Items filtered by date: March 2020

Research has indicated the importance of children wearing shoes that fit properly. This can be achieved by correctly measuring each foot, as this will help you to determine what size shoe is best for your child's feet. Many children walk barefoot while indoors, and this can generally help the feet to become stronger as the toes grasp the floor. When it is time to walk outside, it is beneficial that the shoes are made of breathable materials, in addition to ensure there is adequate room for the toes to move freely in. It is important that shoes fit properly, as this may help to prevent painful foot conditions from developing. If you would like additional information about how to purchase shoes for your child, please consult with a podiatrist.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Barbara Davis of Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

The body’s natural response is to protect itself, which is why the skin may develop a hardened layer of skin in the form of a corn. Corns will typically develop due to an increased level of friction. While this protective layer may be to help the skin of the foot, it can also be very painful and sensitive. To help avoid this, it’s important to wear shoes that put little to no pressure on the feet. If you find your corn to be uncomfortable, some patients have said that soaking the feet in warm water, followed by filing the corn with a pumice stone, can be an effective way to alleviate the pain. If you would like more information on how to best treat your corn, it is recommended that you consult with a podiatrist for professional care and advice.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Barbara Davis of Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Research has indicated that majority of Americans will have foot pain at some point in their lives. The feet are considered to be the foundation of the body, and foot pain may hinder the ability to accomplish daily activities. A bunion is a common cause of foot pain. It is described as a bony protrusion that develops on the side of the big toe, and may come from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. A form of arthritis, known as gout, can cause severe pain and discomfort. This ailment is caused from a result of excess uric acid levels in the blood. Many people also experience a painful condition on the bottom of the foot that is referred to as a plantar wart. It is considered to be a contagious viral infection, and lives in warm and moist environments that can include swimming pools and locker rooms. If you have any type of foot pain, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat your condition.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Women notice their bodies go through several changes during pregnancy. The feet are often affected, which may be a result of the additional weight the feet must support. A common foot condition that pregnancy often leads to is called flat feet. This ailment can cause general pain and discomfort, and may be diminished when the correct shoes are worn. Additionally, many pregnant women notice their feet become swollen, and it may help to elevate them as frequently as possible during the day. The painful skin condition that is known as cracked heels can be controlled by wearing shoes that have a closed back, and to refrain from standing for the majority of the day. If you would like additional information about how pregnancy affects the feet, please consult with a podiatrist.

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 Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. 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 office located in Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

One type of foot condition that is brought upon by dry skin is referred to as cracked heels. When the skin of your heel loses too much oil and water, it may start to feel tight, rough and itchy. Dry skin may develop for various reasons. These may include aging, the use of harsh soaps, long exposure to cold winter air, and from existing skin conditions such as eczema. When dry skin is coupled with excessive pressure on your feet, cracked heels are more likely to develop. Excessive pressure on the foot can be brought upon by obesity, standing for long periods of time throughout the day, and by wearing shoes with an open back. Open back shoes leave the pad of fat under your foot unprotected, leaving them vulnerable to harsh conditions and possible cracking. For more information on how to prevent cracked heels from developing, and for advice on treating this condition, it is recommended you consult with a podiatrist.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor 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 office located in Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.