Items filtered by date: October 2024

Warming up the ankles before running is essential for preventing injuries and improving overall mobility. Incorporating specific exercises can enhance flexibility and strengthen the surrounding muscles. One effective exercise is the Achilles tendon stretch, which involves gently leaning forward while keeping the back leg straight to stretch the tendon and calf muscles. Ankle inversion and eversion exercises further promote joint stability. To perform ankle inversion, rotate the foot inward against resistance, while ankle eversion involves moving the foot outward. Both movements help strengthen the muscles around the ankle, enhancing support. The ankle alphabet is a fun and effective way to improve range of motion. While seated, use the big toe to trace each letter of the alphabet in the air. These warm-up exercises not only prepare the ankles for running but also contribute to better overall performance and reduced risk of injury. If you have injured your foot or ankle while running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment options, and guide you on additional injury prevention techniques.

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Total Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

• Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
• Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
• “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
• Cross-Training is Crucial
• Wear Proper Running Shoes
• Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury

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

Open wounds on the feet can vary in severity and type, each requiring specific care. Abrasions are superficial injuries resulting from friction, They often cause the outer layer of skin to rub off, leading to redness and mild bleeding. Lacerations are deeper cuts that can vary in length and depth, often caused by sharp objects,. They may require stitches for proper healing. Avulsions occur when a portion of the skin is torn away, potentially exposing deeper layers and necessitating immediate medical attention. Puncture wounds result from objects piercing the skin, such as nails or splinters, which can introduce bacteria and lead to infection if not treated properly. Understanding these types of wounds is vital for effective first aid and healing. If you have a foot wound, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what type it is and offer effective treatment methods.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Total Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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

A bruised heel occurs when the protective fat pad beneath the heel bone is damaged from repetitive impact or a sudden injury. This condition is common in athletes who engage in high-impact activities, like running or jumping. It also affects people who wear shoes that lack adequate cushioning. People who are overweight or frequently walk on hard surfaces barefoot are at further risk. Symptoms of heel bruising include pain at the bottom of the heel, which may feel sharp if the bone is also bruised. Sometimes the heel appears red or blue, as the result of bleeding under the skin. Treatment focuses on reducing weight-bearing activities, resting, and protecting the heel with supportive footwear. A podiatrist can recommend customized orthotics, and suggest other modifications to reduce strain on the heel. If left untreated, complications like scar tissue may develop, leading to chronic heel pain. If you have a bruised heel, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Total Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in San Antonio, Uvalde, and Jourdanton, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

As seniors age, the risk of falling increases significantly, making home safety a vital concern. To reduce the likelihood of falls, it is essential to create a safe living environment. Begin by removing clutter from walkways and ensuring that rugs are secured or removed entirely to prevent tripping hazards. Good lighting is essential, and installing brighter bulbs and night lights in hallways and staircases can enhance visibility. Additionally, consider using non-slip mats in bathrooms and grab bars near toilets and in showers for added stability. Regular exercise can also improve balance and strength, further reducing the risk of falls. Wearing supportive shoes instead of slippers can provide better footing. Falling can seriously impact the feet, and may cause seniors to develop foot conditions. If this applies to you or someone you care of, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat foot pain, and guide you toward effective fall prevention techniques.

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 one of our podiatrists from Total Podiatry. Our doctors 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 offices located in San Antonio, Uvalde, and Jourdanton, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Bunions are bony protrusions that form at the base of the big toe, often causing the tip of the toe to angle toward the other toes. Symptoms typically include pain, swelling, and redness around the joint, which may worsen with prolonged standing or walking. Bunions often develop due to genetic factors, improper footwear, or abnormal foot mechanics. Wearing tight or high-heeled shoes can worsen the condition by putting pressure on the toe joint. Diagnosing bunions usually involves a physical examination and may include X-rays to assess the extent of bone displacement and joint damage. For severe cases, surgical options may be considered to correct the deformity and alleviate pain. If you have symptoms of a bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can suggest treatment methods that are right for you.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Total Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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