Keeping Feet Healthy This Summer

/0 Comments/in /by

Podiatrists see more patients in summer than any other time. This is likely because summer is when people go barefoot more than any other season. It’s natural to want to let your feet go au natural, but at the same time, keeping feet healthy needs to be a priority, too. Your podiatrist in Austin, TX has some great tips for ensuring healthy feet so matter where they lead you this summer!

Choose the Right Footwear

Sandals are great, and they make smart sense in hot months in Texas. But, while sandals are popular in warm weather, not all offer adequate support. Look for sandals or shoes that provide cushioning, arch support, and a secure fit to reduce the risk of blisters, sprains or stress fractures. Also, skip the cheap flip flops that populate every drugstore in town. They’re not made for walking like Johnny Cash’s boots, and can do more harm than good. Also, avoid walking barefoot in public areas like pools, beaches or locker rooms to minimize the risk of cuts or infections.

Protect Your Feet from the Sun

Going barefoot and wearing sandals means your feet are soaking up the sun, which isn’t necessarily as great a thing as Sheryl Crow implies in her hit song. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 on your feet, particularly on the tops and between the toes, to help prevent sunburn and reduce the long-term risk of skin damage.

Practice Good Hygiene and Moisture Control

Feet naturally sweat more in summer, just like the rest of your body, and excess moisture can lead to issues such as fungal infections and unpleasant odors. Wash your feet daily with gentle soap and water, and dry them thoroughly—especially between the toes. Consider using moisture-wicking socks that help keep your feet dry and comfortable.

Schedule Regular Podiatry Checkups

Summer activities may put extra stress on your feet, making it essential to monitor any changes or discomfort. If you notice persistent pain, swelling, or unusual skin changes, consult your podiatrist. Regular checkups can help detect issues early, ensuring that any problems are addressed before they become serious.

Taking simple preventive measures can keep your feet healthy and pain-free all summer long. By choosing proper footwear, maintaining good hygiene against foot fungus in Austin, TX, protecting your skin from the sun, and seeking professional care when needed, you can enjoy every step of your summer adventures.

Three Types of Arthritis That Can Severely Affect Your Feet

/0 Comments/in /by

Did you know that arthritis can affect your feet? It can. In fact, there are three types of arthritis, which can all cause problems for your feet. But how do you know if that pain in your feet is being caused by arthritis or something else? Your podiatrist in Austin, TX, can help.

Three Types of Arthritis That Can Severely Affect Your Feet

Here are the three types of arthritis, what causes them, how each affects your feet, and the treatments that are available.

1. Osteoarthritis

The main cause of osteoarthritis is aging. As you age, the cartilage around your joints begins to break down, and this results in friction and, in turn, pain.

2. Gout

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis. It usually comes on quickly and results in swelling, extreme pain, and tenderness. Gout occurs when you have too much uric acid in your blood. The uric acid creates painful crystals in your joints. Some medical conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, heart disease, high blood pressure, and family history all increase your chances of getting gout. If you think you have this condition and want a treatment for gout in Austin, TX, please see a podiatrist right away.

3. Rheumatoid

Rheumatoid arthritis takes place when your immune system attacks your joint linings. This gradually makes your joint linings weaker. The cause of rheumatoid arthritis is not known. However, smoking and obesity have been shown to increase your chances of getting rheumatoid arthritis.

Treatments Used for Arthritic Feet

The treatments for arthritic feet will vary from person to person and will depend on the type of arthritis you have. However, the most common treatments include steroids, anti-inflammatory medications, custom orthotics, weight loss, improved diet, avoiding alcohol and smoking, and drinking plenty of water to help remove the excess uric acid from your blood.

Are You Looking for a Reputable Podiatrist in Austin, TX?

If you are looking for a reputable podiatrist in Austin, TX, please Contact Jeffery Lamour, DPM, PA, today. Dr. Lamour has more than 20 years of experience treating acute and chronic issues of the feet and ankles. Our state-of-the-art offices are warm and welcoming, and we would love to help you become pain-free!

3 Things to Know About Morton’s Neuroma

/0 Comments/in , /by

The nerves in your foot can change over time, usually due to consistently applying the wrong type of pressure. If you’ve heard of Morton’s neuroma in Austin, TX, we’ll discuss what you should know about the condition, its symptoms, and the treatments available.

1. Morton’s Neuroma Refers to Nerve Inflammation

The term neuroma in Austin, TX, typically refers to a tumor, but Morton’s tumor is the inflammation and thickening of the tissues surrounding a nerve lying between the third and fourth toes. The more it thickens, the more it feels like you’re walking on a small ball. This is not only painful, but it can also throw off your gait in more ways than one.

