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If you are a senior citizen, then you are at an increased risk of suffering a potentially dangerous fall. Falls can detrimentally affect the health of older individuals and lead to subsequent falls. However, there are a number of steps that seniors can take to prevent such dangerous episodes. Many of these steps involve the feet. For example, to prevent yourself from falling, you might be cognizant of the kinds of footwear that you are wearing. Generally speaking, high heels can make falling more likely. Instead, seniors might opt for footwear that has lower heels. You could even try shoes with non-slip soles. Shoes that have wider heels are also another good option for increasing stability and balance in the feet. Besides being intentional about the kinds of shoes that you wear, seniors can also prevent falls by engaging in regular exercise. This should be done to keep the feet strong and agile, so that they do not grow weak or unhealthy. For more tips on preventing falls in senior citizens, visit a chiropodist who can help.

Falls are a common but preventable problem for older adults. If you would like to learn more about preventing falls, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Did you know that most falls occur in the home? Fortunately, there are many simple changes that you can make to the living environment to reduce the risk of falling. 

In the Bathroom:

• Install grab bars near toilets, bathtubs, and showers

• Put non-skid mats on all surfaces that may get wet

In the Bedroom:

• Keep a light near the bed so that you can easily turn it on if you have to get up at night

• Keep the path from your bedroom to the bathroom clutter-free and well-lit

• Consider installing a bed rail for added support

In the Kitchen:

• Use non-skid mats

• Wipe up any spills immediately

• Move commonly used items to areas that are easily within your reach

In the Hallways:

• Place handrails on both sides of the stairs

• Install good lighting in the hallways and around the entire home

• Keep hallways free of clutter

• Don’t use throw rugs or small area rugs

In Other Living Areas: 

• Keep loose cables, cords, and wires near the wall and away from walking surfaces

• Make sure that all carpets and rugs are secure firmly to the floor

• Arrange your furniture so that it is not in your way when you walk

• Use chairs and couches that you can easily get up from

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

The body’s circulation system sends blood, oxygen, and nutrients through the body. When blood flow to a specific body part is reduced, it is called poor circulation. This can happen with the feet. Poor circulation is not the condition itself, but what results from poor circulation that causes other health problems. Underlying conditions that can result in poor circulation to the feet include obesity, diabetes, heart conditions, and arterial disease. When one has poor blood circulation in the feet they might experience tingling, numbness, a throbbing or stinging pain, muscle cramps, nerve damage, and ultimately tissue damage. People with diabetes can have difficulty detecting signs of poor blood circulation because diabetic neuropathy might set in and cause reduced sensation to the extremities. Since poor blood circulation is a symptom of numerous conditions, diagnosing the underlying cause is important. If you have diabetes or experience the other symptoms of poor blood circulation, visit a chiropodist for help in determining what the problem is and how to best treat it.

When blood flow to a specific part of the body is reduced, you may experience symptoms of poor circulation. Poor circulation is most common in your extremities, like your legs and feet. Please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Causes

Poor circulation isn’t a condition in itself. Instead, it results from other health issues. Therefore, it’s important to treat the underlying causes:

• Peripheral artery disease (PAD)

• Diabetes 

• Blood clots

• Varicose veins

• Obesity

• Raynaud’s disease 

Symptoms

Symptoms of poor circulation may include: 

• Numbness

• Tingling

• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs

• Pain

• Muscle Cramps

Diagnosis

A chiropodist will perform a physical exam to detect pain and swelling, as well as an antibodies blood test to detect inflammatory conditions, such as Raynaud’s disease. It’s important to disclose any known family history of poor circulation and any related diseases. A blood sugar test, blood pressure test, ultrasound, or CT scan may also be performed.

Treatment

Treatments for poor circulation depend on what is causing it. Compression socks may be used to reduce pain and swelling. An exercise program may be recommended to improve circulation. Various medications may be prescribed to manage underlying conditions that may contribute to poor circulation.  

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

If you run long enough and frequently enough, it is likely that you will sustain an injury to your feet and ankles. Among the most common running-related foot and ankle injuries are ankle sprains, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and Achille tendonitis. An ankle sprain occurs when you land on the outside of the foot and roll your ankle over. This type of injury is common in trail runners. Once you sprain an ankle, the joint becomes more susceptible to future injury, so immediate care giving the joint ample time to heal is important. Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the band of tissue that runs along the sole of the foot. The plantar fascia is more likely to tear from overuse, such as when you increase running time or distance too quickly. Tight or weakened calf muscles can also be a factor. Stress fractures are hairline cracks in the bones of the midfoot, heel and lower leg. They are the result of repetitive stress or impact and should be attended to as soon as possible. Achilles tendonitis is the inflammation of the tendon that connects the heel to the leg bone, which if ignored can lead to a rupture. If you are a dedicated runner, it is a good idea to schedule regular visits to a chiropodist who can monitor the condition of your feet and ankles and treat any injuries you may incur. 

Injuries to the foot and ankle are very common among athletes. If you have experienced an injury, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Common Injuries Among Athletes: 

• Achilles tendon injuries

• Ankle strains or sprains

• Plantar fasciitis

• Fractures

• Turf toe 

• Joint dislocations

• Sever’s disease

• Morton’s neuroma

Symptoms

Symptoms will depend on the cause and severity of the injury. Common symptoms for a foot or ankle injury include pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising, a reduced range of motion, and difficulty bearing weight or walking on the affected foot or ankle. 

