Items filtered by date: January 2021

Monday, 25 January 2021 00:00

Flip Flops May Damage Diabetic Feet

Flip flops are a type of shoe that is popular to wear during the summer months. There are a variety of styles and colors to choose from and they are simple to wear. Many people enjoy wearing flip flops, despite the fact these types of shoes have little or no arch support. Foot conditions may develop as a result of this, and can cause pain and discomfort. Diabetic patients in particular may be more susceptible to the negative effects of flip flops. Plantar fasciitis affects the heel and sole of the foot, and may gradually occur from wearing shoes that have inadequate arch support. Mild relief may be found when the bottom of the foot is stretched. This can be accomplished by standing on a step while gently lowering one heel at a time. Additionally, many patients find it beneficial to roll the sole of the foot on a tennis ball which is effective in stretching the plantar fascia. If you have questions about how flip flops can affect the feet, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist.

Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Richard T. Bauer from Summit Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

Flip-flops have managed to become a summer essential for a lot of people. While the shoes may be stylish and easy to slip on and off, they can be dangerous to those who wear them too often. These shoes might protect you from fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, but they can also give you foot pain and sprained ankles if you trip while wearing them.

When Are They Okay to Wear?

Flip-flops should only be worn for very short periods of time. They can help protect your feet in places that are crawling with fungi, such as gym locker rooms. Athlete’s foot and plantar warts are two common fungi that flip-flops may help protect your feet against.

Why Are They Bad for My Feet?

These shoes do not offer any arch support, so they are not ideal for everyday use. They also do not provide shock absorption or heel cushioning which can be problematic for your feet. Additionally, you may suffer from glass cuts, puncture wounds, and stubbed toes since they offer little protection for your feet.

More Reasons Why They Are Bad for Your Feet

  • They Slow You Down
  • May Cause Blisters and Calluses
  • Expose Your Feet to Bacteria

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

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Monday, 18 January 2021 00:00

Treatment for Hyperhidrosis

Plantar hyperhidrosis causes excessively sweaty feet. This problem can be embarrassing, and having constantly wet feet may increase your risk of developing certain foot problems, such as blisters or athlete’s foot. Fortunately, there are many treatments available for plantar hyperhidrosis. For mild to moderate cases, using an antiperspirant is recommended. Antiperspirants can come in a variety of forms to help reduce sweating by blocking the pores from which sweat escapes. Another potential treatment is iontophoresis, which can inhibit the overactive sweat glands’ ability to produce sweat. If you have excessively sweaty feet, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist, who can help you find the right treatment for you. 

If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact Dr. Richard T. Bauer of Summit Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

Hyperhidrosis of the Feet

Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.

Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.

Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.

In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.

A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.

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

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Monday, 11 January 2021 00:00

Exercising With Blisters

Foot blisters can be painful and annoying, especially when they get in the way of a good workout. If you find that you have developed a blister on your foot but still want to exercise, it is suggested that you place a large bandage with ample gauze over the blister to protect it. If the blister has popped, let it drain, apply an antibiotic ointment to the area, and cover it with a bandage to prevent infection. Some people are more prone to developing foot blisters. Wearing shoes that fit properly, wearing moisture-wicking socks, and putting sports tape or specialized pads over areas that tend to blister can reduce your risk of getting one. If you have a red or painful blister, or one that is showing signs of infection, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for treatment.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Richard T. Bauer of Summit Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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

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Monday, 04 January 2021 00:00

Gout Pain Can Be Managed

Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.

Monday, 04 January 2021 00:00

How Diabetes Impacts the Feet

The medical condition that is known as diabetes is considered to be a metabolic disorder. This is a disease that gradually develops as a result of elevated blood sugar levels, and generally falls into two categories. Type 1 diabetes is known to be an autoimmune disorder, and may appear in early childhood. Obesity may be a contributing factor in developing type 2 diabetes, and in many patients, occurs after the age of forty. High blood sugar levels may cause a loss of sensation in the feet, and it can become difficult to feel existing cuts and foot wounds. Diabetic patients may find it helpful to perform daily foot checks, and this can be beneficial to noticing any cuts or bruises that are present. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

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 Dr. Richard T. Bauer from Summit Foot & Ankle. Our doctor 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. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially 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

  • Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
  • Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
  • Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as 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 our office located in Latham, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Diabetic Foot Conditions

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