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

For many athletes and weekend exercise warriors, winter is a time to continue their cardiovascular health. Many partake in winter sports such as snow sledding or skiing, snowboarding, rough-and-tumble ice hockey or casual ice skating. Yes, winter provides a fast track for fun, but exposes the body to injuries, especially to foot and ankle injuries.

Some of the common winter and snow sports injuries related to the foot and ankle include:

    •    Frostbite – The symptoms of frostbite include skin-color changes, from blue to whitish, feeling of burning or numbness.

    •    Blisters – Friction in winter sports footwear often cause blisters.

    •    Neuromas – Enlarged benign growths of nerves between the toes are caused by friction in tight footwear and can result in pain, burning, tingling, or numbness. Neuromas require professional treatment, including an evaluation of skates and boots, from a podiatric physician.

    •    Sprains and strains – The stress of skiing and skating can result in sprains and strains of the foot and ankle. They can be treated with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). If pain persists, seek medical attention from a podiatric physician.

    •    Subungal Hematoma – Pressure in the toe box of a ski or skate can cause bleeding under the toenail known as a subungal hematoma.  Such a condition should be treated by a podiatric physician to prevent the loss of a toenail.

Podiatric physicians recommend properly fitted shoes or boots to prevent winter and snow injuries. With planning, adequate preparation and proper equipment, most injuries common to winter and snow sports can be prevented.

    •    Maintain an adequate fitness level all year round. This is the best way to avoid many sports-related injuries in winter.

    •    Never participate in winter sports alone. Use a buddy system.

    •    Warm up thoroughly before activity. Cold muscles, tendons and ligaments are vulnerable to injury. Make sure to cool down thoroughly afterwards as well.

    •    Wear several layers of light, loose and water-and-wind-resistant clothing for warmth and protection.

    •    Wear proper footwear that provides warmth and dryness, as well as ample ankle support.

    •    Wear appropriate protective gear, including goggles, helmets, gloves, and padding.

    •    Wear a blend sock that ‘wicks’ sweat away from the skin. Consult your podiatric physician for recommendations.

    •    Drink plenty of water before, during and after sport.

    •    If your feet get wet, move to a warm/dry environment. The skin tissues of wet, cold feet are in danger of freezing (frostbite).

If you have any questions on proper winter sports footwear or anything else foot or ankle related, please contact us so that we can answer them for you.