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Start Up Aims to Make Orthotics Trendy
Sols, a New York based startup, is trying to make orthotics cool for the younger generations. The company labels themselves as a “lifestyle brand” with advertisements portraying how great anyone and everyone wearing orthotics are. With the use of 3D printing and an iPhone app, anyone can soon have trendy orthotics for hundreds less than a standard pair of inserts. Although some foot doctors believe that orthotics should be worn only if you are having an issue, Sols still generated over $19 million dollars from investors.
If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists of Dr. Kane and Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What are Orthotics?
Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain, but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.
Over-the-Counter Inserts
Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct over arched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.
Prescription Orthotics
If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you, or if you have a more severe foot issue, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and more severe heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses, and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.
If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist on the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain free.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
German Researchers Create Sock that Can Prevent Amputations on Diabetic Feet
Researchers fromWurzburg and Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits in Erlangen, Germany have recently created a pressure sensing sock to aid diabetics suffering from diabetic neuropathy. Often times those with neuropathy are unable to sense pressure on their feet and can obtain wounds that could lead to issues such as gangrene and amputations. The device has over 40 sensors made of a silicone film where pressure points on the feet are combined and mapped to help prevent further issues. Although the sock is a great innovation for the diabetic community, researchers are still working to make the device less bulky and more accessible.
Diabetic patients are often at a high risk for neuropathy, amputations, and other issues. If you have any concerns about your diabetic feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Dr. Kane and Associates, PC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. Diabetes can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, including the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
- Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
- Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
- Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels because blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
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.
Heels Spurs Commonly Associated With Plantar Fasciitis
When pain is experienced while walking, a calcaneal spur or heel spur may be the culprit. A spur typically occurs when a calcium deposit forms on the bottom of the heel. Since heel spurs are often associated with other foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis, there are many treatments to easily resolve the pain. Foot orthotics are one of the most common ways in treating a heel spur since it cushions the heel and makes it comfortable to walk again. The orthotic also helps cushion the area as well as correct any walking habits that may have been another cause of the pain.
Heel spurs can be incredibly painful, and sometimes might make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, call one of our podiatrists of Dr. Kane and Associates, PC. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.
Heels Spurs
Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be a cause from small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching it to the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot. Bone may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.
Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs. Pain sometimes intensifies with age. Heel spurs are known to cause a substantial amount of pain. One of the main associations spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.
Pain
The pain associated with spurs is often times because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to poke and affect other boners and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.
Treatments
There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain there are several methods for healing. Medicines, surgery, and herbal care are some options.
For more information about Heel Spurs, follow the link below.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our offices in Westland, MI. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
