Items filtered by date: June 2016
Flip-Flops are not Suitable due to Lacking Support
Why are flip-flops not considered suitable footwear? The answer lies in the fact that flip-flops are lacking arch support because they are flat, which can lead to extra stress on your feet. Wearing flip-flops for long periods or habitually also makes our feet more prone to ankle sprains. “Improper foot support can cause the knees to turn in, pelvis misalignments, and even cause poor posture.” It is recommended that you instead look for shoes that have good arch support, thick soles, and good traction.
Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any questions concerning the feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. 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, 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 Somerset, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Sever’s Disease, A Common Cause of Heel Pain
High-contact sports and sports that are strenuous such as lacrosse can lead to the onset of foot conditions such as heel pain. Sever’s disease is one particular condition associated with heel pain, described as “an inflammation of the growth area (heel plate) of the heel bone which has not completely matured, or closed together, and has developed in two parts.” Sever’s disease occurs most commonly in adolescent athletes from the ages of 10 to 15. The pain begins in the back of the heel, and can be caused by factors such as abnormal pronation of the feet, ill-fitting shoes, and improper use of the feet.
Anyone can wind up suffering from heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Causes of Heel Pain
● Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.
● Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.
● Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.
Why Might Heel Pain Occur?
- Wearing ill-fitting shoes
- Wearing non-supportive shoes
- Weight change
- Excessive running
Treatments
Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a thing of the past.
With the advancements in technology and greater knowledge of how muscles and joints work, physical therapists can turn things around dramatically.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Orthotics can do for your Feet
As our feet may develop foot conditions such as the flattening of our arches, consider custom orthotics as a potential treatment option. There exist three different types of orthotics: rigid, soft, and semi-rigid. “Each orthotic is concerned with improving the functionality of a patient’s feet, minimizing the stress forces that could potentially cause pain or deformity.” Orthotics can help address foot problems such as arch pain, plantar fasciitis, and any other pain associated with the feet.
If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What are Orthotics?
Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain, but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.
Over-the-Counter Inserts
Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct over arched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.
Prescription Orthotics
If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you, or if you have a more severe foot issue, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and more severe heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses, and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.
If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist on the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain free.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Our Feet Change with Pregnancy as our Bodies do too
For women who are experiencing or will experience pregnancy, there are many different developments to the body as it changes. Our bodies will begin to create high levels of progesterone, “a hormone that manages fluid retention.” Fluid can begin to accumulate in our legs and feet, especially nearing birth. This leads to our legs and feet swelling, requiring rest and elevation. Make sure to take proper care of your pregnant feet as they are the foundations of our body, especially during such an important time.
Pregnant women are susceptible to aching and swollen feet and should be treated with care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What foot problems can arise during pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is over-pronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy, but tends to occur in the later stages.
How can I keep my feet healthy during pregnancy?
- Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
- Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
- Wear shoes with good arch support
- Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
- Elevate feet if you experience swelling
- Massage your feet
- Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
