April 2019

Flip-flops are a popular shoe to wear during the summer months, despite the damage that may occur to your feet. It is a natural reaction to clench your toes to help keep the shoe on the foot, and this may gradually change the way you walk. The muscles in the feet and calves may be affected, and this can lead to having sharp pains in the heel. Research has indicated that it may be acceptable to wear flip-flops occasionally, and this may limit any potential damage the feet may receive.  If you generally walk for long distances, it is best to wear a sandal that has a strap on the back to help keep the shoe on the foot. If you would like additional information on how flip-flops may affect the feet, speak to a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have.

Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot problems are a common complication associated with pregnancy, due to the extra weight and pressure that the feet endure. Three of the most common foot issues that occur during pregnancy are swollen feet, arch pain, and ingrown toenails. Throbbing and swollen feet can be a result of excess fluid buildup. Stretching, wearing wide comfortable shoes, and elevating your feet can help to reduce swelling. Additional weight on the feet during pregnancy can cause the arches to begin to flatten, which may then lead to arch pain. Stretches can also help to alleviate some of the pressure on the arch and help reduce pain. Since most women experience an increase in foot size during pregnancy, it is important to wear wider shoes. If the foot is cramped inside of a shoe that is too tight, this can easily lead to ingrown toenails, which are inconvenient and uncomfortable. If you would like additional information on how to care for your feet while pregnant, then it is recommended you speak with 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 Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. 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 one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

People who are interested in helping folks who have foot and ankle disorders may want to consider podiatry as a career choice. Some of the conditions that are treated may be ingrown toenails, chronic foot pain, or bunions, which may require surgery for permanent relief. Additionally, podiatrists may specialize in diabetic foot care, and can prescribe custom-made orthotics. The schooling that is required in most states is a four year post graduate program followed by three years of residency training. If you would like to pursue a career in podiatric medicine, speak with a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

• Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
• Use innovative methods to treat conditions
• Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
• Correct walking patterns and balance
• Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Morton’s neuroma, also known as Morton’s metatarsalgia, is caused by the irritation or thickening of a nerve in the foot. The irritation of this nerve causes pain in between toes or on the ball of the foot. In extreme cases, the pain can sometimes affect mobility and is most commonly felt between the third and fourth toes. The symptoms usually begin as a tingling feeling that gradually escalates to sharp, shooting, or burning pain. When pressure is put on the foot, pain or discomfort usually increases. Physical activities and wearing tight-fitting shoes can therefore worsen symptoms. It is best to let an afflicted foot rest if symptoms occur, because rest and proper footwear can help ease the pain. If you believe you have Morton’s neuroma or have similar symptoms, speak with your podiatrist to learn about treatment options.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Research has shown that it may not be necessary for young toddlers to wear shoes while they are walking indoors. When they are able to walk barefoot, their toes will naturally develop a grasping action, which may help the feet to grow normally. When shoes are eventually purchased, it is important to properly measure your child’s foot to determine the correct shoe size. This should be done every four months for children under the age of five, and every six months for older children. Many babies are born with flat feet and may remain that way until the arch develops at approximately six years of age. If you notice abnormal walking patterns in your child, it is advised to speak to a podiatrist who can guide you toward foot care that is right for your child.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. 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 one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.