June 2020

When purchasing shoes, it’s important to make sure you choose the correct size shoe by figuring out the accurate length and width of your foot. This can be found by measuring your foot at the end of the day when the feet are at their largest. It would also be beneficial to wear the same or similar socks while trying shoes on, as this may help to ensure a proper fit. Many shoe stores have a measuring tool that is known as a Brannock device, which can help to determine the correct size of your foot. Some patients prefer to stand on a piece of paper while tracing their feet. Both feet are rarely the same size, and it is suggested to use the size of the larger foot. It is beneficial to choose a style shoe that fits comfortably when tried on and to avoid shoes that have to be broken in. If you would like additional information about how to determine your correct shoe size, please consult with a podiatrist.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Abeer M. Foteh, DPM from Greater Houston Foot Centers. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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

Many women may experience difficulty wearing shoes as their pregnancy progresses. This can be a result of swollen feet, which can cause discomfort. Swelling, or edema, is considered to be a normal part of pregnancy, and there are methods that can be implemented which can help to manage the swelling. These can consist of elevating the feet as often as possible during the day, and controlling the amount of salt that is ingested. It may also help to drink plenty of fresh water, in addition to refraining from sitting for long periods at a time. It is important for the feet to maintain proper hygiene during pregnancy, and it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper foot care.

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 Abeer M. Foteh, DPM from Greater Houston Foot Centers. 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 office located in Baytown, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetes is a common ailment among many patients. If there is a wound on the foot, it is suggested that correct treatment begins as quickly as possible in order to help prevent foot ulcers from developing. This painful condition may occur as a result of neuropathy, which can cause the inability to feel if there are existing cuts, scrapes or bruises on the feet. Diabetic patients are urged to take proper care of their feet. This can consist of washing and drying the feet thoroughly, and it can be beneficial to apply a good moisturizer. Additionally, it is important to trim the toenails correctly, and wear shoes that fit properly. If you have diabetes, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer management techniques that are right for you.

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 Abeer M. Foteh, DPM from Greater Houston Foot Centers. 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 office located in Baytown, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Cracked heels, although not usually serious, can cause discomfort and may be unsightly to look at as well. Cracked heels can be caused by standing for long periods of time, especially barefoot, from using harsh soaps, and wearing ill-fitting shoes. Most cracked heels can be treated with heel balms, exfoliation, or liquid bandages. However, cracked heels can also indicate more serious medical conditions such as a vitamin deficiency, fungal infection, obesity, psoriasis, or hypothyroidism. In these instances, or instances of severe cracks, care from a podiatrist may be necessary. A podiatrist can provide proper care and medication that may be needed.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Abeer M. Foteh, DPM from Greater Houston Foot Centers. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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

Cuboid subluxation is another term for the medical condition that is known as cuboid syndrome. It can happen when one of the cuboid bones slightly shifts, and a noticeable sign can be mild pain under the pinky toe. Additional symptoms can include a limited range of motion, swelling surrounding the impacted area, and the toes may feel weak.  A common reason why this condition may occur can be from an ankle sprain, or from activities that invoke strain on the ligaments and bones. Other reasons why cuboid syndrome may occur can include walking or running on hills, wearing shoes that do not offer adequate support, or from being overweight. Moderate relief may be found when the foot is elevated, and additional support may be obtained when the foot is taped. If you feel you have developed this syndrome, it is advised that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer treatment options that are correct for you.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Abeer M. Foteh, DPM from Greater Houston Foot Centers. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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