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Monday, 22 October 2018 00:00

Should My Child’s Feet Be Measured?

Research shows that children typically begin to walk at approximately twelve months of age. There are many adorable and cute shoes available for purchase, but they may not be ideal for children’s feet. It is strongly recommended that a proper foot measurement is obtained and this will aid in determining the correct shoe size for your child’s feet. There are several qualities to look for when buying shoes. These may include choosing a shoe with a wide area for the toes to move about in, having a sturdy and flexible sole that is easily bent, and shoes that are comprised of breathable materials. Your child may walk better in shoes that fit properly and this may avoid any tripping or falling that may occur. Please speak with a podiatrist to learn about the importance of proper shoe fitting for your child’s feet.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Dr. Tina Oliver of Astro Foot Care, PA. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

  • Make sure their shoes fit properly
  • Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
  • Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
  • Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
  • Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
  • Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
  • Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
  • Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Houston, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about How to Care for Your Child's Feet
Monday, 15 October 2018 00:00

Different Types of Ankle Pain

There are several different types of ankle injuries that many people endure. One of the most common is a sprain, and this may be a result of numerous causes. Despite the fact that many people who are actively involved in sports may suffer from this ailment, people from all walks of life may suffer from ankle sprains. Additionally, a fracture in the ankle bones may produce significant discomfort and pain, and can be properly diagnosed by having an X-ray performed. A medical condition that is referred to as ankle tendinopathies is a result of torn or ruptured tendons that encase the ankle, which typically provides stability to the foot. When these tendons become torn and inflamed, the foot may have endured overuse or may have possibly been involved in a trauma. Arthritis in the ankle can be extremely painful and this may be the result of degenerative bone conditions. Please consult with a podiatrist if you have endured an ankle injury so the best course of treatment can begin.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Tina Oliver from Astro Foot Care, PA. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

  • Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
  • Ankle sprains
  • Broken ankles
  • Achilles tendinitis
  • Achilles tendon rupture
  • Stress fractures
  • Bursitis
  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome
  • Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Houston, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

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Friday, 12 October 2018 00:00

Before you start dancing...

 

It is common for many elderly people to suffer from general foot conditions including blisters and ingrown toenails. This may be a result of improper foot care that is not executed. Many seniors may have difficulty in trimming their toenails. Therefore, it may be beneficial to have a caretaker perform the proper tasks that will maintain good foot health. When the toenails are clean and the skin is moisturized, the chances of certain foot conditions developing may be diminished. Daily foot and nail hygiene may include trimming the toenails short using nail clippers, in addition to buffing the nails thus providing a smooth finish to the nail. This may prevent painful and uncomfortable ingrown toenails from developing. It's important to consult with a podiatrist for any concerns you may have on how to take proper care of elderly feet.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Tina Oliver from Astro Foot Care, PA. Our doctor 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 Houston, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Elderly Foot Care

Many people who are involved in sporting activities have experienced the pain and discomfort of foot and ankle injuries. It may typically result in significant downtime from running or jumping to allow for proper healing to begin. There are several ways to possibly prevent foot and ankle injuries from occurring, including warming up the muscles before starting to run, properly stretching the muscles in the foot and ankle, in addition to gradually increasing the time spent on the chosen activity. It’s important to wear proper shoes for walking and running, and this may aid in preventing any trauma inflicted on the foot and ankle. Ankle sprains are a very common injury to endure, as well as an Achilles tendon rupture or tear. This type of injury may affect the plantar fascia, which is tissue that is located on the bottom of the foot that connects the heel to the toes. If you are experiencing any pain in the foot or ankle, it’s suggested to speak with a podiatrist as soon as possible.

Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with Dr. Tina Oliver from Astro Foot Care, PA. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:

  • Broken bones
  • Muscle strains
  • Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
  • Stress fractures

Symptoms

Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:

  • Bruising
  • Inflammation/ Swelling
  • Pain

Diagnosis

To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.

Treatment

Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Houston, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Foot and Ankle Trauma
Friday, 28 September 2018 00:00

Wounds that Don't Heal Need to be Checked

Your feet are covered a good part of the day. If you are diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often another sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.

Friday, 14 September 2018 00:00

It's Time for Beautiful Feet.

Want to wear open toe shoes again? ...Special occasion? Vacation? ...You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails.

Monday, 24 September 2018 00:00

Different Types of Heel Spurs

If you wear high heels consistently, your feet may develop a possible heel spur. It is typically a calcium deposit and is commonly felt in the heel and surrounding areas. The pain and discomfort that is typically associated with this ailment is generally not experienced unless it grows in size and becomes large. There are typically two types of heel spurs. One form of this condition is generally connected with plantar fasciitis, and may develop on the lower portion of the heel. An Achilles tendon heel spur may form behind the heel, which is located near the Achilles tendon. Heel spurs may be caused by an uneven distribution of body weight the feet must endure, or there may be a bone structure misalignment. Heel spurs may develop as a result of wearing shoes that do not provide adequate support, in addition to being overweight or standing for the majority of the day. If you are experiencing pain in the foot and feel you may have a heel spur, please speak with a podiatrist as quickly as possible so the correct treatment can commence.

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 Dr. Tina Oliver from Astro Foot Care, PA. Our doctor 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 Houston, TX. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Read more about How to Treat Heel Spurs
Monday, 17 September 2018 00:00

How to Properly Stretch the Feet

The benefits of performing stretching techniques for your feet may positively affect the general well-being of the body. Research has shown that walking may be one of the best forms of exercising the feet, in addition to flexing and pointing toes frequently throughout the day. The feet will become stronger when resistance exercises are performed, and this is typically accomplished by utilizing exercise bands or weights. Flexibility may be attained by sitting in a chair, and rotating one ankle at a time in one direction. This ankle rotation should be repeated approximately 15 times, followed by reversing the direction, and repeating on the other foot. Additionally, the feet will feel good when the soles are properly stretched, and this may be accomplished by pressing the toes into the ground while lifting the heel. It’s suggested to speak with a podiatrist if you would like additional information on how to perform foot stretches.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Dr. Tina Oliver from Astro Foot Care, 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 Houston, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about How to Stretch Your Feet
Monday, 10 September 2018 00:00

Reasons the Feet May be Affected by Obesity

Research has indicated the connection between increased body mass index, which is also referred to as BMI, and specific foot pain. When obesity is a factor, the feet may undergo pain, which may be a result of the additional weight the feet must endure. Some of these conditions may include plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and tendinitis, all of which may produce severe pain and discomfort. Clinical studies have indicated that three pounds of force the foot endures, while walking for every pound of body weight, may be the reason for the majority of foot pain. If children are obese, the ability to exercise may be compromised, which may make it more difficult to lose the additional weight. There may be several reasons for people to experience obesity, including genetic factors, a lack of knowledge of how the body is affected by food, and not burning calories through proper exercise. If you are affected by obesity, it’s advised to schedule a consultation with a podiatrist for frequent and thorough examinations of 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. Tina Oliver from Astro Foot Care, PA. 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 Houston, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Obesity and the Feet
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