Articles by Dr Andrew Schneider on ArticleSnatch.com

How To Stay Hydrated When Running In The Heat

Sun, 21 Aug 2011 17:30:10 -0400

Picture yourself four miles into your long run on a overbearingly humid summer afternoon. Are you sweating right now? You better be. Suddenly stopping sweating is your body's way of telling you it needs hydration and fast! There's no doubt that as this summer progresses, we will likely reach record breaking temperatures yet again, affecting runners across the entire country. For runners this means being extra cautious and staying hydrated! There are ways to tell if your body is becoming dehydrated. Of course, you will find yourself feeling extremely thirsty, but this isn't always a consistent method of determining your need for water. Other signs and symptoms of mild dehydration include a dry or sticky mouth, dry skin that has lost some or all of its resilience, drowsiness or exhaustion, constipation, decreased urine output, headache and dizziness. Severe dehydration will result in little to no urine, low blood pressure, a lack of sweating and even delirium or unconsciousness. An excellent indicator of dehydration is the color of your urine. As a general rule, the darker your urine, the more dehydrated you are. For most healthy adults, dehydration can be reversed simply by refueling with water and Gatorade. **End Summary** Topics: Chevron Houston Marathon]]> running in the heat]]> dehydration when running]]> why don't I sweat]]> hydration packs]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Dr. Andrew Schneider is a podiatrist in Houston, TX . He is dedicated to educating runners and triathletes about the health and safety of their feet. For more information about foot health in sports , including informative videos, visit his website.

Don't Let A Running Injury Keep You Still

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 04:45:54 -0400

It happens to all of us at one point or another. It doesn't matter if you have the muscles and strength of LeBron James from the Miami Heat or the speed and soccer skills of Wayne Rooney from Manchester United. Sometimes there is just no avoiding it: we all suffer from a sport's injury at some point in our lives. Although avoiding problems should never be a constant worry on your runs, there are alternatives to keep you going while your body is healing should you ever end up with a twisted ankle or a stress fracture. Michael Phelps would certainly agree, swimming is an excellent, low-impact alternative to running. As the water supports your body, your joints do not encounter the same level of stress and impact they do when running. There's no doubt that swimming is a strenuous sport, allowing you to increase your endurance and reach your cardio fitness level just as simply as running. **End Summary** Topics: running injury]]> stress fracture]]> swimming]]> biking]]> yoga]]> exercise during running injury]]> houston podiatrist]]> houston running specialist]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Dr. Andrew Schneider is a podiatrist in Houston, TX . He is dedicated to educating runners and triathletes about the health and safety of their feet. For more information about foot health in sports , including informative videos, visit his website.

Running Away The Weight

Fri, 20 May 2011 00:19:06 -0400

Congratulations on making the decision to become part of a wonderful community who all work towards the same goal to improve their health by embracing the challenge of running. No matter what your running background, this activity is an excellent addition to implement in your weight loss plan. Running is a great way to lose weight, but there are many other components that are essential to reach your goal weight, and the ability to maintain it. Eating greens, fruits, lean protein, and avoiding processed or sugar-packed foods contributes to dropping some weight. But most importantly, eating fewer calories than your body burns during a day will keep you on track for your ideal weight loss. A good place to begin is to determine your Basal Metabolic Rate, BMR, which determines the amount of calories the body naturally burns when an individual does not exert any energy. For example, the BMR for a 25 year old female, height 5'6'', and weight 140, is about 1,450 calories. **End Summary** Topics: Running]]> Losing Weight running]]> Houston Podiatrist]]> Basal metabolic rate]]> running program]]> triathlon doctor]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Dr. Andrew Schneider is a podiatrist in Houston, TX . He is dedicated to educating runners and triathletes about the health and safety of their feet. For more information about foot health in sports , including informative videos, visit his website.

