4 Tips to Prevent Falling on Snow and Ice
This time of year gets a little hectic for everyone who’s trying to work, shop, meal plan, cook, entertain friends and family, and pick up the kid at college who’s exhausted from semester’s-end exam overload. Doctors’ offices can experience overload this time of year, too. Snow is a-falling in the greater Cleveland area and with…
8 Tips for Healthy Holiday Feet
Nothing’s going to hamper your holidays more than not being able to use your feet and ankles. Here are eight specific things you can do to protect these essential body parts so you can get errands done, spend time with friends and family, and maybe even enjoy some well-deserved holiday vacation time. Wear the right…
Exercises that Knockout Plantar Fasciitis Pain
Plantar fasciitis results in heel pain that can take a very long time to improve. Longtime sufferers of this inflammation of the plantar fascia – the thick ligament that runs along your arch, connecting your heel to your toes – are well aware of the number of ways to deal with the pain: Just stay…
Learn to Recognize the Signs of Peripheral Arterial Disease
If you take a look at the middle word of “peripheral arterial disease,” you get a hint of the body part affected: your arteries. Specifically, it means the arteries at the periphery of your body – the parts furthest away from the heart, especially in your lower leg, ankle, and foot. When fatty deposits called…
The Importance of Exercise for Type 2 Diabetics
You’d have to be living under a rock since the 1950s or so to not have heard that physical activity and exercise are beneficial to every individual’s health and longevity. Some of the benefits we’re all familiar with include increased energy enhanced mood improved cardiovascular health keeping off unwanted extra pounds maintaining strong muscles and…
12 Tips for Avoiding Weight Gain This Thanksgiving
If we’re fortunate enough to spread the table with turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, and all our other favorites at Thanksgiving, it can be tempting to say “Ah, the heck with it, it’s only one meal, I’ll eat what I want.” But Thanksgiving can knock you off your diet track faster than you…
5 Things Your Feet Depend On
Like other parts of our body, our feet are absolutely dependent on us to take good care of them. Today, Dr. Megan L. Oltmann and Dr. Craig B. Frey, the qualified podiatrists at Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland, want to focus on three areas of care that are within our control: A healthy weight….
Hand, Foot, & Mouth Disease: Not as Scary as it Sounds
It’s that time of year again, when ghosts wander the streets and ghouls knock on your door, expecting you to answer and give them yummy things to eat. Unfortunately, this time of year is also great for handing off yucky germs from one person to another. One disease that surges in both spring and fall…
How Footprints and Wear Patterns Can Solve Mysteries
There are times when being a podiatrist is like being a detective. When a patient comes in to see us complaining of foot pain, we interview them and examine their feet for clues. Mysteries can sometimes be solved by compiling evidence in a couple different areas: your footprint and the wear patterns in your shoes….
Fast Facts About Diabetes
November is Diabetes Awareness Month, something we take pretty seriously here at Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland. What is it about diabetes that we need to be aware of? There are 4 common types. Type 2 – where the body cannot properly process blood glucose. Controllable with proper diet, exercise, and monitoring. Type 1…
What’s Causing Your Feet to Burn?
If you’re wondering why your feet are always burning, then you should probably stop what you’re doing and make an appointment right now to see the foot specialists at Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland. Occasional achiness in your feet, along with a sensation of burning, is most likely due to overuse. A long, tough…
Stop and “Paws” to Mark National Walk Your Dog Week
Why would a couple of podiatrists and their staff want to a). make such a bad pun in their blog title and 2). draw attention to walking the dog? It’s simple – all of us at Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland believe that walking a dog can be just as beneficial to you as…
2 Rules That Can Help Defeat Childhood Obesity
The rate of obesity in this country is something that we’re quite concerned about at Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland. Dr. Megan L. Oltmann and Dr. Craig B. Frey, our expert podiatrists, see a large number of patients whose foot issues are caused by or exacerbated by obesity. These include conditions like heel pain,…
Preventing Falls is a Balancing Act
Older folks can be gravely injured when they take a fall. In fact, the National Council on Aging tells us that “falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older Americans.” That’s why National Falls Prevention Awareness Day exists. This year, we observe Falls Prevention Awareness on September 22 – aptly chosen,…
Can You Prevent Bunions?
If you’ve got a bunion, it’s probably been developing slowly over the years and gradually getting worse. Bunions cause burning and numbness, soreness and pain, inflammation and redness. The part you can’t easily visualize is that the actual structure of your big toe joint is changing. The bones are becoming misaligned. Your big toe can…
How to Recognize Common Soccer Injuries
It’s fall soccer season! National zeal for the sport – which has always been high – has skyrocketed since the USA performed so well in the 2014 World Cup championship. Kids love it, and as we speak they’re trying out for school and town teams of all levels. The more kids there are playing…
The Truth About Psoriasis
Just as sure as the total eclipse cast a shadow across the United States this month, the truth about disease can sometimes be obscured. Because August is Psoriasis Awareness Month, all of us at Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland want to cast the light of truth on this misunderstood disease that can affect the…
Wear High Heels, But Do It Wisely and Safely
High heels aren’t going away anytime soon. Women all over the world love them for their ability to give an outfit a bit of je-ne-sais-quoi, which is French for that special little something we can’t always name. Maybe we should name it “sexiness,” or a relatively easy way to instantly insert some high fashion into…
It’s National I Love My Feet Day! Love, Honor, and Cherish Your Feet
When was the last time you stopped, looked down at your feet, and said, “Thanks, dudes!”? Probably never – at least not so directly. But we should be very direct! Address your feet head-on and tell them you love them – especially on August 17, otherwise known as National I Love My Feet Day. Make…
5 Sports that are Easy on Your Feet
Ever taken a close look at a runner’s foot? The ends of the toes have calluses on them from constant slamming against sneakers. Blisters torment the toes as well, and when they break, the skin peels off in chunks. Toenails frequently turn black and fall off from all the trauma. Runners’ feet are not a…
4 Problems That Plague Athlete’s Feet
Got sports? Then you’ve got injuries. No matter what sport you’re into, injuries are something you share with athletes all over the world. And whether you compete in the pool or on the field, road, track, or diamond, you’re putting demands on your feet that can leave you aching for relief from a bunch of…
The Pedicure: Are You Getting it Right?
