Nordic walking is a form of exercise that uses specially designed poles while walking, similar to cross-country skiing without snow. This activity offers several benefits for the feet and ankles. By using poles, body weight is partly supported through the arms, which can reduce pressure on the feet during movement. Lowering pressure may help limit strain on the arches, heel, and forefoot, especially during long walks. Nordic walking can also encourage a smoother walking pattern, known as gait. Improved gait may reduce stress on joints and soft tissues, like tendons and ligaments. The poles can increase stability and balance, helping to lower the risk of trips or falls that may lead to foot or other injuries. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, assess walking mechanics, and recommend proper footwear or orthotics for safe participation. If you have foot pain after walking, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Arch Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctors to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Sugar Land, Houston, Bellaire, and Wayside/Harrisburg, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot fusion surgery, also called arthrodesis, joins damaged bones so they heal into one stable unit. It may be recommended when a foot joint causes ongoing pain, swelling, or difficulty walking. Fusion can involve the hind foot or midfoot, depending on the location of the problem. Hind-foot joints help provide stability and control movement near the heel and ankle. Common causes include arthritis, severe injuries, and damage that has not improved with other treatment.

A podiatrist may recommend fusion when a joint is too damaged to function comfortably or when painful movement continues despite non-surgical care. The purpose is to reduce painful joint motion and create a stable foundation for walking. Before surgery, the podiatrist reviews symptoms and medical history, examines foot alignment, and uses imaging to evaluate the affected bones and joints. During surgery, damaged cartilage is removed, the bones are positioned carefully, and screws or plates may hold them together while they heal.

Smoking, diabetes, and some medications may affect bone healing. The podiatrist discusses these concerns before surgery and provides instructions to improve surgical safety. After the procedure, the foot is protected with a splint, cast, or boot. Weight-bearing is restricted according to the surgical plan, and follow-up visits help the podiatrist check the incision, swelling, and early healing.

Recovery from foot fusion surgery takes time because the bones must grow together securely. The podiatrist may gradually increase weight-bearing, change protective devices, and use X-rays to confirm progress. Patients should follow activity restrictions and report unusual drainage, fever, or worsening pain. Although the fused joint loses motion, successful surgery can reduce pain and improve stability. If arthritis, injury, or deformity is limiting your mobility, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can discuss the benefits of this type of foot surgery with you. 

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Arch Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Sugar Land, Houston, Bellaire, and Wayside/Harrisburg, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ingrown toenail develops when the nail edge curves downward and presses into the skin beside it. This can cause pain, redness, and swelling. Drainage can appear when the area becomes infected. The problem affects the big toe and can make shoes uncomfortable. Improper nail trimming is a leading cause. An injury may damage the nail edge and change how it grows. A podiatrist can examine the toe and determine how deeply the nail has entered the skin.

Ingrown toenail removal is a minor procedure used when symptoms are severe, infection is present, or the problem keeps returning. The podiatrist numbs the toe so the patient remains comfortable. A narrow section along the affected side of the nail is then removed. The entire nail usually does not need to be taken off. For a recurring ingrown toenail, the podiatrist can treat the growth area beneath the removed section. This helps stop that part of the nail from growing back. Excess tissue beside the nail can be removed. The toe is cleaned and covered with a bandage after the procedure.

A podiatrist provides instructions for protecting the toe as it heals. Patients can usually return to work or school the following day, although activities that place heavy pressure on the toe must be limited for a short period of time. The bandage protects the area and absorbs drainage. Follow-up care allows the podiatrist to check healing and look for signs of infection. Increasing redness, swelling, or drainage should be reported promptly. Once healing is complete, proper nail care can lower the risk of another ingrown edge. Toenails should be trimmed straight across rather than rounded deeply at the corners. Shoes should also provide enough room for the toes. If you have a painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine if this type of foot surgery is right for you. 

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Arch Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Sugar Land, Houston, Bellaire, and Wayside/Harrisburg, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Choosing the right running shoe is essential for hobby runners who want comfort, support, and injury prevention. Running shoes are designed to protect the feet from repeated impact while supporting natural movement. The definition of a proper running shoe includes features such as cushioning, stability, and a well-fitted shape that matches the foot. Selecting the right shoes can improve performance and reduce stress on the feet, ankles, and knees. Understanding how to choose running shoes helps runners stay active and avoid common foot problems.

Symptoms of wearing improper running shoes may include foot pain, blisters, soreness, or fatigue after activity. Some runners may experience discomfort in the heel, arch, or ball of the foot. These issues can develop when shoes lack proper cushioning or do not fit correctly. Risk factors include wearing shoes that are too tight, choosing the wrong type for the running surface, and continuing to use worn-out footwear. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more serious concerns, such as overuse injuries or joint strain.

When selecting running shoes, comfort is the most important factor. Shoes should provide enough cushioning to absorb impact, especially for pavement running where surfaces are harder. Trail running shoes should offer grip and stability for uneven terrain. Runners should also ensure there is plenty of room at the end of the shoe for the toes to move freely, which helps prevent pressure and irritation. Knowing the running surface and choosing a shoe designed for that environment can support better performance and reduce injury risk.

Taking time to find the right running shoe can improve comfort and protect long-term foot health. Replacing shoes regularly and paying attention to fit can help prevent unnecessary strain. Making informed choices supports a safer and more enjoyable running experience. If you enjoy running and have sustained a foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions and additional guidance on choosing the right shoes for your running style. 

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with one of our podiatrists from Arch Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Sugar Land, Houston, Bellaire, and Wayside/Harrisburg, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, develops when the arteries that carry oxygen-rich blood become narrowed by fatty deposits called plaque. As blood flow decreases, the feet and legs receive less oxygen and fewer nutrients. This can cause pain, slow healing, and changes in skin health. Smoking is a leading risk factor, although diabetes, increasing age, and high cholesterol may also contribute. Symptoms include cramping in the calves while walking, numbness, or feet that look pale or slightly bluish. Small cuts or sores can heal very slowly because healthy circulation is limited. Since these symptoms can resemble other foot problems, a careful evaluation by a podiatrist is important to identify the true cause.

A podiatrist plays an important role in recognizing signs of PAD before serious complications develop. The examination includes checking the skin, nails, temperature, and pulses in the feet. It also includes asking questions about pain while walking and changes in activity. Diagnostic testing can measure blood flow and help determine whether narrowed arteries are affecting the feet. Early diagnosis helps protect foot health and lowers the risk of severe tissue damage. In advanced cases, poor circulation can increase the chance of infection, open wounds, or loss of tissue. A podiatrist can coordinate care with other healthcare providers when circulation problems require additional evaluation.

Regular foot examinations are especially important for people with PAD because reduced blood flow makes even minor foot problems more difficult to heal. A podiatrist can monitor changes in circulation, treat foot wounds, and reduce pressure on affected areas. These measures can help prevent complications that threaten mobility. Professional podiatric care also helps identify warning signs before they become more serious. Prompt attention to pain, skin changes, or slow-healing sores can protect the feet and support better long-term health. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease that affect your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with one of our podiatrists from Arch Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Sugar Land, Houston, Bellaire, and Wayside/Harrisburg, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.