Items filtered by date: June 2024

Friction blisters of the feet are painful lesions caused by repetitive rubbing against the skin. These blisters typically occur on areas of the feet that experience frequent pressure or friction, such as the heels or toes. They appear as fluid-filled sacs beneath the top layer of skin and may cause discomfort when participating in daily activities, such as walking or even wearing shoes. Proper footwear, cushioning, and moisture control are essential for preventing friction blisters. If a friction blister develops, it's important to cover it with a bandage or blister pad, rather than popping it, to minimize the risk of infection. Establishing a hygiene routine for your feet is advised to decrease the likelihood of friction blisters. Additionally, wearing moisture-wicking socks can help maintain a dry environment in your shoes. If you notice signs of a friction blister developing on the foot, it is suggested to discuss personalized care and treatment options with a podiatrist to alleviate discomfort and prevent future blisters. 

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of The Foot Institute. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Westside, Northeast, Eastside, and Northwest, El Paso, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

As the aging population continues to grow, the need for specialized podiatric services in geriatrics is becoming increasingly critical. Older adults often face numerous foot and ankle issues due to years of wear and tear, decreased mobility, and chronic conditions like diabetes, arthritis, and circulatory problems. These issues can significantly impact their quality of life, leading to pain, decreased mobility, and a higher risk of falls and related injuries. Podiatric care is essential for the elderly to maintain their independence and mobility. Regular foot examinations can help prevent and manage conditions, such as bunions, corns, calluses, fungal infections, and foot ulcers. Proper foot care also aids in the early detection and treatment of serious complications such as peripheral neuropathy and poor circulation, which are common in older adults with diabetes. Preventative measures, routine care, and wearing appropriate footwear are vital components of geriatric podiatry services. If you are a senior, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for comprehensive foot health management, and to address any specific concerns you may have about your feet or ankles. 

If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists of The Foot Institute. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Westside, Northeast, Eastside, and Northwest, El Paso, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Sever's disease affects children and adolescents, particularly those engaged in physical activities like sports. It is not a disease but rather a disorder caused by inflammation of the growth plate in the heel bone, known as the calcaneal apophysis. This inflammation results from repetitive stress or tension on the heel bone, often during periods of rapid growth and development. Sever's disease typically affects children between the ages of eight and 14, when the growth plate is still open and vulnerable to injury. Activities that involve running, jumping, or high-impact movements can lead to heel pain, swelling, and tenderness, especially during or after physical activity. Sever's disease is not usually serious and typically resolves with rest and conservative treatments like stretching and heel cushions. However, it can temporarily limit a child's participation in sports and other activities, emphasizing the importance of proper management and injury prevention strategies. If your active child is complaining of heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat Sever’s disease.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from The Foot Institute. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Westside, Northeast, Eastside, and Northwest, El Paso, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

A Jones fracture occurs in the fifth metatarsal bone of the foot and has distinct symptoms that necessitate prompt medical attention. Typically caused by a severe direct impact, this avulsion fracture involves the tearing away of a bone fragment by tendons or muscles. Acute pain is often the primary indicator of a Jones fracture, and individuals experiencing persistent pain at the base of the foot should seek immediate medical attention. Other symptoms associated with a Jones fracture include swelling, bruising, and impaired movement of the little toe. Contrary to common belief, movement may still be possible despite the fracture, but will be accompanied by significant pain. Impaired balance also can signal a potential Jones fracture, highlighting the importance of recognizing all symptoms. Swelling, typically localized around the fifth metatarsal bone and pinky toe is another indication of the likelihood of a Jones fracture. Typically, Jones fractures require approximately six to eight weeks to heal properly, and the foot may be immobilized in a cast during this period to promote optimal healing. If you suspect you may have sustained a Jones fracture, it is suggested that you make an emergency appointment with a podiatrist for a thorough evaluation, including X-rays, and appropriate treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from The Foot Institute. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Westside, Northeast, Eastside, and Northwest, El Paso, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.