Fairhope, Brewton, Atmore Phone (251) 928-6768
The holidays would not be complete without the endless gathering of family and friends, enjoying vast amounts of delicious food, decadent sweets, and festive cocktails. However, self-indulging in these treats go hand-in-hand with a heightened risk of health problems. Not only does weight gain increase your risk for things like heart attack and stroke, but it affects your body on a musculoskeletal level. Individuals who may be overweight or obese must also take into account the extra pressure they are placing on their feet, in particular, their arch. The amount of force placed on our feet can cause much pain and damage to the , leg, and hip due to improper weight distribution. It is important to always keep yourself on a good exercise routine to lower your risk of weight-gain, especially around the holiday season.
Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Obesity and your Feet
Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.
Problems & Complications
Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.
Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.
Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Morton’s neuroma is a foot condition that often affects middle-aged women, especially those who wear narrow shoes. While benign, the condition can be very painful; pain typically affects the front of the foot and extends to the toes. Pain flare-ups tend to occur in response to irritation, trauma, or excessive pressure. Morton’s neuroma pain can be made worse by continual walking, especially while wearing narrow shoes. Morton’s neuroma can be diagnosed through a number of methods including clinical examinations, MRIs, or ultrasound. If you suspect you have Morton’s neuroma, be sure to contact your podiatrist.
Morton’s Neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot concerns.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.
What Increases the Chances of having Morton’s Neuroma?
Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
As winter approaches, we all know how important it is to make sure to keep our skin from getting too dry. Just as we use balms and moisturizers for our face and hands, there are many ways to protect against dry and cracked feet and heels. Glycerin lotions are some of the best remedies for combatting dryness. Hydrogenated oils are also very effective moisturizers, and can be used not only on your feet, but your and legs too. In addition, fruits such as bananas and pineapples have plentiful amounts of helpful enzymes to ensure smooth and crack-free Feet.
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 Southeast Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Cracked Heels
Cracked heels are unappealing, and make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Not only may they look bad, but they 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 so it can stay on longer.
Moisturizers – applying it both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.
Pumice Stones – these remove dead skin, and then you can massage cream onto your foot. This way the cream will be absorbed. The skin needs to be exfoliated; therefore the outer layer dead skin needs removal.
Change in Diet
Eating healthy, with a well-balanced diet, will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to what kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements will also help with skin tissue.
Most importantly seek a health professional for foot care if something is wrong or doesn’t seem to be working. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
For those who have been diagnosed with Diabetes, or those with family members who have, taking care of your feet is something that should be taken very seriously. Because of the lack circulation in the feet and legs, numbness can occur. This could prevent noticing that there is even a problem. That, coupled with inordinately slow healing, can cause infections to persist, spread, and even lead to amputation. Make sure to look out for signs of foot problems. If you have numbness, sores, or any type of slow-healing wound, see a doctor immediately.
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 one of our podiatrists from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctors 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. Diabetes can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, including 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
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels because 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 one of our offices located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
By the time the average American reaches age 50, they are expected to have accumulated 75,000 miles on their feet. If you’re an avid runner, you may have more miles on your feet, so it’s especially important to optimize proper foot care. Knowing your body type, running style, your feet and the kinds of activity you routinely follow are all aspects to consider when maintaining foot care. Proper footwear is also vital in making sure that your feet are comfortable and healthy. Our feet change as we age, expanding and potentially becoming flatter.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.
What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.
Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber, this will help you gain better flexibility.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
If you’re experiencing stiffness and pain in the soles of your feet that typically becomes more prominent during the mornings, you may have plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis can be described as a foot condition that results from overuse of the plantar fascia, the tissue that runs along the soles of your feet. Excessive stress on this area can lead to inflammation. Being overweight, having flat feet or high arches, pregnancy and improper footwear such as flip flops are also factors in the development of plantar fasciitis. Treat your condition by icing your feet, stretching your muscles and having proper rest by avoiding any strenuous activity.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
· Excessive running
· Non-supportive shoes
· Overpronation
· Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
How Can It Be Treated?
· Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
· Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
· Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
The fifth metatarsal is the long bone that connects to the pinky toe on the outside of the foot. This bone is especially prone to fracture for people involved in any sort of prolonged physical activity, especially team sports. This is one of the most common injuries in soccer, but many other athletes also suffer this injury. It is vitally important to never ignore any type of foot pain, on the field or off. Professionally, there is immense pressure to perform, which can lead to dependency on prescription painkillers. But the truth is, we all need our feet, not just star athletes. The best course of action is always to contact a podiatrist and get to the root of the problem.
Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot concerns.
Dealing with Stress Fractures of the foot
The Stress Fractures occur on the foot when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use. Then the Feet lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection the bones receive the full impact of each step. The stress on the feet causes cracks to form in the bones, thus called stress fractures.
What are Stress Fractures?
Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the Feet. Stress factors are most common among:
-runners
-people affected with Osteoporosis
-play tennis or basketball
-gymnastics
-high impact workouts
Symptoms
Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures, and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves in high impact will aggravate pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Arthritis is a condition that affects not only the hands and wrists, but Feet as well. There are more than 50 million people in the US that are currently diagnosed with arthritis and there are a lot of different opinions on how to effectively treat the disease. Frequently it is difficult to parse through what does work and what doesn’t. Arthritis can be painful, especially when it affects the foot area. When trying to manage this pain, it is important to be informed on what types of treatments are effective, keeping in mind that some can actually be harmful. The CDC has recently released a report that outlines some good and bad treatments for this chronic ailment.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves inflammation of different joints in your body, such as in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. On top of this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.
In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.
Alleviating Arthritic Pain
It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Senior Kyle Crutchmer of Oklahoma State University’s wrestling team had his season cut short due to an injury to his right foot. Nevertheless, he still has a great chance to achieve All-American status for the second time at the 174-pound weight class. Six of Oklahoma State University’s matchups are against preseason top 25 teams, four of which are also in the top 10. In regards to the upcoming competition, Crutchmer states, “We’ve been training all summer and fall for this.”
Sports related foot injuries need proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctorscan provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Sport Related foot Injuries
foot injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:
Sports-related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the . More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Odor emanates from people’s feet due to sweat or a lack of good hygiene practices. Bacteria can form as a result of either of these two reasons, and it may produce a strong odor. They tend to form around areas that are moist on your feet, and they feed on skin oils and dead cells. When bacteria thrive, they eliminate waste in the form of organic acids, which causes feet to smell. In order to keep your feet bacteria free, you should change your socks daily, keep your toenails clipped and clean, dry feet thoroughly after showering, and swab in between your toes with rubbing alcohol.
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 one of our podiatrists from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
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
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 helping you figure out which treatment options are best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
While most people understand that podiatrists are foot doctors, many people still may not comprehend a podiatrist’s work and the various conditions a podiatrist treats. Various foot problems that many people experience and that a podiatrist can treat include plantar fasciitis, ingrown toenails, bunions, hammertoes, and flat feet.
Among the group who sought podiatric help, 88% reported a quick diagnosis and 76% received treatment that eliminated the problem. A third of the group said that their visits to the podiatrist exposed other health concerns, such as diabetes, circulatory issues, and nerve issues.
"It's not surprising to see how many people are affected by foot pain, when survey results show that we view our feet as the least important body part in terms of our overall health and wellbeing," said AMPA President Frank Spinosa. "Our feet are literally and figuratively the furthest things from our minds."
If you are experiencing pain in the feet or , don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What is a Podiatrist?
Someone would seek care of a podiatrist when they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as: heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot problems etc.
Podiatric Treatment
A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, or lower leg by prescribing the following:
A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Wearing shoes that have proper support for the feet is crucial in maintaining foot health. High heels are not the only shoes that should come to mind when thinking of shoes that lack support. Flats, sandals, and shoes made with synthetic fabrics are equally as bad as heels in terms of the amount of support they provide. Flip-flops have been linked to foot, , and knee pain as well as gait abnormalities. It is important to be selective when choosing a pair of shoes in order to prevent injury as well as other difficulties while walking.
Every day foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked contact one of our podiatrists from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctors provide the care you need to keep your pain-free and on your feet.
Every Day 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. After all, 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 example.
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.
Also, 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 offices located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot care needs.
Arthritis is a common condition that can affect the feet as well as many other parts of the body. Fortunately for those who suffer from the condition, there are massage options available in order to alleviate pain and stiffness. Massage therapists can help those who struggle with discomfort. Mild stretches combined with self-guided muscle release steps will have a positive impact on your body. Massage techniques can also be customized in order to fit your needs and limitations.
Foot therapy is necessary for those recovering from both foot deformities and foot injuries. If you have concerns regarding therapy, contact one of our podiatrists from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Most common injuries
People who are constantly on their feet are prone to a variety of injuries. Therefore, it is important to take part in physical therapy in order to get back on the right track quickly.
What to do when injured
Physical Therapy – This specialized treatment will focus on the affected area, speeding up recovery and the overall healing process. This is important for those wanting to get back into the game quickly. It is a proven method that has helped millions of people return from any injury.
During physical therapy you will undergo regimented training to get back into full form. Training is often very difficult, especially at first when the foot feels weak. These are some steps physical therapy often involves:
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Fairhope, Bay Minette, Brewton, and Atmore, AL. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot care needs.
If you’re experiencing leg pain, it may be because of ill-fitting shoes, according to Dr. Samridhi Saxena, senior physiotherapist. Choose the proper shoes, especially if you are an avid exerciser, by using an impression of your foot to help determine your own foot shape and pattern. The type of shoe you wear can also affect your feet in the long term. When choosing shoes, make sure to consider what type of activity you will be wearing the shoes for, and shop accordingly. Treat any leg pain you may experience by stretching the sore muscle and taking a warm shower to alleviate the area.
Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
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:
Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes is 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 Fairhope, Bay Minette, Brewton, and Atmore, AL. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot care needs.
