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Monday, 19 October 2020 00:00

All About Bunionettes

Bunionettes, also known as Tailor’s bunions, are bony protrusions at the base of the little toe on the outside of the foot. Like bunions, bunionettes are a deformity that can cause discomfort and pain when anything rubs against them. Bunionettes are usually caused by wearing shoes that constrict the foot, such as high heels or shoes with pointed toes. They can also be caused by genetics, arthritis, or a misalignment of the foot. Treatments for this condition include wearing comfortable, supportive shoes with wide toe boxes and wearing special pads that reduce pain from the bunionette. In very severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove the bunionette or to realign the bone of the pinky toe. If you suffer from bunionettes, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for treatment.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Jack A. Sasiene, DPM of Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

  • Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
  • Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
  • Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
  • Orthotics or foot inserts
  • Surgery

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 Bunions
Monday, 12 October 2020 00:00

An Overview of Calluses and Corns

Calluses and corns are thickened areas of skin on the feet. They are usually caused by excess friction or pressure on the foot. The outer layer of skin hardens to protect the tissue and bone beneath the skin. Calluses can occur anywhere on the foot, while corns develop on or in between the toes. The people who are most at risk for developing calluses and corns include those who are very physically active, wear poorly-fitted shoes, don’t wear socks with their shoes, and have other foot problems. If you find yourself with painful calluses or corns, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for treatment. 

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Jack A. Sasiene, DPM of Texas. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

  • Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
  • Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
  • Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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 Understanding Corns and Calluses
Monday, 05 October 2020 00:00

Types of Achilles Tendon Injuries

Tendons are bands of tissue that connect muscles and bones together. The Achilles tendon is located on the back of the ankle and connects the calf muscles to the heel. Tendonitis occurs when the tendon becomes inflamed. Tendinosis occurs when the tendon degenerates, usually due to overuse. Paratenonitis is a result of tissue around the tendon becoming inflamed and thickened, eventually attaching to the tendon. Insertional Achilles tendinopathy happens when the fibers attaching to the heel bone inflame and eventually degenerate. Another serious injury that can happen is an Achilles tendon rupture, which will make walking and standing extremely difficult and will likely require surgery. Because of the seriousness of Achilles tendon injuries, seeing a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment is very important.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Jack A. Sasiene, DPM of Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

  • Inflammation
  • Dull to severe pain
  • Increased blood flow to the tendon
  • Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

  • Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
  • Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

  • Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
  • Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 29 September 2020 00:00

The Importance of Visiting a Podiatrist

Due to potential underlying medical conditions like diabetes and arthritis, it is important to consult a podiatrist when experiencing issues with the feet. A podiatrist will not only be able to diagnose and treat the potential injury, but they are also able to help find a long term solution to the issue. Some issues that podiatrists help treat include, but are not limited to, sprains, ingrown toenails, bunions, blisters, flat feet, fungal nail infections and arthritis. Podiatrists are also able to help diagnose and treat more serious issues such as heel pain, which can sometimes be severe and limiting. If you are experiencing an issue with your feet, it is important to consult with a podiatrist about what treatment options are best for you.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact Jack A. Sasiene, DPM from Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

  • Physical therapy
  • Drugs
  • Orthotic inserts or soles
  • Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

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 a Podiatrist?
Tuesday, 22 September 2020 00:00

Causes of Cracked Heels

Dry, cracked heels are a fairly common issue and can have a variety of different causes. Standing or walking barefoot for extended periods of time, or wearing shoes that don’t fit your heels properly, can put pressure on your heels and cause them to crack. Exposure to cold temperatures or low humidity conditions can dry out the skin. Your current foot care routine may also be to blame. Taking long, hot showers, scrubbing the feet too much, using harsh soaps that rid the skin of natural oils, and not moisturizing can all cause the skin to dry out and crack. If you have cracked heels, and especially if you have deep, painful cracks known as fissures, please see a podiatrist for treatment.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Jack A. Sasiene, DPM from Texas. 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 our offices located in Texas City and Lake Jackson, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Monday, 14 September 2020 00:00

