If you need a more accessible version of this website, click this button on the right.Switch to Accessible Site

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

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

Like us on Facebook
Like us on X
Review us on Google

September 2021

Wednesday, 29 September 2021 00:00

Ways to Keep the Feet Healthy as They Age

As the feet age and get older, they take a beating while supporting the body’s weight. As the skin gets older, it begins to lose elasticity as well which can lead to more blisters, cuts, and infections. Thankfully, there are a few things that the elderly can do to help care for their feet and prevent future issues. First off, it is important to keep the feet clean and dry. This will help reduce the chances of fungi forming and causing issues such as athlete’s foot or fungal nail infections. In order to prevent ingrown toenails, it is key to keep the toenails trimmed short and straight across. Maintaining a healthy weight is also key to keeping pressure off of the feet. Any sores or wounds should be monitored and checked by a podiatrist as well. If you are experiencing pain in the feet, or if you have questions about caring for your feet, consulting with a podiatrist is key to keeping your feet healthy for a long time. 

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, 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.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

  • Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
  • Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
  • Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
  • Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
  • Shoes that don’t fit properly
  • Pressure sores
  • Loss of circulation in legs & feet
  • Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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 Elderly Foot Care
Tuesday, 21 September 2021 00:00

The Consequences of a Fall

Falls are the leading cause of injury and hospitalizations in older adults across North America. Most falls occur in the home, due to slipping or stumbling. Falls can result in both minor and major injuries, from bruises and sprains to dislocations and fractures. Injuries sustained from a fall can make falling in the future more likely, as they can impair mobility and decrease an older adult’s self-confidence when it comes to getting around their home and community. There are several steps that you can take to prevent falls, including removing tripping hazards from the home, installing non-slip mats and grab bars in slippery areas, and using a mobility aid when needed. To learn more about preventing falls, please consult with a podiatrist.  

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 Podiatry Associates of Victoria. 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 office located in Victoria, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Falls Prevention
Friday, 17 September 2021 00:00

Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?

Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

Tuesday, 14 September 2021 00:00

What Is Tennis Toe?

Tennis toe is a common sports injury where damage to the toe causes blood to collect beneath the toenail, giving the nail a black or red appearance. Other names for this condition include “subungual hematoma” and “runner’s toe,” as it is common among runners and other athletes who participate in activities that place immense pressure on the toes. In addition to nail discoloration, the affected toe may also throb, and the nail can thicken and become brittle. Although it can be painful, this condition is not indicative of a broken toe. Mild cases are treated by cleaning the affected nail with an antiseptic and covering it with a dressing to prevent infection, although it does take a few months for a new, healthy nail to grow out. Severe cases, characterized by significant bleeding, swelling or infection, may require a small hole to be drilled into the nail to drain the blood that has pooled beneath it. If you are suffering from tennis toe, please seek the care of a podiatrist. 

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, 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.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

  • Achilles Tendonitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains
  • Broken Foot
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Stress Fractures
  • Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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 Sports Related Foot And Ankle Injuries
Tuesday, 07 September 2021 00:00

Have You Broken Your Ankle? 

broken ankle is a fracture in one or more of the three ankle bones: the talus, fibula, and tibia. This injury may produce symptoms such as pain of varying degrees, tenderness, bruising, and swelling. In the most severe cases, your ankle may have become misshapen, or a bone may be protruding. Applying weight to the affected ankle may be limited or impossible. If you believe you may have broken an ankle, seeking the care of a podiatrist is very important to receive prompt and proper care. This will help prevent your injury from worsening or becoming infected, while making sure your ankle heals properly. After a thorough examination and diagnostic testing, the podiatrist will present you with the best course of treatment for your particular situation. They may help relieve pain and swelling with icing, elevation and prescription painkillers, and use stabilization methods (splints, casts, or boots) to allow it to heal. You will be instructed about when weight may be applied to the affected foot again. If your fracture is severe, your podiatrist may advise that surgery is needed to repair damaged bones, realign the ankle, and avoid long term complications.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, 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. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

  • Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
  •  Swelling around the area
  •  Bruising of the area
  • Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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 All About Broken Ankles
Wednesday, 01 September 2021 00:00

What Happens During an Ankle Sprain?

A common symptom of an ankle sprain is redness and swelling after it has been twisted. It can happen as a result of stepping off of a curb unexpectedly, and this may cause the ligaments on the outside of the ankle to stretch and tear. When an ankle sprain is mild, the ankle may feel stiff, and it can be relatively stable to walk on. Bruising and tenderness may be apparent if the sprain is severe, and walking can be difficult. It is important to rest and elevate the affected foot immediately after the incident has occurred, and this may help to relieve a portion of the swelling. Some patients find it useful to wear an elastic compression wrap, and this can be beneficial in providing adequate stability as the healing process occurs. If you have sprained your ankle, please consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and effectively this condition.

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

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 Victoria, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Ankle Sprains
Connect With Us