Items filtered by date: June 2022
What Can Cause Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis develops as a result of an inflamed plantar fascia, which is the band of tissue that connects the heels to the toes and runs along the bottom of the foot. The fascia can become irritated for several reasons. These include obesity, standing on hard surfaces for long periods of time, and wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Research has indicated that cases of plantar fasciitis have increased during the pandemic. This may be a result of more people walking or running outside on uneven surfaces when the gym was closed. Additionally, it is a possibility that flip-flops were worn most of the day while working remotely. These types of shoes have little or no arch support, which may be a contributing factor in developing plantar fasciitis. This condition can produce uncomfortable heel pain, and mild relief may be found by stretching the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon. Many patients have found it helps to wear shoes that offer good support. If you have this ailment, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can guide you toward the correct treatment.
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Services . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Excessive running
- Having high arches in your feet
- Other foot issues such as flat feet
- Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
- Being on your feet very often
There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.
Prevention
- Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
- Maintain a healthy weight
- If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain
There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Murrieta, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Why Flip Flops Are Bad for Your Feet
Flip-flops are perfectly fine and actually quite helpful when used sparingly and for good reasons, such as to avoid wet surfaces in public showers, pool areas, and locker rooms, or getting to and from the beach without burning your feet on the hot sand. However, flip-flops do not offer an adequate structure for your feet and ankles, nor do they support your heels properly. Wearing them regularly can lead to fallen arches, heel pain, back issues, sore muscles, and more. They can even make you more prone to slipping and falling. To beat the heat in the summer months, it is better for your feet if you choose well-structured sandals, instead of flimsy flip-flops. For more information on the perils of flip-flops, contact a podiatrist.
Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Services . Our doctors 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; they're 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 regularly 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 that 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 Murrieta, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Ways to Avoid a Toenail Fungal Infection
Getting a toenail infection can be easy, mainly because the fungus that causes it is very contagious. Spotting it is also easy. Infected toenails may change color to white, yellow, brown or green. They may become thickened, raise up off the toe, or crumble. Luckily, a number of simple precautions can help to keep fungal infections at bay. First, protect your feet by wearing shower slippers at pools, public showers, spas or gym locker rooms, all of which are common breeding grounds for fungi. If you have recently had a fungal infection, don’t wear shoes or slippers you wore during that time. Change your socks when they get sweaty. Keep your feet clean and dry, and wear canvas or mesh shoes that allow your feet to breathe. Give your shoes at least 24 hours to dry out before wearing them again. Avoid sharing personal items, such as nail clippers, shoes or towels, that may have picked up a fungus. Keep your feet moisturized, as fungi can enter through cracks or sores in the skin. Finally, be vigilant and check your toenails at least once a month for symptoms. If you need help in dealing with toenail infections, please consult a podiatrist.
For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Podiatry Services . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.
Antifungals & Deterrence
Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.
Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Murrieta, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.