3 Things to Know About Morton’s Neuroma

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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

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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.

What Is a Neoplasm in Your Foot?

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A neoplasm is a type of tissue that can form inside the foot. This tissue can be either harmless or cancerous and runs the gamut regarding symptoms and treatments. We’ll look at what you should know about neoplasms so you’re able to get the treatment you need.

Two Types of Foot Neoplasms

There are two major types of neoplasms, and they’re divided based on where the tissue forms. If it’s a bone neoplasm, it will be located around the heel, ankle, or foot bones. If it’s a soft tissue neoplasm, it can be found in the foot’s tendons, ligaments, fat, or muscles. Neoplasm is a broad term that can refer to anything from a cyst to a lipoma.

If you’re asking about the difference between a neoplasm and a neuroma, a neuroma is a specific type of benign tissue located in the nerve tissue. You might see a neuroma form after a trauma or surgery, though there doesn’t always need to be a precursor event to the formation.

It’s worth noting that diabetes does not directly lead to neoplasms, though the condition can increase your odds of developing this tissue. If you’re looking to reduce your odds of getting a neoplasm, the right diabetic foot care in Austin, TX, can help you improve your circulation.

Symptoms of Neoplasm

The most common symptom of neoplasm is a bump on the foot, regardless of the size, shape, or color. You may feel either constant or intermittent pain and experience swelling around the neoplasm. Neoplasms may start off as one shade of red or brown and change over time. You may feel numbness or tingling if the neoplasm is pressing on the nerve.

Neoplasms in Austin, TX

Neoplasms don’t always require treatment and, in some cases, can clear up on their own. However, no matter what type of neoplasm you have, catching it as early as possible is important to rule out more malignant causes. If you’re looking for a podiatrist in Austin, TX, Dr. Jeffrey Lamour, DPM, PA, has two locations to serve his patients. Contact us today if you have any unexplained pain or bumps on your foot, as they could be signs of neoplasm.

3 Important Facts About Blood Circulation in Your Foot

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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.

What Is Fibrous Scar Tissue?

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When your body is injured, whether it’s from a fracture or a burn, it will get to work trying to heal itself. It’s one of the body’s most tremendous assets, but the healing process can also leave its essence behind. We’ll look at how fibrous scar tissue is formed and what you can do to treat it.

The Process of Fibrosis

The body can generate what’s known as fibroblast cells, which have the proteins needed to repair tissue if your foot has been injured. It takes some time for the proteins to work together as one, but once it does, you’ll start to feel better one day at a time.

However, everyone’s healing process is different, both in terms of how long it takes and how exactly the body reacts to the dangers at hand. If your body produces too many proteins or those proteins can’t quite all work in harmony, you’ll end up with fibrous scar tissue. This type of tissue doesn’t present with a lot of external symptoms.

You won’t feel a bump in the foot due to it, nor will you find yourself itching it from time to time. The best indication that you have is that the tissue will feel thicker or stiffer at certain parts of the foot.

Treating Foot Pain in Pflugerville, TX

If you’re looking for treatment options for ongoing foot pain in either Austin or Pflugerville, the offices of Dr. Jeffrey Lamour, DPM, PA, has two locations to serve you better. There are several ways to help break up scar tissue so that your body can take care of the problem on its own. If you’re looking for the best course for you, talk to us to get a better idea of what to do next.

Why Foot Care Is So Important for Diabetics

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Diabetes is a serious medical condition that may cause nerve damage and loss of sensation in your legs and feet. While this may sound preferable to the pain of neuropathy, it comes with its own set of challenges. Without the sensation of pain, you may not be able to tell when you’ve suffered an injury. As a result, even something so small and insignificant as a blister can cause bigger problems when left untreated. Your podiatrist in Pflugerville, TX, can help you manage your foot care if you struggle with diabetes.

How to Care for Your Feet When You Have Diabetes

When it comes to diabetic foot health, prevention is key. Catching problems early or preventing them from occurring altogether is the best plan of attack. There are many things you can do at home to take care of your feet, including:

  • Always wearing socks, shoes, or slippers
  • Washing and checking your feet daily
  • Exercising care when trimming toenails
  • Elevating your feet when sitting
  • Keeping regular appointments with your podiatrist for routine exams

These simple activities can go far in preventing injuries. They will also help you spot any injuries you can’t feel. In this way, you can seek treatment before your condition worsens.

Diabetic Foot Care in Pflugerville, TX

If you have diabetes and need help managing your foot health in Pflugerville, TX, call Dr. Jeffery LaMour, DPM. PA, today. One of our friendly associates will be happy to schedule a convenient time for you to come in for a diabetic foot exam. We’ll give you pointers on how to keep your feet healthy at home and when to seek medical help. Call today to learn more.

Sources

https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/library/features/healthy-feet.html

Diabetic Foot Care

Girl legs in sandals on summer vacation

4 Features to Look for in Feet Supporting Sandals

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With summer well on the way, you may be geared up to trade in your boots and shoes for warm-weather sandals. Remember, you can get custom orthotics in Austin, TX, even for sandals. However, before heading off to the shoe store in search of the best flip-flops and open-toed sandals, check out a few features to look for in summer footwear that can actually properly support your feet.

1. Well-Cushioned Heels

The heel takes the brunt of your weight when stepping. Therefore, make sure the sandals you are considering have a sturdy heel formation with a bit of cushion to absorb the shock of each step.

2. Arch Support

Sandals are relatively notorious for not offering enough arch support. However, walking on a flat footbed when your foot has a natural arch can put a lot of stress on the tendons in your foot. Therefore, make sure the sandals have at least a small amount of arch support. Adding orthotics may be an option if you have especially deep arches.

