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Barefoot Exercises May Help Strengthen the Feet
Many people perceive foot care as receiving pedicures and tending to their cuticles; but thorough foot care should involve strengthening the feet as well. There are several simple barefoot exercises one can do to strengthen the feet and ensure that they are biomechanically sound. Doing such exercises three times per week can help prevent muscle conditions such as plantar fasciitis. Triangle balance toe lifts, toe spreading, heel-toe walks, big-toe lifts, and foot massages can all strengthen the feet. Always remember to slowly transition into any new footwear, and that strengthening the feet and ankles can help them handle.
Exercising your feet regularly is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Dr. Kane and Associates, P.C. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Exercise for Your Feet
Exercise for your feet can help you to 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 often we 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 not to have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure its good health in the long run.
Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rise, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, also flexing the toes and involving the shins may help too. It is best to speak with your doctor regarding how to do these fitness steps and how often is right for you. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different and it varies from individual to individual to determine what should be done for you to maintain strength in your feet.
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 Westland, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about exercising your feet.
Cleveland Browns’ Billy Winn Carried Off the Field due to Sprained Ankle
Billy Winn of the Cleveland Browns has been diagnosed with a sprained right ankle after being examined by a trainer and then carted off the playing field. Winn is a defensive lineman who was a part of the Cleveland Browns’ high hopes for a strong defense this season. The unfortunate occurrence comes after the lineman was praised as one of the team’s emerging players. “We’re looking for big things, not just from him but the whole (defensive line) room,” said Pettine of Winn. “I think the competition is really going to force that room to work.” In light of the injury, the Browns have announced that Winn will be examined on a weekly basis.
Ankle sprains are common, but need immediate attention. If you have any concerns about your potential ankle sprain contact one of our podiatrists of Dr. Kane and Associates, PC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.
What are the Symptoms?
- Mild to moderate bruising
- Limited mobility
- Swelling
- Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)
Preventing a Sprain
- Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
- Stretching before exercises and sports
- Knowing your limits can aid in prevention
Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.
If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Gladiator Sandals Causing Many Foot Problems
Although sandals may be trendy and convenient during the summer, certain sandals can cause serious problems for feet. With strappy gladiator sandals in popular demand, come an array of potential issues including poor circulation, blisters, swelling, and the worsening of varicose veins. To prevent any foot damage from your sandals remember to give your feet a break from high heeled strappy sandals and to opt for a more comfortable shoe on some days. Periodically sit down and elevate the legs to promote blood circulation, and only wear shoes that are the right fit for your feet.
Sandals are great for the summer, but it is important that you provide yourself with everyday foot care to keep any eye on any potential problems. For more information about everyday foot care, consult with one of our podiatrists of Dr. Kane & Associates, PC. Our doctors will provide you with the foot- and ankle information you seek.
Every Day 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. After all, 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 example.
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.
Also, 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 office located in Westland, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
Foot Stretches that Will Keep Feet Pain Free for Flip Flops
Although flip flops are a great method of footwear during warmer months because they appear to be comfortable and convenient, users have to clench their foot muscles to keep them on. This makes the feet susceptible to foot injuries over time. The following foot stretches were created to help reduce the tension flip-flops may cause on the feet.
- Stand up straight with one leg reaching behind you while tucking the toes under the foot and place on the floor. Hold stretch for one minute. Can also be done while sitting down.
- Place the ball of the foot against a rolled up towel or wall, straighten knee, and let the heel touch the ground. Hold for one minute three times on each foot.
- Sit down and cross legs, interlace fingers and toes on one foot and spread toes. Hold for one minute and switch to the other foot.
Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Dr. Kane and Associates, P.C. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Stretching Your 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.
Good ways to stretch your feet are:
- 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 office located in Westland, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Study Finds that Judo Can Fix Flat Feet in Children
According to a study published in the Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics, young boys who practice judo were found to have higher arches and better balance compared to boys who were not as active. Flat feet rates in young boys have been higher recently due to a lack of proper diet and exercise altering foot position and gait. Since Judo is practiced barefoot and on flat surfaces, it causes stimulation in the proper receptors on the bottom of the feet.
