Blog (804)
Simple Methods For Healthy Feet
Many people throughout the world take their feet for granted. The feet are complex structures and carry the weight of the body. Foot pain can happen when the feet are neglected, and this can make completing daily activities difficult to accomplish. When the feet feel good, a patient's overall attitude may be improved. There are simple methods that can be implemented that the feet can benefit from. These consist of washing the drying the feet daily, followed by using a good moisturizer, which may be helpful in preventing cracked heels. It is imperative that shoes are comfortable and fit correctly, which may be beneficial in helping to avoid unwanted foot conditions. It is suggested that high heels be worn infrequently, and the toenails are trimmed properly. Many people check the bottoms of their feet for existing cuts, bruises, or scrapes, and this is especially important for diabetic patients to do. If you would like more information about the importance of practicing everyday foot care, please confer with a podiatrist who can offer effective tips to maintain the health of the feet.
Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Everyday Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.
It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Why Do My Feet Get Cold When I Exercise?
Most people feel warmed up after exercising, but sometimes it can give you cold feet. A look at the symptoms and causes may help to identify the problem. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, and sensitivity to touch. Causes include compressed nerves, socks or footwear that cuts off the circulation to the feet and toes, and trauma from colliding with a hard object. In addition, cold feet may be the result of fractures, bone spurs, joint swelling, and cysts. Treatment can begin with checking footwear, including both shoes and socks, to see if they are somehow affecting your feet. It’s also a good idea to improve arch support, which takes the pressure off the bottom of your feet. A third option is to vary the types of exercises you do to include less stressful ones that give your feet a rest. It is wise to consult a podiatrist if the sensation of cold feet after exercise continues or becomes worse. It might be an indication of a more serious condition, such as peripheral artery disease. After an examination and diagnosis, a podiatrist can offer treatment options, including medication, custom orthotics, and guidance on appropriate footwear for your situation.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Exercise for Your Feet
Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.
Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctors to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual.
Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Arthritis Can Cause Pain in the Feet and Ankles
If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.
Causes and Symptoms of Toenail Fungus
The toenails can become disfigured if they are infected by toenail fungus. The medical term for toenail fungus is onychomycosis, which can be quite unsightly. It is caused by a fungus that lives in warm and moist environments, including public swimming pools, shower room floors, and locker rooms. The fungus can enter the body through small cracks in the skin, and it feeds on keratin that is found on the hard surface of the toenails. Additional factors like poor foot hygiene or wearing socks that are too tight can contribute to the development of toenail fungus. Also, existing medical conditions, such as diabetes and poor circulation, may lead to toenail fungus. Toenail fungus symptoms include hard, brittle toenails that often turn white or yellow. In severe cases, the nail may separate from the nail bed, which may require medical attention. If you experience any symptoms of fungal infection on your toenails, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who specializes in diagnosing and treating this condition.
If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Symptoms
- Warped or oddly shaped nails
- Yellowish nails
- Loose/separated nail
- Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
- Brittle, broken, thickened nail
Treatment
If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.
Prevention
In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.
In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Common Symptoms of Sesamoiditis
A foot injury can lead to inflammation and irritation of the sesamoid bones which is known as sesamoiditis. Prompt medical attention is often needed and failure to do so may lead to additional inflammation of the surrounding tendons and ligaments. The pain of this foot condition is often felt in the ball of the foot directly under the joint in the big toe. It can be difficult to walk, and the pain may intensify when the big toe is stretched. Many patients often have a limited range of motion in the big toe, and it may be hard to straighten the toe. Sesamoiditis can occur when the pressure on the ball of the foot is increased, and this may happen from frequently participating in running and jumping activities. Existing foot structures like high arches and bony feet may contribute to sesamoiditis. If you have pain in this part of your foot or exhibit any of the above symptoms, please consult with a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat sesamoiditis.
Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact one of our podiatrists of Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.
Sesamoiditis
Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.
