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Pembroke Pines 833-FOOT-VIP
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March 2018

Monday, 26 March 2018 00:00

Should My Child Walk Barefoot?

Children typically learn to walk at about 12 months of age. Most babies are born with flat feet, and their feet are extremely flexible because of the excess fat surrounding the numerous bones, muscles, and tendons the foot is comprised of. As walking progresses and the feet get stronger, the condition of flat feet will generally improve. Balance can be learned and improved by encouraging the child to walk barefoot as often as possible. When it’s time to wear shoes, the feet must be measured every few months because of the rapid growth that is experienced. When the length and width of the foot are properly measured and the correct size is determined, the shoes that are worn should fit firmly and comfortably. It is important to be aware of your child’s feet, which will aid in noticing if any foot conditions are present. Some of these may include any pain being experienced while waking, painful toenails which may be indicative of an ingrown toenail, or any stiffness in the feet. Please consider scheduling a consultation with a podiatrist if you have questions about how your child’s feet are developing.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Nooshin Zolfaghari of VIP Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during 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. Here are some things to consider...

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’. 

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 for 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.

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 and ankle needs.

Read more about What to Do to Keep Your Child’s Feet Healthy
Monday, 19 March 2018 00:00

Causes of Athlete’s Foot

If the skin between the toes starts to become itchy and sore, you may have a condition referred to as athlete’s foot. Athlete's foot is caused by a fungal infection, and may produce unsightly blisters, in addition to cracked and bleeding skin. It’s a contagious infection, and it commonly lingers on shower floors, so it’s advised to wear protective shoes to prevent the fungus from spreading. If you have sweaty feet, you may be susceptible in acquiring this condition. It’s important to treat athlete’s foot as soon as any symptoms appear, and this can be accomplished by using antifungal powders and sprays. There are ways to prevent this condition, including thoroughly drying the feet after washing them in warm water, wearing cotton socks, and using a different towel specifically used for your feet. If you have diabetes or find that general remedies are ineffective, please consult a podiatrist for the best treatment options for severe athlete’s foot.

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 Dr. Nooshin Zolfaghari from VIP Foot & Ankle Center.  Our doctor 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

  • Hydrate your feet by using lotion
  • Exfoliate
  • Buff off nails
  • Use of anti-fungal products
  • Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

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

Read more about Athlete's Foot

It’s important to practice good foot care, and this is especially true of the elderly population. This may include checking the feet daily, and if this proves to be a difficult task, a family member may be able to help. Recent research has shown that it's beneficial to elevate the feet as much as possible, and this will enable the blood to circulate freely. The feet typically get larger as the aging process occurs, and a key element in having healthy feet is to choose shoes that fit properly and comfortably. Some of the foot problems that elderly people need to be aware of developing are fungal and bacterial conditions, and this can include athlete’s foot and warts. Prevention of these conditions and others such as corns, calluses, and ingrown toenails is imperative in maintaining good foot health. Please consider scheduling a consultation with a podiatrist for additional information on how to take care of elderly feet.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Nooshin Zolfaghari from VIP Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

  • Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
  • Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
  • Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
  • Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
  • Shoes that don’t fit properly
  • Pressure sores
  • Loss of circulation in legs & feet
  • Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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 and ankle needs.

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Monday, 05 March 2018 00:00

Causes and Treatment of Cracked Heels

If severe dryness is experienced on the heels of the foot, it may lead to a condition referred to as cracked heels. Calluses will form to protect the skin, and may often split open, possibly leading to a painful infection. Poorly fitting shoes, shoes with exposed backs, obesity, and eczema are among the many reasons for cracked heels to develop. If daily activities include standing for long periods of time, further damage may occur because of the constant pressure the heels must endure. Applying a moisturizer daily will not only feel good, but will help to eliminate the dryness associated with cracked heels. A consultation with a podiatrist is advised to discuss the removal of calluses from severely cracked heels.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Nooshin Zolfaghari from VIP Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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.

Read more about Solutions for Cracked Heels
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