
Proper footwear is paramount for maintaining healthy feet. Ill-fitting shoes can lead to any number of foot problems and even increase the risk of injury. To safeguard your foot health, it's important to select shoes that not only fit well but also provide adequate support. When making your choice, consider the nature of your activity, the type of surface you'll be on, and the need for proper support. For instance, people who spend substantial time on hard surfaces may be more susceptible to heel and forefoot pain, as well as calluses and corns. Supportive shoes with softer soles and arch supports may help. High heels, which force the feet into unnatural positions, can result in long-term postural changes and increase the chances of toe deformities, such as bunions. For active people, the right footwear can ensure proper shock absorption and stability. Seek sports shoes that offer flexibility at the ball of the foot and ample heel support. If foot problems develop or persist, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.
It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Thomas Tran from Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Proper Shoe Fitting
Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.
Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting
The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Frisco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Many people suffer from foot problems because their shoes are poorly fitted. When shopping for a new pair of shoes, fashion usually triumphs over comfortability. A pair of well fitted shoes is essential in preventing foot problems and potential injuries.
Poorly fitted shoes can cause foot issues such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, and foot pain. Shoes such as high heels and sandals may cause problems for your feet. These shoes put the foot in an unnatural position for long periods and fail to provide good foot support. It is recommended to not wear either one for an extended period.
When you are trying on shoes, make sure they have enough space for your toes to move around. Shoes shouldn’t be cramped but also shouldn’t have too much room that your foot moves around in them. A snug shoe is a good choice. They should also provide good arch support and cushioning. Athletic shoes tend to offer both good support and cushioning. A degree of flexibility is necessary so they aren’t too stiff or too unsupportive.
If you can wear your shoes for a long period of time without experiencing any discomfort, this is a sign that your shoes fit properly. Do not be too dismayed if the shoe isn’t a perfect fit at first; many shoes take a few days to weeks to properly break in. However don’t expect an uncomfortable shoe to become fitted to your foot.
For those with foot conditions such as flat feet or pronation, orthotics may be helpful or even necessary to prevent foot pain. Orthotics are inserts that are placed in the shoe and provide support and cushioning for the foot. While there are many types of orthotics out there, custom-made orthotics may be necessary depending upon your foot and foot conditions.
Feet change in size over time. It is important to check your foot size over time so that you can make sure you have the perfect fit for your feet. A podiatrist can provide more information on proper shoe fitting and foot orthotics.
Children's feet are fascinating and play a pivotal role in their growth and development. Babies are born with a soft, flexible structure in their feet known as cartilage. This gradually transforms into bones as they grow. Flat feet are a common occurrence in early childhood, and the arches generally develop in the teenage years. Children have 26 bones in each foot, with most of these bones not fully formed until their late teenage years. Surprisingly, children’s feet can grow up to two sizes in a year, which is why frequent shoe fittings are essential. Watching children walk on their tiptoes is quite normal, as it's a natural part of their gait development. Learning about these fun facts can deepen our understanding of the intricate journey of children's feet as they take their first joyful steps into the world. If you would like more information about the development of children’s feet, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.
The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Dr. Thomas Tran of Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Frisco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Being a parent involves caring for your child in every way you can. You make sure they are eating the right food, being nice to others, and staying out of any trouble. However, it is also important that you are watchful of their health, more specifically their foot health. Maintaining good foot health in childhood is important in preventing later conditions in life from happening. As children continue to develop, their feet require different techniques of care. Here are some various ways in which you can help your child’s feet stay healthy.
A baby needs a lot of care and attention overall, but the importance of their feet should never be forgotten. Before a baby turns one, their feet change and develop greatly. It is important that during this time, a mother avoids putting tight socks on their child. She should also encourage movement of their feet so the baby can begin to feel more comfortable using them.
As a baby enters the toddler years of his or her life, they are begin to walk around. When your baby begins to take those first steps, it is crucial that they are wearing protective shoes on their feet. As a mother that is observant of your child’s feet, you may notice changes in them. This is completely normal as the feet are becoming susceptible to the activity of walking. It is normal for a toddler to be a bit unsteady or to “walk funny” at first.
When your child grows out of their toddler years, it is important that you begin to show him or her how to care for their feet on their own. Practice with your child proper hygiene in order to prevent foot fungus or infection. Since children are constantly on the move, it is crucial to be cautious of any accidents or injuries that might occur. If an injury occurs, it is advised that you take your child to be examined by a doctor immediately. Since your child is still growing, particular injuries can shift the way in which a bone or other important part of the foot is developing.
Babies and kids are always changing and growing. Your job as a parent is to make sure they stay healthy and making sure they are properly maintained. This involves proper foot care and making sure the feet stay healthy. Following this guide, your child can live a long and happy life.
