May 2019

The feet are considered to be the foundation of the body. It is important to implement daily steps to ensure the feet stay healthy. Uncomfortable foot conditions which may include bunions, ingrown toenails and general foot pain may be avoided when properly fitting shoes are worn. The tendons and ligaments in the feet can be stretched while performing a daily exercise routine, which is important in maintaining strong foot muscles. Additionally, your feet may begin to feel better when they are washed at the end of every day, followed by utilizing a good moisturizer. This may help to prevent cracked heels. If you would like additional information about how to care for your feet daily, it is suggested to consult with a podiatrist.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Robert Hope from Riverside Podiatry. 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 Tuscaloosa, and Fayette, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot needs.

Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.

The medical condition that is known as arthritis often causes pain and swelling in the joints of the toes. The toes may have difficulty in bending upwards or may permanently become bent in a downward position. Walking may be challenging, in addition to standing flat on the floor. The most common form of arthritis is referred to as rheumatoid arthritis. This ailment can affect several joints in the toes simultaneously and can be quite painful. Additional types of arthritis include gout, which develops as a result of excess uric acid in the bloodstream. Medical conditions such as psoriasis can cause psoriatic arthritis, and joint pain can occur after the skin is affected. If you are experiencing arthritis in the feet, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Robert Hope from Riverside Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is 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 care needs.

The condition that is known as cracked heels is also referred to as thickened heels. There are several reasons why this ailment may develop. These include standing for the majority of the day, wearing shoes that have an open back, or they may form as a result of a vitamin deficiency. If cracked heels are left untreated, severe pain, discomfort and bleeding may exist. They develop when there is a lack of moisture in the fat pad which can cause the skin to become dry and callused. Patients who are obese may suffer from this condition, which causes this ailment to develop from added pressure the heels must endure. Mild relief may be found when the feet are soaked in warm water, followed by using a moisturizer on the heels. This helps to soften dry skin, and can add moisture to the heels. If you are afflicted with cracked heels, please consult with a podiatrist who can offer correct treatment options.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Robert Hope from Riverside Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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 care needs.