Items filtered by date: December 2017

Tuesday, 26 December 2017 00:00

What are Orthotics?

Orthotics are devices that are designed to provide foot support and comfort and help correct imbalances.  Orthotics can range from shoe inserts to entire boots and braces.  Different types of conditions and needs call for different types of orthotics.  Ankle sprains and more severe foot injuries usually call for braces or boots that will immobilize the foot and help the healing process.  Orthotic inserts can help ease pain from a number of foot conditions and provide more comfort than regular insoles.  Most people, however, can benefit from a pair of custom orthotics that are designed for their feet specifically.  While over-the-counter orthotics are available, they are not custom-fitted to the wearer and can cause pain or discomfort if worn.  Podiatrists can offer orthotics that are designed for your foot type, as well as instructions on proper wear.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Imaze Marian Davis, DPM from Marian Davis, DPM, PA. Our doctors 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 Miami, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Foot Orthotics
Monday, 18 December 2017 00:00

Do I Have Hammertoe?

Wearing high heels or shoes that are too tight may lead to hammertoe, which is a painful foot condition resulting from a muscle imbalance in the toes. This causes the ligaments and tendons to become tight and causes the toes to curl. Hammertoe can further possibly lead to conditions such as sores, calluses and corns. Typically the second, third or fourth toe are affected, and wearing lower-heeled shoes can help ease the pain. One can avoid developing a hammertoe by choosing the right pair of shoes for you, ideally where the top of the shoe is wide enough to accommodate the hammertoe. Another option is a toe splint, which can reduce friction and is specifically designed for this condition. Gel toe shields and caps are also recommended to provide comfort and and relieve pain. Please consult a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment options if the pain persists.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Imaze Marian Davis, DPM from Marian Davis, DPM, PA. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

  • Pain in the affected toes
  • Development of corns or calluses due to friction
  • Inflammation
  • Redness
  • Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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

Read more about What Are Hammertoes?
Monday, 11 December 2017 00:00

How to Maintain Your Child’s Healthy Feet

By the time a child is 18 years old, their feet are fully developed. When a child is 6 months old, however, most of the foot consists of cartilage and may be susceptible to deformities from shoes that fit incorrectly. Recent research suggests that being barefoot is best for healthy foot development, though it may not always be practical. The skin needs to be protected from extreme weather conditions, sharp objects, and wear and tear from walking on rough surfaces. Wearing flexible shoes will allow the feet to develop naturally while protecting the skin against harsh environments. Once the proper shoes have been chosen, the feet need to be taken care of. This may include washing the feet daily, especially drying between the toes. Additionally, measuring the feet regularly in the first 3 years of walking is important in making sure children are wearing the right size shoe.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Imaze Marian Davis, DPM of Marian Davis, DPM, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

Read more about What to Do to Keep Your Child’s Feet Healthy
Monday, 04 December 2017 00:00

How to Find the Right Running Shoes for You

Sometimes, the more options to choose from, the tougher it is to decide. Running shoes fall right into this category; with so many choices out there, it can be hard to find the right pair. There are some things to look for that should narrow down the search. First, look for a shoe that will work in whatever terrain you run in. Think running shoes for roads and the track, and opt for trail running shoes for the trails. Second, look for shoes that match your foot strike. Those who overpronate should look for shoes that can help correct that. Don’t get too caught up in foot strike, however; above all, go for comfort. Shoes should be comfortable to run in for long periods of time. Just make sure your toes have enough space to move around, and  ensure the shoe is snug but not too tight.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact Imaze Marian Davis, DPM from Marian Davis, DPM, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

  • Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
  • Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
  • Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

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

Read more about Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Connect With Us