Keeping Feet Protected on an Arctic Expedition

An arctic expedition is on the bucket list for many climbers and the preparation for an endeavor such as that takes months and even years. Part of the preparation is physical and another large part is collecting the exact gear and supplies to make the expedition a success.

What About Feet?

The right footwear will make or break your mountain top experience. The weather can be extreme so you need to make sure feet are protected from cold temperatures and wetness. The wrong boots will leave feet and toes at risk for frostbite and serious injury.

Doug Stoup is a world-renowned expedition leader who also has a line of boots bearing his name for people who want to follow in his footsteps. Boots such as these are an investment but the features that you get are needed to keep feet safe. These boots and others such as these will keep feet warm in temperatures as low as -148°F. The liners inside wick away moisture to keep feet dry and comfortable. The outsoles are made of specific material that will stay flexible in the cold and have sole patterns that give enough traction in snow and ice.

Sorel is another great brand of boots that will do a great job of protecting feet on an expedition. Their drawstring tops keep snow and water out and feet dry. Waterproof soles and thick removable liners also keep feet comfortable and able to withstand the elements.

Whatever you decide on, the key is to keep feet warm and dry. Frostbite is dangerous and can lead to amputation in some cases. If you are gearing up for an expedition adventure, make sure your feet are ready. Have them evaluated by Dr. Jeff Bowman, foot specialist in Houston, TX. Call our podiatric office at (713) 467-8886 or visit us at www.houstonfootspecialists.com.

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A Runners Guide to Winter Weather Footwear

As the weather starts turning colder, you may be dreading the first snowfall of the year.  While a winter wonderland can make for the perfect holiday season, it can also disrupt your routine.  It’s very important to your health that you stay active all year long.  If the ground is covered in snow, you don’t have to give up your favorite outdoor activities.

To help keep you active this winter follow Dr. Jeffrey Bowman’s helpful tips.

• Maintain ventilation.  Even though it’s cold outside, keep active.  You don’t want your feet to freeze, but you also don’t want them to overheat.  Look for shoes with material to keep your feet warm, but still allow them to breathe.

• Wear socks!  Socks reduce irritation between your feet and your shoes.  They also keep your feet warm through all of your physical activities.  Look for socks made from synthetic materials that can wick away moisture whether it’s from sweat or snow.

• Keep your feet dry.  Take paths with the least amount of snow, ice, slush or water.  Just in case this attempt becomes impossible, you should invest in footwear made from waterproof materials.  This will allow you more traction as you run through the snowy trails.

If you want more information about footwear for the winter, contact our office at (713) 467-8886 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Bowman.

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Do You Know How to Find the Right Pair of Boots this Fall?

The kids are back in school and chilly weather has landed at your doorstep! It can only mean one thing – fall is here! As the weather turns colder it’s time to turn in your summer sandals for a warmer form of footwear.

Boots make the perfect specimen for fall footwear. But with so many styles it can be difficult to find the healthiest pair for your feet. However, we can help you maintain the health of your feet and find the best boots this fall. Follow our tips below.

• Find your best fit. No matter what type of footwear you are purchasing, the fit is always most important. You should try on boots before every purchase and at end of the day when you tend to be more swollen. Take a walk around the store to ensure comfort. Ill-fitting boots can lead to a variety of injuries and painful foot conditions.

• Look for arch support. Your arches bear excessive stress and absorb serious pressure every time you walk, run or participate in any form of physical activity. Your arches require an adequate amount of support in order to cushion every stride and reduce stress. Custom orthotics really helps make your arches much more comfortable and help in a leather or any soft boot.

• Be specific to your activities. Boots come in a variety of styles designed to keep your feet warm and dry. If you are spending the day outside, or going for a long walk, insulated boots can be the perfect solution to keeping your feet warm. Water proof them before outdoor activities. However, if you are going to be spending the day in your heated office or school, you may need a boot with better ventilation or you could spend the day sweating your feet off. You should also think about all of your activities before you pick out the perfect pair.

Healthy and properly fit footwear can help to lower your risk for a variety of foot related ailments. If you require additional information on finding the best boots for your feet, contact our office at (713) 467-8886 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jeffrey Bowman. Appointments are also available online at www.houstonfootspecialists.com.

