Many people enjoy wearing flip flops, and may be unaware of the potential damage they may cause to the feet. When they are worn for extended periods of time, the ligaments in the arch may become strained. This may lead to pain in the heel and surrounding areas, and can be quite uncomfortable. There is typically little support in the ankle area, and this may lead to ankle sprains. Additionally, the toes may overcompensate for the lack of support in the front of the shoe, and a condition known as hammertoe may develop. If you want to wear flip flops for the majority of the day, it may be beneficial to choose shoes that have a supportive outer sole, which may be helpful in providing the stability the feet need. If you would like additional information about how flip flops may affect the feet, it is suggested to consult with a podiatrist.
Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
Flip-Flops and Feet
Flip-flops have managed to become a summer essential for a lot of people. While the shoes may be stylish and easy to slip on and off, they can be dangerous to those who wear them too often. These shoes might protect you from fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, but they can also give you foot pain and sprained ankles if you trip while wearing them.
When Are They Okay to Wear?
Flip-flops should only be worn for very short periods of time. They can help protect your feet in places that are crawling with fungi, such as gym locker rooms. Athlete’s foot and plantar warts are two common fungi that flip-flops may help protect your feet against.
Why Are They Bad for My Feet?
These shoes do not offer any arch support, so they are not ideal for everyday use. They also do not provide shock absorption or heel cushioning which can be problematic for your feet. Additionally, you may suffer from glass cuts, puncture wounds, and stubbed toes since they offer little protection for your feet.
More Reasons Why They Are Bad for Your Feet
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Many women who enjoy wearing high heels may be unaware of the possible harm these types of shoes may do to the feet. When high heels are worn, the weight of the body may get shifted to the joint under the big toe. This may result in the formation of a bunion, which is characterized by a bony protrusion on the side of the big toe. Corns and calluses may form on the bottom of the foot and may result in metatarsalgia. This type of pain is typically felt in the ball of the foot. If you have pain in your heel and surrounding areas, it may lead to a condition that is referred to as plantar fasciitis. It may be similar to the pain and discomfort that is experienced with heel spurs, and both conditions may develop as a result of frequently wearing high heels. If you have any of these symptoms, please consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment.
High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal. Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?
What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?
How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?
If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems. Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising. If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work. Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Many women experience foot pain during their pregnancy. This is due to a variety of reasons, which often includes additional weight gain, swelling in the latter stages of pregnancy, and hormonal changes. The added weight may shift the center of gravity, and this will typically put more pressure on the feet. Excess swelling can cause shoes to fit incorrectly, and it may be beneficial to change the style of shoes that are generally worn. Research has indicated that uncomfortable swelling can be kept to a minimum when plenty of fresh water is consumed daily. Additionally, it may be helpful to elevate the feet and reduce sodium content in the foods that are eaten. If your foot pain is severe during your pregnancy, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer proper treatment options.
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 one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors 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?
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Pregnancy and Foot Health
An ingrown toenail can cause discomfort in the foot. The symptoms that are associated with ingrown toenails include reddened skin surrounding the affected nail, discharge from the affected toe, and extreme sensitivity when that part of the foot is touched. This condition may develop due to a variety of reasons, including toenails that have been trimmed incorrectly, wearing shoes that are too tight, or a possible injury that has occurred to the toe. It is important to treat ingrown toenails promptly. Comfort may be found when properly fitting shoes are worn, socks are changed frequently, and the feet are washed daily. If the toenail should become infected, an effective method for complete relief may be to have the nail partially or totally removed. An ingrown toenail can be quite painful. If you feel you have this condition, seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat your condition.
Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.
Causes
You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.
Symptoms
Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.
