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Tuesday, 28 March 2023 00:00

Flat Foot Diagnosis

People who are lacking an arch in their feet are known to have flat feet. All babies are born with flat feet, and the arch generally develops in the teenage years, but this may not happen in some adults, possibly due to genetic factors or if they have endured a foot injury. Additionally, there may be existing Achilles tendon conditions or muscle problems that may lead to having flat feet. This ailment is easily diagnosed by undergoing a physical examination in addition to having an X-ray performed. It is beneficial for patients with flat feet to wear supportive shoes and refrain from wearing shoes that lack arch support, such as flip-flops. Adults who have flat feet may need additional support, and this may include wearing custom-made orthotics. If you are experiencing aches and pains from having flat feet, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can help you with relief techniques.

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.

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Tuesday, 21 March 2023 00:00

The Treadmill and Foot Injuries

Countless Americans utilize the treadmill everyday as a way for them to burn their daily calories. Individuals can use the treadmill to run, jog, or simply walk. This versatility adds to the appeal of the treadmill. However, if an individual is not careful, the use of the treadmill may potentially put your feet at risk of developing an injury. For example, if an individual is not running, jogging, or walking with proper form, they could endure foot pain and/or a foot condition. These can also occur if an individual misuses the treadmill by perhaps setting the treadmill to an inappropriate incline and speed. If you are someone that frequently relies on the treadmill to get your daily dose of exercise, it is highly suggested that you contact a podiatrist who will be able to offer you individualized care and advice.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, 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.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Plantar Fasciosis
  • Achilles Tendinitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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.

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Tuesday, 14 March 2023 00:00

Why Are My Heels Cracked?

Many people do not take proper care of their feet during the colder months and a condition known as cracked heels may develop. The leading cause of cracked heels during the colder months is due to dry skin. Cracked heels can also arise from standing on hard surfaces for most of the day as well as wearing shoes with an open back. The aging process may also affect cracked heels because of the loss of skin elasticity. Existing medical conditions like eczema, psoriasis, athlete’s foot, and diabetes may lead to cracked heels. Deep cracks are called fissures and they may bleed and become infected. Additionally, people who are overweight may be prone to developing cracked heels, which adds extra pressure to the heels. If you suffer from cracked heels, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can prescribe medication for complete relief.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. 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

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

  • Invest in a good foot cream
  • Try Using Petroleum Jelly
  • Ease up on Soaps
  • Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

  • Moisturize After Showering
  • Skip a Shower
  • Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
  • Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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.

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Monday, 13 March 2023 00:00

Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?

If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!

Tuesday, 07 March 2023 00:00

Yoga Foot Stretches

Stretching the feet can be important for a number of different reasons. First, stretching the feet strengthens the muscles in the feet, making them stronger and more resilient. Second, stretching the feet can also improve one’s stability and mobility. Stretching the feet can be accomplished in many different settings, and yoga is one important way. While standing up straight on a yoga mat, an individual can stretch their toes by placing them against a yoga block. Alternatively, a person might stretch their toes while on a mat by placing them on top of a tennis ball. Another important yoga stretch that incorporates the feet is by sitting on one’s knees and tucking the toes under, so that the toes are stretched out onto the yoga mat. If you are someone that wants to perform more foot stretches as part of your daily routine, consider taking up yoga. It is suggested to contact a podiatrist for more information.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

  • Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
  • Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
  • Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
  • Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.

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.

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Some older people shuffle or drag their feet when they walk. There can be a variety of reasons they do this, including weak hip and leg muscles, a prior or imminent health condition (such as dementia or a sign of a stroke), or from a fear of falling and trying to take more cautious steps. Shuffling while walking can increase a senior’s risk of falling because their shoes can catch on the ground, or their feet can slide on rugs or uneven surfaces, and they become unbalanced. As we know, falling can have serious consequences. Gentle flexibility and balance exercises can be tried to attempt to increase strength and to change the shuffling gait.  If you shuffle when you walk, or if you oversee an elderly person who does this, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to determine the cause and treatment necessary.

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.

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Tuesday, 21 February 2023 00:00

Is Working On Your Feet Bad for You?

Many people in all employment lines spend most of the workday standing on their feet. Many workers of this kind often wonder if working on one’s feet all day can be bad for you or yield detrimental health consequences. It is important to note that merely being in a natural, standing position is not damaging in and of itself. However, the answer becomes more complicated if the employee is essentially working in that position all day long. As a result of this, the employee might develop certain foot complications, such as sore feet, muscular fatigue, and other health conditions. Assembly-line workers and cashiers are examples of workers that this might impact. It is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today if any of this applies to you. This licensed foot doctor will be able to answer any questions you might have and address your problems.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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.

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Monday, 20 February 2023 00:00

Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

Tuesday, 14 February 2023 00:00

Heel Pain in New Shoes

Heel pain is never fun, and unfortunately, it can affect people from all walks of life. Many individuals may notice they can experience pronounced heel pain shortly after beginning to wear a new pair of shoes. It is generally important to remember that a good pair of shoes ought to feel comfortable and fit well when you purchase them. By wearing orthotic devices, however, an individual may be able to overcome the possible heel pain which sometimes comes from a new pair of shoes. Specifically, there are certain supportive shoe insoles that can mitigate any potential heel pain you may be experiencing. If you are someone that typically struggles with heel pain or are noticing this type of pain after wearing a new pair of shoes, please schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today.


 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, 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.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

  • Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
  • Wearing non-supportive shoes
  • Weight change           
  • Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 07 February 2023 00:00

Sesamoiditis Tips

If you have sesamoiditis, you might feel some kind of inflammation in the ball of the feet. This condition occurs when the two sesamoid bones (located in the ball of the feet) become inflamed. If you think that you might have some form of sesamoiditis, consider scheduling an appointment with a podiatrist. Upon your visit, your podiatrist will be able to treat your condition and/or provide you with tips to mitigate it. For example, your podiatrist might recommend that you wear certain specific supportive footwear while exercising. Specifically, your podiatrist might recommend wearing a foot pad underneath the ball of the feet to support the sesamoid bones while working out. Additionally, depending on your condition and your regular exercise routine, your podiatrist might recommend that you maintain a healthy balance between high and low impact activities during exercise routines. Contact a podiatrist today for more information. 

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.

Read more about Sesamoiditis
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