3. Durable Sole and Footbed Material

Take a look at the sole of the sandal and consider:

  • Can the sole protect your foot from jagged rocks or sharp objects?
  • How much traction does the sole of the sandal have?
  • Does the sole have some level of rigidity when you flex it?

4. Good Fit

It may go without saying, but well-made sandals are only good if they actually fit your feet. Make sure to try sandals on before buying them. Ensure your feet rest inside the frame of the footbed with no hangover, even the tips of your toes. Also, make sure the sandals stay secure on your feet when you take a step. Shifting and movement can cause issues with blisters and chafing but also put you at risk of a fall.

Get Advice About Footwear from an Austin Podiatrist

Good shoes can work wonders for your foot health, possibly even preventing a visit to see an Austin podiatrist. Need advice about the best footwear or custom orthotics? Reach out to the office of Jeffery Lamour DPM, PA to schedule an appointment.

It’s Grass-Mowing Season: Use These Top Tips for Preventing Heel Pain

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Springtime rolls around every year, and if you’re using a push mower to cut your grass, it may feel like most of the rolling happens over your feet. Heel pain can be just as much a harbinger of spring as the sighting of the first tulip in bloom. So take the advice of your podiatrist in Austin, TX, and use these timeless tips to make that springtime yard work a little less painful.

Wear the Right Shoes

Yardwork like mowing and trimming can put real stress on your feet. You may end up with heel pain, blisters, and more. For these reasons, it’s important to find shoes that are compatible with outdoor work. Choose ones with good tread to prevent slipping, a water-resistant coating to keep feet dry and comfortable, and plenty of padding. Make sure they fit well and don’t crowd your toes, either.

Wear the Right Socks, Too

You probably never think about your socks, but they’re just as important as shoes when it comes to preventing heel pain. Compression socks are a good choice for preventing problems such as heel pain, swelling, and inflammation because they apply pressure, which supports the arches of your feet. They also help to increase blood flow to the area.

Do Some Warm-Ups Before Working Out on your Grass

Mowing grass is a pretty physical activity, especially when you’re using a mower that’s not self-propelled. This means you need to stretch and warm up beforehand, just as you would before hitting the gym or the jogging trail. Just a few minutes spent stretching your calf muscles and Achilles tendon may be enough to save you from the discomfort of heel pain.

Find Help for Heel Pain in Austin, TX

If you need help with heel pain in Austin or Pflugerville, TX, Dr. Jeffery W. LaMour is just a phone call away. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.

3 Chronic Diseases That Can Affect Your Feet

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Many medical conditions can impact the health and function of your feet. Three of the most common include arthritis, diabetes, and peripheral artery disease. Your podiatrist in Austin, TX, can tell you more about how to protect your feet if you’ve recently received a diagnosis.

Arthritis

There are roughly 100 different types of arthritis that affect the foot and ankle. All make it difficult to perform simple, everyday tasks such as walking to the mailbox or standing in line to see your favorite movie.

There’s no cure for arthritis, but symptoms can be managed to improve your quality of life. The first step in managing arthritis of the foot and ankle is to see your podiatrist for an exam and a diagnosis. Treatment options include:

  • Physical therapy
  • Lifestyle changes
  • Assistive devices
  • Medication
  • Surgery

Diabetes

Patients who struggle with diabetes need specialized foot care because high levels of sugar in the blood can cause painful nerve damage. Decreased blood flow to extremities can also cause numbness, making it impossible to tell when you’ve cut or punctured your foot. Wounds like these heal much more slowly in patients who have diabetes, and it’s much easier for infection to set in.

If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, it’s vital to seek routine care from a podiatrist. It’s also important to learn how to manage your condition so that your blood sugar levels remain at healthy levels most of the time.

Peripheral Artery Disease

Peripheral artery disease is caused by too much plaque on the walls of your arteries. Eating a diet high in fat and living a sedentary lifestyle may both contribute to peripheral artery disease, and sores may form on the toes and feet that refuse to heal. Your podiatrist can help you manage peripheral artery disease through lifestyle changes and medication.

If you recently received a diagnosis of arthritis, artery disease, or diabetes in Austin, TX, Dr. Jeffery W. LaMour, DPM, PA, can help you manage it. Call today to schedule an appointment.

Common Myths About Neuroma of the Foot

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You may feel as if you have a rock or marble tucked into your shoe, which is incredibly uncomfortable. What is causing this? You could be dealing with a neuroma of the foot. Custom orthotics in Austin, TX may help, but it is also important to better understand this painful foot condition. Take a look at a few common myths associated with foot neuromas.

Myth: The neuroma is cancerous.

Foot neuromas are not cancerous, even though the name itself seems to apply the growth is cancerous. And, a neuroma is commonly associated with what is often referred to in medicine as a tumorous growth. However, the neuroma is actually not even a tumor; instead, the condition is characterized by thickened tissue that sits around the nerves of the digits.

Myth: Neuromas only affect the two toes next to your pinky toe.

While neuromas are most commonly found developing in between your third and fourth toe, a neuroma can develop in other areas as well. For example, a neuroma can develop between your second and third toes just the same.

Myth: Shoes have nothing to do with neuromas.

While what causes neuroma development in the foot is not entirely known, the shoes you wear on your feet can have some bearing. Your shoes or most commonly worn footwear can have a great deal with the development of a foot neuroma because they affect the toes and the nerves between the toes. Women are actually more likely to develop a neuroma than men because women are more likely to wear shoes that squeeze the nerves between the toes.

Find Out More About Foot Neuromas from an Austin Podiatrist

Are you dealing with a great deal of foot pain, and you’re not sure of the cause? It may be time to speak to an Austin podiatrist for advice. Reach out to the office of Dr. Jeffery Lamour DPM, PA to schedule a visit today.