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Bunion Complications

A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe, often causing the toe to deviate towards the others. Common issues can include chronic pain, bursitis or inflammation of the fluid-filled pads that cushion the bones, and metatarsalgia or pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot. Severe cases or complications can lead to hammertoes or crossover toes, where toes bend abnormally, and even arthritis in the big toe joint. Preventing bunion complications involves wearing properly fitted shoes with a wide toe box, avoiding high heels, and using orthotic inserts to reduce pressure on the bunion. Maintaining a healthy weight can also alleviate stress on the feet. Treatment options range from non-surgical methods like padding and medications to manage pain to surgical procedures for more severe cases. If you have a bunion that is causing worsening symptoms, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can help to manage symptoms and prevent further complications.

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.

Read more about What Are Bunions?

Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy is a serious complication of diabetes that results from nerve damage caused by prolonged high blood sugar and elevated blood fats. This condition often targets the nerves in the lower legs and feet, leading to what is known as peripheral neuropathy. Studies show that between one-third and one-half of people with diabetes will experience this condition. Diabetic neuropathy can bring on a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including numbness and weakness, burning, tingling, and pain in the lower limbs. Additionally, the diminished sensation can make you more susceptible to unnoticed wounds on your feet, which increases the risk of infections and complications. To manage diabetic neuropathy effectively, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist, ensuring that any potential issues are caught early and treated appropriately.

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 one of our podiatrists  from Kutchback Podiatry. Our doctors 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.

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Preventing Blisters While Playing Tennis

Playing tennis can be tough on the feet due to the high-impact movements and frequent lateral actions that can often lead to painful blisters. These blisters result from the friction between the skin and footwear, which is inevitable during extended matches. While preventive measures like wearing moisture-wicking socks and properly fitted shoes can reduce the risk, sometimes blisters still develop. When this happens, it may help to consult a podiatrist. This foot doctor can provide professional treatment to alleviate pain and promote healing, ensuring you will not have to pause your tennis activities for long. Specialized padding techniques, specific footwear adjustments, or custom orthotics may be offered to minimize future friction. A podiatrist also can provide personalized advice tailored to your specific foot structure and playing style, which can help prevent blisters from recurring. If you frequently develop blisters on the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment and prevention methods.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, 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.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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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Custom Orthotics for Kids With Flexible Flat Feet

Flexible flat feet in children, also known as pediatric flatfoot, is a condition where the arch of the foot collapses upon standing but reappears when sitting or on tiptoes. This common condition often resolves with age, but in some cases, intervention is necessary. Custom orthotics are specially designed shoe inserts tailored to an individual's foot structure. For children with flexible flat feet, these orthotics provide support to the arch, enhance foot alignment, and reduce strain on muscles and ligaments. They can alleviate pain and prevent potential future issues related to improper foot mechanics. The duration for wearing custom orthotics varies, often spanning several months to years, depending on the severity of the condition and the child's growth. Continuous monitoring and adjustments ensure optimal benefits. For personalized advice and to determine if custom orthotics are appropriate for your child, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Kutchback Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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 Ankle Foot Orthotics for Athletes
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