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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Feet Are Not Meant To Hurt!

Pain is not a new phenomenon, but it is unpleasant and inconvenient when it affects your day to day activities. You will experience foot pain at some point because it is brought on by a wide array of injuries, conditions and diseases. Pain is common, but when you experience pain that you cannot account for, you need to seek medical advice from a podiatric physician.

A podiatrist, like Dr. Bowman, can give you an accurate diagnosis and treatment, which helps get you back on your feet. Studies show that over seventy five percent of Americans experiences foot discomfort during a twelve month period. Also, an equally high number attribute it to being on their feet for an extended period of time each day.

There are numerous conditions that contribute to foot pain. Several of the most common ones include:

• Arthritis
• Bunions
• Corns
• Ingrown toenails
• Plantar fasciitis
• Sprains
• Stress fractures

Many of the causes of foot pain can go away with better choices in footwear. Shoes that conform to the shape of your foot and provide cushioning and support will protect your feet from many of the ordinary, non-injurious woes that affect your feet. Dr. Bowman is a good source of information about shoes that can keep your feet pain free.

Specific conditions sometimes require specific solutions. This allows your pain to be manageable to the extent you are able to continue a normal and active life. Consult with Dr. Bowman and avoid self-medicating.

Heel pain is one of the most common complaints your foot and ankle specialist encounters. It generally results from overuse and inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is the ligament that runs the length of the foot and provides support to the arch. This ligament may develop tiny tears and can become very painful. Rest is crucial to healing this condition. Pain may also ebb with the application of ice and use of over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications.  Custom orthotics which are special inserts for the shoe also add a considerable amount of comfort.

Ankle pain is another complaint that people report. If you have sprained ankles in the past, you may be susceptible to recurring pain in the joint because of a weakening of the soft tissue and its inability to properly support the ankle. After recovery from a sprain injury, you may want to consider using an ankle brace for additional support. Take all necessary precautions and follow your doctor’s instructions. Do not rush the healing process because the likelihood of re-injury increases.

Dr. Bowman’s website (www.houstonfootspecialists.com) offers a lot of information on specific diseases and conditions that he can help with a treatment plan that includes good pain management. Call him at (713) 467-8886 and take the first step toward a more pain free life.

References:

http://www.houstonfootspecialists.com/library/1827/Generalinformationtips.html
http://www.houstonfootspecialists.com/library/1910/painmanagementforspecificconditions.html

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Aligned and Connected: The Cure for Peroneal Tendon Dislocation

Staying connected…
Muscles, bones, tendons and ligaments work together in their own special ways. They work to allow your body to achieve stability, durability and flexibility. However, to stay in good working order you need to safeguard these functions, and appreciate the mobility that they provide. Adequate exercise is important in order to keep joints strong and limber. If you overwork or injure your body, things may not function as normal, and you may experience pain.

The injury…
Peroneal tendon dislocation/dysfunction is a condition that affects two tendons that originate at the muscles on the outside of your calves and allow your foot to roll to the outside when you stand, as well as, support the arch of the foot. When certain injuries occur, tissue may stretch or tear. This can cause the peroneal tendon to dislocate from its normal groove toward the back of the bone. The tendon then rolls over to the outside of the bone sustaining damage in the process.

Why me…
Peroneal tendon dislocation is most commonly the result of high intensity sports activities such as skiing, football, basketball and soccer. On occasion, sprains have also been known to cause this injury. Don’t eliminate the sport altogether, but you can make sure your footwear is appropriate for the activity.

What happens now?
Treatment for peroneal tendon dislocation may include use of crutches to prevent weight bearing, compression bandage to reduce swelling and the use of anti-inflammatory medications. It is important to remain off the injured foot in order for injury to heal properly. Follow your doctor’s instructions without deviation. Surgical correction is necessary when the tissue damage is bad enough to indicate it may tear completely or easily dislocate.

Saw bones
If you must undergo surgery and during your surgeon discovers you are one of the few who does not have a groove for your peroneal tendon to rest in, he may need to cut grooves in the bone and then install metal screws or pins to hold the bones in place while healing occurs. A six week healing time is normal followed by a few weeks of protected weight bearing, then an additional month or more of physical therapy allowing you to regain strength and mobility.

Caution is the word
Re-injury is always a possibility, but you minimize that risk by following your doctor’s orders. Do not attempt to hurry the healing process. Dr. Bowman has experience treating this condition and knows what’s best for you. His goal is to see you completely recovered. To set up an appointment with Dr. Bowman’s call his office at (713) 467-8886.

