Houston Foot Specialists

Monday, April 2, 2012

Spring into spring, but not too fast!

The warm and humid days of spring are here and it’s time to get outside. Take a short daytrip to Galveston for a barefoot walk on the beach, or head on over to Kemah and see what’s cooking on the boardwalk. Just get outside and enjoy the season. As you enjoy a little down time, contemplate how you are going to increase your activity level coming off from an idle winter.

Although we are not so bound by the seasons here in Houston, people generally tend to slack off of physical activity a little anyway during the winter. You runners out there who are getting back into shape and stepping it up by increasing mileage and speed, whoa there a minute. When you try to do too much too soon, you increase the risk of injury to your feet or ankles. If you are a beginning runner, there is even a special program to get you up and running three miles in a two month period (walk/jog). This is exactly what the doctor ordered.

To keep motivated as your train, remember:

- Don’t get impatient. The goal is to get you moving and keep you moving. Start slow and gradually increase in baby-step increments.

- Seek a pleasant environment. Enjoy a park setting or a country road.

- Get loose. Be sure to do 5 minute warm up and cool down exercises.

- Recruit a friend. There is motivation and dedication built in.

- Your shoes are important and kept in good condition. If your feet feel good, it’s easier for you to face your run.

- Treat your feet kindly by bathing or soaking daily and keeping nails groomed. Hey, how about a massage?

- Don’t give up the plan. Conditioning is a gradual thing. You will see results. In the beginning you don’t need to focus on speed or distance.

Allow yourself to progress through your training and conditioning at a reasonable pace. The goal is to make incremental progress. If you get a little over zealous, or sustain a running injury, call Dr. Bowman at (713) 467-8896. He wants to see you make forward strides. If you have a story or comment to share about your running or training, please comment below.

References:

http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,s6-238-267--14242-2-1-2,00.html
http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml

Monday, March 26, 2012

Flat feet - okay for a Platypus, but not for you!

Of all the complaints, woes and discussions that involve feet, how many times do you hear flat feet mentioned? What exactly does it mean and at what point are a person’s feet considered to be flat? Allowing for a bit of individualism, that could be difficult to define.

Pes Planus is a condition where the arch area of the foot has either not properly developed or collapsed to the point where the sole of the foot is nearly in complete contact with the surface the foot is on. Up to thirty-percent of people who have flat feet simply never developed arches in one or both feet.

First, let’s look at congenital flat feet. Flat feet are common in babies and young children. Bones and other tissues take time to develop and strengthen, so the arch of the foot may not be discernible until the child is between 4 and 6 years of age. To make sure the child is developing normally, parents should watch for limping, oddity of gait or symptoms of pain, which may indicate flat feet and seek appropriate treatment for their child.

Flat feet can be acquired as an adult. This can be attributed to aging, illness, injury and continuous stress. Women over 40 are more inclined to develop flat feet. If developed during adulthood, feet will probably remain flat. Known contributing factors include:

    •    Weight

    •    Diabetes

    •    High blood pressure

    •    Pregnancy (may cause temporary flattening of the feet)

As long as the feet remain flexible and do not cause pain in the foot, knee or lower back, they can go untreated. If pain becomes an issue, the first thing you must do is see Dr. Bowman for a correct diagnosis. He can determine if orthotics is necessary or he may assign foot exercises that can help strengthen your arches. In the worst cases surgery may provide relief, but would only be considered after all other methods had been tried.

If you have pain in your arches, lower leg, knees or lower back, you may have flat feet. Call Dr. Bowman at (713) 467-8886 for a correct diagnosis, so you can get back on the right path.

References:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/flatfeet/DS00449
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flat_feet

Monday, March 19, 2012

Deep Vein Thrombosis - Forewarned, or Maybe Not!

Do you experience pain in the lower leg that is maybe only apparent when standing or walking? Is there reddening or swelling along the vein line or increased warmth in the general area of the swelling? If you do, you may have a condition known as DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS (DVT). Some people exhibit no symptoms at all, and may not rank high with regard to noted risk factors.

DVT occurs when blood thickens and forms a clot, which then can break off and travel through the body. It can eventually reach a lung and block a major artery, which impedes the flow of blood. When this blockage occurs, it is called Pulmonary Embolism (PE). This is very serious, and can lead to death.