References:

http://www.houstonfootspecialists.com/library/3778/GettingaProperFit.html
http://www.livestrong.com/article/62613-importance-arch-support/

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Are Crocs healthy for your feet? Or Is It Croc?

Fashion aside, the world has become obsessed with the comfort found in a pair of Crocs. With an assortment of colors from bright patterns to calming pastels, you can be sure to find a pair of Crocs to go with every outfit. However, the true question with Crocs does not lie with fashion, but the most important aspect of this comfy form of footwear is health. Are Crocs healthy for your feet?  Or, do they simply create a cloud of cushion for your walk?

Crocs are extremely light on your feet as heavy shoes weigh your feet down, which make each step a bigger effort. The toe box is wide so your toes can wiggle and tall so the shoe is not pressing down on your toes. They have several holes on the top giving your feet proper ventilation. The Rx Crocs have an antibacterial lining in order to reduce your risk for developing fungal or bacterial infections. Also, crocs give your feet arch support and cushion your feet with every step.

Crocs are a healthy alternative to summer sandals like flip-flops. The classic Crocs are similar in design to that of a clog making them easy to slip on and off of your feet. Crocs are just as easy to slip on, keep your feet cool and maintain your health. They offer your feet greater protection than most other summer sandals while maintaining comfort.

So there you have it, Crocs aren’t just about comfort, but they are all about maintaining the health of your feet. Crocs have the official seal of approval by the APMA, letting you know that Crocs are not only the comfy choice, but the healthy choice. Crocs are perfect for walking and every day use but are not for serious physical activity.

If you have any questions, or require additional information on finding the healthiest footwear for your feet, contact our office at (713) 467-8886 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jeffrey Bowman.

References:

http://diabetes.webmd.com/features/crocs-healthy-shoes-just-comfy
http://www.webmd.com/pain-management/video/crocs-healthy

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Feet Smell? Helpful Hints To Prevent Foot Odor

Foot odor is a common occurrence for many people. In fact, your feet contain more sweat glands than almost any other part of your body. Your feet sweat throughout the day and unfortunately shoes can help lock in heat and moisture, which causes a prominent and unpleasant odor.

However, don’t ditch your shoes because they are worn to protect your feet. Instead you can actively prevent nasty foot odor from occurring! Below are some helpful tips to keep your feet healthy and smelling fresh.

• Clean your feet. Wash your feet, toes and ankles at least once a day. You can scrub your feet with soap and warm water to help eliminate bacteria that causes an odor. Also, make sure to thoroughly dry your feet – especially between your toes. 

• Don’t wear the same shoes. Shoes need a full 24 hours to dry out. Try not to wear the same shoes two days in a row especially in a humid climate like Houston.

• Wash your socks. Wearing socks with shoes can help prevent perspiration. However, make sure you change your socks daily as dirty socks can lead to smelly feet. Always wash your socks after every wear.

• Moisture wicking socks. These are available at many sporting good stores and are helpful when trying to prevent foot and shoe odor.

• Dry out your socks and shoes. If your socks become wet, you need to take them off and toss them in the dirty clothes hamper. Also, if your shoes get wet then you need to air them out before using them again. Wearing wet socks and shoes can lead to fungal infections.

• Apply antiperspirant powder or spray. Apply a spray or powder in your shoes, socks and the bottoms of your feet, on a daily basis. This can drastically reduce your perspiration by keeping your feet dry and odor free. Dr. Bowman carries Mico-Mist Spray in his Houston office which works great.

Sure, feet can smell from time to time, but regularly foul foot odor can be a sign of a bacterial or fungal infection. Also, sweaty feet create the perfect warm and moist environment for infections and fungus to spread to not only the rest of your foot but to others as well.

If you believe you may be suffering from a fungal or bacterial infection on your feet, contact our office at (713) 467-8886 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jeffrey Bowman. Online appointments available at www.houstonfootspecialists.com.