Can An Advanced Biological Dressing Heal A Diabetic Foot Ulcer

Fri, 13 May 2011 03:15:26 -0400

One of the most threatening situations that a diabetic can face is the formation of a diabetic foot ulcer. An ulcer or wound is a disruption of the skin and occurs beneath the foot in an area of high pressure. The pressure may cause thick skin to form. Because of the unrelenting pressure coupled with the diminished healing ability caused by diabetes, the skin breaks down and a wound forms. Someone who is not diabetic will feel pain long before the skin atrophies and an wound forms. Diabetes causes peripheral neuropathy, a numbing of the nerves in the feet. The diabetic peripheral neuropathy prevents the pain signals from being processed and therefore no warning is perceived before the diabetic foot ulcer develops. Adding insult to injury, people with diabetes have a diminished immune system and a foot wound is more prone to become infected. This puts the entire limb in danger, since infection can spread to the bone and travel up the leg. For these reasons, it is vital to identify and get a diabetic foot ulcer to heal immediately. Every person with diabetes should have a relationship with a podiatrist before a problem occurs. **End Summary** Topics: Diabetic foot ulcer]]> Dermagraft]]> Apligraf]]> Advanced biological dressing]]> Houston diabetic foot podiatrist]]> foot doctor for wounds]]> infected foot wound]]> Derma]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Houston Podiatrist Dr. Andrew Schneider is a foot doctor dedicated to ensuring all diabetics keep their feet by healing diabetic foot ulcers. Visit his website for informative articles, frequently asked questions, and comprehensive video library

The Most Effective Therapies For Pain In Your Feet

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 05:56:49 -0400

Let's face it, nothing takes the wind out of our sails like aching feet. Sore feet make us unproductive, since all we can think of is sitting down, and the pain becomes unrelenting. At best sore feet makes us exhausted after being on our feet all day. At worst, sore feet can cause us to retire from our job early or cancel a vacation. There are treatments for pain in your feet that will help you enjoy life more. Aching feet is often caused by your feet having to work harder than necessary due to mechanical instability. If the foot is too flat or if the arch is particularly high, an imbalance of the muscles results. Sometimes relief will come with switching to an appropriate shoe. Let's face it, flip flops are not shoes, but so many people wear them constantly for all activities. What do you wear when you are shopping at the mall? On a trip to Universal Studios? Wearing a suitable shoe that supports the foot is going to help to alleviate the discomfort you have been feeling. There are times when simply wearing a supportive shoe is not sufficient to limit your foot pain. **End Summary** Topics: foot pain]]> sore feet]]> corns and calluses]]> custom orthotics]]> arch support insoles]]> houston foot doctor]]> podiatrist in houston]]> aching feet]]> feet hurt in disney]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Houston Podiatrist Dr. Andrew Schneider is a foot doctor dedicated to maintaining the health and safety of the feet of his patients and educating the public on foot health. Visit his website for informative articles, frequently asked questions, and comprehensive video library

Why Are My Toenails Turning White?

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 02:50:50 -0400

Have you ever looked at your toenails and noticed that they just don't look healthy? They used to be clear, now they look opaque, thickened, and their surface is white. What can cause that white discoloration of the toenails? Most people first consider the white surface of the toenail to be a fungal infection of the toenail. This indeed can be the reason for the white appearance. Fungus is an opportunist that lives naturally on our feet and in our shoes. If there is any trauma to our toenails, the fungus can infect the toenail, which causes the nail to become thickened and discolored. Fungal toenails can be managed in a variety of ways. Medication applied to the toenail, such as Formula 3, are useful for mild and moderate toenail infections. Oral medication, such as Lamisil, and the revolutionary laser treatment are suitable for moderate to severe infections. As the fungus clears, the white appearance of the toenail should clear as well. Your podiatrist will be able to guide you towards the best treatment for your fungal toenails. Fungus is not the only cause of a white toenail. Trauma can also cause the nail to become discolored, deformed, and thickened. **End Summary** Topics: fungal toenail]]> Dr's Remedy nail polish]]> white toenails]]> laser toenail treatment]]> injury to toenails]]> Houston podiatrist]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Houston Podiatrist Dr. Andrew Schneider is a foot doctor dedicated to maintaining the health and safety of the feet of his patients and educating the public on foot health. Visit his website for informative articles, frequently asked questions, and comprehensive video library

