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Foot Issues May be Linked to Obesity
Recent research indicates that there’s a direct link between obesity and foot and ankle problems. In addition to tendonitis and general fatigue of the foot, overall foot health, foot function, and proper shoe fitting are among the many things affected by this condition. Typically, obesity affects the ability to exercise due to the increased weight placed on the feet, affecting the tendons and joints. Skeletal problems tend to occur as the sides of the foot and arch are continually stretched, often causing common foot conditions such as gout, ingrown toenails, and fungal infections. It may be advised to start an exercise program for weight loss, and this may typically alleviate foot pain. Try to find shoes that fit the best, preferably with proper cushioning and support. A consultation with a podiatrist is advised if you are experiencing any swelling or pain in your feet.
Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, 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.
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.
Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot.
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 How Obesity Affects Your FeetReasons for Stretching the Feet
There are numerous bones, joints and muscles in the foot, therefore making it a complicated structure. The intrinsic muscles that are attached to the foot help in forward movement and maintaining balance, whereas the extrinsic muscles allow pointing and flexing of the foot to occur. It’s important to stretch these muscles to avoid certain painful conditions, such as plantar fasciitis. Sitting in a chair with your right foot on top of your left thigh and pulling the toes of your right foot back until you feel a pull on the bottom of the foot is an effective way to stretch these muscles. Repeating a few times with each foot will help the muscles stay limber, in addition to restoring the foot’s natural motion. Helping the arches stay strong by performing proper stretches may be beneficial for flat-footed patients. Please consult a podiatrist for foot stretches that are recommended for you.
Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Stretching the Feet
Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.
Great ways to stretch your feet:
- Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
- Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
- Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle
Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.
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 care needs.
Read more about Stretching Your FeetPreventing Common Foot Injuries While Hiking
Hiking is a fun, safe, and healthy activity when proper precautions are taken. Here are some tips to help prevent foot injuries while out on the trails. Try not to overpack; take only what is necessary, as this can help take pressure off your feet. If you do go hiking, make sure to wear hiking boots as these are developed to offer more grip and cushioning than a sneaker. To prevent blisters, use moleskin, tape, or even bandages on areas where friction is likely. Wear moisture wicking socks to help keep your feet dry, further helping in the prevention of blisters. Finally, tools like hiking poles can help provide stability and take some weight off your back, so it's not a bad idea to bring a pair. By following these tips, you can help reduce the likelihood of falls and foot injuries. If you happen to hurt your feet while hiking, be sure to see a podiatrist so that you can be diagnosed and cared for properly.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein of Union Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.
What are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
How do Blisters Form?
Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.
Prevention & Treatment
It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.
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 care needs.
Read more about Blisters on the FeetFriction Causes Corns
Friction on the skin of the feet can cause corns, which appear as thickened areas on the foot. They are comprised of dead skin, and usually appear on the top or sides of the toes. Walking can be uncomfortable or even painful if they happen to form between the toes. Corns can develop under both dry and damp conditions. Bunions may increase friction between the toes, which can encourage the development of a corn. Patients with diabetes need to be particularly careful and should consult with a podiatrist about removal. Proper footwear is essential in providing relief from corns, as keeping pressure off the corn can prevent exacerbation. Furthermore, avoid any repetitive action that may have contributed to the formation of the corn. Consult with a podiatrist for an examination; your doctor can check your feet and footwear to determine the cause.
If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein of Union Foot Care. Our doctor 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 doctor 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 Havre de Grace, MD. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Corns: What Are They, and How Do You Get Rid of ThemWhat is an Ingrown Toenail?
If you are experiencing pain, redness, and swelling near the toenail, chances are you may have an ingrown toenail. Ingrown toenails occur when the corner of the nail grows into the flesh, which can be very painful. Diabetics may be at a greater risk for ingrown toenails due to poor blood flow which can lead to the wound not healing. Trimming toenails properly is an excellent way to help prevent ingrown toenails. Wearing well-fitted shoes can help too; keeping pressure off the toes may keep the nail from growing into the surrounding tissue. Soaking the feet in a warm bath may relieve tenderness and reduce swelling, and applying antibiotic cream and bandaging the toe can also be beneficial. If the toenail becomes infected or the pain is severe, it is recommended that you see a podiatrist.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein of Union Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.
Causes
- Bacterial infections
- Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
- Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
- Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
- Genetic predisposition
Prevention
Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.
