Research has shown that wearing shoes that fit properly may aid in preventing uncomfortable foot conditions from developing. Ingrown toenails may occur if the shoes that are worn fit too tightly, possibly causing the toenails to grow into the skin. It’s important to have your feet measured before purchasing shoes, and it may be beneficial to do this at the end of the day when the feet are typically at their largest. The shoe may feel comfortable when the ball of the foot fits properly in the widest portion of the shoe and there is adequate room for the longest toe to move about in. Many people make the mistake of expecting the shoes to stretch and become broken in as they are worn, and this may produce foot conditions such as corns or blisters. Please consult with a podiatrist for additional information about what to look for when buying shoes.

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 Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor 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 Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

For people who love the sport of running and jogging, it’s beneficial to learn what can be implemented to prevent running injuries. Research has shown the importance of having a physical examination prior to pursuing any running activities. There may be certain medical conditions present that may hinder the enjoyment of this activity, and proper warm-ups should be performed. Additionally, when the correct shoes are worn that fits your foot structure, running and jogging can be enjoyed more thoroughly. Many people find it favorable to identify why they want to run, and this may aid in finding it easier to set a running goal. When proper stretches are performed before and after running, the chances of an injury occurring may be diminished. If you would like to pursue the sport of running, it’s suggested to speak with a podiatrist to learn about correct stretching techniques for the feet.

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin of Florida. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

• Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
• Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
• “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
• Cross-Training is Crucial
• Wear Proper Running Shoes
• Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

If you have poor circulation, it may be indicative of other conditions that may be present in the body. A proper diagnosis is necessary in determining if you may possibly have peripheral artery disease, blood clots, or a heart condition. There are common symptoms that may be associated with this ailment including experiencing a tingling sensation in the feet, being tired the majority of the time, or water weight gain, which may also be referred to as edema. Additionally, some patients may experience muscle cramps, pain in the feet, or a general feeling of weakness. Research has shown that poor habits regarding your health may play a significant role. These may include a lack of exercise, or an excess amount of smoking or alcohol consumption. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to speak with a podiatrist as quickly as possible so the right course of treatment can begin.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin of Florida. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pregnant women experience many changes in the body, and the feet are no exception to this. Pain in the feet is a common symptom, and this is typically the result of the feet becoming flat from the additional weight the body must bear. There may be a wide range of the type of foot pain that is experienced from dull aches to sharp and throbbing pains. There is a natural hormone that is known as relaxin, which occurs during pregnancy and this may provoke these changes. Additionally, the feet may swell in the second and third trimester, possibly causing discomfort. Many women who are pregnant undergo changes in the size and positioning of the toenails, and this may lead to ingrown toenails. Research has shown the importance of drinking plenty of fresh water frequently. This may control a portion of the swelling. It is also helpful to stretch the legs as often as possible during the day, thus improving overall circulation. If you would like additional information about changes the feet endure during pregnancy, please consult with a podiatrist.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, 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 offices located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.