So you want to get your nails done and you think about heading down to your local nail salon. You’ve done it before. But have you stopped and considered all of the wheres, whens, whys and hows of a good, safe pedicure? There really are some questions you should be asking yourself before you submit…
Be Mindful of These 5 Signs of Foot Trouble
When there’s a sudden change in our lives, we can see it clearly. A new baby! The loss of a loved one! Routines are changed, and life takes on a new meaning. But sometimes change comes about gradually, hinting at a new normal that we’re not quite ready to see. Until, one day it’s staring…
Common Sports Injuries and How to Treat Them
Is there a sport out there that doesn’t involve heavy use of your feet? Soccer, football, basketball, rugby, volleyball, tennis, baseball, and gymnastics – our feet and ankles play an enormous role in these high-impact sports and so many more. What are the most common injuries among athletes of different sports? You may be surprised…
Be Smart About Bone Density
Several years ago, award-winning actress Gwyneth Paltrow admitted to having a disease called osteopenia, which means she’s lost some of her bone density. We were interested to hear her admit recently on late-night TV that she’s broken her toes 8 or 10 times – and she broke her foot a few weeks ago. (She also…
Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Ingrown Toenails
Who can you really talk to about an ingrown toenail? Who can you trust with the intimate details of your red, swollen appendage without being embarrassed? Probably not the friend you meet after work: “How’s it going, dude?” “Pretty awesome, bro, but the side of my toenail is killing me!” (*whips off shoe, plants swollen…
5 Health Tips for Men’s Feet
Men have a bad reputation for avoiding doctors. It’s not true for all men, but so many of them have a tendency either to forget to make regular health care appointments or consciously put them off. Why is that, men? Maybe you’re just too busy. Maybe you feel fine. Maybe you’re worried about what the…
Beware the Common Flip-Flop
There’s no denying the allure of flip-flops. What started out as surfer garb in the 1950s and 60s has grown so much in popularity that now we find them in closets all over the world. When the warm weather hits, what’s not to love about their convenience, relatively low cost, and styles ranging from monochromatic,…
Quit Smoking to Improve Your Foot Health
Late last month, a group of state lawmakers paved the way to invest $20 million in finding innovative ways to combat Ohio’s opioid addiction epidemic. Ohio has the most opioid-related deaths in the country, according to the Centers for Disease Control. That’s a lot of addiction and a lot of people in need. What’s interesting…
Feet that Age Gracefully
Foot pain is one of the biggest causes of inactivity in older adults. Arthritis, diabetes, nerve damage, and circulation problems can really affect foot health as we age. Immobility is a real concern for us at Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland. We want our patients to remain active as long as possible, free from…
Foot Health Jargon: Cracking the Code
One of the most popular sports in the country has its national championship coming up from May 28 to June 3. There aren’t any balls or sticks involved. No nets, no special footwear. No teams, even. And yet it’s broadcast nationally every year on cable channels ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPN3. What keeps the big sports…
Melanoma and Your Feet
What’s the most common type of cancer in the United States? Did you guess lung? Breast? Prostate? The correct answer is skin cancer – specifically, melanoma. Melanoma can spread quickly and be life-threatening – but if it’s caught early, it’s treatable with very good outcomes. The foot connection Melanoma of the foot can be one…
“Golden Rules” for Diabetic Foot Care This Season
“Golden Rules” for Diabetic Foot Care This Season This is the season of warmth. You may be tempted to shed your socks and shoes and savor the warmth of the sand on the shores of Lake Erie; to walk barefoot through the cool grass; to slip into a light sandal and feel the breeze on…
The Importance of Foot Health Awareness
There’s so much to keep up with these days. Our brains are teeming with bits of international news, family concerns, summer vacation planning, the to-do list at work, and the to-do list at home. Oh, and were you aware that we recently celebrated Earth Day, the first 100 days of the new administration, and national…
Your Aching Toes
Toes – what are they good for? Well, for one thing, they help us keep our balance. To prove it, try this brief, toe-less experiment: -Stand on one foot and lift your toes off the ground. -Hang out for a bit. -Now, place your toes back on the ground. -Hang out some more. -Admit: it…
Hammertoes: The Truth is Out There
Ever say something you immediately regretted? There’s quite a bit of that phenomenon going around in the news this month. Call it public misspeaking, spicing up our lives in so many ways. One example that raised our eyebrows: former first daughter Jenna Bush Hager made a foot-related slip of the tongue on the April 10…
Don’t Let Injury Sabotage Your Workout Routine
“Stay off your foot as much as possible.” Active people really hate to hear those words! Anyone who’s used to a particular fitness routine is loath to give it up for a bunch of reasons. For one thing, if you’re used to being active, it can be pretty boring sitting around with your foot elevated….
5 Things Your Podiatrist Doesn’t Want You to Do
Perform home surgery. It’s tempting to try to dig out an ingrown toenail by yourself. But think about it – are you using sterile instruments and proper technique? Do you know the best way to go about it, or are you just improvising and risking more damage? Don’t even take a chance – it’s best…
You Sprained Your Ankle – Now What?
According to the New York Times, the International Ankle Consortium, a group of researchers who study ankle injuries (yes! this isn’t an April Fool’s Day prank, such a group really exists), has determined that among all people who sprain their ankle, only 55% of them ever seek a doctor’s care. Dr. Megan L. Oltmann and…
What Causes Tingling in Your Feet
Prickly, shivery, ringing and stinging are all ways to describe that tingling sensation anywhere in your body that you just want to shake off. “Pins and needles” is a good one, too. You might experience tingling in your feet if you’ve just gotten up from sitting on your knees for a while or if you’ve…
The Relationship between Diabetes and Your Feet
Diabetes is a large and growing problem all over the world. The disease affects your whole body in many ways and is especially hard on your feet, which is why the podiatrists at Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland work so hard to educate our patients about it. Let’s take a closer look at what…
Nutrition for Your Feet & Ankles
March is National Nutrition Month and all of us at Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland think it’s a great time to think about what we eat. Why do we care? Because nutrition affects your feet and ankles – plain and simple. The food and drink that we put in our bodies affects all our…
Treat Your Feet Well While Training for a Big Race
The Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. If you’ve signed up for it, you know it’s less than a dozen weeks away, and hopefully you’re well into your training. Dr. Megan L. Oltmann and Dr. Craig B. Frey of Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland want you to stop moving for…
Teach Your Children Well
Parents have a tremendous role to play in the lifelong health of their children’s feet. Teach your children from an early age to respect and care for their feet in the following ways: Wash them daily with soap and water. Children’s feet need to be cleaned of the sweat and dirt of daily living, running…
The Meaning of Rice
You’ve probably heard of medical professionals or even personal trainers recommending rice treatment for certain injuries. If you’ve never heard of it before, your first thought might be that you’re supposed to do something with actual kernels of rice – crazy visions of applying exotic grains to your ankle to draw out the pain swirl…
Why Podiatrists Prescribe Orthotics
We podiatrists have a special tool in our cache of treatments. It’s neither a generic pill nor a blanket, one-size-fits-all treatment. It’s safe for children and adults, and it’s completely customized for you, the individual patient, designed to improve your very specific foot pain. What kind of medicine could be so personalized just for you?…
5 Signs You Might Need a Podiatrist
If there’s one thing that Dr. Megan L. Oltmann and Dr. Craig B. Frey want you to remember about your feet, it’s this: foot pain is never normal. You may be tempted to chalk up recurring foot pain to old age or too much exercise – but you shouldn’t. Podiatrists are specially trained to evaluate…
Winter Foot Care Tips for Diabetics
At Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland, we advise our diabetic patients to visit our podiatry office in Solon, Ohio at least once a year as part of an overall plan to keep their diabetes under control and their feet healthy. The danger that diabetes poses to your feet continues in every season, but winter…
Do You Need More Vitamin D?
