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Tips for Comfortable Feet
If you suffer often from foot ailments such as corns, calluses, and cracked heels, a good baking soda foot soak recipe can help with treating your feet. Calluses, for example, formed from layers of dead skin cells, can be treated by a foot bath recipe with baking soda. Baking soda can also help eliminate excessive sweating, foot odor, and help with fighting bacteria and fungi. Baking soda can also soften rough skin, promote healing of dryness, soothe the skin, and help with relieving burning, itching, and swelling.
Every day foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked contact Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.
Every Day 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. After all, 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 example.
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.
Also, 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 contact our office located in Havre de Grace, MD. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Shoe Shopping for Kids 101
When children go shopping for back-to-school shoes, they often look for minor details in their ideal shoe instead of looking for one that fits properly. Shoes that glow in the dark, or have a pretty design on them may look attractive, but they are not necessarily going to be good for the health of your child’s feet. There are certain things that you should look out for when helping your child pick out shoes for the new school year. One of the things you should search for is a shoe that offers toe-flexibility. Your child’s shoe should be able to bend along with his or her toes. You should also search for shoes that have a secure fit. The best fitting shoes often have laces or velcro. Another factor in your shoe-shopping search should be comfortability. Your child should be able to walk around in their new shoes with ease.
Making sure that your children maintain foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet in childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care from birth to school-age.
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
- Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet
- Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet
- Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus
- Be watchful of any pain or injury
- Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible
- Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play
If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Havre de Grace, MD. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Flat Feet Risk Factors
Flat foot is a condition commonly caused by a dysfunction of the posterior tibial tendon, a tendon of the ankle. Other factors that can increase the risk of flat feet include, “high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, previous surgery or trauma, rheumatoid arthritis, and exposure to steroids.” Older individuals as well as previous injury to the area can lead to the development of flatfoot. Seek medical attention to ensure proper prevention of the progression of the condition.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
What are Flat Feet?
Flat feet are 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. Standing about 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arch 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 Havre de Grace, MD. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Shoe Shopping Tips
It is very important to make sure the shoes you wear fit properly. Manager of Charm City Run manager, Caroline Pinkin, says the biggest mistake shoe shoppers make is buying running shoes that are a size too small. Runners should always look for a shoe that is half a size or a full size larger than the size of their foot. A lot of dangerous foot problems can be caused by wearing the wrong size shoe. Some of these injuries include: IT band issues, plantar fasciitis, and shin splints.
Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Proper Shoe Fitting
A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:
- Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
- Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
- Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
- Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity
Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes is vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Havre de Grace, MD. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about proper shoe fitting.
High Heels May Negatively Impact Foot Health
A study published by the Journal of Applied Physiology has determined that long-term high heel use can have detrimental effects on the legs’ muscles, such as muscle strain and muscle fatigue. According to the study’s abstract, long-term high heel use has been found to “shorten medial gastrocnemius muscle fascicles and increase Achilles tendon stiffness.” The study’s results are consistent with reports that high heel wearers often experience discomfort, pain, and tiredness. It also suggests that “long-term high heel use may compromise muscle efficiency in walking”.
High heels have a history for causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because their style and societal appeal. Despite this, they can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
What parts 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. Also, 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 offices located in Havre de Grace, MD. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Study Could Predict Susceptibility of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder, or a condition in which the body attacks itself. Bacteria in the gut has been found to predict susceptibility of rheumatoid arthritis. Experts were able to study microbes that were normally low in healthy individuals, but high in people with rheumatoid arthritis. This study could be used to predict if someone is likely to have rheumatoid arthritis in the future.
Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.
Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet
Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.
Symptoms
- Swelling & pain in the feet
- Stiffness in the feet
- Pain on the ball or sole of feet
- Joint shift and deformation
Diagnosis
Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Havre de Grace, MD. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Weight Loss Surgery can offer Pain Relief in the Feet
A report from the CDC revealed that one in five U.S. teenagers is obese. Researchers found that weight loss surgery might offer pain relief particularly in the feet and increase mobility for teenagers who are obese. The procedure, which is called bariatric surgery, not only contributes to weight loss but has been found to provide other health benefits such as a lower heart rate. In foot care, overly heavy weight can become concerning as this places extra stress on the feet. Getting rid of excess weight can have long lasting health benefits for teens, so it is important for them to make lifestyle modifications in order to achieve a healthy weight.
Any additional problems in the feet of those with obesity can be detrimental to foot health. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Obesity and your Feet
Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.
Problems & Complications
Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.
Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.
Solutions
Footwear – Specially made footwear that supports your joints, arches, and ankles, and allows room for good circulation is a great option to mitigate pressure and pain. A podiatrist will help you decide what works best for your specific needs.
Exercise – Exercise will help alleviate the pain and give your feet the strength it needs to support your body. Exercise also increases blood flow to your feet, allowing them to remain healthy and strong.
Most importantly, seek the help of a podiatrist for foot care if something is wrong or doesn’t seem to be working. 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 Havre de Grace, MD. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about obesity and the feet.
Take Care of your Feet as You would Your Face
You should always make sure to put in as much effort into taking care of your feet as you do your face. Your toenails should always be trimmed at the proper length in order to avoid getting dirt trapped underneath them. Another tip to maintain healthy feet is to make sure you drink plenty of water. Dehydration can lead to dry and cracked feet. However, if you have cracked heels you should make sure you are scrubbing your feet well in order to get remove dried skin. Pumice stones are often used to exfoliate the feet and can make your heels soft and smooth.
Every day foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Every Day 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. After all, 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 example.
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.
Also, 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 contact our offices located in Havre de Grace, MD. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Everyday Foot Care
Diabetics Need to Have Feet Screenings
Diabetic foot is one of the top 20 causes of hospitalization in Australia. Studies conducted in the country found that one in every twenty-two patients in Australian hospitals have active diabetic foot disease. The disease is also responsible for over 4,400 amputations and 1,700 deaths each year. Nevertheless, early prevention is the best way to assure that diabetic foot does not progress into something much worse. It is recommended that every diabetic who goes to a hospital asks to have their foot screened for diabetic foot. Many people who have the disease often aren’t aware of it.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet contact Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
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 offices located in Havre de Grace, MD. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Diabetic Foot Care
Flip-Flops Might Be Bad for Your Feet
People often buy flip-flops with little knowledge on how they may affect your feet. Flip-flops do not offer much support for your feet, and they may cause plantar fasciitis. Wearing flip-flops also causes your toes to contract, which can cause hammertoe. When shopping for flip-flops you should look for durability, quality, and comfort. Heavy-duty flip flops that are made of soft leather instead of foam last extremely long and provide a lot of comfort. Thicker straps are also best when it comes to flip flops, because thin straps cut into the skin during aggressive activity.
Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care.Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
Flip-Flops and Feet
When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops. Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off, perfect for any summer beach goer. However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.
How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?
- Ankle problems
- Hip problems
- Lower back problems
- Pain in the balls of the feet
- Problems with foot arches
- Changes in the way you walk
Are there injuries associated with flip-flops?
Yes. Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections. Common injuries and ailments include:
- Sprained ankles
- Blisters
- Infections
- Cuts and Scrapes
I like wearing flip-flops, are there safe alternatives?
When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and are made of high quality materials that will support for your feet. These flip-flops will cost more, but will also last longer as a result.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Havre de Grace, MD. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Flip-Flops and Your Feet