References:

http://www.houstonfootspecialists.com/library/1816/FootOdorandSmellyFeet.html
http://centralctfootcare.blogspot.com/2012/07/do-stinky-feet-have-you-hiding-in-shame.html
http://www.houstonfootspecialists.com/library/1920/Prevention.html

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Do you know to prevent ingrown toenails? Read on for tips from Dr. Bowman!

An ingrown toenail happens when the sides of the toenail grow directly into the surrounding skin of the nail. This condition can be extremely painful and can cause severe inflammation, swelling and tenderness.

Below are some tips to help eliminate ingrown toenails from occurring in the first place. Please follow Dr. Bowman’s helpful tips to keep your feet healthy and reduce your risk of an ingrown toenail.

• Cut toenails properly. You need to trim your toenails on a weekly basis. It’s important to keep your nail from growing over the end of your toe. Trimming toenails straight across is the best way to cut.  You want avoid curving at the ends of the nail, which can direct your toenail to grow into your skin.

• Find your correct fit. Ill-fitting shoes can cause pressure on your feet, especially your toes. Your shoes need to allow your toes room to move and breath comfortably. Your toes should come close to the end, but not actually touch the end of your shoe. Look for shoes with wider toe boxes that provide a nice amount of room for your toes.

• Injuries. Something as simple as someone stepping on your toe can cause and ingrown nail, be aware of your surroundings.

• Avoid high heels. This uncomfortable trend continues to be a common cause of many foot ailments, including ingrown toenails. High heels often have small and pointy toe boxes, which squeeze your toes together. Heels also angle your feet so that your body pushes down upon your toes in overwhelming amounts of pressure.

• Wash your feet regularly. You should scrub your feet and toes at least once a day. Wash with soap and luke warm water.  Also, dry your feet completely, especially between your toes.

• Avoid “Bathroom Surgery”.  Many people try to cut out an ingrown nail themselves.  This will actually make the problem worse by leaving a portion of the nail in the skin that cannot be seen.  This part is called a spicule and will cause more pain and infections.

Ingrown toenails are not only painful, but if you leave them without treatment then it may result in fungal or bacterial infections. Also, the skin on your toes can begin to grow over your toenail. In severe cases, where ingrown toenails lack treatment in a timely manner, they can result in serious infections and the ingrown portion of your nail may need to be surgically removed which is a simple procedure. If you experience an ingrown toenail, please contact our office at (713) 467-8886 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jeffrey Bowman. See Dr. Bowman’s website for more information at www.houstonfootspecialists.com.

References:

http://www.houstonfootspecialists.com/library/1878/IngrownToenails.html
http://www.houstonfootspecialists.com/library/1877/IngrownNails.html

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Football and Soccer Cleats - What’s there to Question?

The summer is waning and kids will soon be back in school and participating in autumn sports if they aren't already. That means new shoes for individual sports that are designed to protect feet from injury and maximize playing potential. Most schools don’t provide the shoes, which leaves young athletes and parents wandering the aisle of the sporting goods store, trying to buy what’s right and getting the best deal for their money. So we're here to help with a couple of tips for buying cleats.

Shopping for Football Cleats

There are so many choices and things to consider it’s difficult to know where to begin. Let the position dictate the profile height of the shoe, and you will probably cut your choices by fifty percent.  Football shoes come in high-top, low-top and mid cut shoes. If you play on the line, you will probably want a high-top shoe that offers added protection to ankles in the instances of fast lateral movements. Mid-cut shoes are preferred by players who have to run, but may need a little extra support. You’ll most likely see mid-cut shoes on quarterbacks, running backs and wide receivers. Some will also wear low-top because of the weight of the shoe.

Considerations before purchasing football cleats:

• What fits your budget
• Leather or synthetic material
• Molded or detachable cleats
• Profile
• Breathability
• Cushioning and arch support

Shopping for Soccer Cleats

When it comes to buying soccer cleats, know what kind of surface you will be playing on. The field condition and material is important to shoe decision because the softer the ground, the longer the cleat should be in order to provide good traction. Also, ask your coach or someone in the league who can tell you if there are any restrictions. These two pieces of information are important and may help you from making a costly mistake. There is a likelihood that surfaces may vary so you may want to select shoes that have removable cleats and simply replacing them can accommodate a variety of playing surfaces or field conditions. Most natural surfaces are considered firm surfaces so it’s possible you would want to choose molded cleats. Cleats that are molded to the bottom of the shoe work fine for a variety of natural surfaces. Your game performance will only be maximized by a comfortable shoe, so make sure your shoes fit properly.

