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Monday, 01 March 2021 00:00

Flat Feet Can Affect Children and Adults

The absence or lack of an arch in the foot can indicate a condition that is referred to as flat feet. The majority of babies are born with flat feet, and the arch generally develops at around two or three years old. Some children notice pain in their feet which could be a result of having flat feet. It may become worse after standing, walking, or running for extended periods of time. Flat feet are more visible when the child is standing up and the inside of the foot is shown to clearly lay flat on the floor. In adults, rheumatoid arthritis may cause this ailment. This specific type of arthritis may lead to deformities in the joints and can affect the feet. If you or your child has flat feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can effectively monitor this condition.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Jack A. Sasiene, DPM from Texas. 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

  • 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 Texas City and Lake Jackson, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about What is Flexible Flat Foot?
Monday, 22 February 2021 00:00

Simple Yoga Stretching for Toes and Ankles

Stretching your feet and ankles can help improve or maintain their strength and flexibility. Yoga is a great way to stretch the whole body, including your feet and ankles. The simplest stretch for your toes and ankles is to simply sit upright on the floor with your legs straight out in front of you. You may sit with your back against a wall or with your hands on the floor behind you to provide yourself with more stability. From this position, you can extend and flex your toes, your ankles, or both your toes and your ankles at the same time. To learn more about specific stretches for the feet and ankles, please consult with a podiatrist.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Jack A. Sasiene, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

  • Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
  • Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
  • Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Texas City and Lake Jackson, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about How to Stretch Your Feet
Monday, 15 February 2021 00:00

Relieving Foot Pain From Standing All Day

For many people, being on your feet all day is a job requirement. Unfortunately, this can have a negative impact on the health of your feet. While periodically sitting down is one of the best things that you can do to relieve foot pain associated with standing for prolonged periods of time, this is not always an option. In those cases, exercising and massaging the feet and legs, soaking your feet after a long day of work, taking anti-inflammatory medications, improving your posture, and wearing compression stockings and shoe insoles may help. For more information about how to relieve foot pain, please consult with a podiatrist.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Jack A. Sasiene, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Texas City and Lake Jackson, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about How to Handle a Long Work Day on Your Feet
Monday, 08 February 2021 00:00

Reasons Why Neuropathy Can Develop

A tingling sensation, or “pins and needles,” is a common occurrence among patients who have neuropathy. A common reason why neuropathy exists is elevated blood sugar levels, which can result in diabetes. Some of the symptoms that are associated with diabetic neuropathy can include extreme fatigue, nausea, headaches, and dizziness. Additionally, pregnant women may experience this ailment, as this can be a result of the growing baby exerting pressure on the nerves in the legs. Vitamin deficiencies may lead to the development of neuropathy, particularly with a lack of  vitamin B-12. Neuropathy can be a serious condition, and if you are experiencing these symptoms, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.

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 Jack A. Sasiene, DPM from Texas. Our doctor 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 Texas City and Lake Jackson, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Neuropathy
Monday, 01 February 2021 00:00

Soft Skin With Daily Foot Care

The feet can be susceptible to receiving inadequate care. Research has indicated the importance of performing everyday foot care techniques because they generally help the appearance and overall well being of the feet. Many patients enjoy soaking their feet in warm water while adding essential oils to the water, followed by using a pumice stone to soften calluses. Ingrown toenails may be prevented when the cuticles are pushed down, and cuticle oil is applied. Soft skin can gradually develop when coconut oil is used on the feet. This is most effective when done before bed, and warm socks are worn while sleeping. For additional information about everyday foot care practices, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can guide you with correct knowledge.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Jack A. Sasiene, DPM from Texas. 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 our offices located in Texas City and Lake Jackson, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Everyday Foot Care
Monday, 25 January 2021 00:00

Why Did I Develop a Heel Spur?

Many patients complain of heel pain, and it may be indicative of a heel spur. This is defined as a growth on the bottom of the heel and may gradually develop from a variety of reasons. These can include having an injured Achilles tendon, participating in running and jumping activities, or from an inflamed foot ligament. Heel spurs can grow quite large and may cause severe pain and discomfort. It is generally diagnosed by having an X-ray taken, followed by implementing a correct treatment plan. Mild heel spurs can be treated by stopping the activity that caused the ailment, and over the counter pain medication may be suggested. If the heel spur is uncomfortable, custom made orthotics may help to relieve the pain. If you have a heel spur, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to effectively manage this condition.

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 Jack A. Sasiene, DPM from Texas. 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 our offices located in Texas City and Lake Jackson, TX . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Read more about Heel Spurs
Monday, 18 January 2021 00:00

Preventing Ankle Sprains

Ankle sprains occur when a ligament in the ankle is overstretched or torn, and they are often caused by the foot suddenly turning inward during walking, running, or jumping activities. Athletes, especially those involved in sports such as soccer, basketball, football, and tennis, are particularly prone to ankle sprains because these sports require pivoting motions that put the ankle at risk. There are measures that you can take to prevent ankle sprains, including running on flat surfaces, wearing protective gear while playing sports, warming up prior to exercise, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, and wearing shoes that fit properly. If you have suffered an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Jack A. Sasiene, DPM of Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Plantar Fasciosis
  • Achilles Tendinitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Texas City and Lake Jackson, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot odor can be common among children and adolescents. When children’s feet sweat, bacteria that thrive in moist, dark environments, like their shoes, can begin to multiply rapidly. Bacteria eats dead skin cells and releases waste in the form of organic acids, often producing a strong and unpleasant smell. Fortunately, there are things that you can do at home to reduce foot odor. Encourage your child to wash and dry their feet thoroughly each day. Make sure that they wear properly fitted shoes made of breathable materials and clean, moisture-wicking socks to reduce sweat. Kill the bacteria in their shoes using a disinfectant spray. If foot odor does not improve with at home treatments, it is suggested that you take your child to see a podiatrist. 

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Jack A. Sasiene, DPM of Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Texas City and Lake Jackson, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about What to Do to Keep Your Child’s Feet Healthy
Monday, 04 January 2021 00:00

Leg and Foot Cramps During Pregnancy

Pregnant women often experience foot pain, and a common ailment during pregnancy can include leg cramps. They may develop as a result of shortened calf muscles, and they can cause severe pain and discomfort. Additional reasons why foot cramps can develop may be from a vitamin deficiency, or an imbalance in electrolytes. This type of pain generally occurs in the third trimester, and will gradually diminish once the baby is born. Relief may be attained when the affected leg is stretched, and the foot is rotated several times in clockwise and counterclockwise directions. If you would like additional information on why leg cramps can occur during pregnancy, and how to prevent them, please consult 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 Jack A. Sasiene, DPM 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 our offices located in Texas City and Lake Jackson, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Foot Care for Pregnant Women

Even though blisters on the feet are the body’s natural reaction to healing damaged skin, they can still cause pain and discomfort. They are defined as a small bubble of protective liquid that forms over the raw skin as the healing process occurs. The blister may remain there for several days, but will gradually drain once new skin has formed. Common reasons why patients develop blisters can include wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or from medical conditions consisting of eczema, or psoriasis. It is beneficial to wear a covering over the blister as daily activities are completed and this can help prevent the blister from popping prematurely. If you have blisters on your feet please confer with a podiatrist who can offer correct treatment and preventative methods.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Jack A. Sasiene, DPM of Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can 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.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

  • Bubble of skin filled with fluid
  • Redness
  • Moderate to severe pain
  • Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Texas City and Lake Jackson, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Blisters
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