Risk factors include:
    •    Smoking
    •    Overweight
    •    Over 60 (although it can occur at any age)
    •    Recent Surgery
    •    Cancer treatments
    •    Bedridden
    •    Trauma

There are several means to assist in diagnosing DVT. When you visit Dr. Bowman he will ask you about your medical history, your overall health and your prescription medications. A physical exam of the legs will be done may reveal DVT, or he may require further medical testing.

If you are diagnosed with DVT, it is important to prevent the blood clot from enlarging, moving or recurring. Medication can be prescribed to prevent and treat DVT. Other forms of treatment are Vena Cava filters and compression stockings. Taking measures to prevent DVT is important. You should see your doctor for regular check-ups, and report swelling, pain or warmth in the lower legs.

You should take medications exactly as directed. Exercise regularly, and if you travel, get up and move about to increase circulation. If you have had recent surgery, get up and get moving as soon as your doctor recommends it. This will reduce the chance of blood clots forming. But, the best means of prevention of DVT is assessing your lifestyle, and making the necessary changes. Get your blood pressure under control. If you are overweight, lose the excess, stop smoking and start a healthy and reasonable exercise program.

For more information, or to schedule an appointment, please call Dr. Bowman at 713-467-8886.

Resources:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/deep-vein-thrombosis/DS01005

http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/dvt/

Monday, March 12, 2012

Alcoholic Neuropathy - 12 Steps to a Better Life

Many people enjoy the social aspects of drinking, but patterned consumption can quickly get out of hand. If allowed to continue unchecked, it can lead to long term excessive consumption. This, in turn, can result in a wide array of other health concerns, one being alcoholic neuropathy.

Alcoholic neuropathy is nerve damage caused by the prolonged and excessive use of alcohol. It can be characterized by an awareness of a feeling of tingling, prickling, or needles and pins, usually beginning in the hands and feet. “Excessive” and “prolonged” may be somewhat subjective terms, but research indicates that if you have consumed excess alcohol for 10 years, you are at risk for nerve damage. In addition to the needles and pins, other symptoms may include a general achiness or cramping, nausea, incontinence or difficulty urinating. Men may experience loss of sexual function.

When the sensation of numbing in the feet occurs, it can lead to loss of motor control, falling, and injury. Symptoms are more prevalent in the legs than in the arms, and it comes on gradually and is progressive.

Treatment begins by removing or treating the cause, which in this case is alcohol or alcoholism. It is suggested the patient enroll in a program that can assist in removing the exacerbating factor and help with behavior modification. A 12 step program such as Alcoholics Anonymous is recommended. Since poor nutrition usually goes hand in hand with excessive intake of alcohol, the patient must also focus on better, more healthful nutrition, especially with regard to the B vitamins.

Once drinking as a factor is eliminated, the symptoms may lessen, but long term prognosis does not suggest the reversal of nerve damage. Loss of motor function, severe pain, and possible disability can occur. Alcoholic neuropathy itself is probably not a mortality issue, but it definitely impacts life quality.

If you, or someone you know, are experiencing alcoholic neuropathy and would like to speak to Dr. Bowman about the long term effects and treatment options, please call our office to set up an appointment.

Sources:
www.alcoholism-solutions.com/alcoholic-neuropathy
www.emedicine.medscape.com/article/315159-overview
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001733

Monday, March 5, 2012

Plantar Warts - Small and Annoyingly Painful

Are you experiencing small and fleshy growths on your feet? Perhaps these growths are a little painful or tender when you walk? If you said yes, then you may be experiencing plantar warts. Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They are typically non-cancerous and appear on the bottom of the foot or toes, usually at a point that bears pressure.

Plantar warts are caused by small breaks in the skin, which can allow the virus to gain entry to the body, and if the body’s natural immunities are not too sufficient to ward off the virus, it can grow and sometimes spread. They are characterized by a thickened callous like area, and often have small dark dots, which are tiny blood vessels. If they do grow, they may require treatment.

