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Stretching the feet is necessary in preventing foot and ankle injuries. Proper stretching techniques can increase mobility in the ankles and spreading the toes may become easier. Some of these exercises include circling your foot with your toes flexed and switching directions. Movement coordination is strengthened by pointing and flexing the foot and repeating several times. The ankle can become stronger by standing on one foot and shifting the weight on the toes. Additionally, when calf raises are practiced, the Achilles tendon can remain flexible. If you would like additional techniques on stretching your feet, please consult with a podiatrist who can properly guide you.

Why Stretching is Important for Your Feet

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet 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.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first to determine if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous exercise, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising to ice and rest the foot. It is advised that you then see a podiatrist for help.

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.

The medical condition that is referred to as poor circulation occurs when there is an inadequate blood supply to the cells that they need to properly function. Many patients experience symptoms that include a tingling or numbing sensation in the feet, and the toes may feel cold. A common condition that is known as peripheral artery disease, or PAD, occurs when the arteries in the legs become blocked. This can inhibit blood flow to the cells in the body, possibly causing poor circulation to occur. Another condition affiliated with poor circulation is known as Raynaud’s syndrome. The symptoms that are associated with Raynaud’s syndrome often include a burning or tingling sensation in the feet, and can develop as a result of stress or cold temperatures. If you have symptoms of poor circulation in your feet, it is suggested to speak to a podiatrist who can guide you toward the proper treatment.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Thomas Tran of Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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 and ankle needs.

The common condition that is referred to as toenail fungus is considered to be contagious. The virus that causes this fungus lives in moist and warm environments. These often include public swimming pools, shower room floors, and locker rooms. When appropriate shoes are worn while in these areas, the possibility of getting toenail fungus may diminish. Additionally, this condition may develop if the nails are wet for the majority of day, which is often caused by wearing sweaty shoes and socks. Some of the symptoms that are associated with toenail fungus often include thick and brittle nails, and patients may find the affected nail has turned yellow or brown. Treatment can be effective if this type of fungus is diagnosed when it is first noticed. If you are afflicted with toenail fungus, it is suggested to schedule an consultation with a podiatrist who can properly treat this ailment.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, 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.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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.

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