References:

http://www.houstonfootspecialists.com/library/1912/peronealtendondislocationdysfunction.html
http://www.ahni.com/specialties/foot-and-ankle/common-disorders/peroneal-tendon-dislocation/

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Psoriasis - the agony and embarrassment!

This common recurring disease of the skin is truly an eyesore. It is inflammatory and is notable by round, reddish dry patches covered by whitish scales. Normally it appears on the scalp, elbows and shins, but on occasion it shows up on the feet. If it occurs on the feet, it may appear a lot like Athlete's Foot or if on the nails it may look like toenail fungus. A sample may be taken to determine if fungus or psoriasis. Sometimes small blisters appear filled with a clear or cloudy fluid.

Psoriasis can affect the joints of the lower legs and feet by causing painful arthritis. Anti-inflammatory medications are often chosen to treat Psoriasis. A flare-up of Psoriasis on the hands and feet should not go untreated because not only can it cause pain, but also embarrassment because of the appearance of the lesions. If you are unable to work because of the pain, you may suffer a financial loss as well. In some instances, Psoriasis can break out on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet. Because these areas of your body are in constant use, this can become very difficult to deal with.

7.5 million Americans affected
Genetically predisposition affects about 10 per cent of the population, but fewer actually get the disease. People who suffer from hands and feet Psoriasis can trigger their own symptoms.

Known triggers: stress and injury
Since injury is a known trigger to the unpleasant outbreak of Psoriasis, people whose hands and feet are affected need to be especially kind to their feet and hands since dry cracking skin is a symptom. These openings can easily become infected. This type of Psoriasis affects more women than men and is generally only found in the adult population.

There are a number of home treatment tips that can help the Psoriasis sufferer:

• Cease smoking as it’s a trigger.

• Avoid stressful situations when possible.

• Protect yourself from foot and hand injury.

• Soak hands and feet twice daily in warm water, then moisturize with a lotion recommended by your dermatologist or podiatrist.

• Wear comfortable shoes and socks made from natural fibers, also wear gloves if needed.

Medical treatment usually involves topical ointments that contain steroids. An ultraviolet light therapy may work to stunt skin cell growth. This is more effective when combined with topical medication. Injectable medications that block the immune system may be used if other medications are not effective.

If you have a skin condition on your feet that you think may be Psoriasis or something else, call Dr. Bowman at (713) 467-8886. His evaluation and treatment plan represents the next step in healthy foot care.

References:

http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/psoriasis-treatment-11/hands-feet
http://www.houstonfootspecialists.com/library/1921/Psoriasis.html
http://www.everydayhealth.com/psoriasis/when-psoriasis-affects-your-feet.aspx

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Plantar Fibromatosis: I’ve got you under my skin!

It’s almost painful just to learn about all of the conditions that afflict your feet as you move into middle age and beyond. When does it all end?

Fibromatosis is a condition where excess collagen (fibroma), or fibrotic tissue, causes the development of small, hard nodules beneath the skin on the bottom of the foot. They may grow and increase in density over a period of time, but eventually this ceases. The good news is that it’s generally non-cancerous. The bad news is it can make walking or standing a nightmare. However, there is a big disparity among men and women. Fibromatosis happens to men approximately ten times more than women.

The most recognizable plantar fibromatosis symptoms are hard nodules under the skin and pain. Although there are circumstances that can “open the door” to the development of plantar fibromatosis, there is no known definitive cause. Trauma, genetics and certain medications or supplements all may play a role in the development of this condition.

Possible causes include:

• Injury
• Genetics
• Medicines, vitamins and dietary supplements

Other contributing factors are chronic liver disease, diabetes, and seizure disorders. These conditions may not contribute, but rather the medications used to heal or treat them are the primary culprits. As the surges in numbers of people suffering these conditions increases, so will the number of cases of fibromatosis continue to rise.

There are many treatment options for plantar fibromatosis, which include invasive or non-invasive.

Invasive treatment options include:

• Injections, which are put directly into the fibroma.
• Surgery, which can include the removal of the fibroma, or the removal of the complete plantar fascia. Surgery includes a long recovery time and may lead to other foot problems.

Non-invasive treatment options include:

• Topical application
• Stretching
• Orthotics
• Padding
• Physical therapy

There are several stretching exercises of the calf and arch that may be beneficial and help with the discomfort. These stretching exercises should first be done under the supervision of a physical therapist. This will ensure that the exercises are done correctly.