Treatment varies, and takes time. However, there are some over the counter products available, usually containing Salicylic Acid, that may allow the wart to diminish and eventually disappear. Other possible treatments may include freezing the wart or warts, and surgical removal may be necessary. Houston Foot Specialists also has a laser treatment for removing plantar warts. Also, if the wart grows inward, it can be painful. The wart may appear small on the outside, but become larger as it grows up into the foot. Plantar Warts should be treated early to prevent growth and spreading. During treatment, you may need to pad the area to help relieve pressure, so comfortable shoes are a must. Keep the inside of shoes clean and dry. Also, protect your feet from re-infection by using shower shoes and not going barefoot in gym and shower areas. Avoid the desire to pick or scratch at the area.

If you suspect you have plantar warts, and live in the Houston area, call 713-467-8886 for an appointment or visit our website. We would be happy to assist you in a treatment program.

Sources:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/Plantar-warts/DS00509

Thursday, March 1, 2012

Correct Fit in Cowboy Boots - A Lesson in Leather and Fashion

So it’s time for a new pair of cowboy boots, huh? Here are a few pointers that will keep a swagger in your step. Remember to keep these tips in mind as you shop for the perfect pair.

·    Inside the boot, there is a thin fiberglass sheet in the toe box area. This part of the boot does not stretch, so the toe box needs to be roomy enough for you to wriggle your toes. You should not feel any pressure in this area.

·    A boot should fit your foot like a firm handshake, snug, but not tight.

·    As you walk, your heel needs to rise off the sole of the boot slightly. If it does not, try a wider boot.

·    The boot should provide even support. The break in the boot must line up with the arch in your foot.

·    The boot should require a bit of effort to pull on. You should feel and hear a little bit of a “plop” as your foot settles into the boot.

·    Also, remember most people have two different sized feet. Measure both feet and buy boots to fit the larger foot. Stores that sell boots should have a Brannok device available to assist, which will help with length and width measurements. Fit the boots at the end of the day to ensure a proper fit, as your feet may swell during the day.

·    Use the pinch test. To make sure your boot fits correctly over the instep, try to pinch the leather between your thumb and forefinger. You should not be able to pinch any excess leather, but there should be a little play. If it feels too snug, try a wider boot.

·    When fitting a boot, feeling for the big toe is meaningless. The ball of your foot needs to sit on the widest part of the sole, and the shank of the boot should fit the arch.

If you keep these tips in mind when purchasing boots, you’ll be comfortable all day long. So polish up your boots and buckles, dust off your best hat, and head for the rodeo. If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Jeffrey Bowman at Houston Foot Specialists, and we can help you fit into the right pair of boots!

Monday, February 20, 2012

University of Michigan and Podiatrists

For those of you who know Dr. Bowman, you know he is an avid Michigan Wolverines fan. He actually went to the University of Michigan where he graduated with honors to get a Bachelor of Science degree in 1979. So it raises the question, what is the connection with U of M and podiatry?

While the University of Michigan does not offer a program on podiatry, they do offer Bachelor of Science degrees for those looking to get into biology, which includes podiatry. The history of the University speaks for itself, showing that those who graduate from this University have a great chance to succeed in the fields of study they wish to pursue. Dr. Bowman knew this and this fueled his decision to go to the U of M and get his undergrad degree.

Through the University, Dr. Bowman got the foundation he needed so that he could start building his education in podiatry. Even though U of M didn't have a podiatry program, Dr. Bowman wouldn’t trade the education he got through UM for anything. It’s what allowed him to become a great podiatrist.

For people who are looking to get into the medical field, whether that be a foot doctor, a brain surgeon or a pharmacist, you should look into the University of Michigan. The professors, the wolverine culture and not to mention the connectedness of the alumni are all great at the University of Michigan. So if you’re looking for a University that can give you an excellent education, a great student culture and hundreds of connections to further for your graduate work, UM is the place to go.

If you would like to know more about Dr. Bowman’s experience with the U of M, or if you are dealing with foot or ankle pain, contact Houston Foot Specialists. Either way, Dr. Bowman would love to help you however he can.

Thursday, January 19, 2012

High Heels Equals Painful Feet

If you wear high heels, you know they are uncomfortable. If you wear them continuously, you could very well be pushing your feet to injury in the future. If you ask most women about high heels, their tell you that they were developed by a man, because they are not comfortable, but they are fashionable. So the question arises, is being fashionable worth being in pain?

