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Finding the Right Footwear for Each Activity
When it comes to buying shoes, it’s important to buy footwear that is suitable for what you will be doing. If you plan on running, try to find footwear that is breathable, flexible, supportive, and comfortable. While you should look for these traits in all footwear, different environments require different features. Hiking, for example, requires a more rigid shoe that may not be as breathable, especially if they are designed for cold weather environments. Walking, on the other hand, can be performed in running shoes that are comfortable and well-fitted. If you go rock climbing, then rock climbing shoes are essential as they have superior gripping to help prevent falls. However, rock climbing shoes are not very supportive and are meant to be tight around the feet. These attributes make them unsuitable for everyday wear. Wearing the right type of shoes is vital to preventing foot injuries and will allow you to more safely enjoy all your favorite outdoor activities.
If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type
To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.
- Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
- Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
- Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.
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.
Read more about Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot TypeDoes Your Child Have Sever’s Disease?
If your child has heel pain it could be an indication of Sever’s disease, or the inflammation of the growth plate of the heel. It can be caused by an increase in physical activity such as running or from having a tight Achilles tendon. This condition may be painful; it can cause limping or walking on the toes in order to keep the heel from striking the ground. Sever's disease commonly occurs in physically active children aged 8 to 12. Because the foot grows rapidly throughout youth, the condition often develops during the first stage of puberty. Basically, the muscles have difficulty keeping up with the rapid growth of the bones. The tendons will typically tighten around the heel, preventing flexibility and causing pain. Common treatments may include stretching exercises, wearing pads in the heels, or possibly using ice for relief. Avoid physical activity while your child heals. If you feel your child may have Sever’s disease, a consultation with a podiatrist is advised for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Michael D. Garvin at Florida. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.
Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain asscoiatied with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.
Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their 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 injuries.
Read more about Sever's DiseaseWhat is Athlete’s Foot and How is it Treated?
Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a fungal infection of the foot. In most cases, athlete’s foot is a minor condition that can be treated with relative ease by a podiatrist. Common symptoms include itchiness, redness, scaling, and cracked skin. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can spread to the toenails, fingernails and hands. It is often contracted in gyms, locker rooms, public restrooms, and pools. Athlete’s foot is diagnosed either through its symptoms or a skin test. There are over-the-counter antifungal medications for athlete’s foot, but seeing a podiatrist is always advised for any foot condition. To help prevent the condition, wash your feet daily, make sure to keep your feet dry, alternate between shoes, and wear sandals in locker rooms and public showers.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
- Hydrate your feet by using lotion
- Exfoliate
- Buff off nails
- Use of anti-fungal products
- Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop
Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.
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.
Read more about Athlete's Foot 101The Benefits of Stretching Before Running
Many benefits are derived from warming up and stretching before running. In addition to increasing body temperature, the muscles become more relaxed; this lowers the risk for workout injuries. A common way to avoid running injuries is to begin jogging slowly and eventually increase to the desired speed. Typically, warming up before any kind of exercise may not only help you avoid injuries, but also aid in the prevention of sports-related musculoskeletal system diseases. Many people believe that stretching before running is dull and a waste of time, but when done properly, it may help prevent sudden pressure being placed on the blood vessels and heart. An additional benefit is increased oxygen in the blood, along with maintaining proper posture. Also, daily stretching can help mitigate the negative impact of sitting for extended periods or other work related activities.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. 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
Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.
What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.
Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.
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.
Read more about How to Prevent Running InjuriesPoor Circulation in the Feet and What it Means
While it’s a common and generally minor issue, cold feet can be a sign of other conditions. If you are in a cold environment, having cold feet is a normal occurrence due to the blood vessels constricting; this is typically not due to chronic, systemic poor circulation. Poor circulation on the other hand is when the blood vessels become narrow or blocked. Blockage and constriction can occur from a number of issues such as from smoking, poor diet, diabetes, and Raynaud’s disease. Raynaud’s disease is a condition that causes the blood vessels to spasm and temporarily reduce flow to the hands and feet. If you are a relatively healthy individual, then cold feet can most likely be treated with warmer footwear. For those who have health conditions, like diabetes, or who smoke, cold feet can be a result of poor circulation stemming from these conditions. If you experience cold feet often, then it may be best to see a podiatrist who can determine the exact cause.
Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. 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
Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.
Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.
Causes
Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:
- Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness
- Numbness or cramping in the legs
- Skin discoloration
- Slower nail & hair growth
- Erectile dysfunction
Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD, and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.