Typically flat feet in children will develop around age six. If you suspect that your child has the condition, speak to one of our podiatristsof Dr. Kane and Associates, P.C. Our doctors will answer any of your foot and ankle related questions and attend to all of your podiatric needs.
What are Flat Feet?
Flat feet are a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. Standing about 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arch never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – if you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms:
Pain around the heel or arch area
Trouble standing on the tip toe.
Swelling around the inside of the ankle.
Flat look to one or both feet.
Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment:
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and treatments for your foot and ankle needs.
Study Finds Rebound Shoes Reduce Injury by Softening Impact on the Feet
According to a study conducted at the University of Nevada and presented in the American Society of Biomechanics, when the foot hits in the ground while wearing rebound shoes, there is a 15% increase in force compared to a 96% increase when wearing standard running shoes. Rebound shoes, or boots with springs, are being used as a new trendy exercise with claims of reducing the intensity between the foot and the ground when jumping or running. Although more studies have found that the shoes reduce injuries, they have been known to cause an increase blisters on the feet.
Exercise efficiency involves biomechanics, which incorporates the moving parts that manage the movement of your feet. To learn more about biomechanics, see one of our podiatrists from Dr. Kane and Associates, PC. Our doctors can provide you with the foot and ankle information you seek.
A History of Biomechanics
- Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
- In 1974 biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination to the area.
Modern technology improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes providing a better understanding of podiatry concepts for biomechanics. Computers provide accurate determinations about the forces, moments and patterns of the foot and lower legs with the most important information captured.
Advances in materials and more awareness of biomechanics have developed enhanced corrective methods, offering further options for foot-related injuries. Understanding foot biomechanics can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.
If you have any questions, please contact our office located in Westland, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Exaggerated Games of Thrones Portrayal of Gout Sheds Light on Actual Symptoms
In the season finale of HBO television series Game of Thrones, Doran Martell is in a wheelchair for what author George R.R. Martin states is a severe case of gout. While having gout present day will most likely not require a wheelchair, nearly four percent of Americans have gout and nearly 20 percent of gout sufferers have high uric acid in the blood. Having a diet full of beer, excessive high fructose corn syrup, organ meats and completely lacking in water, dairy, or vitamin C can be a huge factor in gout. Although Doran Martell is wheelchair ridden, gout is most likely to occur in the big toe or ankle, where body temperature is the coolest.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you have any concerns regarding gout, consult with one of our podiatrists from Dr. Kane and Associates, P.C. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
What is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Doctor Live Streams Operation on Periscope for Medical Education
Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center surgeon, Dr. Timothy Miller, recently streamed an Achilles tendon surgery on the video-streaming appPeriscope. Dr. Miller is one of the first among many surgeons using the app hoping that it will help advance medical education. In this day and age of medical education, students and residents are all equally busy which makes the viewing of cases like these increasingly difficult. The streaming session reeled in nearly 170 live viewers, was viewed more than 800 times after during the 24 hours Periscope archived the surgery, and with the help of an assistant in the operating room, five to six questions were answered during the procedure.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns contact one of our podiatrists of Dr. Kane and Associates, P.C. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can cause severe difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What are the symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
- Inflammation
- Dull to Severe Pain
- Increased blood flow to the tendon
- Thickening of the tendon
Rupture Symptoms
- Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
- Total immobility
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
- Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
- Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Growing Shoe Made to Last Created for Children in Third World Countries
Children all around the world grow out of their shoes so quickly that many parents, especially, in third world countries, cannot afford to buy their children shoes. The Shoe That Grows, designed by Kenton Lee, was created to combat this problem by allowing the shoe to expand up to five sizes and by lasting up to five years. Lee was inspired when he went on a trip to Kenya and saw many children running around barefoot, making them especially susceptible to diseases and infections. The leather and rubber materials make the shoes especially durable and come in size small (for children grades kindergarten to fourth grade) and size large (grades fifth to ninth).
Having shoes for children is essential in allowing them to grow properly and keeping them disease free. If you have any concerns contact one of our podiatrists of Dr. Kane and Associates, PC. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet in 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 from birth to school-age.
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’. Be sure the child wears comfortable and protective shoes so that they can grow into their feet properly.