Mom was right when she told you that spinach would “put hair on your chest.” All she meant was that she wanted you to eat your vitamins so that your body would be properly nourished. But it’s not always possible to get all the vitamins you need just by eating. Vitamin D is one of…
Frostbite FAQs
Ol’ Man Winter is preparing to offer us temperatures 4-5 degrees colder than normal this year in the Cleveland area, according to the weather experts. One way you can prepare for these low temps is to educate yourself about the dangers of frostbite. Megan L. Otlmann, DPM and Craig B. Frey, DPM of Foot &…
Caring for the Aging Foot
So here we are at the beginning of another new year. 2017 already? Wasn’t it just yesterday that Katie Couric was marveling at saying “2000” for the very first time? And what’s happened to our bodies in the last 17 years – or since we were kids? Are we feeling the signs of age? Anyone…
Common Ice Hockey Injuries to Feet and Ankles
There’s no question that ice hockey can be a dangerous sport – all those skate blades flying around at top speed have caused some horrible injuries in the NHL, from severed ears to concussions, skull fractures to a really close encounter with a goal post that’s too gruesome to describe here (it was Mark Howe…
What’s Happening Inside Your Cold, White Toes
Vapospasm. Not a word you hear every day, right? It’s a fancy word for a constriction of the blood vessels. In some people, vapospasms in fingers and toes occur in response to a drop in temperature. They step out into the cold, and the blood vessels to their extremities go into spasm. Blood vessels that…
4 Seasonal Mistakes You Make that Mistreat Your Feet
‘Tis the season for holiday parties, shopping for gifts, travelling to visit family, and adding a million chores to our to-do lists that keep us up and running. Nobody wants sore, painful feet to slow them down during the holidays. We at Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland suggest that you avoid these 4 mistakes…
Tiptoeing in Children
Given the rancorous nature of the 2016 election season, and just the general complexity of family relationships, we bet there was a fair amount of topic avoidance at the Thanksgiving table this year. “Don’t bring up the election!” “If Grandpa mentions your hair, just change the subject!” All that energy spent worrying about and tiptoeing…
Diabetes Myths
There are a lot of misconceptions out there about diabetes. Who gets it? Who’s at risk? Podiatrists Megan L. Oltmann, DPM and Craig B. Frey, DPM of Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland are closing out Diabetes Awareness Month by focusing this blog on clearing up some myths about the disease. Myth: Having diabetes is…
Managing Blood Sugar Protects Oral Health
If you have diabetes, make sure your dentist knows. Good oral hygiene is something everyone should strive for, but it’s especially important for diabetics. We all have plaque – that thin film of yuk (mostly bacteria) that builds up on our teeth. It’s the stuff the dentist scrapes off of the surface of your teeth…
5 Mistakes that Put You at Risk for Diabetes
There’s no escaping this fact: diabetes is on the rise in the U.S. and all over the world. A few stats: 3% of people in the U.S. – 29 million – have diabetes 4 million more Americans will be diagnosed with diabetes this year Each year, more than half of all lower-limb amputations in the…
What We Can Learn About Diabetes from Scottish Television
Earlier this fall, a series of ads ran on Scottish TV that made a lot of viewers angry. In each ad, a mother was shown giving her child a piece of chocolate or another sugary snack. The child then turned to the camera and delivered a warning that he will be more likely to get…
November is National Diabetes Awareness Month – Diabetes and Men
It’s a pretty well known fact that men tend to avoid things like calling the doctor. But guys, we’re talking to you — if you think you’re at risk for diabetes, you really need to take action. Diabetes is one of those diseases that’s so fraught with complication that you can’t afford to ignore the…
Protecting Yourself from Foot & Ankle Problems
When October 31 rolls around, we can spot ghosts and goblins everywhere. Kids! They love to jump out and surprise us with their ghoulish costumes and scary faces. When it comes to your foot health, there’s not too much that can jump out and surprise us at Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland. Although there…
Dealing with Chronic Ankle Instability
Is there any truth to the idea that people can predict changes in the weather based on how their joints feel? Scientists don’t agree whether people can accurately say it’s going to rain this afternoon just because their ankle hurts this morning. But don’t tell that to Uncle Bob, who’s been predicting rain pretty accurately…
Exercise is Good for Your Feet, Too
You can’t live on this planet without hearing about the benefits of exercise. It’s good for your physical health. It can improve your mood. Going to the gym is a good way to meet people (good news for singles!) The podiatrists at Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland are here to tell you that exercise…
Surgery for Plantar Fasciitis – A Last Resort
When’s the last time you thought about your plantar fascia? If you have heel pain, you’re thinking about it every moment of every day. The plantar fascia is the thick band of tissue that connects the front part of your foot – the ball – to the heel and supports your arch. When something happens…
Fun Facts about Feet
Feet are quite literally the furthest thing from your mind, if you think about it in a physical sense! But it’s worth giving them some thought, since they carry you around every single day. It’s somewhat of a miracle when all of the bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments work together without a hitch. In…
Taking Steps to Prevent Falling
The kids are back in school, leaves are beginning to turn colors, and the stores are full of merchandise in shades of brown and rust, gold and persimmon. Ah, autumn has returned! The National Council on Aging has designated September 22 – the first day of fall – as Falls Prevention Awareness Day. All of…
Treating and Preventing Gymnastics Injuries
The Rio Olympics were a huge success for the United States (as long as you don’t count the last week of competition, when boys behaving badly marred the positive headlines). Our families were rooted to the TV each night to see one of our favorite sports broadcasted: men’s and women’s artistic gymnastics. There’s no question…
Osteoarthritis and Your Feet
Arthritis is the general term for joint inflammation. It can affect any of the 360 joints in your body, but when it hits your foot or ankle, the pain and stiffness can really slow you down. Walking can become painful and difficult. Running may become out of the question. Unless you take steps to treat…
Back-to-School Shoe Shopping Made Easy
A good pair of shoes should be at the top of any parent’s back-to-school shopping list. Kids like what’s fashionable, and it’s fine to include some fun and stylish shoes in a kid’s wardrobe, as long as they plan to wear them only for short periods of time. But for all-day comfort and foot health,…
Psoriasis Awareness: What you Need to Know
What does it mean to have psoriasis? What kinds of things should people with psoriasis look out for? That’s the question we’re asking and answering this week at Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland, in honor of National Psoriasis Awareness month. Psoriasis is a chronic disease that manifests itself in the form of raised, red,…
Beware These 5 Enemies of Your Feet
We all know that eating healthy foods and getting regular exercise is good for us. We read it every day and heard it from our families growing up. “Eat your vegetables!” “Go play!”- classic Mom-speak, right? Well, Mom was right, of course, but what she didn’t tell you is how much your two feet benefit…
What is a Lesion?