Who Is Most Likely to Get Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis that typically affects the big toe joints. This condition is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream, which forms crystals in the joints. This typically causes pain, and hot, stiff, swollen joints. Men are more likely to get gout than women. Sometimes, gout can be caused by genetic factors, so if you have a family member with gout, you may be more at risk of developing it yourself. Your chances of getting gout can also increase because of certain lifestyle factors, such as being overweight, drinking alcohol, or eating too many foods that are rich in purines. If you are suffering from gout, it is suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist, who can diagnose and treat your condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Jack A. Sasiene, DPM from Texas. 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 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 Everything You Need to Know About Gout

People who have peripheral artery disease (PAD), a condition that impairs circulation to the lower limbs, or have diabetes, which can also lead to poor circulation in the feet, are at an increased risk for amputation. Fortunately, these conditions can be treated and amputation can be prevented. Simple preventative measures such as being under the care of a podiatrist, participating in noninvasive vascular testing, and undergoing diabetic foot examinations can lead to better long term outcomes for patients. If you have peripheral artery disease or diabetes, it is recommended that you regularly visit a podiatrist who can help you take care of your feet.

Vascular testing plays an important part in diagnosing disease like peripheral artery disease. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, or diabetes, consult with Jack A. Sasiene, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Vascular Testing?

Vascular testing checks for how well blood circulation is in the veins and arteries. This is most often done to determine and treat a patient for peripheral artery disease (PAD), stroke, and aneurysms. Podiatrists utilize vascular testing when a patient has symptoms of PAD or if they believe they might. If a patient has diabetes, a podiatrist may determine a vascular test to be prudent to check for poor blood circulation.

How Is it Conducted?

Most forms of vascular testing are non-invasive. Podiatrists will first conduct a visual inspection for any wounds, discoloration, and any abnormal signs prior to a vascular test.

 The most common tests include:

  • Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) examination
  • Doppler examination
  • Pedal pulses

These tests are safe, painless, and easy to do. Once finished, the podiatrist can then provide a diagnosis and the best course for treatment.

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 Vascular Testing in Podiatry

Though it is a metabolic disorder, diabetes can have serious implications for your foot health. Diabetes can cause the feet to be less sensitive and slow to heal from damage, which can result in complications such as diabetic foot ulcers. Fortunately, there are precautions that you can take to get ahead of many diabetic foot problems. If you have diabetes, it is recommended that you perform daily foot checks to see if you have any cuts, sores, or blisters so that you can treat them immediately and avoid infections. Keep your feet clean by washing them daily and drying them thoroughly, then apply a thin layer of lotion to the tops and bottoms of the feet, avoiding the areas between your toes where the extra moisture can help fungus thrive. Regularly trim your toenails straight across to avoid ingrown nails, and wear comfortable shoes instead of going barefoot. If you have a history of diabetes-related foot problems, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you take care of your feet.

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 Jack A. Sasiene, DPM 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 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 Diabetic Foot Care
Monday, 24 August 2020 00:00

Taking Action to Prevent Falls

Falls, and the resulting injuries and complications that they can bring about, are a major cause of pain and disability among people aged 65 and over. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), behavioral changes and changes to your living environment are the most effective things that you can do to prevent falls. Embracing a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, exercise, and no smoking encourages healthy aging, which can indirectly reduce the risk of falling. Rearranging the home environment to remove fall hazards such as slippery rugs, and installing good lighting and handrails, can also help prevent falls. Having regular checkups and promptly seeing specialists when needed is important for overall health as well. Foot and ankle pain often contributes to falls, so if you are experiencing foot and ankle issues, it is recommended that you see a podiatrist.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Jack A. Sasiene, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

  • Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
  • Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
  • Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
  • Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
  • Utilizing a walker or cane
  • Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
  • Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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.

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Monday, 17 August 2020 00:00

Possible Symptoms of an Ingrown Toenail

An ingrown toenail is defined as the outside edges of the nail growing into the surrounding skin, instead of over the skin. The big toe is generally affected the most, but it can occur in any of the toes. If it is not promptly treated it may become infected, which can be accompanied by pus drainage, redness, and often swelling. Common causes of this ailment can include genetics and wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. Patients have found mild relief when the affected foot is soaked in warm water, and this is generally helpful in softening the skin. This can be followed by inserting a small piece of cotton between the nail and skin, which can be beneficial in lifting the nail off of the skin. If you are afflicted with an ingrown toenail, it is strongly recommended that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you the best treatment options.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Jack A. Sasiene, DPM of Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

  • Bacterial infections
  • Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
  • Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
  • Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
  • Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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 Ingrown Toenails
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