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Podiatry Associates of Victoria
116-A Imperial Drive
Victoria, TX 77901

(361) 578-2777
Fax (361) 578-2778

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November 2020

Monday, 30 November 2020 00:00

The Purpose of Orthotics

Orthotics are specialized shoe inserts that are designed to treat a variety of foot conditions. While orthotics can be purchased over the counter, those that are custom made are specifically designed for each individual and are considered to be the most effective, and made of higher quality than prefabricated orthotics. They can be used to treat certain foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, arthritis, high arches, or flat feet. Orthotics can correct an abnormal walking pattern, relieve pressure, reduce pain, and improve the foot’s overall mechanics. If you have persistent foot pain, ask your doctor whether foot orthotics may help you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Associates of Victoria. Our doctors 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 Victoria, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Foot Orthotics
Monday, 23 November 2020 00:00

Managing Pain From Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that causes a reduction or loss of sensation in the lower limbs. Common symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include pain, a pins-and-needles sensation in the lower limbs, numbness, and weakness. Chronic stress can potentially worsen the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. When experiencing stress, it is important to continue to maintain healthy eating habits and positive social relationships with friends, family, and caregivers to reduce the risk of exacerbating peripheral neuropathy pain. To learn more about how to manage peripheral neuropathy, please speak with a podiatrist.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Associates of Victoria. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

  • Numbness
  • Sensation loss
  • Prickling and tingling sensations
  • Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
  • Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

Read more about Neuropathy
Saturday, 21 November 2020 00:00

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Monday, 16 November 2020 00:00

What Is Clubfoot?

Clubfoot is a foot deformity present from birth that affects a baby’s bones, muscles, tendons, and blood vessels. In children with clubfoot, the front half of an affected foot turns inwards and the heel points down, resembling a club. About half of children who have clubfoot have it in both feet. While this condition is not painful for babies, early treatment is highly recommended to ensure that the child can eventually walk and perform other functional activities. Clubfoot is typically treated by using a series of casts and braces to rotate the child’s foot into the correct position over time. Children who complete treatment typically grow up to have normal function in their feet. For more information about this condition, consult with a podiatrist today. 

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Podiatry Associates of Victoria. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

Read more about What to Do to Keep Your Child’s Feet Healthy
Monday, 09 November 2020 00:00

Causes of Fungal Nail Infections

Fungal nail infections, also known as onychomycosis, can cause the nails to become thick, yellow, and crumbly. Fungal nail infections are usually not painful unless they become severe. Small cracks in the nail or the skin surrounding the nail allow for fungi to come into the nail and infect it. Those who have an injury to the nail, are diabetic, or have a weakened immune system, are said to be at a higher risk of developing a fungal nail infection. Fungi often thrive in warm, moist environments, such as locker rooms and public pools, and the fungi tend to spread to others while in these areas. Because antifungal medication or removal of the nail may be necessary to get rid of the infection fully, those who are experiencing a fungal nail infection should consult a podiatrist.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Podiatry Associates of Victoria. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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

Read more about Treating Toenail Fungus
Monday, 02 November 2020 00:00

All About Bruised Heels

If you are an athlete, you may be familiar with bruised heels. This can be a painful and potentially debilitating injury. It can occur from both acute trauma and from repetitive impacts to the foot. Some people have specific risk factors that can increase their likelihood of getting a bruised heel. These risk factors include excessive body weight, older age, wearing poorly cushioned or worn-out running shoes, a sudden increase in training, training on a hard or uneven surface, and walking or training barefoot. If you have a bruised heel, you can reduce pain and swelling by following the PRICE acronym. Protect, rest, ice, compress, and elevate the affected foot. You may also want to seek further treatment from a podiatrist.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Podiatry Associates of Victoria. 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 office located in Victoria, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Heel Pain
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