What Is The Leading Moisturizer For Dry Feet

Sat, 19 Mar 2011 07:07:17 -0400

Cracked skin on rough feet is a common condition in all seasons. In the winter, our skin naturally dries in cold temperatures. Summertime brings sandals, which allows the dirt and dust to dry our feet. While many people use creams and lotions to moisturize the skin, some only do so when there is discomfort and cracking from the dry skin. Others buy what's on sale without concern as to if it is the right solution for them. As a foot specialist, I am exposed to various cremes and lotions. The following are my recommendation for over the counter creams and lotions. A lotion is a good selection for mild dryness on the top of the foot, around the ankles and on the legs. It is not suitable for the thicker skin on the bottom of the foot and especially the heels. Lotions are a thinner vehicle for moisture and do not penetrate the skin as deeply. Using a lotion does certainly have an appropriate place in foot health. While there are many lotions available in the grocery stores and pharmacies, the only lotion I recommend is Amerigel Care Lotion. **End Summary** Topics: houston podiatrist]]> houston foot doctor]]> dry skin]]> cracked heels]]> rough feet]]> cream for cracked feet]]> lotion for dry skin]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Houston Podiatrist Dr. Andrew Schneider is a foot doctor dedicated to maintaining the health and safety of the feet of his patients and educating the public on foot health. Visit his website for informative articles, frequently asked questions, and comprehensive video library

Will Kids Grow Out Of The Pain In Their Feet?

Tue, 15 Mar 2011 17:03:24 -0400

Many people are surprised that I see a large number of youngsters in my podiatry office. In fact, children have a fair amount of foot problems. Ingrown toenails and plantar warts are the most common reason that kids find their way into the office. The treatment for these conditions is generally straightforward. I also see many kids who suffer from painful foot problems. Kids having foot pain? Absolutely! The truth is many more children suffer needlessly from foot pain but are told by other doctors that they'll grow out of it or assumed by their parents to be growing pains. The pain can return again and again and eventually become constant. You'll find these children not wanting to participate in sports or Gym class in school. They'll turn to their X-Boxes and TV's and stay more sedentary. As they gain weight, which is a tremendous problem in children, they will suffer even more foot pain. No kid has to suffer this way. Put simply: Children will NOT grow out of foot pain. The same goes for pain in their ankles and knee pain. **End Summary** Topics: foot pain]]> children]]> houston foot doctor]]> podiatrist in houston]]> heel pain]]> sever's disease]]> orthotics for kids]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Dr. Andrew Schneider is a foot doctor in Houston, TX . He is dedicated to maintaining the health and safety of the feet of his patients and educating the public on foot health. For more information about foot health and solving foot pain, including informative videos, and to order Dr. Schneider's FREE book, visit his website .

Running in the Wind and Rain: The Flying Pig Marathon

Sat, 08 May 2010 16:08:03 -0400

The annual Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon and Half-Marathon was held on Sunday May 2, 2010 at 6:30 in the morning. Many runners gathered in the streets early Sunday morning in the dark heading towards the stadium despite the inclement weather of rain, thunder and lightning. Yes, it was thunder storming at six in the morning as runners began their walk to the starting line. It was no light rain either. Runners were covered head to toe with umbrellas, trash bags, raincoats, and plastic ponchos. Some even braved it out without any protection than only their running clothes. As we walked among all of the runners, the sky lit up with lightning followed by was a rumbling and grumbling of thunder. Yes, we were all scared but we all made it this far. We walked in the rain to the start line. We avoided puddles and tried to keep warm. The host of the race announced that the thunder storms we were experiencing were sporadic, as reported from the national weather service, and they confirmed that we had it much better than people south from us. So the race began and we started running. **End Summary** Topics: flying pig marathon]]> runners]]> houston podiatrist]]> hills]]> marathon]]> rain]]> wind]]> lightening]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Dr. Andrew Schneider is a podiatrist in private practice in Houston, TX. He is dedicated to maintaining the health and safety of the feet of athletes and return them to their sport as soon as possible after injury. For more information about foot health in sports, informative videos, and to order Dr. Schneider's FREE book, visit his website and his blog "The Houston Running Chronicles"