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 Ingrown Toenail CareCaring for a Diabetic Foot Ulcer
If feet are deprived of blood that's rich in oxygen, a condition called diabetic foot can occur. It is typically characterized by open wounds or sores, usually located on the sole of the foot. The high blood sugar may damage blood vessels, causing poor circulation in the feet and legs. Foot ulcers may then be a result of this and can be very slow to heal. Checking the feet for cuts and sores, in addition to learning how to keep the feet clean and dry, is crucial for patients. For people with severe foot ulcers, special shoes may be needed. It’s important for the ulcer to be treated properly by washing it well with saline or clean tap water and then covering it with a bandage to control drainage. You should seek immediate treatment from a podiatrist if you think you have a diabetic foot ulcer.
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 you pain-free and on your feet.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially 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, as 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 Havre de Grace, MD. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about How to Care for Diabetic FootShockwave Therapy Explained
A noninvasive option for chronic heel pain is known as ESWT, or Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy. This treatment involves shock waves, which originate from outside of the body, and are directed onto the heel of the foot. These are sound waves, and are intended to accelerate the body’s own healing process. It has been associated with helping to heal the pain that comes from plantar fasciitis. During the relatively short procedure, the patient reclines and waves are sent to the heel of the foot. Typically, ESWT is suggested when the patient has suffered for long periods of time from chronic heel pain. This treatment has been FDA approved since 2000 and is highly effective for the treatment of pain. Consult a podiatrist to see if this procedure might be right for you.
Shockwave therapy is a treatment commonly used to treat various injuries and conditions, particularly plantar fasciitis in the feet. To learn more, consult with Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is a new treatment option designed to treat bone conditions such as tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and others. Shockwave therapy uses high intensity sound waves that are directed to the affected tissues of the body with pinpoint accuracy. The effects are very beneficial, leading to a production of collagen fibers, eliminating inflammation.
Who Benefits from Shockwave?
Shockwave is recommended for patients suffering from heel pain and associated problems. Heel pain is a common condition which can be caused by obesity, overexertion, and spending a substantial amount of time on hard floors with your feet exposed and unsupported.
Fast and Easy
The therapy is actually a simple process that can leave patients feeling better the very next day. Shockwave therapy is not as dramatic as it sounds. It enables more blood flow to effected areas, addressing the source of the problem and allowing treatment to last for a long time.
Treatment & Recovery Time
Shockwave treatment will enable your feet to recover quickly. This is especially important since surgery is not required. It is cost effective and does not require the use of anesthesia. This treatment is a better option to surgery, since it is proven safe.
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 Treating Heel Pain with Shockwave TherapyToenail Care for the Elderly
Geriatric (elderly) people may be prone to foot problems, which may include ingrown toenails, corns, and calluses. A reason for this may be their inability to cut their own toenails due to poor eyesight or loss of mobility. A qualified caregiver should be able to cut toenails properly. Ideally, toenails should be kept short, as more problems tend to arise if the nails are too long. The shorter they are, the less risk there is of breaking a nail. As we age, it’s beneficial to stay healthy and active. However, it’s important to remember to practice proper foot care. A podiatrist should be consulted to learn the best options for correct maintenance and treatments.
If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein of Union Foot Care. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.
Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.
It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.
Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities.
Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.
Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Havre de Grace, MD. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Geriatrics and PodiatryCauses of Flat Feet
Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, is a common condition in infants, and typically disappears by age three as the foot grows. In adults, this condition can be caused by illness or injury. Being overweight can also be a contributing factor. Therefore, a change in diet may help alleviate symptoms of the condition. Sometimes flat feet are caused by a short Achilles tendon, resulting in pain. A rare cause can be if bones become fused together. When the tendon that connects the inside of the ankle to the calf muscle is injured, flat feet may occur. While flat feet are common, it is a good idea to consult with a podiatrist to avoid any potential complications.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor 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 Havre de Grace, MD. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Flat FeetElderly Persons Should Always Be Moving
Aging experts say that telling the elderly to take it easy and not exercise is bad for their long-term health. Many believe that aging causes a loss of strength and fitness, but some experts say it is actually the opposite. The elderly have an increased risk of falling due to slower reaction times and decreased fitness. Encouraging the elderly to find activities that promote exercise and to follow a good diet can help decrease the risk of falls. If you are older and wish to start exercising, check with a doctor to see if it is right for you.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
- Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
- Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
- Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
- Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
- Utilizing a walker or cane
- Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
- Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.
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 care needs.
Read more about Falls Prevention