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January 2019

Monday, 28 January 2019 00:00

Understanding Corns on the Feet

Foot corns occur when the foot is exposed to the friction of skin rubbing against the bone, shoe, or ground. They are similar to calluses and create a thick layer of hard skin on the sole of the foot or in between toes. Corns more specifically occur on top of bones and joints. They have a central core, which has the possibility of resulting in pain if it presses on a nerve. There are many home remedies for treating foot corns. Carefully rubbing the area with a pumice stone or chiropody sponge after soaking your feet and regularly moisturizing can help remove the hard-thickened skin over time. Be wary of over-the-counter corn plasters if you have sensitive skin, because they contain high levels of salicylic acid. If you have corns on your feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist to find out which treatment option is best for you.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Nooshin Zolfaghari of VIP Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

  • Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
  • Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
  • Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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 Corns and Calluses
Monday, 21 January 2019 00:00

Barefoot Running vs Running with Shoes

Barefoot running has become a trend in recent years. Many runners feel that they benefit from going shoeless and that shoes impede on their natural state. So what are the actual differences between running barefoot and running with shoes on? One of the main differences is how your foot hits the ground. Runners’ shoes usually hit the ground with their heels first, which creates a force up to three times the body’s weight. This amount of force can lead to certain injuries; two examples of these injuries are Achilles tendinitis and stress fractures. Barefoot runners strike the ground with the balls of their feet, which results in less force upon impact. Also, barefoot runners naturally shorten their strides, therefore reducing the force on their lower bodies. This reduced force automatically flexes joints, which creates a softer landing on hard surfaces. Shoes offer support that has made the muscles in feet move differently, because they don’t have to work as hard. Without shoes, your calves and feet will have to work harder to accommodate for the change in landing and your stride, but your body will be more attuned to your natural stride. If you are thinking about going barefoot while running, it is recommended that you consult a podiatrist first, especially if you have a history of foot problems.

Barefoot running has grown in popularity in recent years and has been found to offer some benefits over running in shoes. If you are interested in running barefoot, consult with Dr. Nooshin Zolfaghari from VIP Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and whether barefoot running is right for you.

What Is Barefoot Running?

While running shoes provide excellent support and protection to our feet, they can negatively impact the way we run. Those who run in shoes have been found to be more likely hit the ground with their heels first. This running style has been found to increase the risk of injury from ankle sprains, stress fractures, and Achilles tendinitis. Those who run barefoot tend to land on the balls of their feet which generates less impact.

Benefits of Running Barefoot

Some reported benefits of running barefoot include:

  • Less impact on the feet
  • Increased sensation and feedback from the feet
  • Increased efficiency from less weight from shoes
  • Potential for less injury from footwear
  • Reported increases in strength to foot and leg muscles

Downsides to Running Barefoot

  • Less protection from debris on the ground
  • Increased risk of contracting bacterial or fungal infection
  • Potential for injuries from overuse

Those with diabetes should avoid barefoot running at all costs. This is due to the risk of sustaining a wound that could become infected. If you do decide to run barefoot, inspect the area you are running in for lots of debris. Furthermore, it is best to start off slow and to not push yourself too hard the first time out, even if you run in shoes regularly. Another substitute for running shoes are minimalist shoes which reduce the weight of shoes but provide better protection.

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 The Benefits of Barefoot Running
Monday, 14 January 2019 00:00

Types of Shoes That May Cause Cracked Heels

The condition that is known as cracked heels may cause pain and discomfort if it is not treated promptly. It may occur more frequently during the summer months when open-back shoes are worn and may happen as a result of the inadequate support these types of shoes may offer. There are several methods to treat this unsightly foot condition, and these may include washing and thoroughly drying the feet daily, followed by utilizing a good moisturizer, which may aid in keeping the skin soft. Some patients find it helpful to wear cotton socks while sleeping, and this may be preceded by applying petroleum jelly to the affected area. Additionally, using a pumice stone or exfoliating foot cream may be successful in managing cracked heels. If you are afflicted with this ailment and would like additional information about how to prevent and treat cracked heels, it is suggested to speak with a podiatrist.

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
Monday, 07 January 2019 00:00

Wearing Shoes That Have a Proper Sole

The majority of children are born with flat feet, and the arches will gradually develop as the strength in the feet increases. Research has shown there are 26 bones in each foot, in addition to numerous joints and ligaments that connect the bones together. Excess fat can generally be noticed in a baby’s foot, and this may contribute in providing flexibility. The child will learn how to navigate on different indoor surfaces while walking barefoot, and this may aid in improving muscles strength. Once walking has begun, the first type of shoes babies can benefit by wearing should consist of having a soft sole. As walking progresses, the child may wear a shoe with a firmer sole that may add additional support. If you have a toddler that is beginning to walk, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can properly inform you of how to choose the best shoes for your child.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, 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.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

  • Make sure their shoes fit properly
  • Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
  • Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
  • Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
  • Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
  • Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
  • Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
  • Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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 What to Do to Keep Your Child’s Feet Healthy
Wednesday, 02 January 2019 00:00

Causes of Blisters

A natural defense mechanism the body uses to protect damaged skin is referred to as blisters. They are defined as small areas that are filled with fluid that cushions the skin, and this may prevent an infection from occurring. The pain may be intense from blisters that develop on the feet, and this may be a result of the body weight the feet typically bears. Most blisters are caused by friction and pressure, and this may happen when improper shoes are worn. Additionally, there may be other reasons why blisters may occur, including being exposed to freezing temperatures, which may cause the painful condition known as frostbite, spending excess time in the sun, which may lead to severe sunburn, or having an allergic reaction to an insect bite. Some patients develop blisters as a result of specific chemicals in laundry detergents or skin cleansers. If you have blisters on your feet, it is suggested that you counsel with a podiatrist who can properly guide you to correct treatment options.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, 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.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

  • Bubble of skin filled with fluid
  • Redness
  • Moderate to severe pain
  • Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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 Blisters
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