2. The Wrong Footwear Can cause it

Morton’s neuroma is often a reaction to repetitive stress from your shoes. Named for the surgeon who first described it in the 1800s, Morton’s neuroma has become a more common diagnosis over time. This is partially due to increased awareness and partially due to an increase in physical activity and different types of footwear (e.g., high heels, tight shoes, etc.).

3. Symptoms Can Include Burning or Tingling

In addition to feeling like you’re walking on a marble, symptoms of this disorder can include general burning or tingling of the foot and into the toes. Generally, the best thing you can do is recognize the signs of Morton’s neuroma as quickly as possible. The longer you go without visiting a podiatrist in Austin, TX, the harder it will be to fix the inflammation. In most cases, you can fix neuroma just by changing shoes, but in some cases, you will need surgical intervention to really alleviate the symptoms.

See a Foot Doctor in Pflugerville, TX

Whether you need a pair of custom-fit shoes or a corticosteroid, you can’t count on Morton’s neuroma to go away on its own if you don’t first identify the condition’s root causes. If you’ve noticed symptoms of neuroma, visiting the offices of Dr. Jeffrey Lamour, DPM, PA, could be the first step to feeling better. With offices in Pflugerville and Austin, getting your foot evaluated is easy so you can take the next steps.

You Enjoy Wearing High Heels? 5 Tips to Save Your Feet

/0 Comments/in /by

High heels can be hard on your feet, but your foot doctor in Austin and Pflugerville, TX, can help you protect your feet from the kind of damage that high heels often incur. The following suggestions are things you can do to minimize the occurrence of foot pain, bunions, and more.

1. Wear chunky heels and platforms when possible.

Stiletto heels make balancing difficult and can lead to ankle injuries. Chunky heels and platform heels help distribute the weight better and can lead to fewer injuries.

2. Wear shoes that fit just right.

Shoes that don’t fit right can lead to injuries in various ways. Too big-shoes can lead your foot to slip and slide inside the shoe, causing sores and putting extra pressure on the toes. Too tight-shoes can rub all over, including at the ankles, toes, and more.

Look for shoes that fit just right, snug but not too snug. For best results, buy your shoes in brick-and-mortar stores and have your feet fitted by a professional.

3. Vary the shoes you wear.

Avoid wearing the same pair of high heels every day. Wear heels with varied heel heights to avoid putting the same pressure on your feet daily. Whenever possible, wear shoes that don’t have heels.

4. Invest in silicone metatarsal pads.

Also called “met pads,” silicone metatarsal pads fit under the balls of your feet and help with shock absorption, making your day less painful and more comfortable. Many companies make these pads, so talk to your foot doctor to get recommendations on brands and types. You may need to try a few different styles until you find the right type of pad for your feet.

5. Visit the podiatrist for foot pain.

High heels can cause problems like bunions in Austin and Pflugerville, TX. Your foot doctor can help. At Dr. Jeffrey Lamour, DPM, PA, we effectively treat bunions and other foot problems. We can help you explore safe ways to wear shoes with heels. Call today to make an appointment.

3 Important Facts About Blood Circulation in Your Foot

/0 Comments/in /by

Most people know that the body will try to protect the core first. This is why your hands and feet will start to feel colder if you’re in a cold environment. Your hands and feet are important, but they’re not as important as your heart. We’ll look at what else you should know about blood circulation in the foot and what you can do to keep everything moving.

1. Poor Circulation Can Manifest in Different Ways

Poor circulation can show up as anything from cramping to skin ulcers. If you have pain, tingling, or numbness, it could be due to poor circulation. It’s worth noting that if your foot falls asleep occasionally, this isn’t necessarily a cause for concern. However, if you’re constantly feeling the sensation, it might be time to see a foot doctor in Plugerville, TX.

2. The Vessels in Your Feet Are Small

Even more than your hands, your feet are more likely to have poor circulation. Not only are these extremities furthest from your heart, making them less likely to get the nutrients they need from the blood, but they’re also packed with smaller blood vessels that can be easily damaged.

3. There Are Things You Can Do

There are plenty of ways to manage poor blood circulation, regardless of what types of conditions you face. From regular exercise to better shoes to keeping diabetes and high blood in check to seeing a podiatrist, it’s important to take steps to keep your circulation as peppy as possible. If you’re interested in learning more about how to do what’s best for your feet, whether that’s diabetic foot care in Austin, TX, or just general questions about your symptoms, the offices of Dr. Jeffrey Lamour, DPM, PA, is here to help.