Finding Motivation to Keep Running

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 15:47:14 -0400

There are days when you just don't feel like heading outdoors to run or are just unmotivated to hop onto a treadmill. Some days you just want to rest and relax...which is good. But sometimes those lazy days string themselves together and you realize you haven't gone for a run for a while. Either that or you may force yourself to go for a run since you've had too long of a long break. Forcing yourself to run isn't the worst thing, but sometimes it becomes robotic and you no longer enjoy the run like you should. This quote from Terrence Mahon in Runner's World magazine explains: "The body gets really good at doing what you ask it to do. Once you have a mastery or proficiency in a routine, you'll no longer experience new gains in fitness. You've got to add different elements of stress." Yes, your body gets used to the intensity of your runs and the activities you do. It is always a good idea to change up your routine or your body will become truly efficient and it will burn fewer calories to continue to do what it has been doing. **End Summary** Topics: motivation]]> boredom]]> running]]> Runner's World]]> Terrance Mahon]]> change scenery]]> club]]> group]]> houston]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> Dr. Andrew Schneider is a podiatrist in private practice in Houston, TX. He is dedicated to maintaining the health and safety of the feet of athletes and return them to their sport as soon as possible after injury. For more information about foot health in sports, informative videos, and to order Dr. Schneider's FREE book, visit his website and his blog "The Houston Running Chronicles"

More Bad Habits of Runners: Sunscreen & Sleep

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 03:44:46 -0400

As a runner I know there are a couple more bad habits we tend to have and ignore their existence besides not stretching and not resting. These other habits include not getting enough sleep and not wearing sunscreen. As it starts to get warmer here in Houston, TX, more and more runners come out of hibernation, we forget to lather up the sunscreen and just go out for a nice run. But runners beware! There has been a correlation linking runners with a higher risk of skin problems, including carcinoma, due to their prolonged exposure outdoors and the effect it has on the immune system. Also, sweat plays a factor as it makes the skin more vulnerable to UV rays. Before going out for a run, protect your skin by applying some sunscreen with a minimum SPF 15 to your skin. You should get a waterproof or sweat-resistant lotion too. This will help continue the protection as you perspire and stop the lotion from coming off. The higher the SPF the longer you can stay outdoors to run. **End Summary** Topics: houston]]> running]]> runner]]> sleep]]> spf]]> sunscreen]]> uva]]> uvb]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Dr. Andrew Schneider is a podiatrist in private practice in Houston, TX. He is dedicated to maintaining the health and safety of the feet of athletes and return them to their sport as soon as possible after injury. For more information about foot health in sports, informative videos, and to order Dr. Schneider's FREE book, visit his website and his blog "The Houston Running Chronicles"

Break Those Bad Running Habits

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 21:18:39 -0400

Don't we all have bad habits we want to break? As a runner, I know there bad habits associated with runners in general. But in order to become a better and healthier runner we need to break these habits. In Houston, TX, it is easy to cut corners. We often drive to the park to run and are in a rush to get home. It is also usually too hot to spend more time outside than necessary. The most notorious of all bad habits runners have is not stretching. Many of us don't have time to include a stretch after a run. We think we know our bodies and don't need to stretch, especially after our runs. We don't know our bodies like we think we do. Stretching is important because it benefits our muscles and our bodies. Not stretching after a run tightens our muscles and increases our chances of developing running injuries such as plantar fasciitis, shin splints, pulled muscles and muscle tears. Stretching improves our flexibility, decreases recovery time, speeds up healing and most importantly helps prevent injuries. These benefits are key to enhance our running ability and to enable our bodies to run faster and farther. **End Summary** Topics: cross train]]> houston]]> injury]]> overuse injury]]> plantar fasciitis]]> rest]]> running]]> shin splints]]> stretching]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> Dr. Andrew Schneider is a podiatrist in private practice in Houston, TX. He is dedicated to maintaining the health and safety of the feet of athletes and return them to their sport as soon as possible after injury. For more information about foot health in sports, informative videos, and to order Dr. Schneider's FREE book, visit his website and his blog "The Houston Running Chronicles"

What Soccer Star David Beckham's Ruptured Achilles Tendon Means For You

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 16:20:05 -0400

The Achilles tendon is an important connection between the calf and the heel and once of the strongest in the body. If it ruptures, it can be catastrophic...especially for athletes. On March 14, soccer player David Beckham tore his left Achilles tendon during a match against Chievo Verona. The Achilles tendon has an important function to allow you to stand on your toes, a motion that is called plantarflexion. A rupture or tear of the Achilles tendon limits mobility as you are not able to push off your toes. This limits and restricts your ability to walk and run. At the site of rupture you will see signs of swelling, tenderness and bruising along where the tendon tore. Injuries to the Achilles are usually caused by sudden force or a weakening of the tendon that gives due to a regular force. Many describe a feeling of being kicked in the back of the leg when the tendon ruptures. Certain individuals are susceptible to Achilles tendon tears, especially people who wear shoes that plantarflex their toes such as women wearing high heels. **End Summary** Topics: David Beckham]]> Achilles tendon]]> rupture]]> tear]]> surgery]]> heel pain]]> running injury]]> houston podiatrist]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Dr. Andrew Schneider is a podiatrist in private practice in Houston, TX. He is dedicated to maintaining the health and safety of the feet of athletes and return them to their sport as soon as possible after injury. For more information about foot health in sports, informative videos, and to order Dr. Schneider's FREE book, visit his website and his blog "The Houston Running Chronicles"

Don't Let a Pain in Your Foot Become a Pain in Your Butt!