“Lesion” is one of those words that doctors toss around as though everyone understands it. We may say something like “Let’s take a look at this lesion here under your foot.” And you may have only a vague notion of what that means. Is it a cut? A scrape? A red mark? What exactly is…
Get Answers from a Qualified Podiatrist, Not the Internet
It’s quite amazing to see the kinds of questions that people pose on internet forums about their health. Foot-related questions that we’ve seen include “What causes foot cramps?”, “What to do when your feet smell REALLY bad?” and the really amusing “Should people have their feet cut off at birth?” While we think that last…
Uric Acid: The Substance behind a Gout Attack
Most of us are aware that the human body contains many different acids – for example, fatty acids, amino acids, and those unpopular stomach acids that cause heartburn and reflux. There’s another acid in our bodies that doesn’t roll off our tongue as easily. We don’t talk much about uric acid. Problems with the levels…
An Ankle Sprain is Nothing to Ignore
Over the last month or so, there’s been no shortage of stories about athletes and their ankle injuries. We have to wonder at some of the terminology used. How about “run-of-the-mill ankle sprain” – used to describe an injury that would keep a football player off the practice field for six weeks? “Fortunately,” said the…
Pregnant? 6 Tips to Get Your Feet through Summer Heat
Sorry, ladies – pregnancy in the summertime can be hard to handle. Feet and ankles – the parts of your body that we are most concerned with here at Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland – are a problem in the vast majority of pregnancies. They can become swollen and uncomfortable especially during the summer…
What to Know about Your Baby’s Feet
Once they reach a certain age, keeping your children’s feet healthy is really not that much different from keeping your own in top shape. You want to keep your kids in the proper shoes for the activity they’re engaged in, make sure they wash their feet daily and dry them carefully, and don’t be afraid…
Understanding Diabetic Neuropathy
“Neuropathy” is a general word meaning any kind of nerve damage or disease. When we use the term diabetic peripheral neuropathy, we’re throwing into one basket all of the things that can go wrong with the nerves in a diabetic’s foot. And unfortunately, there are a lot of things to feast on in that basket….
Why Your Toe is Bent at a Weird Angle
If one of your toes is oddly bent downward and it’s been stuck that way for a while, chances are you have hammertoe. All of your other toes might be straight, but the affected one juts up in the middle like a camel’s hump. Some say your toe looks like a hammer, which is where…
Focus on Men’s Feet
The week before Father’s Day is reserved for National Men’s Health Week. It’s a truism that men are pretty good at coming up with excuses not to see a doctor. National Men’s Health Week is a great time to encourage the men in our lives to take their health seriously – to take stock of…
College Basketball Gets Us Thinking about the Word “Fracture”
What do you think of when you hear the words “fractured bone?” Do you conjure up an image of a bone broken up into a thousand little pieces? While it’s certainly possible that a bone could break in multiple places, that’s not the definition of a fracture. A fracture is the same thing as a…
Foot & Ankle Associates Offers Excellence in Podiatry Services
In Cuyahoga County, you have an enormous number of places to choose from to receive health care. When it comes to problems with your feet or ankles, consider a visit to the podiatrists at Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland. Here are some compelling reasons to entrust us with your pain, disease, or questions about…
What to do About Overly Sweaty Feet
The spring temperatures here in Solon, Ohio are definitely on the rise. Mid-sixties this month of May so far – even a hint of the seventies. It’s not really that hot yet, so why do you have sweaty feet? Causes of sweaty feet Sometimes feet sweat a lot because of medications or certain biological changes…
May is National Osteoporosis Awareness Month
Here’s a startling fact: bones can suddenly fracture with no apparent cause. It can happen anywhere in your body, such as your hip, back, or foot. In fact, an unexplained broken bone in your ankle or foot is sometimes the first sign of osteoporosis, say our board-certified podiatrists here at Foot & Ankle Associates of…
Causes of Discolored Toenails
You’re probably pretty familiar with what your healthy toenails look like. What does it mean, though if your toenails seem off-color to you? Dr. Craig B. Frey and Dr. Megan L. Oltmann, the podiatrists at Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland offer these insights – a rainbow of reasons for discolored toenails and what to…
4 Foot Problems to Look For In Toddlers
Who has witnessed a toddler’s bow-legged waddle and not found it totally adorable?! Toddlers should be expected to grow out of their cute and awkward gait in due time. Seek the professional advice of Cuyahoga County foot doctors Craig B. Frey, DPM and Megan L. Oltmann, DPM, our expert podiatrists at Foot & Ankle Associates…
Preventing Running Injuries
At Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland, we see an awful lot of injuries in people who run. Of course, we are privileged to treat those who consult us with stress fractures, sprained ankles, Achilles tendonitis, runner’s knee, and any number of other conditions that afflict those who pound the pavement. But it makes sense…
4 Questions to Ask When You Need Bunion Surgery
You’ve known for a while that you have a bunion. That bump at the base of your big toe is not getting any less painful, even though you’ve faithfully worked through the conservative methods of treating it (warm soaks, gel pads, rest, the right kind of shoe, etc.). You’ve seen the x-rays, discussed the issue…
When Your Child Chooses Ballet
It goes without saying that sports are hard on the body. Football and concussions are constantly in the news. Athletes are sidelined by knee, ankle, and foot injuries on a daily basis. Is there a parent among us who hasn’t stopped to consider the potential for bodily damage with any sport their child is considering?…
Use Caution When Wearing High-Heeled Boots
We recently tuned into the “Today” show on NBC to see one of the hosts, Savannah Guthrie, sporting a lovely orthopedic boot on one leg. After the camera gave us a close up of her boot, Savannah dramatically reached behind her and pulled out a black suede dress boot with a 3-inch heel. This, she…
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
On the inside of your ankle, under the skin and covered by some ligaments, lies a narrow space called the tarsal tunnel. Within that tunnel you’ll find some arteries, some veins, and the posterior tibial nerve. Under a number of conditions, the posterior tibial nerve can become compressed, causing numbness, tingling, or pain in various…
- Is Your Kinetic Chain Out of Whack?
These days, we demand efficiency. We want our phones to be fast, our coffee to be instant, and our healthcare to be precise. Yet, many of us are walking around on a “system” that is out of alignment, causing a ripple effect of pain throughout our entire body. That system is called the Kinetic Chain. - Cold, Red, or Itchy Foot Skin? It Might Reveal Your Metabolic Health
If you’ve been treating a “skin condition” that just won’t go away, the problem might not be on your foot—it might be in your body. Below, the Foot and Ankle Associates of Cleveland will explain how you can decode those signals. - Daily Walking Helps Your Health…But Only If You Do It Right!