Treatment
Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Athlete’s foot is a common foot condition that many people experience. It typically affects the area between the toes in addition to the bottom of the feet. There are several symptoms that are associated with this ailment. These may include redness, dry areas in the affected portions of skin, or extreme itchiness. This contagious fungal infection is generally found in public places, which may include community pools, shower room floors, and surrounding areas. Patients who have certain existing medical conditions may have an increased risk of getting athlete’s foot. These include a weak immune system, eczema, or certain allergies. Mild relief can be found while using an anti-fungal spray. For stubborn and severe cases of athlete’s foot, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly treat your condition.
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 one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors 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
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 office located in Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
The plantar fascia is known as the tendon on the sole of the foot that connects the heel to the toes. If this should become inflamed as a result of an injury or overuse, a condition that is referred to plantar fasciitis may develop. The pain is typically felt in the arch or heel area of the foot, and walking may be difficult. There are several stretches that can be performed which can relieve a portion of the pain. These include calf stretches which can be accomplished by standing on a step and dropping one heel at a time so a stretch can be felt. Rolling your heel on a round object can aid in loosening the foot muscles. Additionally, it helps the foot to stretch when the toes are pointed and flexed. If you suffer from plantar fasciitis, it is strongly suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.
Prevention
There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
The location of a plantar wart is on the sole of the foot. It often develops in the heel area of the foot and grows into the skin. This is a result of consistent weight that is put on the heel while walking or standing. The fungus that causes this type of wart is known as the human papillomavirus (HPV) and is considered to be contagious. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this condition include a hard and callused area on the heel of the foot, and pain while bearing weight on the foot. Additionally, clotted blood vessels will often appear in the center, which look like tiny black dots. This type of fungus thrives in warm and moist places, which include public swimming pools and surrounding areas, and can easily spread by sharing socks or towels. If you would like information about proper treatment options for a plantar’s wart, please counsel with a podiatrist.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
About Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.
While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.
Symptoms
Treatment
To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
The condition that is known as hammertoe is considered to be a deformity of the middle toes. It can cause severe pain and discomfort, and wearing certain shoes may be difficult to accomplish. It is typically caused by a muscle imbalance, which results in pressure being exerted on the tendons in the toes. One of the reasons hammertoe develops can come from wearing shoes that do not fit properly. These include high heels, which push the front of the foot down, and rests against the shoe. It is common for the muscles to weaken, and this causes the toes to curl. This condition is effectively treated with surgery, which involves permanent straightening of the toes. If you have developed hammertoe, it is advised to seek the counsel of a podiatrist to discuss different types of hammertoe surgery.
Hammertoe
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
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
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 office located in Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about What Are Hammertoes?
The medical condition that is referred to as poor circulation occurs when there is an inadequate blood supply to the cells that they need to properly function. Many patients experience symptoms that include a tingling or numbing sensation in the feet, and the toes may feel cold. A common condition that is known as peripheral artery disease, or PAD, occurs when the arteries in the legs become blocked. This can inhibit blood flow to the cells in the body, possibly causing poor circulation to occur. Another condition affiliated with poor circulation is known as Raynaud’s syndrome. The symptoms that are associated with Raynaud’s syndrome often include a burning or tingling sensation in the feet, and can develop as a result of stress or cold temperatures. If you have symptoms of poor circulation in your feet, it is suggested to speak to a podiatrist who can guide you toward the proper treatment.
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 one of our podiatrists of Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors 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:
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 office located in Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
As obesity becomes a common issue worldwide, it is important to know the effects it can have on your feet. The most obvious impact is pain in the feet. The more you weigh, the more pressure you are putting on the lower half of your body. This extra weight may result in the arches falling. Once you have fallen arches, a condition called pronation may result. Pronation is when a person walks on the sides of their feet, rather than walking with their feet flat on the ground. Fallen arches and pronation may lead to a wide variety of issues on the feet, ankles, legs, hips and back. Engaging in a healthy lifestyle is the best way to prevent obesity and the slew of foot issues that it may cause.
Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Obesity and Your Feet
Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.
Problems & Complications
Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.
Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.
Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
