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Cold Feet Can Indicate Serious Problems

Tuesday, 30 May 2023

In most cases, having cold feet may simply be an indication to put on heavy socks and turn up the thermostat. But sometimes the sensation of having cold feet can indicate underlying health conditions that should not be ignored. Cold feet can be a sign that blood flow to the lower extremities is compromised, a condition common to those with high cholesterol. Another cause of cold feet may be due to nerve damage, such as peripheral neuropathy, which is a sign frequently experienced by diabetics. Cold feet also may indicate liver or kidney disease. Cold feet may be the result of a sedentary lifestyle that includes long periods of sitting with few periods of exercise. Smoking is another factor that can lead to cold feet, as certain chemicals in cigarettes can cause blood vessels to become irritated and inflamed, thereby restricting blood flow. Cold feet can also be caused by an underactive thyroid gland, anemia, stress, and anxiety. If you frequently experience the sensation of cold feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and diagnosis.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Sybil J. Fisher 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 one of our offices located in Houston and Sugar Land, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cracked Heels and Non-Supportive Shoes

Tuesday, 23 May 2023

If you are someone that enjoys wearing sandals and flip flops during the warm summer months, then it is helpful to be aware of the connection between these shoes and cracked heels. Although these shoes may seem stylish, they often do not provide feet with the support they need. Non-supportive shoes can essentially cause the feet to become more susceptible to cracked heels as a result of the weight that is not distributed equally. Extra pressure which is exerted on the feet can cause the skin to expand and crack. Therefore, if you are someone looking to prevent the onset of cracked heels, you may consider avoiding shoes like sandals and flip flops. For more information and treatment, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Sybil J. Fisher 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.

How Did I Get a Blister on My Foot?

Tuesday, 16 May 2023

Blisters on the feet can cause extreme discomfort. They form as a result of having a portion of damaged skin, which is generally caused by excess friction. They are defined as a small area that is filled with liquid, which helps to protect the raw skin. The majority of people who develop blisters on their feet understand the importance of keeping them from popping prematurely, and this can be difficult while wearing shoes. The blister will gradually drain when new skin has formed, and the ease of completing daily activities can return. It is beneficial to implement prevention techniques that can help to avoid blisters. These can include wearing shoes and socks that fit correctly, and wearing sunscreen, which can protect the skin. Blisters may also develop if the feet are exposed to extreme cold or excessive heat, or possibly from an allergic reaction to an insect bite. If you have a blister on your foot, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist for additional tips on how to treat and prevent foot blisters from developing.

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 Dr. Sybil J. Fisher 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.

Autoimmune Diseases and the Feet

Tuesday, 09 May 2023

Lupus, and other autoimmune diseases, can affect the feet. The most common symptoms of such diseases related to the lower extremities are swelling and pain from arthritis in the ankles and feet. Raynaud’s phenomenon is a common ailment of those with lupus as well. This phenomenon is when the autoimmune system attacks the small blood vessels in the feet and toes and causes them to constrict. This often causes discomfort and numbness and may even lead to ulcers and gangrene in the toes. Because the immune system is suppressed in those with autoimmune diseases, they are at a higher risk for developing infections, which often take longer to heal. If you have lupus or another autoimmune disease, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can help you navigate issues that may arise in your ankles and feet.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Dr. Sybil J. Fisher from Texas. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable. Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet.

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

Arthritis Can Cause Pain in the Feet and Ankles

Saturday, 06 May 2023

If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.

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