If you have symptoms that you think may indicate plantar fibromatosis, call Dr. Bowman at (713) 467-8886 and set up an appointment today. Dr. Bowman will conduct a comprehensive foot evaluation in order to determine your exact symptoms and then develop a treatment plan. He can diagnose and treat any foot condition. Step into his office for unparalleled foot care because you’ll step out feeling better!

References:

http://www.livestrong.com/article/319755-plantar-fibromatosis-exercises/
http://www.pdlabs.net/plantar_fibromatosis/whatisplantarfibromatosis.html

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The Drama of Enchondromas

Enchondromas are tiny non-cancerous tumors that grow inside the bones and are made up of cartilage. They begin to develop during childhood in people ranging from age 10 to 20. As a rule, they are not painful and do not require treatment. They often go undetected until a person has an imaging test, such as an X-ray, for a totally unrelated reason such as an injury or arthritis. These tumors are common and most often appear in the hands and feet, but they can occasionally be found in major long bones of the arm and leg.

The cause of enchondromas is not readily apparent; there does not seem to be any correlation between having the tumor(s) and exposure to chemicals, radiation, or certain activities. When the tumors appear in the hands and feet, they can cause bone deformities due to the small size of the bones.

The symptoms of enchondromas mimic other conditions, so check with Dr. Bowman; however, common symptoms of enchondromas include:

• Pain if the growth is large
• Enlarged fingers or toes
• Pathologic fractures
• Deformities

Once you discover the tumors, it is crucial to monitor them to make sure they are not aggressive or cancerous.

If specific treatment is necessary, it will be on a case-by-case basis. Dr. Bowman will take into consideration your age, overall health, and medical history, as well as the following:

• How far the tumors are progressing
• How well you tolerate medications and procedures
• Whether the tumors can become worse
• What you prefer

In some cases where the growth of the enchondromas has caused the bones to fracture, treatment may include surgery to graft healthy bone taken from elsewhere in the body to replace the fractured and diseased bone. If no indication of bone weakening exists, Dr. Bowman will set up a schedule that allows your condition to be closely monitored. Please contact Dr. Bowman at (713) 467-8886 for all your foot and ankle concerns. His vested interest is in the overall health of your feet in order to safeguard your quality of life.

References:

http://www.houstonfootspecialists.com/library/1806/Enchondroma.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enchondroma
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00085

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Osteochondroma: A Kind Growth until It Becomes Painful

An osteochondroma is a non-cancerous growth that develops during childhood or teen years. The abnormality appears on the bone’s surface near the developing cartilage tissue of the bone ends. The growth is comprised of both bone and cartilage tissue. The tumor may continue to enlarge as the individual grows, but once the skeletal system is matured and the bones solidify, the tumor stops growing. Osteochondroma may grow as a solitary tumor or many tumors, which is called osteochondromatosis. However, solitary growths are more prevalent than multiples.

In many instances, no treatment is needed. But when osteochondroma occurs in the foot, they are apt to be painful due to the concentration of bones and supporting tissues. It can be painful especially when bumped or when in a location where shoes apply pressure to the growth.

Little is understood about the causes of osteochondroma. They are not injury related and seem to affect males and females in near equal numbers. Doctors have no way of preventing them at this time. Osteochondroma may grow out from the bone with a stem-like base, called pedunculated. If the tumor grows closer to the bone with a wider base it is referred to as sessile.

Symptoms of solitary osteochondroma include:

• A bump that protrudes near a joint
• Pain with activity or pressure on the growth
• Numbness or tingling if the growth puts pressure on a nerve

If your tumor causes you pain or disability due to nerve pressure and you seek treatment, you will have to undergo imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scan, or MRI.  These tests will allow your doctor a complete view of the growth and a better understanding of how to treat your foot. Many times, no treatment is necessary unless the pain prevents normal activity, but the growth should be monitored for change. If you do require surgery, you should discuss with your doctor the possibility of recurrence. Osteochondromas are common and tend to recur with great frequency.

If you have a growth that appears on the top or side of your foot near a joint, contact Dr. Bowman at (713) 467-8886. He can conduct a thorough examination of your foot and order the necessary imaging to complete your diagnosis. He will discuss your options and get you started on a treatment plan to lessen your discomfort and speed you on your way to better foot health.

References:

http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00079
http://www.medhelp.org/posts/Orthopedics/Lump-on-foot--Osteochondroma-surgery/show/384378
http://www.houstonfootspecialists.com/library/1904/Osteochondromas.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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