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Houston
Pearland


September 2019

Monday, 30 September 2019 00:00

What Does Wearing High Heels Do To The Feet?

Research has indicated that wearing shoes with heels can play a significant role in foot and ankle injuries. Wearing this type of shoe may cause joint pain, and this may be a result of the structure of the shoe. Bunions may develop gradually when the toes are squeezed into a pointed shoe that does not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. Additionally, the back of the calf may be affected when high heels are frequently worn. Symptoms of this may include pain and stiffness in the Achilles tendon. Ingrown toenails may develop when the toes are crammed together while wearing high heels. Falling may increase which may lead to ankle sprains or fractures. If you would like additional information about the effects of high heels on your feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Linda D. Nachmani from Central Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

  • Ankle Joints
  • Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
  • Balls of the Feet
  • Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
  • Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

  • Corns
  • Calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Morton’s Neuroma
  • Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Houston, and Pearland, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Why High Heels Are Not Ideal for Healthy Feet
Friday, 27 September 2019 00:00

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Monday, 23 September 2019 00:00

What Is Morton’s Neuroma?

Patients who have discomfort between the third and fourth toes may be experiencing a condition that is referred to as Morton’s neuroma. It occurs as a result of swollen nerve tissue that grows in this area, and is known to be non-cancerous and painful. Additionally, pain may be felt on the ball of the foot. Research has indicated that patients who frequently wear high heels and participate in sporting activities may be prone to developing this condition. Effective treatment may consist of wearing different shoes, using painkillers, and some patients may benefit from taking steroid injections. There are gentle stretches that can be performed which may provide mild relief. If you are afflicted with Morton’s neuroma, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer proper treatment options which may include surgery.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Linda D. Nachmani of Central Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

  • Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
  • Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
  • Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Houston, and Pearland, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Morton's Neuroma
Monday, 16 September 2019 00:00

Possible Causes of Ingrown Toenails

The medical term that is referred to as onychocryptosis, is more commonly known as an ingrown toenail. It typically develops as a result of the corner of the nail digging into the skin surrounding it, and this can produce severe pain and discomfort. Additional symptoms often consist of inflammation near the affected area, and there may be mild drainage if it becomes infected. Patients can experience ingrown toenails for a variety of reasons. These can include wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in, toenails that have been trimmed incorrectly, or if an injury has happened to the toe. Moderate relief may be found when the toe is soaked in warm water several times per day. This can help to keep the skin soft around the affected nail. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is beneficial that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can guide you toward the correct treatment.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Linda D. Nachmani of Central Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

  • Improper toenail trimming
  • Genetics
  • Improper shoe fitting
  • Injury from pedicures or nail picking
  • Abnormal gait
  • Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Houston, and Pearland, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Ingrown Toenails
Monday, 09 September 2019 00:00

Why Does Gout Develop?

The pain and discomfort that often accompanies the medical condition that is known as gout can be described as severe and intense. It is considered to be a form of arthritis, and typically affects the joints surrounding the big toe. It is generally caused by elevated uric acid levels in the blood, and can develop from eating foods that have high purine levels. These types of food can consist of shellfish, red meat, and sugary drinks. Additionally, genetic factors may play a significant role in developing gout. Mild relief may be found when joint pain is controlled, and this may be accomplished by taking an anti-inflammatory medication. Painful gout attacks may be avoided when a healthy food plan is implemented. This can also include limiting alcoholic beverages and losing excess weight. If you suffer from gout, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Linda D. Nachmani from Central Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Houston, and Pearland, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Gout
Friday, 06 September 2019 00:00

Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?

Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

Tuesday, 03 September 2019 00:00

What Is A Heel Spur?

Heel spurs, also known as calcaneal spurs or osteophytes, are bony outgrowths that can occur on the underside of a person’s foot. Heel spurs may be hooked, pointy, or shelf-like. There are many causes, but most often, heel spurs arise in patients with plantar fasciitis. This is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, the tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel to the toes. The heel can also become more vulnerable with age. The pads of the heel wear down and fail to provide shock absorption. The diagnosis of a heel spur is formally made when an X-ray reflects this bony protrusion. The first steps of treatment are rest, inflammation control, icing, stretching, and orthotics. If you are conflicted with this ailment, it is recommended to speak with your local podiatrist.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Dr. Linda D. Nachmani from Central Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact one of our offices located in Houston, and Pearland, TX. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Read more about How to Treat Heel Spurs
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Review Central Foot & Ankle Associates, PA: podiatrist Linda D. Nachmani, DPM
Houston and Pearland TX Podiatry Practice