Wearing high heels regularly can have a significant negative impact on foot health. The unnatural angle and pressure on the forefoot can contribute to the development of bunions, hammertoes, and neuromas, which can affect balance and alter natural gait. Over time, this added strain may lead to chronic pain, calluses, and difficulty walking comfortably. Risk factors include prolonged use of high heels with a narrow toe box, previous foot deformities, and high activity levels while wearing heels. A podiatrist can assess foot structure, recommend supportive footwear, provide custom orthotics, and offer treatment to relieve pain and prevent further damage. If you have foot pain from frequently wearing high heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief tips, and guide you on appropriate shoes to wear.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Jack A. Sasiene, DPM from Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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

Pain where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel bone is called Achilles insertional tendinopathy. This condition often develops gradually and can be stubborn to resolve. Treatment usually begins with reducing strain on the tendon. Activity modification is important, especially avoiding hills, stairs, and sudden increases in exercise. Wearing supportive shoes with a slightly elevated heel can decrease tension at the site. Stretching should be approached carefully, since aggressive stretching may worsen symptoms in this area. Targeted exercises often focus on strengthening the lower leg muscles and improving ankle motion in a controlled way. Anti-inflammatory measures may help calm pain and swelling. In some cases, orthotics or heel lifts are used to improve foot mechanics and reduce stress on the tendon. Advanced options may be considered if pain persists. When heel pain limits walking or daily activity, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Jack A. Sasiene, DPM of Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Lake Jackson, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

An ankle ulcer is an open sore that forms when the skin and deeper tissue break down and cannot repair themselves, often due to circulation problems, diabetes, or long-term pressure on the area. These wounds usually appear on the inner or outer ankle, and may start as a small patch of irritated skin before slowly opening into a moist or dry sore. The edges can look red, dark, or swollen, and some ulcers may drain or feel tender when touched or rubbed by shoes. Because the ankle has limited soft tissue and is exposed to constant movement, healing can be slow without proper care. A podiatrist can evaluate blood flow, clean and protect the wound, select dressings that support healing, and identify any factors that delay recovery. If your ankle wound is not improving or begins to cause more discomfort, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Jack A. Sasiene, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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

Toe fractures are breaks or cracks in one or more of the small bones of the toes, often resulting from trauma, stubbing, dropping a heavy object on it, or sports injuries. Symptoms typically include pain, swelling, bruising, difficulty walking, and sometimes visible deformity of the toe. Risk factors that increase the likelihood of toe fractures include participating in high-impact activities, having weak bones, or wearing improper footwear that does not protect the toes. Untreated fractures can lead to chronic pain, joint stiffness, or improper healing. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose toe fractures, provide proper immobilization, recommend pain management, and create a treatment plan to ensure correct healing. If you think you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions that are right for you.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Jack A. Sasiene, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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

Foot pain can arise from a variety of medical conditions that affect circulation, metabolism, or joint health. Vascular disease may reduce blood flow, causing cold or painful feet. Diabetes can lead to neuropathy, resulting in numbness, tingling, or slow-healing wounds. Thyroid disorders may cause swelling, stiffness, or changes in foot structure. Gout produces sudden, intense joint pain and redness, often in the big toe. Bunions create a visible bump, discomfort, and difficulty walking. Recognizing symptoms early is essential for preventing complications. A podiatrist can evaluate underlying causes, provide customized treatment plans, and offer interventions like orthotics, footwear recommendations, or specialized care to manage pain and improve mobility. If you have any type of foot problem, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat various foot and ankle conditions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Jack A. Sasiene, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Walking and running shoes are designed differently to accommodate unique foot mechanics and movement patterns. Walking shoes distribute weight more evenly across the foot, offer moderate cushioning, and typically have a lower, more stable heel flare for balance. Running shoes are built for forward motion, with increased cushioning to absorb impact, a higher heel to support stride, and more responsiveness and flexibility to handle repeated high force. Choosing the correct shoe type reduces fatigue, prevents injury, and supports natural foot function. A podiatrist can assess gait, recommend appropriate footwear, and prescribe custom orthotics if needed to optimize performance and comfort. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot and ankle conditions, and guide you on the right type of shoes to wear for your desired activity.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Jack A. Sasiene, DPM from Texas. Our doctor 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 office located in Lake Jackson, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Flat feet occur when the arches sit lower than usual or collapse when standing, causing the entire sole to rest more fully on the ground. Some people are born with this structure, while others develop it over time due to tendon weakness, aging, injury, or extra stress on the feet. Low arches can lead to tired feet, aching ankles, or discomfort that travels into the knees or lower back because the body works harder to stay aligned. Many individuals also notice shoes wearing unevenly or feeling less supportive during long periods of standing or walking. Wearing supportive footwear, gentle strengthening, and early attention to soreness can improve comfort and prevent further strain. If you have persistent fatigue, instability, or pain related to low arches, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a personalized evaluation.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Jack A. Sasiene, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet. It develops when fungus grows in warm and moist areas, often between the toes. Symptoms include an itchy and scaly foot rash, redness, cracked skin, burning, and thick white skin that may peel. Risk factors include wearing tight shoes, walking barefoot in public locker rooms, having sweaty feet, or sharing contaminated towels or footwear. Athlete's foot is caused by fungi that thrive in damp environments and can spread easily if not treated. A podiatrist can diagnose the infection, recommend effective treatments, and offer guidance to prevent it from returning. Athlete’s foot can be uncomfortable. If you have symptoms of this condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Jack A. Sasiene, DPM from Texas.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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