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Falls can cause serious injuries and reduce a senior’s ability to remain active and independent. Age-related changes in balance, vision, and muscle strength can raise the risk. Foot pain, numbness, and joint stiffness can also make each step less stable. Other concerns include poor circulation, weak ankles, and changes in foot shape. Shoes that lack proper support or do not fit correctly can create further problems. Because many falls are never reported, seniors should discuss balance concerns and recent stumbles with a podiatrist. A fall-risk evaluation can identify problems before a major injury occurs.

A podiatrist can examine the feet and ankles to find issues that affect balance. The examination includes checking skin health, joint movement, and muscle strength. The podiatrist can also assess how the patient stands and walks. This can reveal an uneven gait, which means the feet and legs do not move in a steady pattern. Treatment options include custom orthotics to improve foot position and stability. A podiatrist can recommend shoes with proper support, secure fasteners, and slip-resistant soles. They can also treat painful corns, thick toenails, or other foot problems that make walking difficult.

Falls prevention also requires attention to the places where seniors move each day. Clear pathways, strong stair railings, and good lighting can reduce hazards. Grab bars near the toilet and shower provide added support. Regular eye and hearing examinations can help seniors notice obstacles and respond to their surroundings. Seniors should also report changes in sensation, recurring ankle problems, and difficulty lifting the feet. Routine podiatric visits help track changes in foot health and allow treatment plans to be adjusted. Early care can support safer movement, greater confidence, and continued independence. If you are a senior and have fallen, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions, and additional guidance on fall prevention tips.

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

Foot blisters are a common issue for hikers and can quickly turn an enjoyable outing into a painful experience. A blister is a fluid-filled pocket that forms between layers of skin due to repeated friction, heat, and pressure. When hiking, the forefoot and heel are especially vulnerable because they hold most of the body weight and experience constant motion within the shoe. Skin hydration level plays a critical role in blister formation, as both overly dry and overly moist skin can increase friction and reduce the skin’s ability to resist shear forces.

Symptoms of foot blisters include redness, tenderness, and the development of a raised fluid filled area. In early stages, hikers may notice hot spots, which are areas of irritation that signal an impending blister. When the forefoot and heel are exposed to repeated stress, these hot spots can progress into painful blisters that make walking difficult. Hydrated zones of the foot, where moisture levels are balanced, are better able to withstand friction. However, excessive sweating can soften the skin, making it more prone to breakdown, while dry skin can crack and increase susceptibility to injury.

Risk factors for foot blisters include ill-fitting footwear, long hiking distances, and inadequate moisture control. Socks that do not wick moisture effectively can trap sweat and create a damp environment. Uneven terrain and downhill walking increase pressure on the forefoot, while uphill climbs place more strain on the heel. Poorly conditioned skin that is not accustomed to long hikes is also more likely to develop blisters. Understanding the relationship between hydration and friction is essential for prevention.

Preventing foot blisters involves maintaining proper skin hydration, wearing well fitting shoes, and using moisture wicking socks. Applying protective padding to high-risk areas like the heel and forefoot can reduce friction. Gradually increasing hiking intensity allows the skin to adapt and become more resilient. If you have frequent foot blisters from hiking, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective management and prevention tips.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Abeer M. Foteh, DPM of Greater Houston Foot Centers. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often 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.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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.

Extra body weight places greater pressure on the feet, making everyday activities more difficult for many older men and women. The feet support the body's weight with every step, so increased loading can affect joints, muscles, ligaments, and other soft tissues. Research shows that higher body weight is linked to a greater chance of foot pain in older adults. It is also associated with problems like hammer toes and claw toes in some patients. Increased pressure beneath the feet can reduce comfort while walking and affect balance, mobility, and overall quality of life. These changes can make it harder to stay active and maintain independence.

A podiatrist evaluates foot structure, walking patterns, and pressure distribution to identify areas experiencing excessive stress. The examination also looks for changes in toe alignment, joint movement, and skin condition that could affect comfort. Treatment includes custom orthotics, footwear recommendations, and care for painful foot conditions that develop because of increased pressure. A podiatrist can also recommend strategies that improve foot function and reduce unnecessary strain while walking. Regular evaluations help monitor changes in foot health and identify problems before they become more difficult to manage. Improving foot support and movement can also make daily activities more comfortable and help maintain mobility.

Foot pain should never be accepted as a normal part of aging or excess body weight. Persistent discomfort can discourage walking and other forms of activity, creating a cycle that further affects health and mobility. Early podiatry care can improve comfort, reduce pressure on sensitive areas, and help patients remain active with greater confidence. Research found that increasing body weight raises the likelihood of foot pain in both older men and women, highlighting the importance of early evaluation and treatment. If you have symptoms of obesity-related foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned 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.

Obesity and Your Feet

People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.

Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity

• When the body is overweight, it tries to compensate by changing the way that it moves. An obese person may lean forward and put extra weight on the wrong part of the foot. This puts unnecessary stress on the feet.
• Obese people are also more likely to develop type II diabetes which is a condition that causes a lot of foot problems. People with diabetes often don’t feel the cuts and sores that they may have on their feet, which can lead to more complicated and severe issues.
• Plantar fasciitis is another foot condition that can be caused by obesity. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes pain and stiffness while walking and climbing stairs.

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

Ankle sprains happen when the strong ligaments that support the ankle stretch too far or tear after the foot twists in an awkward direction. Ligaments are bands of tissue that connect bones and help keep joints stable. A sprain can occur while running, stepping on an uneven surface, or missing a step. The injury can affect the ligaments on the outside of the ankle or the higher ligaments between the lower leg bones. The severity ranges from mild stretching to a complete tear. Prompt evaluation is important because walking on an injured ankle too soon can make the damage worse and increase the risk of repeated sprains. Wearing shoes that provide good support also helps reduce unnecessary stress on the ankle.

Symptoms include pain, swelling, and trouble putting weight on the foot. Some people notice limited movement or a feeling that the ankle is unstable while walking. Others hear or feel a popping sensation when the injury happens. More severe sprains can make standing and daily activities very difficult. A careful examination helps determine the type and severity of the injury. Imaging tests, like X-rays or other scans, are sometimes needed to rule out a fracture or identify more serious damage. Early diagnosis also helps reduce the chance of long-term ankle problems.

Podiatrists evaluate ankle stability, joint movement, and walking patterns to understand how the injury affects foot function. Treatment focuses on protecting the damaged ligaments, restoring healthy movement, and helping the ankle regain stability. A podiatrist also monitors healing, identifies signs of ongoing instability, and recommends ways to reduce stress on the ankle during recovery. Early care helps lower the risk of repeated sprains, chronic pain, and reduced mobility. Proper treatment also supports a safer return to work, sports, and other daily activities. If you have symptoms of an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, 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.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Baytown, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.