Taking care of your feet involves wearing the right shoes when exercising. Walking shoes are stiffer, while running shoes are more flexible because they provide more cushioning for handling more impact. Shoes should be switched alternatively according to each respective physical activity. Make sure to have your feet measured by a professional, as comfortable shoes should accommodate your feet’s specific size and shape. Wear socks and visit the store near the end of the day. There should be space between the big toe and the end of the toe box of the shoe. Poorly-fitting shoes can lead to an array of problems, such as blisters, ankle problems, and more.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes is vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Many people, including celebrities, suffer from bunions, a deformity of the foot that can be caused by different factors. Bunions tend to affect women more commonly because of ill-fitting shoes such as high heels. Genetics also plays another factor. The condition occurs when the big toe, or hallux, leans outward toward your other toes, leading to an enlarged joint. Bunions can often rub against tight-fitting shoes, leading to pain and discomfort. Prevention is vital in ensuring that the bunion does not progress, as surgery is one of the only options to treat them.

Bunions can be very troublesome if they are not treated correctly. If you are having problems with your bunions contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs by the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why do Bunions Form?

• Genetics – susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary
• Stress on the feet – poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can cause bunions to form

How are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Wearing high heels for prolonged periods of time no doubt can lead to pain and aches, but they can also lead to long-term problems. According to a 2006 study published in the journal Angiology, “the use of high-heeled shoes increases muscular effort during walking and diminishes the leg venous pressure compared with barefooted.” The study is suggesting that high heels not only realigns the structure of our backs and legs, but they may possibly contribute to vein problems, because blood flow is disrupted.

High heels can create a myriad of foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because they are associated with femininity. Despite their appeal, they can cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

What parts 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. Also, 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; you can buy either full inserts or metatarsal pads.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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A group of researchers from Staffordshire University have conducted a study in which they discovered that the frequency of active foot ulcers can in part be attributed to “a significantly lower heel pad stiffness,” compared to patients who did not have ulcers. The study observed 39 diabetic patients who suffered from neuropathy, loss of feeling from nerve damage. The new research results may help assist in preventative diabetic foot care. Those who have diabetes and whose foot problems are left untreated can develop life-threatening complications.

Diabetics must pay special attention to their feet to help prevent any complications. If you believe you are having problems with your diabetic feet, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. Diabetes can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, including 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 because 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 one of our offices located in Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Jed Lowrie suffered from both ligament damage in his foot as well as a large bunion for over a month. Following the diagnosis, Lowrie underwent a season-ending surgery in August and is out on recovery. Lowrie is expected to be ready by next spring as he recovers for 3 months. Lowrie found that his foot injury affected his performance. “Even when I was off it for 10 days, the swelling and inflammation wasn’t going down. I knew there was something else going on besides the bunion. I thought I could play through it, but it’s such a complex area,” he said.

If you require surgical consultation, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will treat your foot and ankle needs.

When is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases where less invasive procedures have been unsuccessful. Conditions that often require surgery are listed below:

- Removing foot deformities like bone spurs and bunions

- Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues

- Reconstruction for injuries caused by accidents or malformations

Types of Surgeries

The type of surgery you receive depends on the nature of the problem. Possible surgeries include the following:

- Bunionectomy for painful bunions

- Surgical fusion for realignment of bones

- Nerve removal for painful nerve endings

Benefits of Surgery

Surgery can provide more complete pain relief than other options and may allow you to finally resume full activity. Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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