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 14:29:07 -0400

Foot pain is common. At some point most people will experience pain or discomfort in their foot. While much of the time this is due to a direct foot issue, it sometimes can be because of instability elsewhere in the lower extremity. If left untreated, this can lead to pain in the ankles, knees, hips, back, or even your rear end. So my title can be taken literally or figuratively. A literal "pain in the rear" due to unstable mechanics comes in a condition known as Piriformis Syndrome. The Piriformis muscled lies deep to the gluteal muscles and the sciatic nerve passes right beneath or through it. It functions to move the thigh away from the body's midline and externally rotates it. Piriformis Syndrome is a condition in which the piriformis muscle irritates the sciatic nerve. This causes a pain deep in the buttocks and can even cause symptoms of Sciatica, a referred pain down the leg. The pain is generally made worse by sitting, squatting, or climbing stairs. The primary cause of Piriformis Syndrome is biomechanical in nature. Overpronation of the foot can ultimately lead to the formation of this syndrome. **End Summary** Topics: Piriformis syndrome]]> orthotic]]> sciatica]]> foot pain]]> houston podiatrist]]> heel pain]]> ingrown toenail]]> runner]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Dr. Andrew Schneider is a podiatrist in private practice in Houston, TX. He is dedicated to maintaining the health and safety of the feet of athletes and return them to their sport as soon as possible after injury. For more information about foot health in sports, informative videos, and to order Dr. Schneider's FREE book, visit his website and his blog "The Houston Running Chronicles"

How The Grateful Dead Has Helped Me Become A Better Doctor

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 08:52:35 -0400

I am an unapologetic fan of the Grateful Dead - a Deadhead. I saw them many times before the passing of Jerry Garcia and have seen their many reincarnations and offshoots over the years. Unfortunately, the band rarely comes close to me in Houston, TX so I have to travel to see them. Most recently I took my family to see Furthur, the latest incarnation, in San Francisco for shows over New Years and took friends and colleagues to Fairfax, VA, where I happened to have a meeting. All agree - there is nothing like the unique experience of a Grateful Dead concert. In fact, it's an experience I try to adapt to my office. What is your typical experience at a doctor's office? I know that I often have to wait long past my appointment time and then feel rushed because the doctor is running late. Since I have been in practice, I've never wanted to be that kind of office! We schedule our days in my podiatry office based on who is coming in and for what. Our staff is warm and friendly and we're always happy you chose to visit us. **End Summary** Topics: grateful dead]]> podiatry]]> podiatrist]]> phil lesh]]> on-time]]> doctor's office]]> houston]]> tx]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Dr. Andrew Schneider is a podiatrist in private practice in Houston, TX. He is dedicated to maintaining the health and safety of the feet of his patients and educating the public on foot health. For more information about foot health and solving foot pain, including informative videos, and to order Dr. Schneider's FREE book, visit his website and his blog "Keep Your Feet Feeling Young."

Death of Nodar Kumaritashvili Reminds World of Dangerous of Winter Olympic Sports

