Items filtered by date: December 2022

It has been said that practicing a regular exercise routine is one of the best things that can be done to prevent falling. The benefits of doing this include improved balance, stamina, and strength when done three to five times per week. An effective exercise for balance is called weight shifting, and this can be done by standing with the feet hip distance apart. As the weight is shifted from one foot to the other, the opposite leg is lifted off of the floor, and held for several seconds. After switching legs, this exercise can be repeated as often as you would like. Coordination may be improved by implementing the heel-toe walk. This can be accomplished by taking a step forward while touching that foot to the toe of the back foot. Having the arms straight out may help to achieve a sense of balance. Cardiovascular function may become better when you are standing with your feet apart about the distance of your hips, and slowly lower into a chair. This is followed by immediately standing up, and repeated several times. If you would like more information about how exercise may help to prevent falling, please consult with a podiatrist.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in McAllen, and Weslaco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Many people have professions that require standing for the majority of the day. This can wreak havoc on the feet and foot pain is often felt at the end of the day. The feet can become sore and swollen, and it is common to experience general muscle fatigue. It is beneficial to wear shoes that fit properly and are also comfortable. It may help to stand on a stress mat as well. It is suggested to elevate the feet as often as possible during a break or while having lunch, and this can help to reduce strain on the joints, ligaments, and muscles. Additionally, when positions are shifted while standing, it may give one side of the body a chance to momentarily rest. Research has shown that work productivity is increased when the feet do not hurt and the overall body is more energetic. If you would like more information about how to work efficiently while standing, please ask a podiatrist who can address concerns and answer any questions you may have.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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

Having cracked heels can be uncomfortable, and this condition can develop for various reasons. Cracked heels may form due to frequently wearing flip flops, or any shoe that has an open back, in addition to standing on hard surfaces for most of the day. This may result in having dry skin on the feet and heels, and may ultimately lead to cracked heels. Severe cracks in the skin are known as fissures, and these may bleed or become infected. Cracked heels can be common among people who are older, because the fat pads may lose elasticity as the aging process occurs. Additionally, medical conditions such as obesity can cause this ailment as a result of the extra weight the heels must endure. Research has shown that heel health can be affected by zinc and iron deficiencies, and it is suggested to incorporate this into your diet after speaking with a podiatrist. Mild relief may be found when the feet are soaked in warm water, followed by applying a good moisturizer on them. If you have developed cracked heels, consult with a podiatrist so they can offer treatment methods.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in McAllen, and Weslaco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

New parents ought to be aware of signs of poor circulation in infants, as this condition can negatively impact the health of your infant. Importantly, poor circulation might be normal for a few hours following birth, however, persistent poor circulation can require medical attention. The feet can play an important role in helping you identify poor circulation in an infant. For example, if the feet feel cold to the touch, this might be indicative of a lack of sufficient blood circulation. The hands might feel cold as well. Often, the feet can give us important signals that we should not ignore. If you are a new parent or are expecting to be, see a podiatrist today to learn about the many ways in which you can care for your infant’s feet. This foot specialist will be able to help you develop a plan and teach you what signs to look for.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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