Foot pain may be relieved by selecting and wearing appropriate footwear or even receiving massage therapy that targets the feet. However, there are topical pain medications available in forms such as balms, lotions, gels, creams, ointments, and patches which can alleviate foot pain.

There are distinct types of topical medications, and they fall into one of the following categories:

• Salicylates contain a chemical similar to aspirin and are designed to be absorbed into the skin to relieve pain. These creams are most commonly used for muscle soreness and aches. Common branded products include Ben Gay, Aspercreme, Sportscreme.

• Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen fight pain associated with swelling. They are produced in a gel or cream, like salicylates, designed to be absorbed into the skin. NSAIDs increase the body’s anti-inflammatory response, reducing pain and heat for the injured area. They are available over-the-counter and in prescription form.

• Analgesics are useful in reducing pain in those suffering from mild arthritis. If your pain is focused in your ankle, for example, you might consider the brand name products Capzasin-P, Menthacin, and Zostrix. The cream or ointment works by stimulating and then decreasing the intensity of pain signals in the body.

• Counterirritants create warm or cool sensation over a painful joint or sore muscle. Brand name products include Icy Hot, JointFlex, and Flexall.

• Anesthetics are used to relieve “local pain” to a specific area by disabling the nerve endings in the skin. Brand name anesthetic medications include Lanacane and Xylocaine.

Other topical medications include anti-fungal and corticosteroids. Anti-fungal topical medications come in various forms such as cream, powder, or spray, and are used for treatment of athlete’s foot. Some common brand medicines are Lotrimin, Lamisil, and Desenex. See a podiatric physician if anti-fungal creams you’ve tried do not seem to work or if you have any other symptoms related to the infection, such as fever, rash, or sore throat.

Corticosteroids are the most common topical treatment for psoriasis. They work by reducing inflammation and slowing the growth and build-up of skin cells. Applying topical creams on the infected areas will help soothe the itch and soften the hardened skin. If you have psoriasis on your feet, it is best to treat it as soon as possible to minimize the risk of spreading infection to your leg and even your toe nails. Consult with a podiatric physician immediately if you suspect you have psoriasis.

Corticosteroids can also be used for treating diabetic peripheral neuropathy. These topical medications can be very helpful in temporarily relieving pain, burning, numbness, and tingling sensations in the feet. Some branded products are Nerve Relief Cream and BioFreeze.

The most recent technologies are now changing the way we look at topical medications. Traditional pain medications in pill form or via IV are now incorporated into topicals. Discuss with Dr. Bowman to see if one will suit your problem.

Topical pain medications are helpful to relieve the pain associated with foot problems but should never be used to “mask” pain. Consult Dr. Bowman for suggestions and proper usage of topical medications. We can be reached at 713-467-8886 or www.houstonfootspecialists.com

It is important to know the basic signs of diabetes.  Often, the first signs that you may have diabetes will show up in your feet and eyes.  Podiatrists see the signs and symptoms often before your family physician.  Here is some basic information you need to know.  Remember, heredity plays a major role.

Defining Diabetes

Type 1:  An autoimmune condition in which the body cannot make insulin, the hormone needed to move sugar from the blood into cells for energy and storage.  This is most common in kids to teens.

Type 2:  The most common form of diabetes, usually found in adults.  The body does not produce enough insulin to respond to sugar properly.  Strongly linked to obesity.

The Signs:

-    Thirsty? When your body gets rid of the fluid from the glucose build-up, you become thirstier and feel the need to drink more often.

-    Constantly running to the bathroom?  When your body doesn’t produce enough insulin, glucose builds up in your body and comes out in your urine.  If you are urinating often you may be diabetic

-    Overweight?  Even if you are only 15 to 20 pounds overweight, you are increasing your risk of developing diabetes.  If your child is overweight, make sure he or she is checked by your pediatrician.  Often just losing 5% of your body weight can reduce your risk and possibly help to get rid of the need for medication.

-    Losing weight without trying?  Most often this occurs with Type 1 diabetes, but sometimes can happen in Type 2 diabetics.  When your body can’t make insulin, the glucose from food can’t be used by the body’s cells for storage or energy.  Fat starts to break down and the result is weight loss.

-    Blurry vision? Increase is blood sugar levels cause glucose to build up in the eyes, making it more difficult to focus.

-    45 years of age or older?  Diabetes risk goes up with age.  The American Diabetes Association recommends you get checked for diabetes every 3 years starting at age 45, even if you don’t have any symptoms.

-    Not exercising?  Not exercising will increase the storage of blood sugar.  Even walking 3 times a week at a brisk pace can reduce the risk.

-    Ring around your neck?  When the body produces too much insulin, skin receptors often respond by producing extra pigment.

Not exercising, our love affair with food, and increased portions are reasons the diabetic population has increased so much.  There are 25-30 million diabetics in the United States alone, and this number is estimated to double in the next 30 years.

Do yourself and your family a favor and get checked for diabetes.  For further information please contact Dr. Bowman at www.houstonfootspecialists.com or call 713-467-8886.