Sat, 27 Feb 2010 18:36:19 -0500

Even here in Houston, TX, where winter means we put on a light jacket, many are glued to the TV watching the Winter Olympics in Vancouver. The athlete's focus and dedication is inspiring and we're disappointed to see it come to an end after eighteen days of competition. I've overheard kids ask their parents for a snowboard, even though there is no place to use it in Houston. This is what the Olympic games are all about. On February 12th, 2010, at the Opening Ceremony, a moment of silence was observed in honor of Nodar Kumaritashvili, a Georgian luge slider who died in a training run on the Vancouver luge track. The moment was a chilling reminder to all the athletes from around the world that were there that night that many of the winter games aren't without risk. The Winter Olympics separate themselves from the Summer Olympics by the high level of risk involved with many of these sports. Running, swimming, and track and field do not even compare to luge, ski jumping, alpine downhill skiing, and half pipe snowboarding in respects to real danger to the athlete. **End Summary** Topics: Houston]]> TX]]> Vancover]]> Winter Olympics]]> luge]]> Nodar Kumaritashvili]]> Podiatrist]]> foot doctor]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Dr. Andrew Schneider is a podiatrist in private practice in Houston, TX. He is dedicated to maintaining the health and safety of the feet of his patients and educating the public on foot health. For more information about foot health and solving foot pain, including informative videos, and to order Dr. Schneider's FREE book, visit his website and his blog "Keep Your Feet Feeling Young."

Running Challenge: Chicago Winter Running

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 22:52:34 -0500

For runners all across the United States, the change in seasons can have different effects on their running schedule and performance depending on where they live. For instance if it is summer time and you are from Houston, TX, then chances are that you are going to either run in the early mornings or late evenings when the suns strength is at a low. No matter where you are from the trick is to find out what time of day, equipment and running schedule will best complement you depending on where you live and what time of year it is. The following is a glimpse into my run today, February 24, in Chicago, Illinois. I am trying to get back into shape for summer which will be here before we know it so I decide to face Mother Nature and start running outside. Before I get dressed for my run I look at the thermostat on my front porch and see that it is 33 degrees outside and the trees are moving around on my front lawn so I know that it is a little windy outside. **End Summary** Topics: houston]]> Tx]]> Chicago]]> Il]]> cold weather]]> snow]]> running]]> ice]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Dr. Andrew Schneider is a podiatrist in private practice in Houston, TX. He is dedicated to maintaining the health and safety of the feet of athletes and return them to their sport as soon as possible after injury. For more information about foot health in sports, informative videos, and to order Dr. Schneider's FREE book, visit his website and his blog "The Houston Running Chronicles"

Are Your Legs the Same Length?

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 13:35:10 -0500

There are a few myths that seem to have become fact. One is that everyone has different length legs. True, it may not be exact to the fraction of inch (or millimeter), but from a "macro" perspective they should be pretty equal. Most people learn about a limb length difference when they get a pair of pants tailored. Either the tailor measures each leg and tells you about the discrepancy or, if you go to a bad tailor, they may measure one leg only and you notice the difference when you try the pants on. Not every limb length difference is created equal. In my Houston, TX podiatry practice, I measure the limbs in two different ways. I take a measurement with my patient lying down. This measures the actual lengths of the bones, without any soft tissue involvement or input from such issues as scoliosis. This is known as the structural limb length. The second measurement is taken while standing and with input from all structures, called the functional limb length. Pain and injury resulting from a limb length difference can present in a variety of ways. Most commonly, however, the pain is limited to one side. **End Summary** Topics: limb length]]> short leg]]> long leg]]> custom orthotics]]> houston]]> Tx]]> podiatrist]]> running injury]]> hip pain]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> Dr. Andrew Schneider is a podiatrist in private practice in Houston, TX. He is dedicated to maintaining the health and safety of the feet of athletes and return them to their sport as soon as possible after injury. For more information about foot health in sports, informative videos, and to order Dr. Schneider's FREE book, visit his website and his blog "The Houston Running Chronicles"

2010 Winter Olympics and the Athletes' Foot Health

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 11:07:19 -0500

With the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics quickly approaching, I start to think about all the amazing athletes that will be competing at these games. It is amazing the speed, agility and climate that these athletes perform under. I am not only amazed at the talent that the athletes at the winter Olympics possess but also how well they perform considering the impact they are putting on their feet. When it comes to the winter Olympics the first thing that you have to remember is that these athletes are performing in cold conditions. Whenever it is cold outside your body attempts to keep itself warm by constricting the superficial blood vessels in the extremities to push more of that warm blood to your vital internal organs. This is why when it is cold outside you are more likely to get frostbite on your toes, fingers, ears and nose then any other area of your body. Since winter sports are played in cold conditions athletes are forced to make sure they have thick socks on their feet to make sure that they stay as warm as possible. **End Summary** Topics: 2010]]> Winter Olympics]]> Vancouver]]> cold]]> frostbite]]> socks]]> ski boots]]> downhill skiing]]> figure skating]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> Dr. Andrew Schneider is a podiatrist in private practice in Houston, TX. He is dedicated to maintaining the health and safety of the feet of his patients and educating the public on foot health. For more information about foot health and solving foot pain, including informative videos, and to order Dr. Schneider's FREE book, visit his website and his blog "Keep Your Feet Feeling Young."

