Items filtered by date: April 2023

Jumping rope can be an exciting and exhilarating activity. Nostalgic for some and physically challenging for others, jumping rope is an activity that many can enjoy. However, if one is not careful, jumping rope can lead to a foot injury. For example, if you are not jumping rope on the right surface, then injury can result. Some individuals might jump rope on hard surfaces like concrete, leading to shin splints. Rather, you might consider jumping rope on a surface that offers more shock absorption. This will ultimately put less stress on the joints of the feet as well. If you are someone that exercises by jumping rope, then it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today for advice and treatment.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Desiree Garzon, DPM from County Wide Foot, Ankle, & Wound Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Boynton Beach, and Wellington, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The arches of the feet play critical roles to the overall health of the body. For example, the arches of the feet can serve as springs, facilitating motion and absorbing shock. However, this important part of the human foot can be negatively impacted during pregnancy. Specifically, the added weight that a pregnant woman gains throughout the pregnancy can put extra pressure on the feet. As a result, the arch may sink to the floor, and the pregnant woman may develop flat feet. This is also compounded by the fact that a pregnant woman’s body releases a hormone called relaxin that facilitates the loosening of the foot’s ligaments. If you are pregnant or are planning to be, it is strongly suggested that you contact a podiatrist today who can provide you with useful information regarding the health of your feet during this time.

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 Desiree Garzon, DPM from County Wide Foot, Ankle, & Wound Care. 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 offices located in Boynton Beach, and Wellington, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Studies show that women experience heel pain more frequently than men. Wearing high heels is thought to be the number one cause of heel pain in women. This leaves them more at risk for developing plantar fasciitis, the main complaint of which is heel pain. The band of tissue that runs beneath the foot, called the plantar fascia, becomes inflamed resulting in pain. However, other types of footwear common among women can also contribute to heel pain. Among them are shoes of any type that have a narrow toe box and pointy toes. Changing to footwear that properly supports the foot is one sure way to lower the risk of heel pain. Try to limit the height of heels to 1.5 inches, and check footwear for ample cushioning, arch support, and flexibility in the sole. In addition, starting a regular routine of foot stretches can help relieve tightness in the arch and heel. In some cases, special orthotic inserts for the shoes can diminish pain in the heels. For any type of heel pain that impedes your daily activities, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam to determine the cause and prescribe custom orthotics if needed.  

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Desiree Garzon, DPM of County Wide Foot, Ankle, & Wound Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Boynton Beach, and Wellington, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetics can be in danger of foot and toe problems as a result of sustained high blood sugar levels. Commonly, diabetes causes neuropathy in the lower extremities, which results in numbness and can put the patient in danger of developing a foot ulcer. Because the feeling in the feet is limited or absent, cuts, sores, and cracks in the skin may go unnoticed. Another underlying condition, called peripheral artery disease, can clog the blood vessels in the feet, making it more difficult for any such injuries to heal. This combination can lead to skin ulcers that if not attended to can cause gangrene. Experts suggest a daily foot care regime that can prevent ulcers from forming. It includes washing and drying the feet daily, inspecting them for sores, wearing shoes that are comfortable and fit well, and avoiding going barefoot. Keep the feet elevated when possible and perform light foot exercises, such as wiggling the toes and rotating the ankles to get the circulation going. If you have noticed a sore on your foot that is taking a long time to heal, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Desiree Garzon, DPM from County Wide Foot, Ankle, & Wound Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Boynton Beach, and Wellington, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.