The difference between a walk that transforms your health and one that’s just “going through the motions” lies in the details. In this blog, Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland explains how to turn ‘steps in the right direction’ into actual exercise! - What You Need to Know About Turf Toe
While many fans may shrug off a toe injury as minor, in sports like football, soccer, and even basketball, a condition known as “turf toe” can seriously impact performance and recovery. Below, Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland explains why this type of injury shouldn’t be underestimated. - “Is That Normal?” A Parent’s Guide to Foot & Ankle Deformities
It can be tough to tell the difference between a minor issue that will resolve on its own and a potential problem that needs professional attention. That’s why Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland has put together the following guide! Read on so you know what’s ‘normal’…and what’s not. - What is This Bump on My Big Toe? A Guide to Bunions
Have you noticed a painful, bony bump forming at the base of your big toe? This common issue, known as a bunion, can make wearing shoes and even walking a painful experience. - What Grade is YOUR Ankle Sprain? A Podiatrist’s Guide
That sudden, painful roll of your ankle – it’s a common injury that can happen anywhere, anytime. - Taking Care of Achilles Tendonitis
Tendonitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the tough cords connecting muscle to bone, and while it is common, especially for active individuals, it can really hurt. And that’s not the worst part: left unchecked, it can lead to chronic issues or even a rupture. Understanding how tendonitis develops, what to do when it strikes,… - The Foot Fracture Checklist
OUCH! You dropped something heavy, twisted awkwardly, or took a hard fall, and now your foot is in serious pain. You wonder: Is it fractured? We can help you figure that out! Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland put together a checklist to help you assess the immediate signs and respond appropriately, too. The Symptom… - Are You Washing Your Feet Right? Don’t Find Out the Hard Way!
We wash our hands multiple times a day, but how often do we really think about washing our feet? A recent BBC article explored this very question, highlighting the debate around foot hygiene. And since April marks Foot Health Awareness Month, the team at Foot and Ankle Associates of Cleveland figured we’d do our own… - Pain in the Ball of Your Foot? Could Be Metatarsalgia
Imagine five piano keys under the ball of your foot. These are your metatarsal bones. They absorb a lot of impact with every step you take. When that impact is unevenly distributed or when excessive pressure is placed on this area, metatarsalgia can develop. Don’t worry, though! In the post below, the Foot & Ankle… - Plantar Warts: Why SWIFT Microwave Therapy is a Step Ahead of Traditional Treatments
Plantar warts, those pesky and often painful growths on the soles of your feet, can be incredibly stubborn. Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), these warts can be difficult to eliminate and often require multiple treatments. Unless, of course, you’ve got access to SWIFT Microwave Therapy treatments! In this blog post, the Foot & Ankle… - 5 Ways to Take Care of Your Feet and Ankles This Winter
We get it: it’s the middle of January, you wake up, and your joints immediately feel stiff. Especially for foot and ankle conditions, the winter weather worsens more than just arthritis. That’s why today, we at Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland are providing 5 expert tips on how to make life for your feet… - Does Your Foot Require Surgery? 3 Injuries That Go Beyond Conservative Care
Foot and ankle injuries can happen to anyone, from athletes pushing their limits to those simply navigating icy sidewalks. And while many of these injuries can be treated conservatively, some may require surgery to restore full function and mobility. Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland is here to explain which interventions make the most sense… - 3 Everyday Activities That Put Pressure on Your Feet
Podiatrists see all kinds of causes for foot and ankle injuries, with some issues proving quite complex. Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland wants folks to know how frequently aches and pains stem from more pressure sources, however, so for this blog post, we’ll cover three everyday actions that could put your feet and ankles… - Ballet Flats, Flat Feet, and Podiatric Problems
Ballet flats have become a staple in many women’s wardrobes, offering a stylish and comfortable alternative to high heels. However, that comfort comes with a cost. Despite their popularity, these seemingly innocuous shoes can contribute to podiatric problems, especially for those with flat feet. For this blog, the Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland will… - What to Know About Your Child’s Feet During School
As children and teenagers head back to school, they often increase their physical activity levels, which can put a strain on their feet and ankles. Sports, walking to class, standing in the halls, recess, and long days can shock the feet of your child or teen who spent all summer lounging on the couch. Today,… - Diabetic Neuropathy: Untangling Fact from Fiction
Diabetic neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes that can cause numbness, pain, and weakness in the feet and hands. However, because of the often unpredictable nature of these symptoms, there are many misconceptions surrounding the condition that causes them. Let us at the Foot and Ankle Associates of Cleveland dispel the common myths about… - The Unicorn’s Unicorn Injury: Kristaps Porzingis’s Torn Medial Retinaculum
During the 2024 NBA Finals, Boston Celtics star Kristaps Porzingis suffered a rare ankle injury that sidelined him for game 2. The official reason? A torn medial retinaculum with dislocation of the posterior tibialis tendon. While this diagnosis may sound complex, we at the Foot and Ankle Associates of Cleveland are here to break down… - Barefoot Running? A Risky Stride Toward Exercise
Many runners experience foot pain, leading some to explore barefoot running as an alternative. While the barefoot running movement and those who swear by the practice tout some reported benefits, it could be dangerous for many reasons. Before you take your next step, the Foot and Ankle Associates of Cleveland have detailed some potential downsides… - A Podiatrist Can Help You Bounce Back from Sports Injuries
Hitting the field or court for your favorite sport is a great way to stay healthy, but even the most dedicated athletes can stumble. When pushing limits leads to overuse injuries, the folks in Solon and the surrounding areas visit the Foot and Ankle Associates of Cleveland. It’s easy to see why: Podiatrists are experts… - 2 Complex Surgical Techniques Podiatrists Use Often
Prevention is the best medicine, and conservative treatments can be incredibly effective, but sometimes surgery is the optimal answer. Foot and Ankle Associates of Cleveland is fortunate enough to have plenty of surgical expertise on the team, so we’ve decided to share some info regarding procedures most folks aren’t aware of. This blog will cover… - Fuel Your Feet: Essential Steps for National Nutrition Month
Sometimes, it’s not surgery, high-tech intervention, or medicine that makes the difference; increasingly, modern doctors are seeing that lifestyle changes can be incredibly impactful. So, for National Nutrition Month, the Foot and Ankle Associates of Cleveland want you to know what you can do to keep your lower extremities in tip-top shape via healthy eating…. - Step into 2024 With Prevention, Repair, and Proactive Care
The new year is well underway, and there’s no time like the present to give your feet a fresh start. Prioritizing foot health isn’t just about pedicures and aesthetic concerns; rather, it involves a blend of preventative strategies, wellness hacks, and innovative treatment options that combine to provide the rest of your body with a… - Running Shoes: Start Off On The Right Foot!