What is a Podiatrist?

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 00:10:54 -0500

I write a tremendous amount about foot health and foot care issues. The truth is, that's what I know best! I'm a podiatrist who practices in Houston, TX. I still am amazed, however, that so many people think a podiatrist works with kids. Well, we do...just their feet, though. I thought it is important to get back to basics about what a podiatrist is and does. Podiatrists are specialized health care professionals that focus on the foot and ankle. To become a podiatrist one most get a bachelors degree from a 4 year university, then go through 4 years of Podiatric Medical School, where they are awarded a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree (DPM). They then go through two to three years of a hospital-based residency program, which qualifies the podiatrist to be certified in surgery of the forefoot or the whole foot and ankle. There are many reasons why a person would go to a podiatrist for medical attention. A good way to think of the elements of podiatry is to break it up into 4 categories: Diabetic foot care and wound care, pediatric foot care, biomechanics, and surgery. **End Summary** Topics: podiatrist]]> foot doctor]]> podiatry]]> diabetic]]> bunion]]> hammertoe]]> houston]]> foot surgery]]> ingrown toenail]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> Dr. Andrew Schneider is a podiatrist in private practice in Houston, TX. He is dedicated to maintaining the health and safety of the feet of his patients and educating the public on foot health. For more information about foot health and solving foot pain, including informative videos, and to order Dr. Schneider's FREE book, visit his website and his blog "Keep Your Feet Feeling Young."

Jenny McCarthy Says High Heel Shoes Are "In" On The Ellen Show

Sat, 23 Jan 2010 11:49:15 -0500

On a recent episode of Ellen, Jenny McCarthy was one of the celebrity guests. When they introduced her she came walking in wearing a pair of 4-inch high heel shoes, which seemed very difficult for her to walk in. When she sat down the first thing Ellen asked her was why she was wearing shoes that were so difficult to walk in and Jenny replied that these are the only shoes she can find right now because very high heeled shoes are what is "in". Although we all know that heels can make a woman's legs and butt look flattering, wearing high heel shoes definitely has its share of disadvantages as well. The first thing to realize about high heel shoes is that no matter what size you are wearing those shoes are too small for your feet! High heels don't have laces to hold you feet in so in order for these shoes to stay on your feet you must wear shoes that are too small for you in order for them to suction your foot into the shoe will you walk. High heel shoes can lead to many foot and ankle problems. **End Summary** Topics: high heels]]> high heel shoes]]> high heeled shoes]]> bunions]]> painful bump]]> blisters]]> twisted ankle]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Dr. Andrew Schneider is a podiatrist in private practice in Houston, TX. He is dedicated to maintaining the health and safety of the feet of his patients and educating the public on foot health. For more information about foot health and solving foot pain, including informative videos, and to order Dr. Schneider's FREE book, visit his website and his blog "Keep Your Feet Feeling Young."

Ten Important Foot Facts for 2010

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 10:32:30 -0500

With the start of a New Year and the end of all the holiday parties and family get togethers people start to focus on getting themselves in shape and healthy for 2010. Keeping your feet healthy in 2010 will definitely help to keep you happy for the year. Below are ten facts you should know about your feet in 2010 in order to keep your body health and happy the entire year. 1) Structure - The standard foot has 26 bones and 2 sesamoid bones which are small, irregular bones under the base of your big toe. 2) Flat Feet vs. High Arched Foot - Flat Feet (Pes Planus) is a condition in which you have less of an arch on the bottom of your foot. There are 2 types of flat feet: rigid and flexible. A rigid flat foot is the type that commonly leads to further biomechanical problems. High arched feet (Pes Cavus) is when you have an increased arch which may require you to need good support in your shoes to prevent them from hurting. **End Summary** Topics: Athletes Foot]]> bunions]]> flat foot]]> high heels]]> peripheral arterial disease]]> peripheral neuropathy]]> plantar fasciitis]]> toenail fungus]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Dr. Andrew Schneider is a podiatrist in private practice in Houston, TX. He is dedicated to maintaining the health and safety of the feet of his patients and educating the public on foot health. For more information about foot health and solving foot pain, including informative videos, and to order Dr. Schneider's FREE book, visit his website and his blog "Keep Your Feet Feeling Young."