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 and ankle needs.
Read more about Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of Poor Blood Circulation in the FeetDolphins Guard Out for Season From Foot Injury
Starting guard Anthony Steen of the Miami Dolphins has been placed on the injured reserve list. Steen had injured his foot during the New York Jets and Dolphins game. While it was unknown how severe the injury was at first, Steen ended up needing surgery on his foot. With the regular season winding down, his placement on the injured reserve list essentially means he is done for the season. This is because players have to spend eight weeks sidelined on the reserve list before they can return.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Plantar Fasciosis
- Achilles Tendinitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
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.
Read more about Sports Related Foot And Ankle InjuriesWhat is Hammertoe and Mallet Toe?
An imbalance in either the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the foot that keep the toes straight can cause hammertoe or mallet toe. Causes of this imbalance can stem from improperly-fitted shoes, trauma, and even foot structure. An abnormal bend in the middle joint of a toe is called hammertoe. When the joint nearest to the toenail is affected, this condition is called mallet toe. Poorly-fitted shoes can result in the toes becoming compressed which can result in the condition. Simply wearing properly-fitted footwear may cause the toes to become uncompressed and restore balance in the foot. However, surgery may be needed if the issue stems from trauma or foot structure, and if symptoms become more severe or do not go away.
Hammertoe
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.
Symptoms
- Pain in the affected toes
- Development of corns or calluses due to friction
- Inflammation
- Redness
- Contracture of the toes
Causes
Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible
Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur
Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe
Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe
Treatment
Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it
Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used
Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option
If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Port St. Lucie, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about What Are Hammertoes?Tips on Exercising for Diabetics
Maintaining a healthy diet and exercising can be a good way to keep your diabetes in check. However, there are some things to keep in mind and on hand if you do decide to workout. First, it is recommended to see a podiatrist to see if exercising is right for you. That being said, there are a few things that are helpful to have on hand while exercising. A blood glucose meter is a great way to check your blood sugar level before you exercise. Blood glucose tablets can help correct low blood sugar levels and ensure you are in a good state. If you do feel shaky or light-headed, it is important to relax and stop exercising. Having some snacks with you to help prevent low blood sugar is also recommended. It is important to stay hydrated while working out, especially for diabetics, because dehydration can cause high blood glucose levels. Finally, wearing a good pair of shoes is an important step in preventing foot ulcers and keeping your feet supported. Podiatrists can help recommend shoes based on your foot type or provide orthotics. Diabetes can be a difficult condition to live with; however, exercising while taking proper safety measures can be a great way to keep it in check.
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 Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor 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 Port St. Lucie, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about How to Care for Diabetic FootBunions and Surgery
Bunions, if left untreated, can start to throb and become very painful. Does this mean that you should have surgery to treat your bunions before they start hurting? Not necessarily; there are plenty of nonsurgical options available to treat bunions and the associated pain. It is best to see a podiatrist first, however, as they can discuss the options available to you. Common conservative options include trying new pairs of shoes that offer more room and keep pressure off the bunion. Bunions pads are another readily available option that also help ease pressure on the bunion. Anti-inflammatory medication can provide temporary relief from pain and inflammation, and cortisone shots can help with that too. If conservative measures such as these do not ease pain, then surgery may be recommended by a podiatrist.
If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin of Florida. Our doctor 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 Port St. Lucie, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about BunionsHow and Why Athletes Should Care for Their Feet
While we should all take care of our feet, those who are active should be more proactive when it comes to foot care. Athletes and physically active people generally subject their feet to more stress than an average person normally would. This can increase their risk for foot injury and ailments. Here are some tips that active people can follow to help prevent injury. Make sure to pick the right shoes for the right activity. If you run, running shoes are best; if you play tennis, go with tennis shoes. Picking a quality pair of moisture-wicking socks can also help prevent foot fungus by keeping the feet dry. Runners reportedly also often suffer from dry skin on their feet. To help prevent dry feet, use a good moisturizer. Washing them often is a good way to keep them hydrated while also helping to prevent foot and toenail fungus. If you workout, don’t forget to workout your feet. Strong feet will aid in preventing foot injuries. Upon completing a workout make sure to give your feet time to rest. Finally, if your feet hurt, stop exercising and avoid putting pressure on them. If the pain doesn't go away it is recommended to see a podiatrist.
Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Everyday Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.
It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
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.
Read more about Every Day Foot Care