If you run, you need the right footwear. Luckily, Foot and Ankle Associates of Cleveland is well prepared to support your footwear needs. Before you decide which shoe is right for you, let’s break down some common sense tips that can both improve performance and decrease the likelihood of injury. Replace your old shoes Buy a new pair… - Common Slips and Foot Health Tips
Our team of expert podiatrists understands how essential healthy feet are to staying fit and functional. This is especially true for those of us who enjoy athletic pursuits. Even everyday athletes should be aware and informed when engaging in strenuous physical activity. Get started by checking out a few of the most common injuries and strategies… - Two Excellent Resources for Diabetes Awareness and Good Foot Health
Discover the American Diabetes Association’s vital resources for diabetes awareness and management, including expert insights on foot health. - Should You Seek Treatment for Flat Feet?
Discover solutions for flat feet: Learn causes, symptoms, and treatments to alleviate discomfort and improve your overall foot health. - Why People Fall at Home: 7 Reasons, 7 Solutions
September’s Falls Prevention Awareness Month targets the significant risk for older Americans. Learn the 5 problem areas and how to fix them. - How to Treat a Toe Deformity
Deformed toes don’t look or work like they should. Learn from Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland on how to treat toe deformities. - 5 Foot Health Tips for Summer
It’s summertime! You’re looking forward to some traveling, your feet are begging to be set free from their sock-and-shoe confinement, and your toes are longing to wiggle in the grass. Do it all – but remember to keep your feet healthy and safe. Here are seven great tips from our board-certified podiatrists: Our experienced podiatric… - 5 Tips for Staying Active with a Foot or Ankle Injury
Sustaining a foot or ankle injury can be a frustrating setback for our patients who enjoy an active lifestyle. It’s possible to maintain a fitness routine while also allowing your foot to heal. Here are five tips to help you stay active when you have a foot or ankle injury. - What Can You Do About Arthritis in Your Feet and Ankles?
Walking around shouldn’t make your feet hurt. And yet, thousands of people experience foot pain every day, even though podiatrists like ours exist to provide relief! One of the many sources of constant, persistent foot pain is arthritis. Since May is Arthritis Awareness Month, it seems like a good time to take a closer look… - 5 Easy Things to Learn During Foot Health Awareness Month
This coming weekend is not only the start of a new month, but it’s one of the best months of the year from our podiatrists’ point of view. April is Foot Health Awareness Month – a time for us to shout from this virtual rooftop about what our doctors can do for your feet. We… - Essential Nutrients for Your Feet and Ankles
That saying you’ve heard all your life is true: You are what you eat. Everything you chew and swallow has the potential to be great nutrition or…not so much. It’s to your advantage to eat in the most nutritious way possible. Enter National Nutrition Month. These 31 days of March offer a fantastic opportunity to… - Lowering Your Blood Pressure Improves Heart Health
This February is American Heart Month, and we’re putting the focus on high blood pressure as it relates to heart health. There’s nothing fake about this news: high blood pressure puts you at risk for all kinds of life-threatening issues such as strokes, kidney disease, loss of vision, heart attacks, heart failure, and more. You… - Winter Walking Tips That Can Save Your Feet from Harm
If there’s anything we’ve all learned in the sum of our years, it’s that winter weather can be perilous. Sidewalks and roadways may look safe, but we find out the hard way that they’re really coated in a thin layer of ice. If we’re not careful, we can slip and fall on that ice, causing… - Let’s Talk About Infant and Children’s Foot Care
Congratulations – you’re a new mom or dad! You may be wondering if your child’s feet need any particular care. Let’s take a peek at what to expect at various ages. Our experienced podiatric surgeons, Dr. Craig B. Frey, Dr. Megan L. Oltmann, Dr. Jim Swienconek, Dr. Rachel Robinson, and Dr. Courtney Yoder are experts at diagnosing specific foot or… - 5 Ways to Avoid Foot Problems in the New Year
Are you ready to dive into an exciting new year? Foot pain can derail your plans in a hurry. However, there are preventative measures to ensure good foot health throughout 2023. Here are our top five suggestions: “Should old acquaintance be forgot?” Not if foot problems crop up in this new year. Re-acquaint yourselves with… - “Just Walk it Off” – and Other Bad Advice Friends Give You About Ankle Sprains
Countless people come to our podiatry office year-round for help with a sprained ankle. However, wintertime does the outdoor walker or runner no special favors! Black ice and snowy sidewalks will likely cause unintended falls, increasing the number of sprains we’ll treat over the winter. Also called a twisted or turned ankle, a sprained ankle… - The ADA’s Newest Diabetes Recommendations are Good News for Your Feet
Managing diabetes can sometimes seem like a full-time job. Keeping track of your blood sugar is only the beginning. Knowing your blood sugar levels is vital, yes, but so is staying on top of your mental health, cardiovascular health, weight, food choices, and foot-related diabetes issues. The American Diabetes Association aims to help people with… - 5 Tips for Exercising Safely in Cold Weather
Does the prospect of another frigid Ohio winter make you want to make like a bear and hibernate until spring? We say, don’t shun the cold! Stay active by getting outside, even when temperatures drop. Breathing in the winter air, going for a walk or a run, and building up some sweat when it’s cold,… - How to Purchase Slippers Their Feet Will Love
‘Tis the season, as they say! If you’re firmly entrenched in shopping for your loved ones, consider that staple of holiday gift-giving: a pair of slippers. Slippers are well-known as Hanukkah or Christmas gifts, and the stores are currently full of them. How do you pick a pair their feet will love? To choose a… - 3 Outstanding Ways to Avoid Sports Injuries of the Feet and Ankles
Sports injuries are simply unavoidable when you’re rapidly chasing balls, wielding long sticks, traversing uneven terrain, purposely falling onto the ground, and repeatedly crashing into other humans. Playing sports pushes your body to its limits – sometimes beyond its limits. That’s when injuries occur. And the feet and ankles are no strangers to limit-pushing sports… - 3 Areas of the Feet that Fail as You Age
The human body is like a machine – and as much as we hate to admit it, our body parts can erode over time, like so many wheel bearings or brake pads. The parts of the feet that begin to buck and shudder, as it were, include joints, fat pads, and soft tissues. Bone spurs,… - How Often Should You Replace Your Shoes?
If your shoes are visibly falling apart, no doubt you need new ones. But we don’t advise waiting until the soles are flapping in the wind to replace your shoes. It’s impossible to say that all shoes should be replaced “after six months,” “every two years,” or any other interval. Experts say you should replace… - 5 Actions that Help Prevent Type 2 Diabetes
November is Diabetes Awareness Month. It’s a fantastic opportunity to think about preventing a disease that strikes 463 million people worldwide and complicates their health. - Your Feet Want You to Know About the Great American Smokeout
We U.S. citizens know what to expect on the fourth Thursday of November. We look forward to Thanksgiving Day! It’s a day for family, football, and turkey – or perhaps a less traditional food that fits your vegetarian or vegan lifestyle. Okay, that’s the fourth Thursday. Do you know what to expect on the third… - Prevent Foot Ulcers by Controlling Blood Sugar
If you had to guess the most important discovery in medicine in the last century, what would your guess be? Many scientists and researchers argue that it was the discovery of insulin as a treatment for diabetes. Injections of insulin became a viable treatment to control blood sugar in 1912. The 100th birthday of insulin… - Solutions for Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus is common and contagious but isn’t easy to get rid of. Because fungal infections of the toenails can be so pervasive, you’ve got to take a sensible approach to find a treatment solution that works. What causes toenail fungus? Fungi are everywhere, including in the air and on human skin. They can infect… - What is Raynaud’s Disease?
