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pedal

February 2018

Monday, 26 February 2018 00:00

Guide to Proper Shoe Fitting

It’s important to properly measure your feet for the correct size before choosing shoes to purchase. Self-serve shoe stores may have a fitting device, where the length and width of the feet can be measured correctly. Measuring both feet is beneficial as the feet may differ in size and there may possibly be foot conditions that are on one foot and not the other. Typically, it’s suggested to wear the socks that are usually worn while making a decision to purchase shoes. This will aid in the correct fit. The overall health and general comfort of the feet and body consist of a proper fit that includes the top of the feet, toes, and the arch. If you experience any pain or discomfort while trying shoes on, the shoes may be fitting incorrectly for your feet.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Robert Hope from Riverside Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot 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 our office located in Tuscaloosa, and Fayette, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot needs.

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Monday, 19 February 2018 00:00

Causes of Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot condition which affects the toes, causing the joints to become deformed. Choosing to wear shoes that fit tightly is often the cause of this condition, resulting in the toes bending into a forced, abnormal position. The shoes will rub on the toe which causes friction, and corns and calluses will most likely develop. Additionally, medical conditions that presently exist, such as diabetes and arthritis, may contribute to the development of hammertoes. There are treatment options available, including splints to realign the toe and orthotics specifically designed to accommodate the affected toe. A consultation with a podiatrist is advised to learn about choosing proper footwear and advice on how to treat hammertoe.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Robert Hope from Riverside Podiatry. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and -related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

  • Pain in the affected toes
  • Development of corns or calluses due to friction
  • Inflammation
  • Redness
  • Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Tuscaloosa, and Fayette, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot needs.

Read more about What Are Hammertoes?
Monday, 19 February 2018 00:00

How To Teach Children About Proper Foot Care

Your child may begin to walk at about 12 months of age. Recent research has shown that it’s beneficial to walk barefoot as much as possible, which may help strengthen the foot muscles. It’s important to measure the feet every few months in the early years to ensure a proper fit while choosing shoes. As your child gets older, common ailments that can occur may include athlete’s foot, ingrown toenails, and plantar warts. It’s crucial to maintain daily foot care, which includes washing the feet in lukewarm water and drying thoroughly between the toes. Additionally, complaints about heel pain can be a common occurrence, typically resulting from playing sports. If the pain becomes severe, a consultation with a podiatrist may be suggested to alleviate any discomfort and to learn about possible treatment options.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Robert Hope of Riverside Podiatry. 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 Tuscaloosa, and Fayette, AL . 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, 05 February 2018 00:00

Causes of Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is a common foot ailment that many people experience in their lives. It typically appears between the toes, and is caused by a fungus. This can result in the skin becoming itchy and flaky, and it’s common for swelling to occur as well. The fungi needs moisture and warmth to grow, and communal showers are a common place for this condition to spread. There are some conditions that may facilitate the onset of athlete’s foot, including predisposed genetic traits, certain allergies, and a weakened immune system. Drying the feet thoroughly, wearing shoes that fit properly, and wearing appropriate shoes while in a public shower are effective ways to prevent this condition. A consultation with a podiatrist is suggested if you suffer from chronic athlete’s foot, and proper treatment options can be discussed

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Robert Hope from Riverside Podiatry.  Our doctor will treat your foot 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 Tuscaloosa, and Fayette, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot needs.

Read more about Athlete's Foot
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