March 2020

Diabetic patients tend to have a higher chance of developing foot conditions, most commonly, foot ulcers. A foot ulcer can be defined as an open sore that heals slowly. This condition typically affects a patient’s big toe, or the ball of the foot. Diabetic patients are more at risk for developing a foot ulcer for a variety of reasons, including nerve damage. Because nerve damage can cause a loss of feeling in the feet, diabetic patients may not always be aware if they have injured their feet or have developed a wound. If wounds are left untreated for too long, it is likely for an infection to develop, causing more severe foot damage. To help prevent wounds on the feet from causing serious harm, it’s suggested that if you are a diabetic patient, you check your feet on a daily basis for any abnormalities. For more information on wound care, please speak with a podiatrist for professional care.

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 Dr. Eugenio Rivera from Calo Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor 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 office located in Bellaire, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Research has indicated that adult feet have grown approximately two sizes larger than they were in the 1970’s. This is a result of the human species growing taller, and the feet having to accommodate the weight and size of the body. It can be beneficial to make sure there is a half inch between the longest toe and the top of the shoe. A shoe that fits properly will feel good when it is first tried on. It is suggested to wear the socks that will be worn with the shoes you’re interested in purchasing, in addition to shopping for shoes at the end of the day when the feet are at their largest. If you would like more information about how to buy shoes that fit correctly, please consult with a podiatrist.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Eugenio Rivera from Calo Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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

Orthotics are known as insoles that fit inside shoes, which may help to provide the necessary support needed for specific foot conditions. They are custom designed for each patient, and the process begins with taking a plaster mold of the affected foot. The necessary adjustments can be made for size, as this will help the insole to fit perfectly inside the shoe. Some of the reasons why patients choose to wear orthotics may consist of correcting an abnormal walking pattern, or to relieve pressure in a portion of the foot. Additionally, orthotics may help to reduce chronic foot pain, as well as improve certain foot alignments. If you would like more information about custom-made orthotics, please consult with a podiatrist who can determine if they are right for you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Dr. Eugenio Rivera from Calo Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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

There are noticeable symptoms when a patient experiences an Achilles tendon injury. These often include severe pain and discomfort in the heel and calf areas, and it may appear red and swollen. It can be difficult to flex and point the toes, which generally makes it painful to walk. It may occur as a result of the aging process, or if medical conditions exist, such as flat feet. Mild relief may be found when specific stretches are frequently performed. A stretch that may positively affect the calf muscles can be performed while standing on a step and gently lowering one heel, and holding for several seconds, followed by repeating on the other leg. Additionally, it may be beneficial to wear custom-made orthotics, which can help to provide additional support. If you have injured your Achilles tendon, it is advised that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist so the correct treatment can begin.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Eugenio Rivera of Calo Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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

There are a few different types of running injuries that can occur. These often include plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and the ankle can endure a fracture or sprain. The plantar fascia connects the toes to the heel, and may become inflamed if the patient frequently runs. This can be prevented by wearing shoes that fit correctly, and performing stretches that are designed to stretch the Achilles tendon before and after completing a run. If the ankle is twisted while running and becomes sprained, it may help to wrap an elastic bandage around it for additional support. This type of injury may be prevented by incorporating flexibility and strength training exercises into a daily workout routine. If you would like additional information about how to prevent running injuries, please consult with a podiatrist.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Eugenio Rivera of Calo Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

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