Causes of Sesamoiditis
- Sudden increase in activity
- Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
- Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible
Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Rare Foot Conditions
A rare foot condition happens to only a few people in the population. Many rare foot conditions share symptoms with common foot problems but are harder to diagnose and treat. Three such foot diseases are Freiberg’s disease, Maffucci syndrome, and Kohler’s disease. Freiberg’s disease usually affects the second or third metatarsal bones and causes the bones to flatten and lose their normal, round, smooth shape. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and stiffness around the affected toe, and it can cause the forefoot to be tender and have a limited range of motion. Maffucci syndrome affects the skin and bones. It is characterized by multiple benign tumors in the cartilage, called enchondromas, which develop near the ends of bones and cause them to bulge and stop growing. These can lead to severe bone deformation and make bones more susceptible to fractures. This syndrome is most common among children and is rarely detected at birth, but symptoms can become apparent in the first few years of life. Kohler’s disease is another rare foot condition that happens due to the compression of the arch of the foot during a child’s early development. It affects boys more than girls and typically affects a single foot. Those with this disease have redness, swelling, and tenderness on the affected foot. Symptoms may be mild but chronic. If your child suffers from foot pain, see a podiatrist who can diagnose the problem and provide treatment.
Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Rare Foot Conditions
The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist. Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care.
There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:
- Freiberg’s disease
- Kohler’s disease
- Maffucci syndrome
Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp.
Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.
Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking.
A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Gout Pain Can Be Managed
Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.
Walking and Other Tips for Elderly Foot Care
Maintaining the health of one’s feet is important for everyone, regardless of their age. However, it is especially important for senior citizens, who tend to lose their natural fat cushioning and muscle strength in the feet. There are a number of tips that seniors might consider following to look after the health of their feet. First, you could consider taking walks regularly. Although this may seem simple, walking is one of the easiest ways to strengthen and exercise the feet. Walking can give seniors the full range of motion in the feet needed to keep the feet strong and agile. As an added bonus, walking can additionally improve circulation to one’s feet, helping blood flow throughout the feet and lower legs. Second, you can regularly examine your feet. If a senior can identify any cuts, calluses, or other abnormalities early enough, they might be able to prevent a larger complication down the road. If a senior is unable to examine their own feet, a loved one or care provider might be able to perform these examinations. If you are a senior, don’t take the health of your feet for granted –see a podiatrist today.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
- Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
- Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
- Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
- Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
- Shoes that don’t fit properly
- Pressure sores
- Loss of circulation in legs & feet
- Edema & swelling of feet and ankles
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Possible Causes of Cracked Heels
Having dry, cracked skin on your feet can interfere with your plans to wear beautiful, strappy sandals to your evening event. Cracked feet are not just unsightly though, deep fissures and cracks can make walking and standing painful, sometimes unbearable. Furthermore, germs can enter these breaks in the skin and cause infections. There are different things that can cause cracked heels. Dry skin is commonly the culprit of cracks in heels and occurs because the skin loses too much oil and water. This condition often shows up in dry, cold weather. The use of furnaces and air conditioners, bathing in hot water, using harsh soaps, aging, having skin disorders like psoriasis and eczema, or physical conditions, like hyperthyroidism or diabetes, can all contribute to dry skin. Another reason for cracked heels might be putting excessive pressure on your feet. This can include prolonged standing, being overweight, and wearing shoes that have open backs and do not protect the pad of the fat under the feet. The feet expand toward the sides, which can result in splitting of hard, dry skin there. Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the feet. It thrives in moist, warm areas and the feet are a perfect host for this. This condition can cause peeling, flaking, and cracked skin on the sides of the feet and between your toes. If there is an infection, symptoms can worsen to stinging, burning, blisters, red skin, and itching. Spending too much time in the sun and getting sunburnt can be yet another reason for dry, cracked heels. Washing and drying your feet well, using moisturizer daily, wearing shoes made of material that breathes and that fit properly, controlling excessive sweating, and tending to secondary conditions may all help. If you are not able to keep your dry, cracked heels under control, or if signs of infection are present, consult with a podiatrist who can help you with treatment options that have a greater chance of controlling this annoying condition.
Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Cracked Heels
Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.
How Do You Get Them?
Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.
Promote Healing
Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.
Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.
Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.
Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin.
Change in Diet
Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.
Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
The Benefits of Children Walking Outside Without Shoes
Research has indicated that children may have a heightened sense of awareness of their surroundings when they frequently walk barefoot. They may be able to notice a sharp object on the ground quicker than if they were wearing shoes, for fear of stepping on it. Many parents are concerned about spreading germs if their child walks barefoot outside, but disease is more apt to spread by hands than feet. Shoes have been known to hold bacteria and moisture, which can lead to athlete’s foot. Additionally, it is said when our feet touch the earth, our bodies pick up negative electrons. This may be instrumental in offsetting the large amount of positive electrons that can come from electronic devices. There are pressure points in the feet which are connected to nerve endings. When children do not wear shoes while walking on dirt and playing outside, the entire nervous system can be stimulated. The muscles in the feet typically become stronger when shoes are not worn as the toes grip the earth. If you have questions or concerns about the benefits of your child walking outside without shoes, please confer with a podiatrist.
The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
- Make sure their shoes fit properly
- Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
- Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
- Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
- Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
- Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
- Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
- Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
More...
Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?
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.
The Feet Can Be Likened to a Work of Art
There are 26 bones in each foot, accompanied by several joints, tendons, muscles, and ligaments. The feet comprise 25% of all the bones in the body, and it is important to practice everyday foot care that can benefit the entire body. The feet can be likened to a machine, and the muscles and joints can represent pulleys and levers that can move side to side and up and down. This is instrumental in walking, running, and completing everyday activities, and many people have considered the feet to be a “work of art." As the aging process occurs, the feet may start to wear and tear, and uncomfortable foot conditions may develop. Dry skin can possibly be reduced when a good moisturizer is used on them daily. Additionally, the chances of getting athlete’s foot and toenail fungus may decrease when appropriate shoes are worn in public swimming pool and locker room areas. It is beneficial to wear shoes that fit correctly, and this may help to prevent hammertoe and bunions from developing. Additionally, the feet will feel good at the end of the day when they are soaked in warm water and scented oil. For more information about everyday foot care tips, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can provide you with answers to any questions you may have.
Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Everyday Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.
It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Different Types of Flat Feet
Flat feet is a somewhat self-explanatory foot affliction that can affect a wide variety of individuals. This condition occurs when someone has no visible arch in their foot, or it may partially or completely disappear when the foot is on the ground. In other words, people with flat feet have no gap between the ground and the middle point of the soles of their feet. When standing, people with flat feet will be able to press their entire foot flush against the ground. While this condition can occur in children, adults may also be susceptible to flat feet. There are two main kinds of flat feet that you ought to be aware of. The first kind is known as flexible flat foot. This typically occurs in children when the arch of their feet disappears when standing, but it reappears when the child is sitting down. In some cases, children with flexible flat foot will also exhibit arches in their feet when walking on their tip toes. The second kind is known as rigid flat foot. This kind of flat foot is seen in both children and adults who never exhibit any kind of arch in their feet, whether they are walking normally, walking on their tip toes, or sitting down. If you believe you might have flat feet, consider contacting a podiatrist who can provide guidance and assistance.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Are Flat Feet?
Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms
- Pain around the heel or arch area
- Trouble standing on the tip toe
- Swelling around the inside of the ankle
- Flat look to one or both feet
- Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Removing Corns on the Feet
Corns are hard, callus-like growths that can develop on your feet. They usually develop in response to repeated pressure applied to a point on the foot, usually from ill-fitting or tight footwear. If you have corns on your feet, you should consult with a podiatrist to address the problem in the best possible way. In some cases, you might be able to remove the corn with a few at-home remedies. However, those with diabetes, circulatory disorders, and certain other conditions should never attempt to treat a corn by themselves. The most common way to remove corns involves soaking the feet in warm water for approximately ten minutes. This is done to soften the affected skin on the feet. After this step, you may be able to gently file down the outer layers of the corn by using a pumice stone or an emery board. However, it is important not to file excessively because you might end up injuring the deeper layers of the skin. There are also a variety of over-the-counter products that you might find useful in attempting to remove the corn on your feet. For example, you can use products such as lotions or scrubs that contain salicylic acid. This acid works to break down the corn. When in doubt, it is best to contact a trusted podiatrist who can help you determine the best way for the corn to be removed.
If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.
Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:
- Well-fitting socks
- Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
- Shoes that offer support
Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctors to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
