Items filtered by date: August 2020

Though it is a metabolic disorder, diabetes can have serious implications for your foot health. Diabetes can cause the feet to be less sensitive and slow to heal from damage, which can result in complications such as diabetic foot ulcers. Fortunately, there are precautions that you can take to get ahead of many diabetic foot problems. If you have diabetes, it is recommended that you perform daily foot checks to see if you have any cuts, sores, or blisters so that you can treat them immediately and avoid infections. Keep your feet clean by washing them daily and drying them thoroughly, then apply a thin layer of lotion to the tops and bottoms of the feet, avoiding the areas between your toes where the extra moisture can help fungus thrive. Regularly trim your toenails straight across to avoid ingrown nails, and wear comfortable shoes instead of going barefoot. If you have a history of diabetes-related foot problems, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you take care of your feet.

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 one of our podiatrists from Romeo Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors 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 offices located in Washington and Shelby Townships, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The apparatus that is referred to as a Brannock device is an accurate tool for measuring your foot to determine your correct shoe size. When this is accomplished, the proper size shoes can be purchased. It is important for your shoes to have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. This may be helpful in preventing painful foot conditions from developing, such as bunions and hammertoes. Additionally, it is helpful to ensure that the ball of the foot lines up with the ball of the shoe. Shoes that fit correctly will feel good when they are tried on, and it is generally unnecessary to break them in. If you would like to know more information about how to purchase shoes that fit correctly, please consult with a podiatrist.

It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Romeo Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.

Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting

• Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
• Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
• Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
• Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
• Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Washington and Shelby Townships, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Bunions are a deformity of the toe joint that cause the big toe to move towards the other toes. The most common complaints of people with bunions are pain, a prominent bulge on the side of their foot, and difficulty wearing shoes. Bunions tend to get progressively worse over time, so it is important to seek medical care. A podiatrist diagnoses bunions by examining the foot, and may then take an X-ray to determine the severity of the condition. The doctor may recommend conservative care to manage the symptoms, or surgery to correct the deformity. If you suspect you have a bunion, it is recommended that you speak with a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat your condition.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Romeo Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Washington and Shelby Townships, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis, a condition in which the plantar fascia ligament that runs along the bottom of your foot becomes inflamed, is one of the most common causes of heel pain among adults. Fortunately, something as simple as stretching your feet can help prevent plantar fasciitis, all while increasing the strength and flexibility of your feet. One easy stretch that you can do in the comfort of your own home is the Water Bottle Stretch. To do this stretch, sit down in a chair and place a water bottle, tennis ball, or rolling pin on the floor in front of you. Slowly roll the bottom of your foot over the object, starting from the ball of your foot and moving back towards the heel. Do this for about a minute, and then repeat on the other foot. If you are using a water bottle, you may also freeze it prior to doing this stretch. The cold water bottle will then simultaneously stretch and ice your foot, reducing pain and inflammation. For more information on how you can prevent plantar fascia injuries and for treatment options for plantar fasciitis, consult with a podiatrist today.

Why Stretching Is Important for Your Feet

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our podiatrists from Romeo Foot & Ankle Clinic. 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 to determine 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 exercise, 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 to ice and rest the foot. It is advised that you then see a podiatrist for help.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Washington and Shelby Townships, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a type of arthritis that can cause sudden pain in the joints. The most commonly affected areas are the joints of the big toe. Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the joints. While some people are more prone to developing gout due to genetics, environmental factors can also lead to the excess uric acid buildup that causes gout. Consuming foods that cause your body to produce large amounts of uric acid, for example, red meat, seafood, alcohol and sugary drinks, can increase your risk of developing gout. Some medications, such as aspirin, certain diuretics, and some blood pressure-lowering pills are also thought to cause gout. Gout is also associated with a variety of medical conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, joint trauma, obesity, infections, congestive heart failure, and kidney disease. If you suspect you may have gout, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist, who can help you manage your condition and recommend strategies to prevent future gout flare-ups.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Romeo Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Washington and Shelby Townships, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.