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The Impact of Wearing the Wrong Shoe Size

Wearing shoes that do not fit properly can cause a range of painful foot problems. Shoes that are too tight may lead to blisters, bunions, hammertoes, and corns, in addition to ingrown toenails, and sore arches. Shoes that are too large can cause inadequate ankle support, increasing the risk of ankle sprains and instability. Poorly fitted footwear also alters the way you walk, which can lead to long-term joint or posture issues. A podiatrist can assess your feet, recommend the correct shoe size and style, and provide treatments for any existing conditions caused by improper footwear. If you have foot pain or a specific condition from wearing the wrong shoe size, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on the correct size shoes to wear.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from James Kutchback, DPM, CWS-P. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

  • When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
  • Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
  • Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
  • Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
  • If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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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Understanding Ganglion Cysts on the Feet

Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled lumps that commonly form along tendons or joints, including on the feet. These non-cancerous cysts vary in size and can sometimes cause discomfort, especially if located in areas that bear weight or experience friction from shoes. While the exact cause of ganglion cysts remains unclear, repetitive stress on the foot joints or trauma may contribute to their development. Symptoms range from a visible lump to pain, limited movement, and, in some cases, numbness if the cyst presses on nearby nerves. While ganglion cysts are generally harmless, treatment may be necessary if they cause discomfort or impede movement. Treatment options include draining the fluid, or, in more persistent cases, surgical removal. If you have this type of cyst, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an exam and monitoring.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists  from James Kutchback, DPM, CWS-P. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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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Flat Feet in Children

Flat feet in children occur when the arches of the feet do not develop as expected, causing the entire foot to touch the ground. Some children outgrow flat feet as their muscles and bones strengthen, while others may develop persistent issues. Causes include having a tight Achilles tendon, tarsal coalition where foot bones fuse, and rigid flat feet that do not change with movement. A podiatrist can assess foot structure, recommend stretching exercises, orthotics, or treatment to improve comfort and prevent future problems. If your child has pain or difficulty walking from having flat feet, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment relief and treatment solutions.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from James Kutchback, DPM, CWS-P. Our doctors 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 care needs.

Read more about Flat Feet

Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

Understanding Bunions and When Surgery May Be Needed

A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe, as the top of the toe leans inward. It may appear red, swollen, and feel painful or stiff, especially when walking or wearing tight shoes. Common causes include inherited foot structure, arthritis, or wearing narrow footwear. Symptoms range from mild discomfort to persistent pain, limited movement, and visible deformity. A podiatrist can diagnose a bunion through a physical exam and X-rays. Non-surgical treatments include custom orthotics, padding, anti-inflammatory medication, or shoe modifications to relieve pressure. If conservative methods fail and pain interferes with daily life, surgery may be considered. Surgical benefits include pain relief and improved foot alignment, but risks may include infection, nerve damage, or a lengthy recovery. Every case is unique, and a podiatrist can help determine the best course of action. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for proper evaluation and care.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact one of our podiatrists of James Kutchback, DPM, CWS-P. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

  • Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
  • Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

  • Redness and inflammation
  • Pain and tenderness
  • Callus or corns on the bump
  • Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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
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