What Causes Cracked Heels?
If you notice thickened skin in the heel area of your foot, you may have a condition that is known as cracked heels. This may typically cause severe pain and discomfort as cracks, or fissures form in the skin of the heel. There are reasons why this may occur, which may include standing for extended periods of time, or wearing shoes that have an open back which exposes the heel. Additionally, there may be medical conditions that can cause cracked heels, including diabetes, certain vitamin deficiencies, psoriasis, or fungal infections. Symptoms that many patients experience may include pain, or flaking skin. Mild relief may be found when a good moisturizer is applied frequently to the skin on the heels. If you are afflicted with cracked heels, it is suggested to consult with a podiatrist to discuss proper treatment methods that are correct for you.
Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Donald Manger, DPM from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Cracked Heels
Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.
How Do You Get Them?
Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.
Promote Healing
Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.
Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.
Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.
Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin.
Change in Diet
Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.
Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. 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 Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
What Is Plantar Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis is the medical term for a condition that causes excessive sweating all over the body. Plantar hyperhidrosis is a form of this condition that specifically affects the feet. This ailment usually begins in childhood or adolescence, and in severe cases can cause some physical limitations. The extra moisture can make the feet more prone to bacterial or fungal infections and blisters. Tinea pedis and pitted keratolysis are two examples of possible infections that can result from excess moisture. These two infections can easily be treated with antifungal cream, antibiotic cream, or medication. Plantar hyperhidrosis is symmetric, so it affects both feet equally. The sweating can range from mild excessive sweating to severe constant sweating. If you think you may have plantar hyperhidrosis, then it is recommended you consult with a podiatrist to learn new methods to help living with this condition.
If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact the podiatrists of Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
Hyperhidrosis of the Feet
Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.
Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.
Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.
In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.
A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hamilton Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Hyperhidrosis of the FeetWhat Is Plantar Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis is the medical term for a condition that causes excessive sweating all over the body. Plantar hyperhidrosis is a form of this condition that specifically affects the feet. This ailment usually begins in childhood or adolescence, and in severe cases can cause some physical limitations. The extra moisture can make the feet more prone to bacterial or fungal infections and blisters. Tinea pedis and pitted keratolysis are two examples of possible infections that can result from excess moisture. These two infections can easily be treated with antifungal cream, antibiotic cream, or medication. Plantar hyperhidrosis is symmetric, so it affects both feet equally. The sweating can range from mild excessive sweating to severe constant sweating. If you think you may have plantar hyperhidrosis, then it is recommended you consult with a podiatrist to learn new methods to help living with this condition.
If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact Donald Manger, DPM of Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctor can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
Hyperhidrosis of the Feet
Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.
Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.
Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.
In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.
A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Foot Health May Be Related to Proper Shoe Size
There are certain foot conditions that may be avoided when properly fitting shoes are worn. These may include hammertoes, bunions, and ingrown toenails. When the foot is correctly measured, and the right size is determined, the shoe should fit comfortably with enough room for the toes to move freely in. One foot may be larger than the other foot, so it is important to try both shoes on before purchasing them. It may be beneficial to wear the socks that would generally be worn with the shoes, in addition to making sure there is adequate room between the heel and back of the shoe. If these shoes are to be used to run in, it may be helpful to walk on a firm surface, and then run a short distance. This may ensure there is enough stability in the shoe. If you would like additional information about how to determine the correct size shoe, it is suggested to speak to a podiatrist who can properly assist you.
Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact the podiatrists from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
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 are 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 office located in Hamilton Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Proper Shoe FittingFoot Health May Be Related to Proper Shoe Size
There are certain foot conditions that may be avoided when properly fitting shoes are worn. These may include hammertoes, bunions, and ingrown toenails. When the foot is correctly measured, and the right size is determined, the shoe should fit comfortably with enough room for the toes to move freely in. One foot may be larger than the other foot, so it is important to try both shoes on before purchasing them. It may be beneficial to wear the socks that would generally be worn with the shoes, in addition to making sure there is adequate room between the heel and back of the shoe. If these shoes are to be used to run in, it may be helpful to walk on a firm surface, and then run a short distance. This may ensure there is enough stability in the shoe. If you would like additional information about how to determine the correct size shoe, it is suggested to speak to a podiatrist who can properly assist you.
Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Donald Manger, DPM from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
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 are 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 office located in Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis affects about 1.5 million people in the United States and is a very serious disease. It is an autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system to mistakenly attack joints. This attack creates inflammation that causes the tissue lining on the joints to thicken, which causes pain and swelling. It is important to catch this inflammation early, because over time it can damage cartilage, elastic tissue that covers bones in the joint, and the bones themselves. This damage can lead to the joint spacing between bones to shrink, which causes joints to become loose, unstable and painful. Joint deformity is also a possibility, and this cannot be reversed. Rheumatoid arthritis usually occurs symmetrically, so if one foot or ankle is affected then the other one most likely will be too. If you feel that you have any symptoms of Rheumatoid arthritis, it is highly recommended that you speak with a podiatrist to start treatment as soon as possible.
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 the podiatrists of Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
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 and 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 office located in Hamilton Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Rheumatoid Arthritis in the FeetUnderstanding Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis affects about 1.5 million people in the United States and is a very serious disease. It is an autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system to mistakenly attack joints. This attack creates inflammation that causes the tissue lining on the joints to thicken, which causes pain and swelling. It is important to catch this inflammation early, because over time it can damage cartilage, elastic tissue that covers bones in the joint, and the bones themselves. This damage can lead to the joint spacing between bones to shrink, which causes joints to become loose, unstable and painful. Joint deformity is also a possibility, and this cannot be reversed. Rheumatoid arthritis usually occurs symmetrically, so if one foot or ankle is affected then the other one most likely will be too. If you feel that you have any symptoms of Rheumatoid arthritis, it is highly recommended that you speak with a podiatrist to start treatment as soon as possible.
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 Donald Manger, DPM of Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
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 and 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 office located in Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Symptoms and Causes of a Broken Toe
The majority of broken toes may occur from stubbing the toe, or if a heavy object is dropped on it. Many patients suffer from toe stress fractures, which may be a result of consistent impact the toe endures. There are noticeable symptoms of a broken toe, and these may include immediate pain, or a possible cracking sound as the fracture occurs. Additionally, bruising and swelling may accompany this condition, and in more severe cases, the toe may appear deformed. If the break is mild, typical treatment may begin with resting, elevating,and splinting the toe. This is often accomplished by taping the toe to the one next to it, and this may help to provide the support that it needs. Many broken toes may require the expertise of a podiatrist, and this may become evident if the nail falls off, or if the nail bed has become infected. If you have broken your toe, and you are experiencing severe pain, it is suggested to schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can properly assist you with the correct treatment.
Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact the podiatrists from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is a Broken Toe?
A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
- Swelling
- Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
- Stiffness
- Nail Injury
Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hamilton Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about What to Know About a Broken ToeSymptoms and Causes of a Broken Toe
The majority of broken toes may occur from stubbing the toe, or if a heavy object is dropped on it. Many patients suffer from toe stress fractures, which may be a result of consistent impact the toe endures. There are noticeable symptoms of a broken toe, and these may include immediate pain, or a possible cracking sound as the fracture occurs. Additionally, bruising and swelling may accompany this condition, and in more severe cases, the toe may appear deformed. If the break is mild, typical treatment may begin with resting, elevating,and splinting the toe. This is often accomplished by taping the toe to the one next to it, and this may help to provide the support that it needs. Many broken toes may require the expertise of a podiatrist, and this may become evident if the nail falls off, or if the nail bed has become infected. If you have broken your toe, and you are experiencing severe pain, it is suggested to schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can properly assist you with the correct treatment.
Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Donald Manger, DPM from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is a Broken Toe?