Before you plunk down your hard earned cash, consider the following options so you can purchase the shoe that best meets your needs:

• Full grain leather
• Kangaroo leather
• Removable cleats
• Molded cleats
• Internal cushioning and arch support
• Number and shape of cleats
• Color and style options

Your first consideration has to be foot safety no matter what your athletic endeavor. Occasionally, in the arena of competitive sports, accidents happen. In that case, call Dr. Bowman at (713) 467-8886. His goal is to get you back in play. He’s just the guy to have on your team.

References:

http://www.galttech.com/research/sports/best-football-cleats.php
http://worldsoccer.about.com/od/equipment/Equipment.htm

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Back to School and Right into Fall Sports

It’s time to think about packing the youngsters off to school. Many students also play team sports, so don’t forget to make special preparations for that also. Chances are last year’s cleats can’t be worn this year. The growth factor needs to be considered as well as the condition of the shoes from last season. While they might look great on the outside, the cushioning and support may be negligible. Now that you are resigned to purchasing new shoes, what sport are you outfitting for?

Soccer and football cleats may look a lot alike and their purpose is the same. These shoes provide the athlete with both stability and traction while on the playing field.  Although they may look alike, there are some differences, which mean one pair of cleats cannot be worn for the same sport.
Below are some key differences you should take into consideration:

• Design.  Football cleats come in three profiles, low-cut, mid-cut and high tops. High tops are preferred by the players who do a lot of lateral movement.  Low-cut or mid-cut shoes are worn by players who require increased maneuverability such as running backs and wide receivers. Soccer cleats are only made in low-cut style because not only are they lighter weight, but they also allow for greater speed and agility on the playing surface. 

• Product. Both soccer and football cleats are constructed from hard plastic and can be detachable. Soccer cleats have the option of an aluminum cap that allows for greater traction. Aluminum caps are not allowed on football cleats. Soccer also allows a metal spike in some instances, which is never allowed in football. One feature present in football cleats that is lacking in soccer cleats is the presence of a horizontal toe spike. The function is to help dig in and provide front driven support. Another horizontal mid-sole spike provides traction against fast starts.

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

• Manufacturer.  Most major manufacturers of sports shoes make both football and soccer shoes. You should know the rules governing the shoes for your particular league. For instance, although one inch cleats are manufactured, not all levels of football allow them. Check with the team coach for added specific information governing shoes and take a features list with you when you go shopping.

Safety and foot protection should be your primary concern. Dr. Bowman can provide you with additional tips for foot and ankle safety considerations. You can call him to schedule an appointment at (713) 467-8886. Make sure that all foot and ankle concerns are addressed before your student athlete boards the bus and heads back into the competitive world of school sports.

References:

http://www.livestrong.com/article/111722-difference-between-soccer-football/

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Correcting Overlapping and Underlapping Toes

English: (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Overlapping and underlapping toes are deformities seen when one or more of the toes lies on top of or underneath other toes. Other deformities such as bunions or hammertoes may be present at the same time, and bunions may actually cause toes to overlap. Pressure from the toe box often causes hard corns to develop. Also, soft corns and blisters are apt to develop where the toes rub on each other. The toes themselves generally do not hurt, but the corns and blisters can be very painful.

Overlapping toes usually affects the fifth toe and it can occur prior to birth. A process of stretching and taping can be done during infancy, but the deformity usually returns. There is a surgical procedure where the tendon at the base of the small toe is released allowing the toe to assume a more normal position. On occasion a pin may have to be placed to keep the toe in alignment.

Underlapping toes affect the fourth and fifth toe and are probably caused by unequal strength in muscles. If underlapping toes are present at birth it is called congenital curly toes. This deformity can be corrected surgically with a couple of different procedures depending on whether the toes remain flexible or are rigid. Your foot and ankle specialist can best determine the procedure necessary in your situation.