This Raynaud’s Awareness Month, we want to shed some light on an unusual disease that affects tens of millions of Americans and their toes. Raynaud’s disease, sometimes called Raynaud’s phenomenon, is a problem with the small blood vessels in your fingers and toes. For reasons that aren’t entirely clear, some people experience vasoconstriction. That is,… - Understanding Foot & Ankle Arthritis
“Arthritis” is a general term for joint pain. It can affect any joint in the body, causing pain in your feet, knees, wrists, hips, shoulders, fingers, ankles…. you get the idea. While there are many types of arthritis, the most common type is the one associated with aging. It’s called osteoarthritis. Why do your joints… - Flat Feet: Everything You Need to Know
Flatfoot is a condition where the foot lacks a normal arch. Instead of the midfoot having a slight rise, the entire foot rests on the ground. How to test for flat feet If you’re wondering if you have flat feet, you can perform this simple at-home test: dip your foot in some water, then step… - Are Ballet Flats Good or Bad for Your Feet?
If you’ve been reading anything about fashion these days, you may have heard that ballet flats are making a comeback. Unfortunately, this fashion staple of the 1990s has been called “one of the least foot-friendly” styles of shoes a person could wear. Here’s why: It’s right there in the name: they’re flat. They’re also thin-soled,… - How Bad is a Ruptured Achilles Tendon?
If you look in a dictionary, you’ll find this sensible definition of a rupture: “rup·ture | \ ˈrəp(t)-shər — a breaking apart or the state of being broken apart; the tearing apart of a tissue.” It all sounds very medical and rational on paper. “Ah, yes,” we muse, “hmmm, the tissue being torn apart.” However, at… - 3 Common Foot & Ankle Injuries to Look Out for This Football Season
With the official NFL season underway, our thoughts have turned to the kinds of football injuries players sustain to their feet and ankles. To be sure, the pros aren’t the only ones on the field – high schoolers and even middle schoolers are hard at play, too. Anyone who plays football at any age should… - What You Know about Aging and Muscle Loss Can Help Prevent Falls
Millions of people over the age of 65 fall every year. Twenty percent will suffer serious injuries, including head trauma and broken bones. 800,000 of them will need hospitalization – 300,000 of them for hip fractures. What causes so many seniors to fall? There are many reasons, including: medications that cause dizziness homes that are… - 3 Clues That Your Orthotics Need Replacing
Our podiatrists turn to orthotics to treat various foot and ankle problems. Orthotic shoe inserts are custom-fitted to support your exact foot anatomy (we take molds of your feet here in our office) and are used to treat plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, flat feet, bursitis, ankle pain, and many other conditions. Custom orthotics are versatile and… - 3 Ways a Dog Improves the Life and Health of Humans
August 26 is National Dog Day, which encourages our podiatrists to reflect on the myriad health benefits that “man’s best friend” has to offer: Dogs have a positive impact on their owner’s mental health. Bona fide scientific studies have demonstrated that dogs can increase feelings of self-esteem while also decreasing symptoms of depression and anxiety…. - The Truth About Foot Fractures
There are many ways to describe a broken bone. Any bone in your foot can break, crack, or fracture – these words all mean the same thing. But there are many different ways a bone can break. How and where it breaks determines how long your recovery will be. The least severe break is a… - 3 Essential Lessons for Back-to-School Shoe Shopping Success
What kid in our part of Ohio will wake up on Wednesday, August 17, and forget that it’s the first day of school? We can’t imagine there are many – it’s such an exciting time for the little ones! Those of us in the podiatry field are excited about August 17 for another reason as… - At-Home Exercises that Help Cure Heel Pain
Hardly a day goes by without a patient hobbling through our doors with debilitating heel pain, also called plantar fasciitis. It’s extremely common, especially in people ages 40-60. Heel pain occurs with repeated pressure on the plantar fascia – a thick band of tissue on the bottom of your foot that absorbs many impacts when… - 5 Foot Care Essentials to Pack for a Day at the Beach
There’s a lot to look forward to when planning a trip to the beach! First order of business: fill a beach bag with these five sun and foot care essentials: Sunscreen. You’ve probably thought of this already and have some on hand. But for maximum protection, be sure it has an SPF of 30… - Our Podiatrists are Experts at Diagnosing and Treating Sports Injuries
You wouldn’t go to a voice teacher who wasn’t a singer himself. You wouldn’t call in a plumber who hadn’t yet learned to use a hacksaw or pipe wrench. So why would you choose a podiatrist with little sports experience to heal your sports injury? You don’t have to. Our three podiatrists have extensive experience diagnosing… - Caring for Calluses: When to Treat Them at Home and When to See a Podiatrist
What happens when someone irritates the heck out of you? You might ignore them – in other words, put up a protective wall so that person can’t get under your skin. Oddly enough, that’s exactly what your skin does when it creates a callus! – although the irritation doesn’t come from a person, of course…. - Check for Skin Cancer Using the Alphabet
This UV Safety Awareness Month, we want to remind you to lather your feet with SPF 30+ lotion when exposed to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. We also recommend regular body checks at home, including the skin on your feet. Checking your body for signs of skin cancer is as easy as ABC. Keep… - Flip-Flops: the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Ah, summer! Now that it’s officially here, we can get out and enjoy the sun and surf, slipping our feet into flip-flops to our heart’s content. Right? Well, there’s a lot to love about flip-flops. But along with the good, there’s also some danger. The Good – flip-flops protect you from diseases like athlete’s foot and other… - Celebrate National Men’s Health Month
Men’s health is such an important issue that the U.S. Congress recognizes it. Every state in the Union – and many cities, too – has issued a proclamation identifying why we should set aside an entire month, June, for awareness of men’s health. Here are some of the startling facts included in these proclamations: Women are… - Considering Foot Problems in Today’s Superstars of Tennis
No matter how proficient you are at a sport, foot and ankle injuries can still happen. Look at what happened to German tennis star Alexander Zverev at the French Open in Paris earlier this month. He worked his way to a semifinal match with Rafael Nadal but had to withdraw from the match when he… - Do You Need a Podiatrist?