A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
- Swelling
- Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
- Stiffness
- Nail Injury
Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Diagnosing Sesamoiditis
Sesamoiditis is a result of inflammation of the tendons in the foot that attach to the sesamoid bones. The main symptom associated with this condition is pain under the ball of the foot, which can lead to swelling or bruising. A physical examination is necessary in order to diagnose sesamoiditis. First, your doctor will check for tenderness and move your toe into various angles. While the doctor is moving your toe, they are gauging your flexibility and pain level. If the doctor suspects sesamoiditis, then they will most likely recommend you get an X-ray. An X-ray will help determine whether the foot pain is a result of a fracture or sesamoiditis, by illustrating whether the bones have smooth or jagged edges. In certain cases, bone scans may be required in order to make a proper diagnosis. A bone scan uses a small amount of dye to create special imaging that is more detailed than an X-ray. If you believe you may have sesamoiditis, then it is highly recommended that you consult with a podiatrist to properly diagnose and treat your condition.
Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact the podiatrists of Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. 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 Hamilton Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about SesamoiditisMore...
Diagnosing Sesamoiditis
Sesamoiditis is a result of inflammation of the tendons in the foot that attach to the sesamoid bones. The main symptom associated with this condition is pain under the ball of the foot, which can lead to swelling or bruising. A physical examination is necessary in order to diagnose sesamoiditis. First, your doctor will check for tenderness and move your toe into various angles. While the doctor is moving your toe, they are gauging your flexibility and pain level. If the doctor suspects sesamoiditis, then they will most likely recommend you get an X-ray. An X-ray will help determine whether the foot pain is a result of a fracture or sesamoiditis, by illustrating whether the bones have smooth or jagged edges. In certain cases, bone scans may be required in order to make a proper diagnosis. A bone scan uses a small amount of dye to create special imaging that is more detailed than an X-ray. If you believe you may have sesamoiditis, then it is highly recommended that you consult with a podiatrist to properly diagnose and treat your condition.
Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Donald Manger, DPM of Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctor 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 Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Benefits of Stretching the Feet
The act of stretching your feet may have beneficial effects on the overall body. The feet are in motion for the majority of the day, and painful foot conditions may be prevented if proper foot stretches are frequently performed. Issues concerning the Achilles tendon may be avoided when the calf muscles are stretched and loosened. This may aid in helping the surrounding muscles to withstand stress the Achilles tendon endures, in addition to having easier mobility and flexibility. An easy and simple stretch to perform while sitting down is referred to as pointing and flexing the foot. This will aid in benefiting the many muscles, ligaments, and tendons that are located in the feet and legs, and can make it easier to perform daily activities. If you would like additional information about the importance of frequently stretching your feet, please consult with a podiatrist who can properly guide you to correct stretching techniques.
Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with the podiatrists from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. 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 Hamilton Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Stretching Your FeetBenefits of Stretching the Feet
The act of stretching your feet may have beneficial effects on the overall body. The feet are in motion for the majority of the day, and painful foot conditions may be prevented if proper foot stretches are frequently performed. Issues concerning the Achilles tendon may be avoided when the calf muscles are stretched and loosened. This may aid in helping the surrounding muscles to withstand stress the Achilles tendon endures, in addition to having easier mobility and flexibility. An easy and simple stretch to perform while sitting down is referred to as pointing and flexing the foot. This will aid in benefiting the many muscles, ligaments, and tendons that are located in the feet and legs, and can make it easier to perform daily activities. If you would like additional information about the importance of frequently stretching your feet, please consult with a podiatrist who can properly guide you to correct stretching techniques.
Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Donald Manger, DPM from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctor 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 Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
How to Care for Corns
If you have developed a corn, it has most likely formed to protect the skin that may have been affected from wearing shoes that fit improperly. These types of shoes may cause the skin on one toe to rub together with the toe that is next to it. The body’s natural defense mechanism is to form a corn, which may help to shelter the skin of the affected toe. Moderate relief may be found in wearing a protective pad or cushion, which may aid in alleviating a portion of the pain and discomfort that is often associated with corns. If you experience any swelling, redness, or warmth surrounding the corn, it is suggested to speak to a podiatrist who can properly guide you in determining a correct diagnosis.
Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact the podiatrists of Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.
Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:
- Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
- Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
- Wearing only shoes that offer support
Treating Corns
Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist 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 Hamilton Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Understanding Corns and Calluses