Items filtered by date: November 2022

One of the first symptoms that patients can experience with poor circulation is cold feet. There may also be a pins and needles sensation, and the feet can turn blue or purple. There are various reasons why poor circulation may develop, including age, smoking, and obesity. Existing medical conditions such as diabetes, peripheral artery disease (PAD), and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) may significantly contribute to getting poor circulation. This condition can indicate there may be a heart condition, and there are things that can be done to improve poor circulation. It is beneficial to frequently perform a gentle exercise routine, and caregivers may be able to move the patients legs if unable to do so. Additionally, incorporating a healthy diet into the regime and stopping smoking will help tremendously. The feet can feel better when they are elevated, and wearing compression socks or stockings may help to reduce poor circulation. If you are suffering from this condition, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat poor circulation of the feet.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Michael Ruiz, DPM of Lake Erie Podiatry. Our practitioner will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

Sometimes the best way to deal with pain in your feet is to wear orthotic devices in your shoes. These inserts can help to support, align, and compensate for deformities you may have that affect your gait or induce pain. Orthotic devices are often recommended for people who have flat feet, as they often cause the foot to roll inward. This movement on a regular basis can further lead to plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and other tendon ailments in the foot. If you have flat feet, an orthotic device can compensate by supplying the proper cushioning for the arch, while correcting foot placement. These devices not only can correct the foot problem you may be experiencing, but also help with any leg and knee pain that may result from it. A podiatrist can prescribe a custom orthotic device that best suits your specific needs, taking into account the type of problem, its severity, and its repercussions. 

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Michael Ruiz, DPM from Lake Erie Podiatry. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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

There are many professions that require standing for the majority of the day. These can include hairdressers, restaurant employees, and many retail workers. The feet endure the weight of the body, and foot pain at the end of the day is a common ailment among people in these types of occupations. A portion of this discomfort may be avoided when comfortable shoes are worn, in addition to standing on a cushioned mat. This is also referred to as a stress mat, and is possibly helpful in reducing strain on the joints and muscles. It is beneficial to sit down and elevate the feet often, if applicable. Additionally, people may choose to wear compression socks. These are designed with elastic materials that compress the feet and ankles, and force the blood flow away from the feet. When the workday is finished, relief may be found when the feet are soaked in warm water, followed by enjoying a relaxing foot massage. If you would like more information about how to care for your feet while working, please ask a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Michael Ruiz, DPM from Lake Erie Podiatry. Our practitioner will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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

Heel pain takes many forms, but its main cause is overuse from repetitive activity. The most common forms of heel pain are plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and arthritis. If you experience sudden or severe heel pain from an accident or injury, it is recommended to see a podiatrist immediately. Other causes of heel pain include blisters, corns, bursitis, and stress fractures. One way to prevent heel pain is by reducing the stress on the feet when exercising. It is a good idea to stretch and do warm-up exercises before engaging in vigorous activities that can put stress on the heel. Ignoring heel pain is not a good idea, because it can lead to overcompensation and changes of gait. This may then begin to affect other body parts and lead to even more serious problems. If you are experiencing heel pain on a regular basis, or for longer periods of time, please visit a podiatrist for a thorough examination. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Michael Ruiz, DPM of Lake Erie Podiatry. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

High Heel sales dropped 71% in 2020, according to fashion trends, and it is unclear whether they will ever increase or whether we even want to wear them as much anymore. The pandemic and associated shutdowns curtailed fancy dressing and going out. Many women relied on athletic shoes and flats during this time. It is uncertain of what will happen in the future, but we know that more people are working from home now and high heel sales started to decline before the pandemic. Business casual took on new meaning with younger professionals who wore trendy high-tops, clogs, and Uggs to work. Streetwear became high fashion, and there were shifts in what was appropriate attire for an office. Comfort is in. People are also at their best when they look it and feel it. Frequently wearing high heels can cause foot issues and younger people are less willing to feel foot pain. It is beneficial that fashion is changing and wearing them only for special occasions may be on the rise. If you want to learn more about how to properly care for your feet to get you through a lifetime of changing footwear trends, please consult with a podiatrist. 

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Michael Ruiz, DPM from Lake Erie Podiatry. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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