Three New Year's Resolutions That Will Benefit Your Feet

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 18:26:14 -0500

It's about that time of year again when people start making New Year's resolutions to help bring about positive changes in their lives. Although people may have a wide variety of New Year's resolutions, the majority of people focus their resolutions around weight loss, health, and personal care. Some of the most popular New Year's resolutions made every year actually also can help to keep your feet healthy and happy throughout the New Year. The following are three New Year's resolutions that will help your general health as well as your feet. 1) Weight Loss - This by far must be the most common New Years resolution. With obesity at an all time high more people then ever are trying to drop some weight in 2010. What you may not realize is that if you are currently overweight or even obese all of this extra weight is being placed on your feet. The extra weight on feet that are built for a body that should be 25, 50 or more pounds less then what you currently weight will cause your arches to depress and ligaments to become more stretched out, ultimately leading to major foot pain. **End Summary** Topics: 2010]]> foot pain]]> lose weight]]> neuropathy]]> new year]]> new years]]> quit drinking]]> resolution]]> smoking]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> Dr. Andrew Schneider is a podiatrist in private practice in Houston, TX. He is dedicated to maintaining the health and safety of the feet of his patients and educating the public on foot health. For more information about foot health and solving foot pain, including informative videos, and to order Dr. Schneider's FREE book, visit his website and his blog "Keep Your Feet Feeling Young."

Seven Important Facts about Bunions

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 06:34:44 -0500

A bunion is a common foot deformity that many Americans have to deal with during their lifetime. Currently, podiatrists are the leading health care professionals for caring for this deformity. Bunions are a very unique foot problem with a specific population and appearance which you will see from the seven facts below. 1) Bunion Definition - A bunion is a bony enlargement of the bone and surrounding soft tissue of the base of the big toe. This makes your foot look like you have a bump on the inside of the base of your big toe and also causes the tip of your big toe to angle toward the second toe. 2) Who gets Bunions - Bunions are more common in women. Bunions are also more common in western countries, with as much as 30% of the population of people of western countries having bunions. Interestingly, studies have shown that people from countries where shoes are not commonly worn by most citizens have a lower incidence of bunions then western countries, suggesting that bunions may be due to the shoes people wear. Bunions are also more common in older people, with a greater incidence of bunions with age. **End Summary** Topics: bunion surgery]]> bunionectomy]]> bunion]]> painful bump on foot]]> foot pain]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Dr. Andrew Schneider is a podiatrist in private practice in Houston, TX. He is dedicated to maintaining the health and safety of the feet of his patients and educating the public on foot health. For more information about foot health and solving foot pain, including informative videos, and to order Dr. Schneider's FREE book, visit his website and his blog "Keep Your Feet Feeling Young."

How High Heels Can Affect Your Running Performance

Sat, 12 Dec 2009 08:39:31 -0500

In today's society, the norm for many women is to wear high heels when they work, go out with friends, and even around the house. Although high heels undoubtedly can help enhance an outfit or help make your legs appear toned, they will affect your body in such a way that can lead to negative effects on your running performance. High heels put the leg in a position where the calf muscle is contracting. This is the desirable to many women because it makes the legs look more toned. The sustained muscle contraction can actually lead to a shortening and stiffening of the muscles that connect your knee and lower leg to your ankle, called the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles. This shortening of these muscles will decrease your flexibility during running and will also cause them to fatigue faster. Besides shortening your calve muscles, wearing high heels also puts more pressure on the balls of your feet which puts you at higher risk of developing stress fractures of the metatarsal bones since you are no long distributing your weight equally over your foot. **End Summary** Topics: high heels]]> high heeled shoes]]> stretching]]> stress fractures]]> running injuries]]> wearing high heel shoes]]> houston]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Dr. Andrew Schneider is a podiatrist in private practice in Houston, TX. He is dedicated to maintaining the health and safety of the feet of athletes and return them to their sport as soon as possible after injury. For more information about foot health in sports, informative videos, and to order Dr. Schneider's FREE book, visit his website and his blog "The Houston Running Chronicles"