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May 2024

Everyday foot care is essential for keeping your feet healthy, comfortable, and free from common issues like dryness, odor, and rough skin. Begin by washing your feet daily with warm water and a gentle soap to remove dirt and bacteria. After washing, take a few minutes to exfoliate your feet using a pumice stone or foot scrub to slough off dead skin cells and promote smoothness. Follow up by moisturizing your feet with nourishing foot cream or lotion, paying special attention to areas prone to dryness like heels and soles. For an extra treat, indulge in a foot soak once or twice a week, adding Epsom salts or essential oils to warm water to soothe tired feet and soften rough skin. Finally, dusting your feet with a foot powder can help absorb moisture, reduce friction, and keep your feet feeling fresh throughout the day. If you have a foot condition and need help, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Jed Wells, DPM from Jed Wells, DPM Foot Specialist. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Corpus Christi, and Laredo, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 21 May 2024 00:00

How to Make Sure Shoes Fit Well

Ensuring your shoes fit properly is critical for comfort and foot health. Begin by measuring your feet later in the day when they are at their largest, and stand while measuring to mimic weight-bearing conditions. Take note of both length and width, including the arch length, as this affects shoe fit. Keep in mind that sizes can vary between shoe brands, so always prioritize fit over the number on the label. If your feet are different sizes, opt for the larger size to prevent discomfort. During fitting, wear the same type of socks or foot coverings you plan to wear with the shoes. Leave a thumb's width of space at the front and back of the shoes to accommodate natural foot swelling and movement. For personalized advice and to address any specific concerns, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer you invaluable guidance.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Jed Wells, DPM from Jed Wells, DPM Foot Specialist. Our doctor 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 are 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 our offices located in Corpus Christi, and Laredo, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 14 May 2024 00:00

Common Causes of Adult Heel Pain

There are several common causes of heel pain in adults, the most prevalent being plantar fasciitis. This condition occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed due to overuse or stress. Heel spurs, bony growths that develop on the heel bone, are another common culprit of heel pain. Heel spurs often develop as a response to plantar fasciitis or excessive strain on foot muscles and ligaments. Another common cause of heel pain is Achilles tendonitis, which involves inflammation of the tendon that connects the calf muscle to the heel. Athletes and active people are particularly prone to this condition. Other factors contributing to heel pain can include wearing poorly fitting or inadequate shoes, obesity, and standing for long durations. Effective treatment often involves rest, proper footwear, and orthotics to alleviate pain and address the underlying cause. Regular visits to a podiatrist are key for relief from heel pain. If you have heel pain, whether it is new or chronic, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Jed Wells, DPM of Jed Wells, DPM Foot Specialist. Our doctor 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 offices located in Corpus Christi, and Laredo, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Published in Blog
Friday, 10 May 2024 00:00

It's Time for Beautiful Feet

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

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Embarking on multi-day bicycling adventures can be exhilarating, but it is essential to be mindful of potential foot and ankle injuries that may arise during prolonged rides. One common issue cyclists encounter is overuse injuries, such as Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, caused by repetitive pedaling motions. These conditions can lead to pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the foot and ankle, impacting performance and enjoyment. Additionally, improper bike fit or footwear can contribute to discomfort and strain on the feet and ankles, increasing the risk of injury. Furthermore, cyclists may experience acute injuries from falls or collisions, such as ankle sprains or fractures, which require immediate attention and care. To prevent foot and ankle injuries while cycling for multiple days, cyclists should ensure wearing supportive footwear, incorporate rest breaks and stretches into their rides, and listen to their bodies for signs of discomfort or fatigue. If you have endured a foot or ankle injury while bicycling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and treatment options, in addition to tips that can help to prevent future cycling injuries.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Jed Wells, DPM from Jed Wells, DPM Foot Specialist. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

  • Achilles Tendonitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains
  • Broken Foot
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Stress Fractures
  • Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Corpus Christi, and Laredo, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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