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

I have had many patients ask this exact question.  While I think the phrase “toe jam” is rather funny, it could be a serious matter.  The stuff between your toes usually consists of sock fibers, dead skin cells, fungi, dirt, and bacteria.  No, it’s not pretty to look at, but does it require a trip to your foot doctor?

First, wash your feet and in-between your toes with a mild soap and dry your feet well, especially in between the toes.  Next, wear your normal socks for 2-4 hours, then remove the socks and look between your toes.  If no sock fibers or dirt is there but you notice some other substance, it does warrant a visit to your podiatrist.  It could be eczema, psoriasis, fungi, excess sweat, or even a corn or bone spur.

The chance that toe jam is a corn needs to be ruled out.  If you have a thick lump between your toes or a hard knot, it may be a corn, which is made up of dead skin due to extra bone developing under the skin, usually caused by friction or improper shoes.  This can be dangerous and painful.  If you are a diabetic, you need to get it checked promptly before it opens up and causes an infection or ulceration.

The bacteria between your toes may be harmless, but in more serious cases it can cause infections and require prompt attention. If you have severe itching, rash, redness, swelling, odor cracks, drainage, or dead looking skin, it will need medical attention by your foot doctor.  The possibilities of something more serious are always there. Why take a chance?

Though toe jam itself is harmless, excellent hygiene should prevent something more serious.  If you suspect anything else as a possibility, don’t wait. Call Dr. Bowman at Houston Foot Specialists at 713-467-8886 or visit us online to make an appointment at www.houstonfootspecialists.com
   

One of the most painful and frequent foot ailments is an ingrown nail.  There are three major causes of ingrown nails.  The most common cause of getting an ingrown nail is improper trimming of the nails.  If you round the nails or cut into the corners, your chances of getting an ingrown nail are much greater.  Trauma is another cause of an Ingrown Nail, with improper fitting shoes as the third most common cause.

We often see ingrown nails with red skin growing over the nail itself with pus or drainage.  If an infection is present, we will usually take a culture to determine the type of bacteria present, and we will typically prescribe an antibiotic and foot soaks.  In some cases, we may provide temporary relief by trimming out a part of the nail.  However, until the infection is gone, we usually leave the nail as is to prevent further infection.

Once the infection is gone, a simple, quick in-office procedure can be performed to prevent the ingrown nail from returning.  The procedure is done under local anesthesia where a portion of the nail is removed; then, the nail growth center for that part of the nail is either surgically removed or chemically destroyed.  Normally, no pain medication is needed.  The old saying in Podiatry is, “Once you have an ingrown nail, you will always get another.”  However, we have found that after this procedure, the chance of your ingrown nail returning is very low.  Normal skin will fill in where the sliver of nail was removed.  

If you have nail pain, don’t wait because it usually won’t go away on its own.  Contact our office at www.houstonfootspecialists.com or call, 713-467-8886 and Dr. Jeffrey  Bowman will be glad to get you the help you need.