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Tuesday, 06 June 2023 00:00
Reasons Heel Spurs Develop
A calcium deposit that grows under the heel bone is known as a heel spur. It can be uncomfortable, and many people will alter their gait or walking style to accommodate the pain it can cause. A heel spur can gradually develop as a result of ligament or muscle strain, and heel pain is a common beginning symptom. People who stand on hard or uneven surfaces for the majority of the day may be prone to developing a heel spur, or it may happen to patients who have gained weight. It is beneficial to seek help from a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose a heel spur. Relief may be found when custom-made orthotics are worn, and specific stretches are routinely performed that can help to strengthen the heel muscles. It is helpful to wear shoes that fit correctly, with extra cushioning in the heel area. If you have developed a heel spur, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you treatment methods that are correct for you.
Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Livingston Foot Care Specialists. 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 caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.
Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.
Pain
The pain associated with spurs is often 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 affect other bones 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. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in North Bellmore, NY . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
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Tuesday, 06 June 2023 00:00
How to Treat Heel Spurs
Heel spurs are calcium deposits that cause bone protrusions on the heel bone. Heel spurs are usually associated with plantar fasciitis, which occurs when the plantar fasciitis in the foot becomes inflamed. Typically, heel spurs don’t cause any symptoms. However, they can produce chronic or intermittent heel pain. Those who have had the condition often describe the irritation as a stabbing pain.
There are risk factors that may make you more likely to develop heel spurs. People who have abnormal walking gaits, run and jog on hard surfaces, are obese, or wear poorly fitting shoes are more likely to develop heel spurs.
Fortunately, there are precautions you can take to avoid developing heel spurs. One of the best ways to do this is by wearing well-fitting shoes with shock-absorbent soles. Another preventative technique is to choose running shoes if you plan on running, and walking shoes if you plan on walking. Shoes are made for different activities and it is important to research a shoe before you purchase a pair.
The pain associated with heel spurs often decreases the more you walk. However, a recurrence of pain after an extended period of rest or walking is likely to occur with this condition. Those with severe heel spur pain may opt to go the surgical route for treatment. However, more than 90% of those with the condition get better without surgical treatment. If you have a heel spur and want to know if surgery is right for you, you should go to your podiatrist and he or she will be able to conduct a pre-surgical test or exam to determine if you are an optimal candidate for surgery.
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Tuesday, 30 May 2023 00:00
What Can Wearing High Heels Do to My Feet?
Various benefits can come from wearing high heels. High heels can make the legs look slender and make you appear taller. Despite these attractions, there are also risks associated with frequently wearing high heels, including ankle instability, and the heel may undergo extreme pressure. The foot structure may change when high heels are worn often, and bunions and hammertoes could develop or worsen. Additionally, corns can form on the side of the pinky toe or top of the toes due to limited room in the toe area. Heel pain may indicate that plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis has developed, possibly causing difficulty pointing and flexing the toes. Foot pain may be prevented when wearing shoes with a lower heel, and shoes that have a wedge may provide extra support. If you would like more information about the pros and cons of wearing high heels it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.
High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Livingston Foot Care Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal. Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?
- Ankle Joints
- Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
- Balls of the Feet
- Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
- Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain. The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.
What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?
- Corns
- Calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Morton’s Neuroma
- Plantar Fasciitis
How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?
If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems. Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising. If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work. Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in North Bellmore, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Tuesday, 30 May 2023 00:00
Effect of High Heels on the Feet
For hundreds of years, women have been wearing various kinds of high heels for aesthetic reasons. Women who wear high heels appear to be taller and have longer and thinner legs, and the wearer’s gait and posture changes. Though high heels have had an association with femininity and have kept them popular over the years, there are definite health problems caused by wearing them too frequently.
The motion of the ankle joints is limited when heels are worn. The ankle joint is very important to the body when it comes to walking. Because of their location, these joints have a great deal of weight put on them. Thus, it is very important to keep them as healthy as possible. The Achilles tendon is the main tendon in the ankle. Wearing high heels too often, studies have shown, can cause the calf muscle and Achilles tendon to shorten and stiffen. This can cause problems when shoes without heels are worn.
By putting a great deal of pressure on the ball of the foot and by forcing the toes into a small toe box, high heels can cause or may worsen many foot problems. These include corns, hammertoe, bunions, Morton’s neuroma and plantar fasciitis.
Not only does wearing high heels regularly have negative effects on the feet, the rest of the body can suffer as well. The knees, one of the most important joints in the entire body, can be affected by wearing high heels. High heels can cause the knees to stay bent all the time. Also, it can cause them to bend slightly inward as well. Doctors believe that women can suffer from osteoarthritis later in life because of constantly walking like in high heels. By limiting the natural motion of the foot during walking, high heels also cause an increased in stress on the knees.
Similarly, high heels can cause the back to go out of alignment. If high heels are worn constantly, the spine’s ability to absorb shock can cause continued back pain. They can compress the vertebrae of the lower back, and can overuse the back muscles.
However, this is not to say that high heels can never be worn. If worn occasionally and not often, they will not cause serious problems. They should not be worn every day. It’s important to wear them modestly to avoid the long-term physical health problems of the feet, knees, ankles, and back mentioned above.