The answer is obvious, NO! The pain is not worth being in fashion. But think about it, high heels are not all that is fashionable. There are many women’s shoes out there that are both functional and fashionable. If you like heels, try to get shoes that only have at most a one to one and a half inch heel.

If you must wear your high heels, there are some things you can do to limit your foot pain. First of all, the less you wear them the better. You can maybe have a pair of comfortable and supportive tennis shoes in your desk or office at work to wear while you sit at your desk and walk around in your office. Or you can just slip them off and be barefoot while you sit at your desk. This will relieve the pressure off your toes. Also make sure that you buy the right size of shoes for your feet. Most women (9 out of 10) have shoes that are too small for them. Again, being so called “fashionable” is not worth the pain and damage done to your feet. If you have flat feet, your high heel shoes will do tremendously more damage to your feet then someone who doesn’t have flat feet. This is because the arches of you feet don’t have the strength to hold your feet up on their toes.

You have to ultimately decide what you wear, but don’t think that you have to wear high heels. If you have any questions on how high heels effects you feet, contact Dr. Bowman at Houston Foot Specialists.

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Arthritis - The Joint Killer

If you are experiencing pain in your joints, you might have a disease called arthritis. Arthritis effects your joints by swelling the cartilage lining the joints. It effects many people today, and while in some cases it is hereditary, everyone can get this painful disease. People that are at or over fifty years old are susceptible to getting arthritis.

Treating arthritis has come a long way these days, but there still is no way to completely get rid of arthritis. Right now, all doctors can do is slow it down. Surgery will help it slow down and then medication will continue to keep the arthritis in its slowed down pace. Hopefully soon, breakthroughs will be made to find a cure to completely rid a body of the damaging effects of arthritis.

If you have arthritis, you might be experience stiffness when you wake up in the joints affected. You could have limited movement in that joint, and/or pain in the joint. It might even be hot to the touch, and swollen. If you have not, you should have a doctor check out the joints that are bothering you. If your doctor finds the arthritis before it gets to be too much, they can help you decide how to attack this disease. The earlier you find the arthritis, the better. If your feet are bothering you, schedule an appointment with you podiatrist, especially if it is the joints in your feet.

Dr. Bowman would love to help you out and talk to you about the short-term and long-term effects of arthritis in your feet. He can take you through the treatment of arthritis and even preform the surgery if you need it. Contact Houston Foot Specialists to schedule an appointment now and be on your way to enjoying life again by not having to live with the pain in your feet.

Tuesday, January 3, 2012

Orthotics

Many of you are familiar with orthotics. You can find them at the store in the pharmacy department, at least ones that are over-the-counter. What you might not know is orthotics have a wide range of sizes and shapes. The over-the-counter ones you can buy at the store are ones that might help you if you have mild foot problems but they can’t help with chronic pain. The ones you don’t see at your local Walmart are ones that can correct more severe foot issues. For severe or chronic pain - you will find orthotics in doctors’ offices and specialty shoe stores.

The main purpose of orthotics is to correct and stabilize a person’s gait when walking or standing. Orthotics also provide cushion to comfort your feet if you are walking or standing a lot by absorbing the shock and pressure on your feet. The type of orthotic you would need depends on what type of foot issue you might be dealing with. Rigid orthotics are meant more to control the position of the foot, aligning it with the rest of the body so there is less strain on the body while walking or for being in dress shoes. Semi-rigid orthotics are made for balance when walking and playing sports. The combination of the soft and rigid layers provides the right amount of support and cushion so that the foot is protected from the shock it’ll take, and the foot stays in the right position to take pressure off the rest of the body. Soft orthotics are for absorbing shock and taking pressure off of sore spots on the feet. They work well for people with foot deformities, diabetes or arthritic feet because they form to their feet. Soft and rigid orthotics are customized by a doctor or specialist to mold to the person’s foot shape to provide the most comfort and support.

If you are in need of orthotics, contact us at Houston Foot Specialists. Dr. Bowman would love to help you get the right orthotic to help you get rid of the foot pain.

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