Preventing falls in the home begins with making the environment safer and more supportive. Removing clutter from walkways reduces tripping hazards, while improved lighting helps you see obstacles clearly. Installing handrails along stairs and in bathrooms adds stability, and a curbless shower provides easy access for those with limited mobility. Foot pain, instability, or balance issues can increase the risk of falling. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot structure, address any conditions affecting your gait, and recommend proper footwear or orthotics for added support. Protect your safety and independence by making thoughtful changes in your living space. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury from falling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot injuries, and offer additional guidance on effective fall prevention tips.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from VIP Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Heel fat pad syndrome occurs when the thick, protective layer of fatty tissue beneath the heel becomes thinned, displaced, or inflamed. This heel fat pad, known as the corpus adiposum, normally cushions the heel bone and helps absorb the force of impact during walking or running. When the fat pad loses its elasticity or volume, it can no longer protect the heel effectively. This results in a deep, bruise-like pain in the center of the heel, especially when walking barefoot or on hard surfaces. Common causes include repetitive impact from sports, prolonged standing, walking on hard floors, gait abnormalities, and age-related tissue breakdown. Excess body weight and medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes, may also contribute. The heel pain typically worsens with activity and improves with rest. A podiatrist can evaluate heel structure, identify fat pad atrophy through a physical exam or imaging, and recommend methods to reduce discomfort and protect the heel. If your heels hurt during everyday activities, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of VIP Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors 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 Pembroke Pines, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Good blood flow is essential for healthy feet, yet circulation can slow with age, certain medical conditions, or a sedentary lifestyle. Reduced circulation may cause cold feet, numbness, swelling, or slow-healing wounds. Gentle daily movement helps keep blood flowing. Walking, ankle rotations, and rising onto your toes several times a day can stimulate circulation. Elevating your feet when resting encourages blood to return to the heart. Wearing supportive, non-restrictive shoes and socks can also make a difference. Staying hydrated, avoiding smoking, and managing conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure support overall vascular health. Consistent care helps maintain foot comfort and reduces the risk of complications. If you have ongoing symptoms of poor circulation, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of VIP Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness 
• Numbness or cramping in the legs
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

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 Pembroke Pines, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, occurring when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue connecting your heel to your toes, becomes inflamed or irritated. It often results from overuse, wearing poor footwear, obesity, or tight calf muscles. Symptoms include sharp, stabbing pain in the heel or arch, especially noticeable with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest. The affected area may feel tender, swollen, or stiff. A podiatrist can diagnose plantar fasciitis by conducting a thorough examination. Treatments include custom orthotics, stretching exercises, and footwear modifications to reduce stress on the foot. In some cases, advanced treatments like corticosteroid injections may be necessary. With proper care, most people find relief and can return to their daily activities comfortably. If you have plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can effectively 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 VIP Foot & Ankle Center. 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?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

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

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

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 Pembroke Pines, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.