Diagnosis

Sports injuries are typically diagnosed after carefully examining the affected foot or ankle. This includes moving the injured area to test its range of motion. Medical history will need to be provided, as well as detailed information about how the injury occurred. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, may be used to confirm or rule out certain diagnoses. 

Treatment

Just like symptoms, treatment will depend on the type of injury and its severity. Initial treatment for many sports injuries is aimed at controlling inflammation and promoting the healing response. The acronym R.I.C.E is a helpful guide to implement for most acute injuries. This method involves resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot or ankle. In addition, anti-inflammatory medications may be administered and orthotic devices may be prescribed. For more severe injuries, surgery may be required. Lastly, rehabilitation or physical therapy may be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area.

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

Heel pain is an issue many Americans face every day. In fact, it is the most common form of heel pain. Why? The plantar fascia tissue on the bottom of your feet works hard. It connects your heel bone with your toes, helps form and support the arch, acts as a shock absorber, and is constantly contracting and lengthening as we walk, run, and jump. This hard-working tissue can become damaged or even torn from overuse, thus causing pain and inflammation in the heel referred to as plantar fasciitis. If you have plantar fasciitis you will most likely feel pain throughout the day, but it is particularly acute first thing in the morning. There are things you can do to help avoid the development of plantar fasciitis, such as wearing shoes that fit properly and maintaining a healthy body weight. Consult with a chiropodist for more preventative tips on how to avoid plantar fasciitis, or to receive treatment for this painful condition. 

Plantar fasciitis can be painful and interfere with your daily activities. If you are experiencing foot or heel pain and believe you may be afflicted with plantar fasciitis, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis refers to the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. Repetitive activities, such as running or jumping, can injure the plantar fascia over time. Plantar fasciitis can also be caused by flat feet, high arches, pregnancy, and activities that put excessive pressure on your feet, like standing all day for work. When the plantar fascia becomes inflamed, it causes pain and discomfort. 

Symptoms

Typical symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:

• Stabbing pain near the heel

• Pain that is worst in the morning or after a period of rest

• Pain that increases after exercising

• Swelling

• Tightness in the Achilles tendon

Diagnosis

Plantar fasciitis is typically diagnosed via medical history and physical examination. 

Treatment

Treatments for plantar fasciitis include resting and icing the affected foot, stretching the foot, taking medications to reduce inflammation, and wearing orthotics. In severe cases where pain does not improve with conservative treatments, injections or surgery may be recommended. 

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

When people break a foot, they are mostly unaware of the complications that may occur. These include a failure to completely heal, and surgery may be required to repair the bone and surrounding areas. Additionally, arthritis may develop if the fracture line enters a joint surface, and an open wound from a fracture may become infected. In cases where the foot is crushed, considerable swelling may develop. This may lead to a condition that is known as compartment syndrome. This may affect the patient’s normal blood pressure, and blood flow may be decreased to parts of the foot. A broken foot is diagnosed by having an x-ray taken, and the foot is generally put in a boot or a cast. This is typically an effective method in providing stability as the healing process takes place. People who enjoy high-impact sports may be at an increased risk of incurring a broken foot. It is beneficial to use appropriate protective equipment which may help to reduce the chances of breaking a foot. Severe pain and discomfort often accompanies a broken foot, and the toes may tingle. If you have fallen or think you may have broken your foot in another way, please consult with a chiropodist who can effectively treat this condition.

A foot fracture is a crack or break in a foot bone, often caused by repetitive stress on the foot or a high-impact foot injury. If you’re suffering from foot pain, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Symptoms

• Pain

• Bruising

• Tenderness

• Swelling

• Difficulty walking

• Deformity

Causes

• Repetitive overloading of the foot

• Having a previous fracture

• Abnormal foot biomechanics

• Changing training surfaces suddenly 

• Poor footwear

• Osteoporosis 

• High-impact injury 

Treatments

• Rest

• Ice

• Elevation

• Pain medication

• Braces or other orthotics

• Casts

• Crutches

• Surgery in more severe cases 

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

It’s never too soon to embark on foot care for your child. Inspecting your child’s feet regularly is a good first step to avoiding future foot problems. Observe the way your child moves to see if they are toeing in or out or have knock knees. Most children are born with flat feet but pay attention to the development of the arches once they start to walk. Maintaining good foot hygiene is a great way to teach your child the importance of having healthy feet. Wash and thoroughly dry their feet each day. Socks should be clean and changed, too. A child who is active in sports may need padded socks to help absorb moisture and prevent future heel problems. Encourage them to wear different pairs of shoes each day. Pay attention to your child’s weight, as obesity can have a negative effect on their feet. If you notice any abnormalities in your child’s feet or gait, it is a good idea to consult a chiropodist who can evaluate the situation and offer treatment options.

If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Common Causes of Foot Pain in Children

While children can experience many of the same foot problems as adults do, some foot problems may be more common during childhood. 

Causes of foot pain in children can include:

• Deformities that are present from birth, such as flat feet or clubfoot

• Sever’s disease, which is an inflammation of the growth plate in the heel bone

• Various sports injuries, such as sprains and fractures 

• Ingrown toenails

• Athlete’s foot

• Plantar warts

Prevention

It is important to look after the health of children’s feet in order to prevent future problems from arising. Keep your child’s feet clean and dry, trim their toenails regularly, ensure their shoes fit properly, and keep a watchful eye on any symptoms of foot pain, such as limping. If you notice any symptoms or if your child complains of foot pain, a chiropodist can help. 

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