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October 2020

Monday, 26 October 2020 00:00

How to Find the Best Running Shoes for You

Proper footwear is important when you go for a run. To find the best running shoes for you, it is recommended that you visit a brick and mortar store. This way, you can try on shoes before you buy them and get expert advice and a proper shoe fitting from the store’s staff. To help you find the best pair of running shoes for your specific needs, look at a pair of your most frequently worn shoes for clues on how your foot functions, which can help them recommend a good shoe for you. Often, your running shoes may need to be larger than your everyday footwear. It is important to focus on the fit of the running shoe rather than the size. It is also suggested that you look for shoes that give your toes extra room, as the foot can swell throughout the day, especially while exercising. For more information on how to find the right running shoes for you, you can also consult with a podiatrist.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Dawn Miles, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

  • Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
  • Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
  • Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
  • Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Palatka and Saint Augustine, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Monday, 19 October 2020 00:00

What Are the Symptoms of Sesamoiditis?

Sesamoiditis, a condition that affects the sesamoid bones, is a common cause of pain in the ball of the foot. It is typically a result of repeated injury and is especially common among dancers, joggers, people who have high arches, and people who frequently wear high heels. You may have sesamoiditis if you experience pain beneath the base of the big toe that is made worse by walking, and warmth, redness, or swelling near the big toe. A podiatrist can diagnose this condition after examining the foot. Sometimes, an X-ray or MRI is also used to rule out other potential causes of pain, such as arthritis, displacement, or a fracture of the sesamoid bone. For more information about this condition, consult with a podiatrist today.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Dawn Miles, DPM of Florida. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

  • Sudden increase in activity
  • Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
  • Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Palatka and Saint Augustine, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Friday, 16 October 2020 00:00

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Monday, 12 October 2020 00:00

What Is an Anterior Ankle Impingement?

An anterior ankle impingement, which is also known as “footballer’s ankle” or “athlete’s ankle,” results from bone spurs that form on the front bones of the ankle. This injury is most common amongst athletes in sports that involve a lot of kicking. While soccer players are the most commonly affected athletes, football players, volleyball players, and ballet dancers are also at risk. An anterior ankle impingement is often indicated by chronic pain in the front of the ankle while playing sports and while bending the ankle.  Swelling will also occur in the front of the ankle after athletic activity. If you believe that you are suffering from an anterior ankle impingement, consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

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 Dawn Miles, DPM from Florida. 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 one of our offices located in Palatka and Saint Augustine, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Monday, 05 October 2020 00:00

How Do Stress Fractures Occur?

Stress fractures are small hairline fractures that usually occur due to the foot no longer being able to handle the load being placed on it. This is a common result of overuse and repetitive motion, and leads to an increased risk of stress fractures for athletes such as runners, soccer players and dancers. Those who suffer from health problems such as osteoporosis or an abnormal gait are also at a higher risk for developing a stress fracture. While stress fractures can happen in any bone in the foot, they most commonly occur in 3 places: the metatarsal bones (near the mid foot), the calcaneus bone (or heel bone), or the navicular bone (top of the foot). Common symptoms of a stress fracture include tenderness, pain deep in the foot, weakness, intermittent pain, changes in foot biomechanics, sharp pain, swelling and bruising. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is important to consult with a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Dawn Miles, DPM from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

  • Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
  • Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
  • Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
  • Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
  • Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Palatka and Saint Augustine, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
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