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Podiatrist, Foot Doctor James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P located in The Woodlands, TX 77384 and Woodville, TX 75979 area

The Woodlands
Woodville
(936) 273-3311

 
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Items filtered by date: November 2017

Monday, 27 November 2017 00:00

Treating and Preventing Cracked Heels

Cracked heels are generally a minor and common – albeit discomforting – foot condition. The heels typically become cracked because of a lack of moisture. Therefore, it is important to moisturize your feet if they tend to become dry. Apply a moisturizer twice daily to help prevent the skin on the feet from becoming cracked. Washing your feet daily in a foot bath can help as well. It is important to keep the foot dry beyond moisturizing because bacteria and fungus thrive in wet and hot environments, like the feet. Wear socks that allow the feet to breath. Cotton socks are standard wear for most people and should be fine, but synthetic socks generally wick away moisture and allow for better air circulation. Similarly, shoes should be breathable as well.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. James Kutchback from James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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

Read more about Solutions for Cracked Heels
Published in Blog
Monday, 20 November 2017 00:00

Miami Heat Forward Breaks Foot

Miami Heat forward player Okaro White recently broke his left foot. The 6’ 8’’ second year player sustained the injury while performing a layup in a practice drill. The injury will most likely leave him on the sidelines for a couple of months, and he will be undergoing surgery to repair his fractured fifth metatarsal in his foot. Miami Heat general manager Andy Elisburg and president  Pat Riley are currently figuring out the best course of strategy to replace White while he recovers.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. James Kutchback from James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor 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 our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Sports Related Foot And Ankle Injuries
Published in Blog
Wednesday, 15 November 2017 00:00

Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked

Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.

Published in Blog

Researchers have recently examined data and found that elderly persons who engaged in exercise programs were 49 percent less likely to have an injury caused by a fall. In addition to this impressive result, those who partook in exercise programs and vision exams had 83 percent lower odds of an injury resulting from a fall. Those who took vitamin supplements and had geriatric assessments in addition to exercise programs and vision exams had 88 percent lower odds. This data helps to show that not only did these steps help prevent falls, they also reduced the impact of an injury from a fall.

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 Dr. James Kutchback from James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor 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 offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Falls Prevention
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When it comes to surgery, podiatrists ensure that all nonsurgical options are exhausted first. A bunion is a bony bump that occurs on the joint at the base of the big toe and can be treated with nonsurgical means. Not all bunions are serious or produce symptoms; however, they can become worse over time without treatment. Treatment options that podiatrists typically consider include roomier and comfortable shoes, bunion pads, and anti-inflammatory medication. Better-fitted shoes will help prevent the bunion from pressing up against the inside of the shoe. Bunion pads also help prevent the bunion from becoming compressed. Anti-inflammatory medication can help reduce inflammation and pain. A cortisone shot may be recommended for longer-lasting relief. If these or other options do not produce results, and the pain is severe, a podiatrist may then recommend surgery to treat the bunion.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. James Kutchback of James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

  • Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
  • Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
  • Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
  • Orthotics or foot inserts
  • Surgery

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

Read more about Bunions
Published in Blog