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Preventing Falls in Seniors

Tuesday, 28 April 2026

Preventing falls in older adults is essential for maintaining independence and overall well-being. Many factors can increase fall risk, including balance and strength changes, vision or hearing loss, and chronic conditions. Medication side effects and foot problems are other factors. Weak muscles and reduced coordination may make walking less stable, while poor vision or hearing can affect awareness of surroundings. Painful foot conditions, improper footwear, and poor foot alignment may also increase the likelihood of losing balance. Risk of falling can increase when several of these concerns occur together. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, treat painful conditions, and recommend supportive footwear or custom orthotic devices to improve stability and comfort. If you or a loved one have fallen and are concerned about fall risk, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on additional fall prevention techniques.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. Eugenio Rivera from Calo Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
Utilizing a walker or cane
Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.

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

Ankle Sprains Among Female Basketball Players

Tuesday, 21 April 2026

Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries among female basketball players. The fast pace of the game requires repeated jumping, sudden direction changes, and quick stops, which place high stress on the ankle joint. An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments, which are strong bands of tissue that connect bones to each other, are stretched or torn. Research following professional female players over two seasons found that ankle sprains led to significant time missed from games and practices. Most injuries occurred during games, often after contact with another player and frequently inside the key area of the court. A podiatrist can evaluate ankle stability, assess ligament damage, order imaging if needed, and provide bracing or other medical treatment to reduce the risk of repeat injury. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Eugenio Rivera from Calo Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

Mild to moderate bruising
Limited mobility
Swelling
Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
Stretching before exercises and sports
Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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

Understanding Intoeing in Children

Tuesday, 14 April 2026

Intoeing in children is a condition in which the feet turn inward while walking or running. It is commonly noticed during early childhood and often relates to developmental alignment changes. Frequent causes include conditions where the thigh bone rotates inward, the shin bone twists inward, or the front portion of the foot is curved. These variations are usually related to growth patterns and positioning before birth. Although many cases improve naturally, some children may experience tripping, discomfort, or gait concerns. A podiatrist can evaluate lower limb alignment and recommend supportive treatments when needed. If your child has been born with intoeing, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Eugenio Rivera of Calo Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

When Itching Between Toes Becomes a Warning

Tuesday, 07 April 2026

Athlete’s foot and fungal infections are common skin conditions that affect the feet and thrive in warm, moist environments. They are often caused by exposure to fungi in locker rooms, showers, and tight footwear. Symptoms include itching, burning, peeling skin, and cracking, especially between the toes or along the sole of the foot. In some cases, the skin can appear white, scaly, or soggy and may feel tender or painful when walking. Fungal infections can spread to the toenails or other areas, if left untreated. A podiatrist can begin care with a careful examination and may take a small skin sample to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment options include prescription topical or oral medications, hygiene education, footwear guidance, and follow-up care to prevent recurrence. Early treatment helps reduce discomfort and limits spread of the infection. If you have athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Dr. Eugenio Rivera from Calo Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

Thoroughly washing and drying feet
Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
Using shower shoes in public showers
Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

Redness
Burning
Itching
Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?

Wednesday, 01 April 2026

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

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