Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?

Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

Diabetic Patients and Exercising the Feet

Patients who are diabetic can possibly benefit from performing stretches and exercising the feet. Neuropathy is a common foot condition that many diabetic patients experience, and it may help to incorporate balance exercises that can include riding a stationary bike and swimming. Research has indicated that it is beneficial to avoid performing exercises that can increase blood pressure, which may include strength training and cardiovascular routines. The feet can benefit from performing the correct exercise, and it is important to consider the specific foot condition. If you would like additional information about the benefits of exercising the feet, please consult with a podiatrist.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Michael T. Hames from Florence Foot Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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

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What Causes Cracked Heels?

The condition that is known as cracked heels may occur as a result of frequently wearing shoes that have an open back. Additional reasons why this ailment may develop can consist of standing on hard surfaces for the majority of the day, or from medical conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. The skin on the outer edge of the heel is generally affected, and the cracks, or fissures can become painful if they are left untreated. Moderate relief can be found when the feet are washed and dried, followed by using a good moisturizer several times per day.  If the skin on the heel begins to bleed, it is strongly suggested that you be under the care of a podiatrist who can properly treat and manage cracked heels.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Michael T. Hames from Florence Foot Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

  • Invest in a good foot cream
  • Try Using Petroleum Jelly
  • Ease up on Soaps
  • Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

  • Moisturize After Showering
  • Skip a Shower
  • Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
  • Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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

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Why Do I Have Heel Pain?

Heel pain is a common ailment among many people. It may be a foot condition that is more prevalent among specific groups of people. These may include individuals who are obese, people who participate in sporting activities, or women who are pregnant. Additionally, heel pain may develop from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or if there has been an injury to the heel. Patients who have medical conditions that include plantar fasciitis or heel spurs are familiar with the heel pain that is often associated with these ailments. There are methods that can be implemented which may provide moderate relief. These can consist of wearing custom made orthotics, resting the heel, and performing specific flexibility stretches. If you have any type of heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnosis and treat this condition.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Michael T. Hames of Florence Foot Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

  • Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
  • Wearing non-supportive shoes
  • Weight change           
  • Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

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Is Hammertoe A Deformity?

There are noticeable signs you may have a hammertoe. These can include the second toe bending in a downward direction, often resembling a hammer. Additionally, it may bend over the third toe, and it may be difficult to walk. This condition may be caused by genetic traits, or can come from wearing shoes that do not have enough room for the toes to move freely in. It is considered to be a deformity of the bones in the toes, and in severe cases, surgery may be required to permanently straighten the toes. In the beginning stages of hammertoe, mild relief may be found when larger shoes are worn that can accommodate the bent toes. Some patients find it beneficial to wear pads on the top of the affected toes, and this may help to prevent corns from developing. If you are afflicted with hammertoe, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition. 

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Michael T. Hames of Florence Foot Center. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

  • Painful and/or difficult toe movement
  • Swelling
  • Joint stiffness
  • Calluses/Corns
  • Physical deformity

Risk Factors

  • Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
  • Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
  • Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
  • Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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

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