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 of 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
Children of all ages are constantly developing and growing, and as a parent you want to make sure that nothing is hindering their maturation.
If you have any concerns feel free contact our office located in Westland, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Yoga Stretches Helpful in Relieving Plantar Fasciitis Pain
Michele Fife of WOTV 4 has come up with a few a few yoga tips to help reduce pain caused by plantar fasciitis. No matter what physical activity you are partaking in, Fife suggests massaging the soles of the feet beforehand to reduce pain, especially after just waking up when heel pain tends to be the strongest. Then, sitting in virasana with the knees bent with the heels parallel to the hips to stretch and relax the fascia bands in the foot. Additionally you can place the balls of one foot against a wall and frame the rest of the body in a lunge position to stretch the arching part of the foot.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, visit one of our podiatrists of Dr. Kane and Associates, P.C. Our doctors can treat your heel pain as well as any other foot or ankle condition.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of a the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
· Excessive running
· Non-supportive shoes
· Overpronation
· Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
How Can It Be Treated?
· Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
· Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
· Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
If you have any questions, please contact our office in Westland, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
More...
Plantar Warts Often Go Away on Their Own
According to an article published by the Pharmaceutical Journal, plantar warts are a common skin infection especially in children. These lesions caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) can be treated in many ways. Although in many cases warts will go away with time, topical salicylic acid has been known to rid of warts within 12 weeks’ time. Glutaraldehyde, cryotherapy, as well as silver nitrate pencils can also help remove plantar warts.
Plantar warts can be very unsightly and uncomfortable. If you have any concerns with plantar warts on your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Dr. Kane and Associates, PC. Our doctors will treat 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
- Legions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
- Hard or thick callused spots
- Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
- Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing
Treatment
- Freezing
- Electric tool removal
- Laser Treatment
- Topical Creams (prescription only)
- Over-the-counter medications
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, will 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 Westland, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Exercises for Pregnant Women and their Feet
Although soon-to-be moms have many things to take care of during pregnancy, it is additionally important that feet and ankles are paid attention to. During pregnancy many women experience natural weight gain in addition to swollen ankles, feet, and flat feet. Accordingly there are certain exercise techniques that can help reduce these foot ailments. If sitting for a long period of time, take short walks regularly to reduce swelling in the feet and ankles. To reduce over-pronation or flattening of the arch, stretch the calves, rotate the ankles in a circular motion, and try the reverse and standing calf raise.
Pregnancy can put a tremendous amount of stress on the feet. If you have any concerns contact one of our podiatristsof Dr. Kane and Associates, PC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What foot problems can arise during pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is over-pronation, 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?
- Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
- Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
- Wear shoes with good arch support
- Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
- Elevate feet if you experience swelling
- Massage your feet
- Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Start Up Aims to Make Orthotics Trendy
Sols, a New York based startup, is trying to make orthotics cool for the younger generations. The company labels themselves as a “lifestyle brand” with advertisements portraying how great anyone and everyone wearing orthotics are. With the use of 3D printing and an iPhone app, anyone can soon have trendy orthotics for hundreds less than a standard pair of inserts. Although some foot doctors believe that orthotics should be worn only if you are having an issue, Sols still generated over $19 million dollars from investors.
If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists of Dr. Kane and Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What are Orthotics?
Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain, but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.
Over-the-Counter Inserts
Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct over arched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.
Prescription Orthotics
If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you, or if you have a more severe foot issue, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and more severe heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses, and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.
If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist on the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain free.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
German Researchers Create Sock that Can Prevent Amputations on Diabetic Feet
Researchers fromWurzburg and Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits in Erlangen, Germany have recently created a pressure sensing sock to aid diabetics suffering from diabetic neuropathy. Often times those with neuropathy are unable to sense pressure on their feet and can obtain wounds that could lead to issues such as gangrene and amputations. The device has over 40 sensors made of a silicone film where pressure points on the feet are combined and mapped to help prevent further issues. Although the sock is a great innovation for the diabetic community, researchers are still working to make the device less bulky and more accessible.
Diabetic patients are often at a high risk for neuropathy, amputations, and other issues. If you have any concerns about your diabetic feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Dr. Kane and Associates, PC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. Diabetes can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, including 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 because 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 office located in Westland, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