The first metatarsophalangeal, or MTP, joint replacement is also known as great toe joint replacement or great toe arthroplasty. This procedure is conducted to address arthritis in the main joint of the big toe. This joint generally experiences a lot of stress from activities like walking, running, and wearing high heels. Arthritis in this joint can cause pain and stiffness, especially with a condition called hallux rigidus. The traditional treatment for this problem is joint fusion, which eliminates pain but limits movement. Joint replacement offers an alternative, but it has been less successful than replacements in larger joints due to the high force placed on the toe. Different types of implants are available, including caps for the metatarsal head, full joint resurfacing, and newer rubber bumper implants. Recovery varies based on implant type, with a typical six-week rest period. If you have arthritis in your big toe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can see if you qualify for joint replacement and educate you on the process.
In certain cases, in which the patient suffers from extreme pain or damage in a joint, joint replacement surgery may be deemed useful. If you have constant pain in a foot joint, consult with Dr. Thomas Tran from Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Joint Replacement Surgery?
Over time, joints wear down; this can be exacerbated by diseases and conditions. Joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is when a damaged joint is surgically removed and replaced with a prosthesis. Prostheses, which can be made of ceramic, plastic, or metal, act as joints in lieu of an actual joint. One of the most prevalent causes for joint replacement is arthritis.
Arthritis in the Foot
Arthritis can occur in any joint in the body, including in the feet. Common types of arthritis in the foot are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. The big toe is usually where arthritis occurs in the foot; this is known as hallux rigidus.
Joint Replacement Surgery in the Foot
The most common form of joint replacement in the foot is a first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint placement. MTP joint replacement surgery is designed to treat hallux rigidus. Surgery is not intensive, and recovery occurs within one to two months after the procedure has been done. Overall, joint replacement surgery is a safe and effective way to treat pain in the joint of the foot.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Frisco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
When conservative, noninvasive treatments prove unsuccessful, podiatrists will often turn to surgery as the last line of treatment for their patients. If patients are suffering from joint pain, issues in mobility, or are seeking to correct a deformity, joint replacement surgery is an effective option. Joint replacement surgery is also successful in treating arthritis, which is the most common cause of improperly working joints.
Patients with symptoms that include joint pain, stiffness, limping, muscle weakness, limited motion, and swelling are typically considered for joint replacement surgery. Range of motion and activity post-surgery will vary between patients and depending on the specific surgery performed, the affected joint, and the damage that will need to be repaired.
Joint replacement surgery replaces the damaged cartilage and bone, the latter if required. The damaged cartilage is typically replaced with a prosthesis that is attached to the bone, allowing the implant to grow into the bone. Following surgery, the patient will typically undergo physical therapy to become familiar with movement using the replaced joint.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily routine and affect mobility. Common causes for toe pain consist of ingrown toenails, bunions, and gout. An ingrown toenail can develop from wearing shoes that are too tight, or it may happen from trimming the toenails incorrectly. A bunion is described as a bony lump that forms on the side of the big toe and can cause a moderate level of discomfort. Gout is considered to be a form of arthritis that often affects the joints in the big toe, possibly causing debilitating pain. It is crucial to uncover the cause of the toe pain, and this can precede the correct treatment. Resting the affected foot can help reduce existing swelling caused by toe pain. Some toe pain may be alleviated by wearing shoes that fit correctly and performing specific types of stretches that can improve flexibility and reduce pain. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct structural issues. It is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the underlying cause of your toe pain and provide personalized treatment for recovery.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Thomas Tran of Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Causes Toe Pain?
Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.
Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
When to See a Podiatrist
Diagnosis
In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Frisco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Toe pain can originate from corns, calluses, hammertoes, and bunions, as well as ingrown toenails, sprains, fractures, and dislocations. Corns develop as the toe rubs against the inside of a shoe which causes the skin to thicken as a form of protection. A corn is typically cone-shaped and has a small, hardened spot that points inward. When a corn is pressed into the skin, the toe becomes painful. Corns usually form on the top or side of the toe. A callus is also a thickened patch of skin that generally forms on the bottom of the foot. Calluses are the result of friction from the toe rubbing against the inside of a shoe. They may also occur by walking barefoot or having flat feet. A hammertoe is a bump on the knuckle of the second toe that is produced by wearing shoes that are too short for your feet. The bony protrusion rubs against the top of the shoe causing pain and irritation. A bunion is a malformation of the big toe. The base of the big toe pushes away from the smaller toes, forcing the top of the big toe to press toward the other toes. Bunions can be hereditary, or they can result from injury to the toe joint or from wearing high heels with a narrow toe box. The toe becomes inflamed, and a bump may develop at the end of the misplaced bone. Ingrown toenails typically affect the big toe and its surrounding skin. The nail will dig into the skin and become painful. Wearing tight or narrow shoes that compress the big toe causes the nail to grow into the fleshy part of the toe. Cutting toenails incorrectly can also add to the development of an ingrown toenail. A toe sprain originates from a torn or stretched ligament. Strapping the injured toe to the toe next to it for stabilization is common. A broken or fractured toe usually occurs from trauma like dropping a heavy object on it or bumping into something extremely hard and rigid. Osteoporosis, a thinning of the bones, can also bring about toe fractures.
Any of the conditions mentioned can lead to pain and irritation. While some are more serious than others, seeking an examination and diagnosis from a podiatrist is a good idea. A podiatrist can treat each ailment and get you back on your feet again without pain.
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