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Tuesday, 23 May 2023 00:00
Elderly Shoe Shopping
As an individual progresses into their elderly years, it becomes increasingly important for them to take extra care of their feet. This is because the feet can become more susceptible to foot conditions with age. One important part of maintaining foot health is wearing shoes that fit properly. When an elderly individual goes shoe shopping, there are several things they may consider doing to select the best fitting shoe. For example, as an individual gets older, it can be more difficult to bend over and put on shoes. So a senior may consider shopping for shoes that are easy to put on and take off. Additionally, since older people may slip and fall, shopping for shoes which have grips can be beneficial. If you are a senior or are caring for one, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today for more information.
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 Livingston Foot Care Specialists. 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 North Bellmore, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Tuesday, 23 May 2023 00:00
Elderly Foot Care
As you grow older, you will start to notice more problems with your feet due to wear and tear. This may also happen because the skin will start to become thin and lose elasticity. Some signs of aging feet are regular aches and pains, bunion development, and clawed toes.
Fortunately, there are ways you can improve comfort, relieve pain, and maintain mobility in your feet. One of the best ways to deal with aging feet is to exercise. If you keep active, your muscles will become toned which will then strengthen the arches in the foot and stimulate blood circulation.
It is important that you practice proper foot care to protect your aging feet. You should wash your feet in warm water on an everyday basis. Afterward, the feet need to be dried well and it is important to dry between the toes. Your toenails should be trimmed and kept under control; nails that are poorly cut may become ingrown. At the end of each day, performing an inspection of your feet will allow you to detect any ailments in their early stages.
As you grow older, it becomes more important that you wear comfortable shoes. Your shoes should be secure, and they should provide decent arch support. If you are looking to buy a new pair of shoes, it is best to look for a pair that are made from a breathable material. It is also helpful to have shoes that have a bit of extra room at the top of the shoe, especially if you suffer from swollen feet.
The most common foot problems that elderly people will encounter are bunions, calluses, corns, hammertoes, heel pain, and foot problems related to diabetes. Some other issues include arch pain, tarsal tunnel syndrome, Achilles tendonitis, and Morton’s neuroma
An annual foot examination is a great way for you to ensure that you do not have any serious health problems with your feet. You should talk to a podiatrist about the available treatment options for whichever foot issue you are dealing with.
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Tuesday, 16 May 2023 00:00
Proper Shoe Sizing
Getting the correct shoe size requires trying shoes on and walking around to ensure they are comfortable. Measuring the feet with a Brannock device, often available in most shoe stores or departments, or outlining the feet on paper and cutting them out to have a pattern to be compared to shoes can also help. Other recommendations for ensuring proper shoe size include making sure there is a thumb’s worth of room between the tip of the toes and the front of the shoe and a finger’s worth of space between the heel and the back of the shoe to prevent unwanted friction and a host of resulting foot problems. Wearing the socks intended to be worn with shoes when trying them on and trying on shoes later in the day, when feet are at their largest, can help in getting the correct shoe size and fit. If insoles in new shoes are not substantial and do not provide adequate cushioning, they can be swapped out for those providing extra support and comfort. If you are having trouble finding the best shoe size for your feet and you often have foot discomfort, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can help you on your quest to find the right shoes.
Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from Livingston Foot Care Specialists. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Getting the Right Shoe Size
There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.
- When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
- Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
- Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
- Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
- If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes
As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in North Bellmore, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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Tuesday, 16 May 2023 00:00
Getting the Right Shoe Size: To Keep Your Feet Happy
People are constantly wearing improperly-fitting shoes. Though it isn’t hard, picking the right shoes does require keeping a few things in mind.
Shoe stores have rulers so you can get an exact measurement of your feet. Be sure to always measure your feet with your shoes on. Measuring just your foot will give you a shoe size that is 1-2 inches too small for picking the right size shoe.
To ensure that your toes won’t be cramped, make sure there is wiggle room. Approximately one inch should be between your toes and the tip of your shoe. It is easy to tell if your shoes are too tight, because you will start to experience pain, blisters, and swelling.
Additionally, do not always assume your shoe size will be the same at every store. Manufacturers sometimes run differently, and your size will vary from brand to brand. Make sure the stores you purchase from have return policies, in case there is a problem.
Rather than shoe shopping in the morning, it is advised to shop for shoes later in the day. Your feet will swell as the day passes. If shoes are purchased in the morning, they may not be as snug as they should be. Furthermore, not all two feet are the same size. Therefore, accommodations may be necessary.
An overall concern in buying shoes is making sure they are comfortable and supportive. There is no such thing as a shoe being ‘broken in’. If they are uncomfortable at the store, they likely will always be uncomfortable.
Since we do a lot of walking, it is important that we pick the right shoes. Our feet will benefit from this, and we will be happier and healthier because of it.
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Wednesday, 17 May 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.
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Tuesday, 09 May 2023 00:00
Stress Fractures Happen Gradually
A stress fracture is a broken bone. There are several types of fractured bones, and stress or hairline fractures generally happen gradually. The feet are a common place for stress fractures which typically result from overuse. People who enjoy running may experience stress fractures, but they may be prevented when proper warming up and cooling down are practiced. Research has shown that people who frequently wear high heels or other shoes that do not fit correctly may develop stress fractures from the consistent pressure the feet endure. Additionally, this type of fracture may happen from increasing running speed and distance too soon, as the feet need time to adapt. Patients who perform weight training on opposite days may notice their bodies becoming stronger, and running can become easier. If you develop a stress fracture, it is strongly suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can provide the best treatment for you.
Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Livingston Foot Care Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use. The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.
What Are Stress Fractures?
Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:
- Runners
- People affected with Osteoporosis
- Tennis or basketball players
- Gymnasts
- High impact workouts
Symptoms
Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in North Bellmore, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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