Houston (832) 673-0500
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Houston (832) 673-0500
Sugar Land (281) 313-6300
Maintaining proper foot care in elderly people can help prevent falls and injuries. Enduring a fall can affect the quality of life, and it can be difficult to complete daily activities. The muscle tissue in the feet can become thin as the aging process occurs, which may lead to a loss of feeling in the feet. It is beneficial to check the feet for any sores, cuts, or blisters that have developed, and this can be accomplished by using a mirror. A family member or caregiver may be able to help with this task by examining the soles of the feet. It is wise to wear shoes that fit correctly, which may aid in maintaining balance. Avoiding wearing shoes that are too tight may help to prevent blisters and corns from developing. Additionally, the feet will generally feel better when the toes are wiggled after sitting for long periods of time, and frequently elevating the feet may help to improve circulation. If you would like more information about how to care for elderly feet, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can provide you with useful tips.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Sybil J. Fisher from Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
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 and ankle needs.
Many foot diseases and conditions become more serious and common among the elderly. Some of these conditions include diabetic ulcers, ingrown toenails, fungus, arthritis, corns, and calluses. Unfortunately, it may be harder for older adults to take care of their own feet, but there are some precautions they can take in order to avoid any serious conditions.
Dry, cracked heels tend to be a common problem for older people. In order to avoid this, you should always keep your feet clean and well moisturized. Special feet moisturizers should be used as average lotions might not provide enough moisture for dry and cracked heels. Daily foot inspections are crucial for the elderly to detect any irregularities in their earliest stages. During the aging process, blood circulation tends to slow down causing older people to not feel their feet as well as they used to. This often results in foot problems going unnoticed.
Fungal and bacterial conditions thrive on elderly feet because older adults are less likely to keep their feet clean and dry; this makes it easier for bacteria to take hold in their dry, cracked skin. Elderly people should be sure to thoroughly dry their feet, especially in between the toes, after bathing. This will help them avoid developing any fungal infections. Additionally, clean cotton socks should be worn after the feet are dried.
Cutting toenails straight across will help prevent ingrown toenails. When toenails are cut too lose, the nail might break through the skin resulting in an ingrown nail. Clippers should be used to cut the nails in order to make the cut even.
Elderly people who have diabetes are at risk of developing serious foot problems that may lead to amputation. Ulcers that are left untreated can lead to gangrene. Dry and cracked feet, fungus, and untended cuts under the nails may also lead to infections.
Fortunately, Medicare covers many different types of services for foot care. Elderly people with any of these foot conditions should seek the help of a podiatrist and perform daily foot inspections in order to ensure that they have healthy feet.
It is beneficial for people who enjoy walking and running to learn about the differences between these two types of shoes. There are various forms of running, which can range from buying minimalist shoes that are designed for racing to cushioned shoes that are best for long-distance running. Most running shoes are made for different styles of running. These categories can include toe-strikers, midfoot strikers, and heel strikers. A person's foot structure and running type may lead to which type of shoe to choose. Research has shown people who enjoy taking a leisurely stroll may choose shoes that are designed for comfort instead of performance. Conversely, fitness walkers often prefer a flat, flexible, and lightweight shoe that does not cause the foot to slide. If you would like to have more information about the correct shoes to buy for the type of walking or running that is done, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.
For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Dr. Sybil J. Fisher from Texas. Our doctor can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.
Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes
There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.
You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.
Differences
Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.
Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.
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.
Although walking shoes and running shoes look similar, they have characteristics that make them different from each other. Runners should avoid running in walking shoes and vice versa. It is very important that you wear the proper footwear for the activity you are going to partake in, for you to avoid injury.
If you are looking to buy a new pair of running shoes, there are certain things you should look out for. One of the main components that makes up a good running shoe is flexibility. You should be able to bend and flex the forefoot of the shoe that you are purchasing. If you can bend the entire shoe in half with ease, this is a sign that the shoe does not have enough structure for your feet. Another feature you should look for is a low heel. Certain running shoes have a low heel to support runners who land on the ball of their feet. Lastly, you should look for the fit of the running shoe. You should visit the best running shoe store in your area to have your feet properly sized for the shoes in the store. Usually, the staff will be able to help recommend the best type of running shoe for your needs.
When you are walking, the body’s weight is evenly distributed on the foot. This influences the design of shoes made for walking. If you are looking to buy a pair of walking shoes, there are different features you should look for to determine which pair of shoes is best for you. Walking shoes should be flexible through the ball of the foot to allow for a greater range of motion through the roll of the forefoot. These shoes also should have greater arch support for the foot. If you plan on walking long distances or on hard surfaces, it is best that you wear shoes that have cushioning.
When trying on a new pair of shoes, the heel should fit snugly without slip. You should shop for shoes after a long walk, since your feet tend to swell throughout the day. Many people have one foot that is a different size than the other, so it is best that you have both feet measured when looking for your true size. You should also beware that sizes vary depending on the shoe brand. A certain size in one brand may be a different size in a different brand. Lastly, you should always walk around in shoes that you plan on buying. This will help you determine whether the shoes are comfortable and if they fit well on your feet.
