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Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition involving irritation and thickening of a nerve in the foot, most often between the third and fourth toes. It is commonly caused by repetitive pressure from tight shoes, high heels, foot structure, or activities that place stress on the forefoot like running or jumping. Symptoms include burning pain, tingling, numbness, or the sensation of standing on a pebble. The foot may look normal from the outside, but it can feel quite painful, especially when walking or wearing narrow shoes. A podiatrist can help by beginning with a detailed history and physical examination, often supported by imaging to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment may progress to footwear changes, custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory care, and injection therapy when appropriate. Early treatment can reduce nerve irritation and prevent worsening symptoms. If you have Morton’s neuroma, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Abeer M. Foteh, DPM of Greater Houston Foot Centers. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. It commonly affects the big toe, leading to sudden and intense pain, redness, swelling, and warmth in the joint. The discomfort may develop quickly and become severe enough to limit walking. Foods high in purines, such as red meat, shellfish, and sugary beverages, can increase uric acid levels and trigger flare ups. Choosing fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and adequate water intake may help to reduce risk. Maintaining a healthy weight also supports prevention. A podiatrist can diagnose gout, manage pain, and recommend treatment to protect joint health. If you have developed gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Abeer M. Foteh, DPM from Greater Houston Foot Centers. 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 office located in Baytown, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Intermittent claudication is a common symptom of peripheral artery disease, or PAD, and reflects reduced blood flow to the legs during activity. Intermittent claudication is a tight, aching, or squeezing pain in the calf, foot, thigh, or buttock. It typically begins after a certain amount of walking or climbing but eases with rest. As circulation becomes more limited, pain may start sooner, walking distance shortens, and legs can feel weak or cramp. Advanced PAD can cause pain at rest, cold or numb toes, slow healing sores, skin color changes, or shiny skin, which signals higher risk to the feet. Because several conditions can mimic intermittent claudication, a podiatrist plays an important role in evaluation, vascular screening, foot exams, and coordination of appropriate care. For help dealing with symptoms of peripheral artery disease, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, 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.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

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.

High-heeled shoes can alter foot posture and place stress on the feet and ankles. Elevating the heel shifts body weight forward, increasing pressure under the ball of the foot and compressing the toes. This change in alignment can strain joints, irritate nerves, and overload soft tissues that help stabilize the arch. Patients may notice burning pain beneath the forefoot, aching in the heel, stiffness through the mid-foot, or soreness around the ankle. A narrow toe box can crowd the toes, contributing to bunions, hammertoes, and possible ingrown toenails. A podiatrist evaluates gait, joint motion, and areas of pressure to identify the source of pain. Treatment options include padding, orthotic devices to redistribute load, and guidance on shoe choices. If you feel pain after wearing high-heeled shoes, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, 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.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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.