Items filtered by date: July 2020

Physical activities like running and jogging are great ways to stay in shape, however, vigorous exercise can also potentially lead to injuries of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your feet. When the plantar fascia is put under too much stress, it can tear and become inflamed, leading to plantar fasciitis. This condition may cause pain and reduced flexibility in your feet. To reduce the risk of developing plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you stretch your feet regularly. For a gentle stretch, sit on a chair and bend your right leg to place your right ankle on your left knee. Hold your right toes, gently pressing them into a pointed position, and hold there for a few seconds. Then hold your right toes and gently pull them backwards, flexing your foot, and hold for a few seconds. Repeat this several times with each foot. For more information on what you can do to decrease your risk of developing plantar fasciitis, consult with a podiatrist.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

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.

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

In order to prevent any foot conditions from worsening, it’s important that you monitor your child’s walking pattern, and promptly seek professional help if the child is complaining about any foot pain. Some foot-related issues can be common among pediatric-aged patients. These issues can include pediatric flatfoot, Sever’s disease, ingrown toenails, and plantar warts. Pediatric flatfoot often doesn’t cause any symptoms; however, it can create an awkward walking or running pattern for the child. Ingrown toenails can be prevented by avoiding putting your child in shoes or socks that are too tight, as well as making sure that their toenails are trimmed properly. The nails should always be trimmed straight across and not too short. For more information on how to properly take care of your child’s feet, please consult with a podiatrist.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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.

The ligaments that support the ankle are extremely important. If they become overstretched or torn, an ankle sprain may occur. There are a few common symptoms that can indicate an ankle sprain has developed including pain, soreness, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight or walking on the affected ankle. It is possible to obtain a sprained ankle if the ankle gets twisted, or if the foot rolls onto its side. While ankle sprains are typically correlated with sporting accidents, they can occur from simply taking an awkward step or tripping. As far as treating an ankle sprain, a podiatrist may suggest the use of an ankle brace or splint to help protect the ankle. Swelling may be dealt with by elevating the ankle, as well as alternating cold and warm compresses. Rest is key, so refraining from bearing weight on the affected ankle can be beneficial to the healing process. For a proper diagnosis and an advised treatment plan, please consult with a podiatrist.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further 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.

Research has indicated that approximately one-third of people who are sixty-five years or older fall in their homes. Possible foot conditions can be prevented when measures are taken that can make the living environment safer. It is beneficial to inspect the home for worn carpets and dim lighting, followed by implementing techniques that can improve these conditions. Elderly patients may become stronger when gentle exercise and stretching routines are frequently performed, and this may help to prevent falling. When routine eye and physical examinations are completed, eyeglasses and existing medication can be updated. Many seniors find it safer to use grab bars in the toilet and shower areas, as this can promote stability which may help to prevent falling. Please consult with a podiatrist on how to avoid foot conditions from occurring from falling in the home.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious 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.