January 2024

Managing foot pain involves a comprehensive approach aimed at ensuring effective relief and long-term foot health. Initially, a precise diagnosis from a podiatrist is essential, which is achieved through a combination of medical history assessment, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as X-rays or MRI scans. Once the underlying cause is identified, various forms of treatment can be considered. Custom-made orthotic inserts tailored to provide personalized support, correct gait abnormalities, and alleviate pressure on problem areas of the feet can be prescribed. Suggestions for appropriate shoes for needed arch support, cushioning, and fit might be given. Foot splints or braces can be beneficial for specific conditions, and surgical procedures are considered when conservative measures fail to address structural issues or severe pain. Lifestyle modifications, including weight management and activity adjustments, are emphasized to reduce stress on the feet. If you are suffering from foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to manage the pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall quality of life.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, 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.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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.

Lymphoedema is a condition where the legs or feet swell due to fluid buildup because the body's lymphatic system, which functions similarly to veins, is struggling to remove it. This swelling is called edema and can happen when you do not move enough, such as after sitting for long periods during a flight. Persistent swelling of the feet, swelling that lasts over three months, is known as chronic edema, which suggests the beginning of lymphatic failure or early lymphoedema. If left untreated, chronic foot edema can cause skin changes, deeper tissue damage, and increase the risk of infections such as cellulitis. It is often associated with chronic venous insufficiency. Various factors can contribute to lymphoedema, including genetics, obesity, inactivity, vein problems, or damage from cancer treatments. Joint surgery may also impair lymphatic vessels, leading to lymphoedema. If you are experiencing swollen feet on a regular basis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible to obtain treatment and prevent serious complications.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. 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.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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.

Embarking on the journey of distance running necessitates a discerning choice in footwear, an essential companion for every stride. Wearing the right distance running shoes is one of the ways to avoid injuries. Designed with meticulous precision, distance running shoes are crafted to endure the relentless rhythm of long-haul runs. These shoes seamlessly blend support and cushioning, striking an equilibrium that cradles the foot through each mile. The robust yet lightweight construction becomes a symbiotic extension of the runner, mitigating impact and maximizing efficiency. Breathable materials envelop the foot, ensuring comfort and ventilation. The soles, engineered for durability, provide a reliable grip on the terrain beneath, enhancing stability and confidence. If you require additional information about the right type of shoe for your running needs, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, 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.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

• Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
• Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
• Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

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.

Children's feet undergo remarkable changes and development throughout their early years, playing a pivotal role in their overall well-being. During infancy, a child's feet have a soft and pliable structure, gradually forming the arches over time. It is essential to allow infants to kick and stretch their feet freely, aiding in natural muscle development. As children begin to walk, usually around their 12 to 18 months, selecting proper footwear becomes critical. Shoes should provide ample support without constricting movement. Flat feet are common in toddlers, but arch development generally progresses with age. Regular observation is vital to detect any irregularities or signs of discomfort. Children's feet grow rapidly, necessitating regular shoe size checks and replacements. Additionally, fostering good hygiene practices, such as keeping toenails properly trimmed and addressing any foot pain promptly, contributes to the overall health and well-being of children's feet. If you notice any foot problems in your child, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can perform an exam and determine the cause.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, 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.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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.

Gout, once associated with excess and opulence, is making a modern resurgence, affecting nearly 4 percent of adults in the US. Gout, a painful inflammatory arthritis, can be found in both men and women, although men are three times more likely to develop it. Caused by the crystallization of uric acid within joints, gout can be both debilitating and chronic. Uric acid, a byproduct of cellular processes, accumulates when the body produces too much or doesn't excrete enough. Gout attacks occur when uric acid levels become excessively high, forming crystals that trigger inflammation and intense pain. The initial gout attack typically targets one joint, often the big toe, with subsequent attacks potentially affecting various joints simultaneously. Joints in the foot, ankle, knee, and even fingers may be affected. During an attack, the affected joint becomes red, swollen, and extremely tender. Even the slightest pressure can induce severe pain. Gout attacks tend to occur suddenly, with nighttime flares being more common. The effect on daily life during a gout attack is significant. While there is no cure for gout, medications and self-management strategies may help to alleviate symptoms and prevent future flares. For help in managing gout, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Eugenio Rivera from Calo Foot & Ankle Specialists. 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 Bellaire, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.