticeable buildup in the lower legs and feet. This usually starts between the 22nd and 27th weeks and continues until delivery. Swelling often worsens in the evenings and during warmer weather, which can make it tricky to wear your favorite shoes and may lead to aches and discomfort. To ease the swelling, try resting your feet, engaging in gentle exercises like walking or swimming, wearing comfy shoes, and staying well-hydrated. If you are experiencing swelling in the feet or ankles or would like personalized advice on keeping your feet and ankles in top shape throughout your pregnancy, it is suggested you make an appointment 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. Douglas Webb from Texas. 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 one of our offices located in Alvin and Webster, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Published in Blog
Friday, 09 August 2024 00:00

Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!

Published in Blog
Tuesday, 06 August 2024 00:00

Causes of Foot Pain From Running

Running is a good way to stay in shape, but it can sometimes lead to foot pain. Major causes of foot pain in runners include overtraining, wearing inappropriate shoes, or having biomechanical issues. The constant impact of running puts extra stress on your feet. This can lead to plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and tendonitis. Overtraining without adequate rest can cause stress fractures in the ankles and long bones of the foot, as well as Achilles tendonitis. Footwear that lacks proper support and cushioning can result in plantar fasciitis and pain in the ball of the foot. A podiatrist can diagnose the exact cause of your foot pain, recommend the right type of footwear, and create custom orthotics to provide the necessary support. This foot doctor can also guide you through specific stretching and strengthening exercises to alleviate pain and prevent future injuries. Treatments like night splints or advanced therapies for persistent conditions may be provided. If you are experiencing foot pain after running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Douglas Webb of Texas. 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 one of our offices located in Alvin and Webster, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about How to Prevent Running Injuries
Published in Blog
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