In order to provide comfort to the patient, the first step in treatment is to change to footwear that will allow room for the deformity. Dr. Bowman may recommend orthotics designed to straighten and space the toes correctly. If this conservative treatment is not successful, a surgical procedure to release the tendon will allow the toe to reposition.

A recap of some of the treatment options include:

• Wide deep shoes to avoid pressure on the deformity

• Corn and callus treatment

• Orthotics to space and align toes

• Surgical treatment

Children with flat feet and high arches distribute weight differently. The faulty biomechanics can cause the toes to assume an abnormal position. Adults can develop overlapping toes as a result of wearing shoes that are too tight and narrow in the toe area.

If you have a bunion watch for symptoms of overlapping toes and call Dr. Bowman at (713) 467-8886. His expert ability to rearrange toe positioning can make your feet pretty again.

References:

http://www.houstonfootspecialists.com/library/1907/OverlappingorUnderlappingToes.html
http://www.prlog.org/10352809-overlapping-and-underlapping-toes.html

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Back to School Preparations for Student Athletes

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

It barely started and is almost over - summer vacation! It just isn’t long enough and as parents look at making back to school preparations, some may tend to agree. Special consideration for the student athlete is the necessary equipment for the first day of practice. If your child participates in an indoor sport like volleyball, they will need a pair of shoes that meet the demands of the sport and provide the best protection for their feet. Their street sneakers probably lack the desired gum-rubber sole that allows for the unique demands placed on them.

There are an estimated thirty million participants in volleyball so shoe manufacturers have researched and spent lots of time in developing footwear that:

• Grips

• Supports

• Absorbs shock

These are key features to look for when making your decision. Normal running shoes just won’t get the job done. Volleyball players do quick and frequent directional changes, which require a sole sure to grip the smooth floor. Manufacturers use a gum-rubber material for the outer sole allowing the participant to start, stop and pivot quickly and a herringbone pattern is added to help avoid slip and fall accidents.

Since the volleyball player spends most of the time on the balls of their feet or toes, support at the midsole is a must. Gel, liquid, air and foam are options that provide support and offer good energy return and rapid recovery.  The best support comes from custom orthotics.

High top shoes are available and aid the player with weak ankles and at the same time help to prevent sprain injuries. For the student athlete who prefers low top shoes, an ankle brace may be an option to consider or Immobilization tapping.

As a volleyball player, the student athlete relies on a shoe that will keep him or her safe and maximize their performance. If the current shoes just aren’t cutting it, perhaps it’s time to retire them and select a shoe with the desired capabilities. A sports store that specializes in indoor court sports has sales staff available to guide you and make recommendations. They are also the best go to person for advice on fit. Purchase the athletic socks you will wear with the shoes and buy the shoes to accommodate both feet and socks. Shoes should not feel tight, if they do, move a half-size up.  Consult with Dr. Bowman about correct shoes for any sport.

If after all this your student athlete sustains a sports injury, call Dr. Bowman at (713) 467-8886. His expertise as a former athlete can minimize lost time and get you back on the court. Online appointments are available at www.houstonfootspecialists.com

References:

http://www.livestrong.com/article/395899-what-type-of-shoes-do-you-need-for-volleyball
http://www.livestrong.com/article/392402-qualities-to-look-for-in-a-volleyball-shoe/

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Problems with the Achilles tendon? Take time out and fix it now!

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles at the back of the leg to the heel bone. It is the largest and strongest tendon in the body and also the most frequently injured. It can withstand tremendous force, but it can also be easily pushed beyond its limits. Sports activities frequently cause Achilles tendon injuries, and it doesn’t matter if you’re a professional athlete or a weekend sports enthusiast, an injury can happen to anyone. Achilles tendonitis occurs when the tendon becomes inflamed and is frequently a result of overuse from running or other activity that can strain the tendon.

