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June 2021

One of the most common complaints pregnant women have is swollen feet, and they can generally begin to feel uncomfortable as the pregnancy progresses. This can happen as a result of the growing fetus which can put pressure on specific areas of the body, and it can occur from an increase in fluids and blood. Many women have found mild relief when they can frequently elevate their feet, and it may help to perform gentle foot stretches throughout the day. Additionally, it is beneficial to limit sodium intake, and wearing compression stockings may help with persistent swelling. If you are pregnant, and would like more information about why your feet are swollen and additional relief methods, 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 one of our podiatrists from Grand Blanc Family Footcare. Our doctors 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 Grand Blanc, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Foot Care for Pregnant Women
Tuesday, 22 June 2021 00:00

Children and Shoes

The best shoes for children will always meet their physical needs as their feet develop. Babies will benefit when they can walk barefoot while indoors, as this can help to strengthen the overall foot as the toes grip the floor. When your child starts to walk outside, it can be beneficial to choose a shoe that is made from good quality materials, in addition to ensuring that the sole is not too stiff. Shoe styles can vary, and it is helpful to get your child’s feet professionally measured, followed by trying on and walking in the shoes before any purchases are made. The feet are the foundation of the body, and shoes need to be changed as the feet grow. This allows the feet to have ample room to move and grow. If you would like additional information about what type of shoes to buy for your child, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the right shoes for your child.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of Grand Blanc Family Footcare. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

  • Make sure their shoes fit properly
  • Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
  • Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
  • Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
  • Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
  • Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
  • Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
  • Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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

Read more about What to Do to Keep Your Child’s Feet Healthy
Tuesday, 15 June 2021 00:00

Symptoms of a Plantar Wart

A plantar wart is found on the sole of the foot. It develops and grows inward as a result of the pressure the foot endures from standing and walking. They can cause severe pain and discomfort, and it can be difficult to walk. It is identified as a small area of hardened skin that can form on the ball or  the heel of the foot. Many patients notice there are small, black dots in the center of the wart, and there may be several of them that can form a cluster. A common form of treatment is referred to as keratolytic therapy. This is accomplished by using acid on the wart that can help it to diminish. Additionally, there are several treatments available, and it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine what the best one is for you.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Grand Blanc Family Footcare. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

  • Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
  • Hard or thick callused spots
  • Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
  • Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

  • Freezing
  • Electric tool removal
  • Laser Treatment
  • Topical Creams (prescription only)
  • Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

Read more about Plantar Warts
Tuesday, 15 June 2021 00:00

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!

Tuesday, 08 June 2021 00:00

How to Prevent Falling at Home

Falls are a major cause of injury and disability among older adults. One of the most common places that seniors fall is in their own homes. This can be prevented by making several modifications to the living space. The easiest and fastest way to reduce risk of falling is to clear any clutter, especially from the floor and areas like hallways and staircases. Remove tripping hazards such as loose or slippery carpets or rugs. Install grab bars in the bathroom, where slippery floors can make falling more likely, and install handrails on the stairs. Install brighter lighting and nightlights to help seniors see where they are walking. Seniors with good foot health may be less likely to fall. To help maintain foot health and mobility, schedule an appointment 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 Grand Blanc Family Footcare. 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 Grand Blanc, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Falls Prevention
Tuesday, 01 June 2021 00:00

Treatments for a Broken Ankle

Ankle fractures occur when one or more of the bones that make up your ankle breaks. This can cause symptoms such as pain, bruising, tenderness, swelling, weakness, numbness, and difficulty putting weight on your ankle or walking. Ankle fractures may be treated with support devices, such as a brace or cast, that immobilize and protect the affected ankle to encourage healing. If you have a cast or brace, you may need to walk with crutches for a period of time. The pain of an ankle fracture can be relieved through over-the-counter medications that your podiatrist recommends. A broken ankle may need to be treated surgically if the fracture is severe. If you have broken your ankle, it is suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist. 

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Grand Blanc Family Footcare. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

  • Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
  •  Swelling around the area
  •  Bruising of the area
  • Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

Read more about All About Broken Ankle
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