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Cracked Heels and the Winter
Cracked heels are not one of the most severe and health-threatening conditions that might affect the feet. However, it is nonetheless an unpleasant and unsightly condition that many individuals will be wise to try to avoid. Cracked heels occur when the skin on the back of the heel becomes tough and the skin creates fissures due to a lack of moisture. Interestingly, cracked heels have a notable relationship with seasonality and temperature. Specifically, when winter arrives and the temperature drops considerably, an individual may be more susceptible to developing cracked heels. This phenomenon can be explained by the fact that it is often dry in cold weather. As a result, this dryness can impact the heels of the feet, reducing existing moisture in the heels. Please contact a podiatrist today if you would like more information about this foot condition.
Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Tupper from Coshocton Foot Health 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 Coshocton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Car Accidents and Broken Ankles
When an individual is involved in a car accident, usually any negative impact on the feet is not the first concern that might come to mind. However, being involved in a car accident when driving can lead to damaging effects on the feet that one ought to be aware of. For example, ankle injuries, and more specifically broken or fractured ankles are a common consequence of being involved in a car accident. Ankle fractures are defined as a condition of the foot when one or more bones around the ankle (i.e. the ankle joint) become broken. When only one bone is broken, this condition is not always as severe as when multiple bones are fractured. Ankle fractures are nothing to take lightly and if you have suffered an ankle fracture due to a car accident, it might be best to reach out to a podiatrist today to receive any treatment that is necessary to address the problem. Contact a podiatrist today to schedule an appointment.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Tupper from Coshocton Foot Health Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.
When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
- Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
- Swelling around the area
- Bruising of the area
- Area appears to be deformed
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Coshocton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Sleeping and Ankle Sprains
When an individual sprains an ankle they may notice that the tissues or ligaments surrounding the ankle bones have become stretched or unnaturally torn. As a result, the ankle sprain might cause discomfort to the patient and they may demonstrate some kind of limitation in the degree of their ankle motion. An individual may notice that sleeping with an ankle that is sprained can be uncomfortable or difficult. There are several steps that one might consider taking when trying to sleep easier with a sprained ankle. The pain at night stemming from the sprained ankle largely depends on how you are caring for the ankle throughout the day. For example, resting, elevating, and possibly icing the ankle during the daytime may lead to decreased discomfort during the nighttime. Additionally, a person might consider elevating the foot to help mitigate the discomfort felt at night from an ankle sprain. If you are having trouble sleeping at night due to an ankle sprain, contact a podiatrist today.
Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Tupper from Coshocton Foot Health Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
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
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 Coshocton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Swelling and Severs' Disease
Severs’ disease is a particular kind of affliction of the foot that primarily impacts children. This condition occurs when the child, typically going through a growth spurt and engaged in some kind of physical activity, experiences heel pain. The heel bone, in relation to the heel growth plate, can become aggravated, which is a sign of Severs' disease. Although pain in the heel is a defining symptom of Severs’ disease, swelling around the heel may also develop. If a child experiences swelling around the heel and this area is also red in color, this may actually indicate that another source of pain exists. For example, this can be a sign that a stress fracture or ankle sprain may be causing pain. If you have a child that is experiencing heel pain, contact a podiatrist today for more information.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Tupper from Coshocton Foot Health Center. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.
Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.
Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Coshocton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?
If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!
The Risks of Falling
The more one knows about the risks of falling, the better prepared one can be. Sorting through information and understanding myths related to falling is important. Falling can have serious consequences, particularly for seniors, and it may not just be a matter of getting up and continuing one’s day. Even if injuries are not life-threatening, they can be life changing. For example, a fractured foot or ankle can impact a senior’s ability to live independently. It has also been proven that the likelihood of falling again increases with falls. However, falling is not inevitable as one ages. Precautions, such as getting regular vision checks, reviewing side effects of medication, and staying active, can be taken to prevent falls. If you have fallen and sustained injuries to your feet or ankles, or would like more fall prevention information, a podiatrist can help you.
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 Dr. Tupper from Coshocton Foot Health Center. Our doctor 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 Coshocton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Elevating Swollen Feet
Swelling of the feet is undoubtedly pesky and can make the feet feel puffy, uncomfortable, and inflated. Your feet may swell up for different reasons. For example, foot swelling can be attributed to pregnancy, poor circulation, dietary choices, and many other reasons. If an individual notices that their feet are swollen, they might consider slightly elevating the feet. A person might lie down on their back and elevate their feet and lower legs to a height that is above their heart. This is sometimes particularly easy to perform with a hospital bed because it enables the foot of the bed to rise, which is conducive to elevating the feet. The point of elevating the feet is essential to facilitate blood circulation and encourage blood with fresh oxygen to travel to these elevated limbs. If you struggle with swelling of the feet, you may want to seek out the help of a podiatrist who can help you manage this condition. Schedule an appointment today.
Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Tupper of Coshocton Foot Health Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:
- Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
- Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
- Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
- Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
- Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.
Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet.
Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Coshocton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Diabetic Foot Wounds Need Prompt Treatment
Diabetic patients often develop wounds on their feet, and it may happen as a result of the inability to feel existing cuts, scrapes, or bruises. Neuropathy is a common condition that causes a numbing feeling in the extremities of people who have diabetes. If a cut does not receive prompt treatment, it may develop into a foot ulcer and this is concerning for these types of patients. The initial step in treating this kind of wound involves removing the dead tissue from it, which is referred to as debridement. A podiatrist can expertly perform this task by keeping the blood vessels, nerves, and tendons unscathed while reducing pressure on the wound. Additional benefits of this can include an examination of the remaining healthy tissues, in addition to stimulating healing. If you have diabetes and have developed a foot ulcer, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment options.
Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Dr. Tupper from Coshocton Foot Health Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Wound Care?
Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic.
What Is the Importance of Wound Care?
While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.
How to Care for Wounds
The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Coshocton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Diving and Foot Fractures
Diving can be safe and fun. However, as with most sports, injuries can occur, and awareness can help with prevention. The most common injury that might affect the feet with diving is smacking the diving board while taking off. Usually, this will result in minor scrapes but can cause a foot fracture. Most diving collisions occur from poor takeoff from the springboard or platform. Things have been invented to help limit these accidents, such as dryland diving equipment which enables one to attempt a dive using a harness over the water or trampoline. The best prevention is continuously practicing the fundamentals of the sport, including board work and takeoffs. Even the best athletes sometimes sustain injuries while participating in sports if you have fractured your foot while diving, see a podiatrist who can provide the best treatment options.
Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Dr. Tupper from Coshocton Foot Health Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Common Injuries
The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:
- Achilles Tendonitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
- Broken Foot
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Stress Fractures
- Turf Toe
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.
Treatment
Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Coshocton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked
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.
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Foot Care Is Critical for Seniors
As we age our feet change and things can happen to our feet that affect our overall health and quality of life. Specific foot issues may arise depending on the shoes worn, level of activity, and genetics. With all the wear and tear our feet endure throughout our lifetimes, it’s no wonder there would be stress and strain felt as we age. With aging, our cells hold less water, which in turn can affect collagen, tendons, and ligaments in the feet. Tendons generally get tighter, and ligaments may get looser. With aging, circulation can decline as well as our body’s natural healing ability. Overuse and joint issues are also more common with age. When things in the feet shift, bone spurs can develop, and we can feel pain. To deal with the likely inevitabilities of foot issues, if you are a senior or a caregiver, include a podiatrist in your health care team and schedule regular check-ups.
If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Tupper of Coshocton Foot Health Center. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.
Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.
It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.
Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities.
Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.
Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Coshocton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
All About the Arches of the Feet
The arches of the feet work as a spring that bears the weight of your body whenever you take a step. Most people are familiar with the arch on the inner sole of the midfoot. However, three separate arches combine to form a triangle in the feet that absorb the shock of walking and running. There are two longitudinal arches, medial and lateral, that run along either side of the foot from the heel to the top of the 1st and 5th metatarsal. Plus there is a transverse arch that runs across the midfoot, connecting the tops of the metatarsals. These three arches are supported by a number of ligaments, muscles, tendons, and bones that all help to support the weight of the body. When the medial longitudinal arch is too high, it causes a condition called pes cavus, which can be painful and cause gait problems. When the longitudinal arches collapse, it results in flat feet, known as pes planus. Both conditions, which can affect the way you carry out your daily activities, can be diagnosed and treated by a podiatrist.
If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Tupper from Coshocton Foot Health Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Biomechanics in Podiatry
Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.
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 in the area.
Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.
Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Coshocton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Your Feet Get You Places
Given how much work our feet do for us in getting places in life, it stands to reason that we should take care of them well. Feet that look good generally feel good. Going barefoot can lead to injuries, especially if done so on hard surfaces. It is better to wear cushioned sandals or slippers when indoors. Choosing the right footwear is imperative in taking care of your feet. It is important to wear supportive shoes designed for the activity undertaken. One would not want to wear tennis shoes for running or high heels for working or standing for prolonged periods. When shoe shopping, cushioning, arch support, and shock absorption are key factors to look for. The shape of the shoe should also match the shape of the foot, and shoes should be comfortable from the moment they are tried on. Assess the soles of the shoes to examine unevenness as well as wear and tear, and replace shoes when necessary. Check your feet regularly and gift yourself pedicures and foot massages as key ways to relax the feet and care for them. If you have problems with your feet, do not self-diagnose. Instead, visit a podiatrist who can examine your feet and catch and treat anything that goes amiss.
Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Tupper from Coshocton Foot Health Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Everyday 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. 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 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. 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 Coshocton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Reasons for Swollen Feet During Pregnancy
One of the most common things pregnant women experience is swollen feet and ankles. The body produces 50% more fluids and blood, and this is needed to soften the body as the baby develops. Additionally, it helps the pelvic area to prepare for delivery, and these extra fluids are responsible for approximately 25% of weight gain during pregnancy. There are outside factors that may contribute to sudden weight gain and can be controlled to limit extra weight gain from fluids. These can include standing for extended periods of time, eating foods that have increased levels of sodium, and choosing to eat foods that are low in potassium. Swollen feet may be helped by wearing supportive stockings, frequently elevating the feet, and drinking plenty of water daily. For more tips on how to reduce swollen ankles, please confer with a podiatrist who can help you with effective prevention methods.
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 Dr. Tupper from Coshocton Foot Health Center. Our doctor 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 Coshocton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
