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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: May 2018

Tuesday, 29 May 2018 00:00

Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis affects approximately 400,000 people in the UK. Most sufferers tend to be between the ages of 40 and 50. This condition is known to affect the joints, and many people experience the effects of arthritis in their feet. Some of the initial warning signs of rheumatoid arthritis are swelling, redness, or tenderness in the joints. If you suffer from joint pain and tenderness for a period lasting around or longer than six weeks, there is a good chance you may be suffering from arthritis. Another common symptom is stiffness felt in the joints when first waking up. Often times, joints in the feet will become painful in those with rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, many arthritis sufferers notice that if a joint on one side of the body is in pain, the same joint on the other side of the body will be in pain as well. If you are afflicted with this condition it’s suggested to schedule a consultation with a podiatrist to determine the severity of this ailment and discuss the best treatments options available.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Dr. James Kutchback of James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

  • Swelling and pain in the feet
  • Stiffness in the feet
  • Pain on the ball or sole of feet
  • Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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.

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Wednesday, 23 May 2018 00:00

Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

Published in Blog
Monday, 21 May 2018 00:00

Why Do My Feet Itch During Pregnancy?

A condition that women may observe during pregnancy can be itchy feet. Other symptoms that may be experienced include extreme fatigue, loss of appetite or vomiting, which may indicate serious health complications. If the feet experience severe itching, this may be referred to as cholestasis, and this condition typically affects the liver. Additionally, vitamin deficiencies may occur, which may possibly harm the fetus and may also occur in future pregnancies. Research has shown that possible hormonal changes may be responsible if cholestasis occurs and may be diagnosed properly through laboratory tests. Lotions may be chosen to help alleviate all or a portion of the itchy feeling, contrary to ingesting oral medications, which may harm the baby. It’s suggested to schedule a consultation with a podiatrist if you are affected by itchy feet during pregnancy.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. James Kutchback from James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

  • Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
  • Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
  • Wear shoes with good arch support
  • Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
  • Elevate feet if you experience swelling
  • Massage your feet
  • Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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.

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Monday, 14 May 2018 00:00

Causes of Flat Feet

Flat feet is a common foot condition that affects millions of Americans. The feet are the foundation of the body, and any misalignment that occurs from flat feet may affect the rest of it. An assessment is often performed to determine the severity of one's flat feet. The ankles may show signs of turning in, and this can an individual’s gait. There are several reasons why flat feet develop, such as an injury that has occurred, diseases like diabetes, or conditions that may develop from arthritis, which may alter the structure of the foot. You may notice pain and swelling surrounding the ankle, and this is a general sign that this condition may be present. Visit a podiatrist for a proper evaluation and possible treatment options.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. James Kutchback from James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

  • Pain around the heel or arch area
  • Trouble standing on the tip toe
  • Swelling around the inside of the ankle
  • Flat look to one or both feet
  • Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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.

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Monday, 07 May 2018 00:00

Is Toenail Fungus Contagious?

If you are experiencing yellow and brittle toenails, you may have what is referred to as a toenail fungus. It is a reasonably common condition affecting millions of Americans and can be uncomfortable and unattractive. Research has shown that this contagious condition is caused by a fungus and may be prevented by wearing appropriate shoes in public showers, pools, and surrounding areas. Additionally, this condition may develop from an injury endured by the toenail or from wearing shoes that fit improperly, often providing inadequate room for the toes to move about. Toenail fungus may affect people who are diabetic, and these individuals must execute accelerated action for proper treatment. Please schedule a consultation with a podiatrist for additional information and proper treatment options for toenail fungus.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, 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.

Symptoms

  • Warped or oddly shaped nails
  • Yellowish nails
  • Loose/separated nail
  • Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
  • Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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.

 

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There are many benefits in stretching the feet and toes, including improved posture and the ability to maintain balance in certain yoga poses and in everyday activities. Learning how to stretch the toes can aid in developing the feeling of being centered and can potentially help one attain overall personal power. Stretching can easily be achieved by using pedicure separators that are often worn in nail salons or by sitting on the floor and and stretching the toes on one foot with your opposite hand, then repeating on the other side. Pointing and flexing the toes, in addition to rotating the ankles, is beneficial in maintaining strength in the entire foot. This can help make performing everyday activities easier.  Please consult a podiatrist for additional information about the benefits of performing stretching exercises for the feet.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Dr. James Kutchback from James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

  • Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
  • Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
  • Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
  • Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.

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.

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Published in Blog
Wednesday, 02 May 2018 00:00

Before you start dancing...

 

Published in Blog