Items filtered by date: December 2023

Sports enthusiasts, whether seasoned athletes or weekend warriors, often face the risk of foot and ankle injuries. These injuries are broadly categorized into acute and chronic, each with its unique characteristics. Acute injuries strike suddenly, resulting from falls, blows, or joint twists. Sprained ankles and dislocations are common examples. Conversely, chronic injuries develop gradually due to overuse. Conditions like foot or heel stress fractures fall into this category, often arising from repetitive strain on specific body areas. Several risk factors contribute to these injuries, including incorrect exercise techniques, overtraining, and sudden intensity changes. Running or jumping on hard surfaces, inadequate shoe support, and improper equipment use can also play a role. Further, prior injuries, specifically biomechanical features such as flat feet or bunions can increase the risk of injury. In addition, factors like age, sex, and the nature of physical activity determine one's susceptibility to specific injuries. For help with any sports related foot or ankle injuries, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options. 

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Montgomery Foot Care Specialists. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle 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 and ankle 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 and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. 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 our office located in Montgomery, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Running enthusiasts often face the challenge of foot and ankle injuries, with plantar fasciitis being a common adversary, constituting approximately 25% of running-related issues. This condition involves inflammation of the thick band of tissue, the plantar fascia, connecting the heel bone to the toes. To mitigate the risk of plantar fasciitis and other foot and ankle injuries, careful consideration of footwear is essential. Choose running shoes with proper arch support and cushioning, as inadequate footwear contributes significantly to plantar fasciitis. Regularly replacing shoes is also needed to maintain their effectiveness. Further, gradual progression in running intensity or distance is vital, as abrupt increases can strain the plantar fascia and lead to injury. Incorporating a pre-run stretching routine targeting the calves, Achilles tendon, and plantar fascia enhances flexibility, reducing the likelihood of injuries. Equally important is a focus on foot strengthening exercises, such as toe curls and resistance band exercises, which contribute to better support and reduce the overall risk of foot and ankle issues. By understanding and addressing these factors, runners can take proactive steps to keep their feet pain-free, ensuring a sustained and enjoyable running experience. If persistent discomfort arises, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for personalized guidance on managing plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Montgomery Foot Care Specialists. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

Mobility aids play an important role in falls prevention, especially for elderly individuals who may be at risk of having balance issues. Walking aids, such as canes or wheeled walkers, offer valuable support and enhance stability. Determining the appropriate mobility aid for a patient can be done through simple assessments. One effective test involves offering a hand for support while the patient walks. If they benefit from this assistance, it may indicate that a cane would be suitable. Alternatively, if they prefer using two hands or rely on a grocery cart while shopping, a wheeled walker may be a better choice. If you or someone you care for is at an increased risk for falling it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist to discuss how mobility aids can help.

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 Montgomery Foot Care Specialists. 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 office located in Montgomery, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cracked heels, a common foot ailment, result from a combination of environmental, lifestyle, and health factors. Insufficient moisture is a primary culprit, as dry skin lacks the flexibility to withstand the pressures of daily activities, leading to heel fissures. Prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces can contribute to the development of cracks, especially when combined with ill-fitting shoes that fail to provide adequate support. Skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis may exacerbate heel dryness, making them more susceptible to cracking. Unhealthy lifestyle habits, including poor nutrition and dehydration, can impact skin health, diminishing its ability to retain moisture. Obesity or excess body weight increases pressure on the heels, further predisposing them to crack. Additionally, age-related factors such as reduced oil production and diminished skin elasticity make older individuals more prone to cracked heels. If you have developed cracked heels, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can provide you with treatment options, which may include prescribed medication.

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 Montgomery Foot Care Specialists. 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 office located in Montgomery, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.