Items filtered by date: February 2025

Gait abnormalities can place excessive strain on the feet, toes, and ankles, leading to pain and an increased risk of injury. Common gait abnormalities include propulsive gait, where a person leans forward while walking and spastic gait, which involves stiff, dragging movements. Steppage gait occurs when the foot drops, requiring exaggerated lifting of the leg. Waddling gait causes instability resulting from hip weakness, while ataxic gait results in unsteady, wide-based steps. Magnetic gait creates a sensation of the feet sticking to the ground, and antalgic gait shortens steps due to pain. These walking patterns may result from arthritis, nerve conditions, foot deformities, or injuries. A podiatrist can perform a gait analysis, which evaluates foot alignment, pressure distribution, and movement mechanics. This assessment helps identify the underlying cause of abnormal walking patterns and determines the best approach for relief. Treatment may include orthotic devices, footwear modifications, or even surgery. If you are experiencing foot pain while or after walking, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Arnold Farbstein, DPM from Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Falls pose a significant threat to the health of seniors, often leading to serious injuries such as fractures or head trauma. The risk of falling increases as balance and coordination naturally decline with age, making it harder for older adults to move safely. In addition to physical changes, issues like poor vision or medication side effects can contribute to the risk of falls. That is why it is vital for seniors to have regular eye exams to ensure their vision is sharp and clear. Properly correcting vision can significantly reduce the chances of missteps or accidents. Maintaining good balance through exercises like tai chi or strength training can also improve stability and reduce the risk of falls. In the home, removing clutter and installing safety features such as grab bars can further enhance safety. Falling can seriously impact foot health. If this has happened to you, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment tips, and guide you on additional fall prevention techniques.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Arnold Farbstein, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Running is an excellent form of exercise, but it can lead to various foot conditions if proper care is not taken. Common foot problems such as blisters, plantar fasciitis, and stress fractures can arise from wearing improper footwear, poor running techniques, or lack of foot care. One of the most effective ways to prevent these issues is by choosing the right pair of running shoes that offer proper arch support, cushioning, and a good fit. Regularly replacing worn-out shoes ensures continued support. It is also important to gradually increase running distances to avoid overuse injuries. Stretching before and after runs can help maintain flexibility and prevent muscle strain. Keeping feet dry and using moisture-wicking socks can reduce the risk of blisters and fungal infections. If you have developed foot conditions from running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and treatment methods.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Arnold Farbstein, DPM of Texas. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, and while treatment often involves specific stretches and wearing proper footwear, certain vitamins and supplements can help manage symptoms and promote healing. Bromelain, an enzyme found in pineapple, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can reduce swelling and pain associated with plantar fasciitis. Vitamin C is essential for collagen production and tissue repair, supporting the healing of the plantar fascia. Vitamin B5, or pantothenic acid, helps in the regeneration of damaged tissues and reduces inflammation. Magnesium plays a role in muscle function and can help alleviate tightness in the calf muscles, which can contribute to plantar fasciitis pain. Turmeric, with its active compound curcumin, is another powerful anti-inflammatory that can help reduce pain and swelling in the affected area. When used alongside other treatments, these vitamins and supplements may provide additional relief and support recovery from plantar fasciitis. If you have plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Arnold Farbstein, DPM  from Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.