Achilles tendonitis may be treated at home with a high rate of success, but there are instances when the tendon tears (ruptures) that need you will quick medical attention. Symptoms that you should watch out for include:

• Pain at the back of the leg and above the heel
• Creaking noise when you touch or move your Achilles tendon
• More severe pain in the morning that diminishes with light activity
• Swelling or bump on the tendon

Mild cases of tendonitis may be treated at home. To relieve painful symptoms try:

• Ice application to affected area
• Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication
• Change of routine to reduce stress to tendon

In order to avoid the onset of tendonitis do the following:

• Increase activity, intensity, and frequency gradually
• Always allow for appropriate warm up time
• Avoid hard and uneven surfaces when running
• Footwear should be changed out every 300 to 500 miles if you run
• Check footwear insoles for proper cushioning and support for all sport activities and make sure you are in the right shoe for that sport.
• Stretch before and after any type of activity

Sudden and intense pain may indicate a tear or rupture of the tendon. It’s important to seek immediate medical attention. Other symptoms that indicate a rupture include the inability to walk normally or bear weight and inability to flex and walk on toes of the affected extremity.

A rupture of the Achilles tendon may be partial or complete. It may be accompanied by a pop or a snap followed by intense pain and the inability to walk normally. Treatment may depend on your age, your level of activity, and the level of tear. Dr. Bowman has extensive training is this area and can evaluate your condition and discuss your best treatment options. There will be a period of rehabilitation for a ruptured tendon. A typical time frame is four to six months for return to prior activity level. 

If you suspect Achilles tendonitis, or possibly a rupture, do not delay treatment and call Dr. Bowman at (713) 467-8886. With his state of the art technology and expertise, Dr. Bowman will diagnose and prescribe a treatment plan developed specifically for you, and you will be speeding along on the road to recovery.  Online appointments available at www.houstonfootspecialist.com.

References:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/achilles-tendinitis/DS00737
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/achilles-tendon-rupture/DS00160

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Hidden Dangers in the Pool

The swimming pool called Olympic (Georgia, Isani, Tbilisi) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

With the temperatures in Houston consistently hitting the 90’s, nothing is more refreshing than a dip in the pool. But if you’re in a pool at a resort, gym, or in a community pool, you need to be wary. There are some dangers lurking around and beneath the water of which you should be aware and mindful.

When you head off to a public pool, the list of belongings in your gym bag needs to include pool shoes and shower thongs. These items are recommended for safety as well as health reasons. However, safety is a priority. The clear blue of the pool looks really inviting, but it’s nearly impossible to see glass on the bottom of the pool, and somehow it manages to find its way there. If a glass gets dropped on the deck and shatters, it’s easy for a shard to end up in the pool.  Wear pool shoes to keep your feet safe from stray glass and uneven tiles. The small tiles used to construct the pool’s bottom have very sharp edges and sometimes are not flush. The raised edge of a mislaid tile can cut your foot as quickly as glass. Pool shoes not only keep your feet safe while in the water, but can reduce the risk of slip and fall injuries while on deck.

The health of your feet is equally as important as keeping them safe from injury. If you don’t wear pool shoes or thongs while on the deck, in the shower, or in the locker room, you expose your feet to athlete’s foot and toenail fungus. Both athlete’s foot and toenail fungus is caused by a fungus that thrives in warm and moist areas. If you are diabetic you must safeguard your feet from health conditions that could result in harm to your feet. Wear your shower thongs or pool shoes, and leave them on your feet until you are ready to pat your feet dry and put on your clean socks and shoes. You may also want to use an anti-fungal spray. Why give fungus a chance. Spray your feet and your shoes and Dr. Bowman will be happy to recommend the proper spray. When you get home, allow your pool shoes time to dry in the sun and fresh air. These are two natural enemies of fungus, and the drying time will ensure they are fresh and ready for your next trip to the pool.

To recap, quickly:

• Watch for hazards
• Wear pool shoes or shower thongs when using public pools, locker rooms, or showers and while on deck
• Keep feet clean and dry
• Use anti-fungal spray on feet and in shoes
• Allow shoes to air-dry completely. The best policy is to not wear the same shoes two days in a row

If you have a foot or ankle injury or a health concern with your feet, call Dr. Bowman at (713) 467-8886 or online at www.houstonfootspecialists.com. His experience and state of the art technology work together to keep your feet healthy and you happy.

References:

http://www.footcaredirect.com/athletes_foot_fungus.html

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