Always look for good shoe construction when shopping for new sneakers. The upper part of the shoe should allow for adjustment through laces or straps. If you need help with shoe sizing or if you need custom orthotics for your feet, you should make an appointment with your podiatrist for assistance. He or she will be more than happy to help you with your shoe sizing needs.
People who are severely afflicted by ankle arthritis may choose to have ankle surgery performed. It is considered to be joint replacement surgery, and may be successful in removing damaged tissue in the ankle. This is followed by replacing it with a metal or plastic prosthesis. The benefits of this type of surgery may include improved range of motion in the ankle, and can protect the ankle joint. Research has shown the ideal candidate can include patients who are middle-aged or above, have a normal weight, and refrain from having a physically demanding lifestyle. The recovery process can consist of using crutches for two weeks after surgery, followed by wearing a protective boot for approximately six weeks. Many patients practice ankle stretches or exercises at this point, which will gradually strengthen the ankle, and normal activity can eventually resume. If you have severe ankle pain and are considering having joint replacement surgery performed, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can determine if this is the right choice for you.
In certain cases, in which the patient suffers from extreme pain or damage in a joint, joint replacement surgery may be deemed useful. If you have constant pain in a foot joint, consult with Dr. Sybil J. Fisher from Texas. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Joint Replacement Surgery?
Over time, joints wear down; this can be exacerbated by diseases and conditions. Joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is when a damaged joint is surgically removed and replaced with a prosthesis. Prostheses, which can be made of ceramic, plastic, or metal, act as joints in lieu of an actual joint. One of the most prevalent causes for joint replacement is arthritis.
Arthritis in the Foot
Arthritis can occur in any joint in the body, including in the feet. Common types of arthritis in the foot are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. The big toe is usually where arthritis occurs in the foot; this is known as hallux rigidus.
Joint Replacement Surgery in the Foot
The most common form of joint replacement in the foot is a first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint placement. MTP joint replacement surgery is designed to treat hallux rigidus. Surgery is not intensive, and recovery occurs within one to two months after the procedure has been done. Overall, joint replacement surgery is a safe and effective way to treat pain in the joint of the foot.
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.
When conservative, noninvasive treatments prove unsuccessful, podiatrists will often turn to surgery as the last line of treatment for their patients. If patients are suffering from joint pain, issues in mobility, or are seeking to correct a deformity, joint replacement surgery is an effective option. Joint replacement surgery is also successful in treating arthritis, which is the most common cause of improperly working joints.
Patients with symptoms that include joint pain, stiffness, limping, muscle weakness, limited motion, and swelling are typically considered for joint replacement surgery. Range of motion and activity post-surgery will vary between patients and depending on the specific surgery performed, the affected joint, and the damage that will need to be repaired.
Joint replacement surgery replaces the damaged cartilage and bone, the latter if required. The damaged cartilage is typically replaced with a prosthesis that is attached to the bone, allowing the implant to grow into the bone. Following surgery, the patient will typically undergo physical therapy to become familiar with movement using the replaced joint.
Having a rash on the feet can occur for several reasons. Poison ivy, oak, and sumac are common causes of rashes on the feet and often result in severe itching, blisters, and pain. They are caused by contact with an oily sap, called urushiol, that is found in some plants, possibly causing a rash to develop within 12 to 72 hours after contact. Some of these can clear up within three weeks. Treating any itching is suggested to prevent scratching and possible infection. If an individual has a serious reaction to these poisons, difficulty in breathing may ensue and it is critical to see a medical care provider as soon as possible. Prevention tips for poison rashes on the feet include wearing closed-toed shoes while outside in nature where the feet might possibly be exposed to troublesome plants. If one gets this type of rash, it will be less severe if washed with soap and water immediately and the clothes and shoes involved are disinfected. Since there are other causes of rashes on the feet and symptoms can be similar, if you have developed such a rash and you are experiencing foot pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to have your condition diagnosed and properly treated.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Sybil J. Fisher from Texas. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
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.
The feet, being the foundation of the body, carry all of the body’s weight and are therefore prone to experiencing pain and discomfort. If you are experiencing foot pain, it is important to determine where in the foot you are experiencing this pain to help discover the cause of it. While pain can be experienced virtually anywhere in the foot, the most common sites of foot pain are in the heel and ankle.
Heel pain can be due to a multitude of conditions including plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, and heel spurs. Pain experienced in the ankle can be a sign of an ankle sprain, arthritis, gout, ankle instability, ankle fracture, or nerve compression. In more serious cases, pain in the foot can be a sign of improper alignment or an infection.
Foot pain can be accompanied by symptoms including redness, swelling, stiffness and warmth in the affected area. Whether the pain can be described as sharp or dull depends on the foot condition behind it. It is important to visit your local podiatrist if your foot pain and its accompanying symptoms persist and do not improve over time.
Depending on the location and condition of your foot pain, your podiatrist may prescribe certain treatments. These treatments can include but are not limited to prescription or over-the-counter drugs and medications, certain therapies, cortisone injections, or surgery.
If you are experiencing persistent foot pain, it is important to consult with your foot and ankle doctor to determine the cause and location. He or she will then prescribe the best treatment for you. While milder cases of foot pain may respond well to rest and at-home treatments, more serious cases may take some time to fully recover.
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
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 and ankle needs.
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