Items filtered by date: November 2019

Research has shown the importance of promptly treating a broken toe. This may help to ensure proper healing of the fractured toe. Some of the symptoms that are typically associated with a broken toe can consist of bruising, swelling, and having difficulty moving the toe. For mild breaks, an effective treatment consists of taping the injured toe to an adjacent toe. This is referred to as buddy taping. This type of treatment generally provides the stability that is needed as the healing process occurs. The average recovery time for a broken toe to heal is approximately four weeks. During this time, your toe may feel better when walking is limited, and keeping it elevated may also help to alleviate any existing swelling. If you have broken your toe, it is advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Dr. Kane & Associates, P.C. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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 needs.

Swollen feet is a common ailment many pregnant women are familiar with. It typically occurs as a result of pressure that is caused by the fetus, and warmer temperatures may also play a significant role. Many pregnant women who tend to stand for the majority of the day may experience pain, discomfort, and swelling in the feet and ankles. Moderate relief may be found by elevating the feet at the end of the day, wearing shoes that are comfortable, and by regularly drinking plenty of water. Research has indicated that performing gentle stretches may decrease a portion of the swelling. An effective stretch can consist of circulating the ankle several times, followed by changing directions. If you have questions about how to reduce swelling in your feet while being pregnant, please consult with a podiatrist.

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 Dr. Kane & Associates, P.C. 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?

• 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 and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many patients find the skin on the heels may gradually become dry and cracked. Another name for deep cracks in the skin are known as heel fissures. This can occur as a result of wearing shoes that have an open back. These types of shoes can offer minimal support, and may place additional pressure on the heels. Additional reasons why this condition may develop can include pregnancy, obesity, and diabetes. Eating an imbalanced diet may contribute to cracked heels, and it may be beneficial to supplement with vitamins. Research has indicated it may be helpful to drink plenty of water in addition to using a good moisturizer. If you have developed cracked heels, it is suggested that you seek the advice of a podiatrist who can help you to find relief.

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 one of our podiatrists from Dr. Kane & Associates, P.C. Our doctors 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 Westland, MI.. 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.