Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek professional help and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
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The Benefits of Stretching The Feet
Walking may be thought to be one of the best foot exercises that can be performed. A full range of motion occurs when the foot strikes the ground and the toes lift up. The many benefits of walking and practicing resistance exercises are known to enhance mood and overall health, in addition to improving circulation. Incorporating gentle foot stretches in your daily routine will not only build flexibility, but also promote strength. This can help avoid any potential injuries. A stretching exercise that benefits the ankles can be done while sitting down. This consists of rotating the ankle a few times, then changing direction. Additionally, it is beneficial to stretch the bottom of the foot. This can be accomplished by keeping the heel raised while the toes lie flat against the ground as you step back and gently stretch your right foot, then repeat on the opposite foot. A consultation with a podiatrist may be considered for additional knowledge about foot stretches
Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our podiatrists from James Kutchback, DPM, CWS-P. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Stretching the Feet
Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.
Great ways to stretch your feet:
- Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
- Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
- Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle
Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.
If you have any questions please contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prevent Corns
When the foot incurs abnormal pressure from wearing incorrect footwear, a corn may develop. A corn is a small area of thickened skin, usually appearing on the tops of the toes or the balls of the feet. These are typically referred to as hard corns, often producing redness, swelling, and pain. Soft corns are usually found between the toes, appearing white and having a rubbery texture. Both types of corns are produced by excessive friction, typically caused by wearing ill fitting shoes and from moisture accumulating between the toes. Many people will develop corns throughout their lives, and it is one of the most common foot ailments. It’s important to prevent corns from developing by being aware of specific areas of the foot that often endure pressure. If you stand for most of the day, it’s suggested to take ample time to find shoes that fit properly. Additionally, the skin will benefit significantly by being moisturized. Please consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and information on how painful corns can be removed.
If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of James Kutchback, DPM, CWS-P. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.
Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:
- Well-fitting socks
- Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
- Shoes that offer support
Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctors to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Causes of Blisters
If you see a bubble-like area filled with fluid on the foot, you are most likely experiencing a blister. Friction is the most common cause of this condition, but there may be several other reasons for this to occur. Exposure to certain chemicals, an infection from an insect bite, or being the victim of a severe burn may all be contributing factors for developing a blister. The fluid in the blister is produced by the human body to cover the damaged area and protect the skin. Blisters commonly develop on the toes and the back of the foot due to friction. This is most often caused by walking and running long distances, in addition to wearing shoes that are ill-fitting. If your foot is exposed to extremely cold temperatures, blisters may appear because of tissue damage caused by frostbite. Generally, blisters will heal on their own. However, if the blister should burst causing an infection, it’s advised to seek the medical attention of a podiatrist.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of James Kutchback, DPM, CWS-P. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.
What Are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
How Do Blisters Form?
Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.
Prevention & Treatment
It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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!