When you’ve got a health issue, it’s good to call your primary care provider for help. From there, your PCP might refer you to a specialist. A cardiologist (heart doctor) for a heart arrhythmia. A dermatologist (skin doctor) for a suspicious-looking mole on your back. A gastroenterologist (stomach and intestinal specialist) if you’re overdue for that… - 5 Tips for Summer Feet that Look and Feel Great
Start with an overhaul. Your feet have been locked up in boots and had hot air blown on them all winter. We’d be surprised if they’re not a bit dry and callused. Freshen them up with a pedicure at home or at a reputable salon. Develop a healthy relationship with your flip-flops. Do wear them… - “Foot Pain is Inevitable” – and Other Myths, Misunderstandings, and Falsehoods About Feet
With the rise of social media, came the startling idea that the truth is not always apparent. Anybody can post to Twitter or Facebook, but what they say isn’t necessarily true. And even though myths and falsehoods have always been with us, social media has helped them flourish. Today, we’d like to quash some common… - How to Prevent Brittle Bones
“Brittle Bones” would make a pretty good name for a country-rock band, wouldn’t it? In the medical world, though, if someone starts talking to you about brittle bones, they’ll probably want to test you for osteoporosis. Osteoporosis, whose Awareness Month comes around every year in May, is a chronic disease marked by thinning of the… - It Matters How You Trim Your Toenails – Here’s Why
There’s an art to trimming your toenails. But it’s not particularly artistic—no curves, no creative consideration of line, form, or angle. Just trim them straight and not too short. Anything else puts you at risk of getting an ingrown toenail. What’s an ingrown toenail?An infected, ingrown toenail can be very, very painful. Toenails typically grow straight… - Arthritis Awareness Month: What to Know About Osteoarthritis of the Feet and Ankles
When you use something for a long time, it will eventually wear out: A car engine. Your favorite pair of jeans. Various joints in your feet and ankles. Yes – after many years of use, the cartilage that protects your joints can break down, even disappear. When that happens, you’ve got bones touching bones. Without… - See a Podiatrist for Sports Injuries of the Feet and Ankles
Professional sports are always fraught with injured players. Many of those injuries are to the feet and ankles. Here’s a sampling of some recent foot and ankle sports injuries that a podiatrist can treat: During spring training with the Detroit Tigers, rookie Riley Greene fouled a ball off his foot and fractured a bone (April… - 4 Easy Tasks to Improve Your Foot Health
In April, here’s something unique to put on your to-do list: Celebrate Foot Health Awareness Month! It’s not a huge commitment, and we promise you’ll be happy in the long run – and so will your feet. Pick any four days this month and tackle these easy foot health awareness tasks: Day 1: Examine your feet. Does… - Celebrate National Walking Day: It’s Good for Your Feet
On the first Wednesday of every April, National Walking Day, we celebrate walking as an easy, safe way to stay in shape. We encourage our patients to embrace walking as a form of weekly exercise starting today. Why? First of all, it’s easy on your joints. Furthermore, consider these other advantages to walking: It’s inexpensive… - Learn to Read a Nutrition Label and Your Feet and Ankles Will Say “Thanks”
Just about every packaged food item in any grocery store sports a label with “Nutrition Facts.” Learning how to interpret all the different numbers and percentages is an important skill. When you know what to look for, you can avoid unhealthy foods, lower your sodium intake, and work toward keeping your blood sugar levels steady…. - Medical Conditions That Can Cause Foot Pain
Are your feet killing you, but you’re not sure why? If you haven’t expressly injured or overworked your feet, the cause of your foot pain may seem mysterious. The answer to the mystery may be this: you’ve got an underlying medical condition that’s causing your feet to swell, tingle, or hurt. DiabetesDiabetes is, of course,… - What is Capsulitis?
In podiatry, we can attribute many foot problems to the same few causes: shoes that don’t fit well or don’t support your feet, too much exercise, traumatic injury, and faulty biomechanics. Capsulitis is no exception. It’s a curious-sounding condition that can result from any of these causes. The suffix “-itis” means “inflammation.” Think of plantar… - How Heredity and Heels Affect Women’s Feet
International Women’s Day (March 8) is a day to recognize women all over the world for their achievements. We join the global community in celebrating women. And we hope to make it easier for them to excel by providing them with excellent foot and ankle care. Good health helps you accomplish your goals. Good foot… - Is it Okay to Pop a Blister?
Did you ever wonder why you don’t get blisters on your elbows? Your forearms? How about your back or your stomach? Not happening – because those body parts don’t usually rub against anything. Feet, on the other hand, tend to get blisters because they’re subject to a lot of friction. There are two primary causes… - Look Out for These Symptoms of Diabetes
Do you know when something’s going wrong in your body? Sure – you usually have symptoms such as pain, swelling, coughing, or fever. And you fix them, perhaps after a visit to the doctor. However, the human body isn’t always so direct. Some symptoms can be elusive, and you may not recognize them as problematic…. - It’s American Heart Month: Check Your Feet to Learn about Your Heart
Could you interview a group of people and figure out which ones are likely candidates for heart disease? You might ask them about the signs and symptoms that are pretty well-known – for example, chronic fatigue, chest pain, and shortness of breath. You might also remember to ask them about their blood pressure – is… - Understanding Morton’s Toe and Morton’s Neuroma
How do you know if you’re royalty? Look at your toes, according to some. If your second toe is longer than your big toe, you’re among the approximately 20% of people with “Morton’s toe.” Legend says it’s a sign of nobility. But hold on – before they place their Amazon order for golden crowns and… - Safety Tips for Kids Who Ice Skate
The Winter Olympics are about to begin. Soon, little kids everywhere will shout excitedly to their parents, “Can I take figure skating lessons, please?!” The cautious Mom or Dad will cock their head and think: “She wants to wear thin blades on her feet and spin around on an expanse of cold, hard ice? I… - 5 Tips to Help You Hold onto Your Health and Fitness Resolutions
What happens about three weeks after the New Year holiday? Quitting happens, according to the fitness website strava.com. “Quitters Day,” January 19, is when many people abandon their fitness-related New Year’s resolutions. By some other accounts, 80% of us will last a little bit longer, giving up exercising and eating healthier around the first week of February. Quitter’s Day… - What Can You Do About Overly Sweaty Feet?
You may think it’s unusual to talk about sweaty feet in the dead of winter. But people with overly sweaty feet know the cold, hard truth: feet can drip with sweat, whether it’s 68 degrees inside in January or 95 degrees outside in August. They sweat even if you’re not doing much in the way of physical… - 5 Running Tips for Beginners that Save Your Feet from Stress
If you’re a beginning runner, there’s something you should know: foot discomfort, stress, and injuries are common among runners of all shapes, sizes, and levels of experience. Foot problems can stop a new runner in their tracks soon after they begin, foiling their plans to lose weight or get in better shape through running. Here are five ways… - Neuromas Have Got Some Nerve!
You’ve got a sudden stabbing pain at the bottom of your foot, up near the toes. The burning and cramping get worse with every step you take. You want to reach down and tear the pebble out of your shoe, straighten out your bunched-up sock. But there’s no pebble. The problem isn’t your socks, and… - Plantar Fasciitis: Separating Fact from Fiction
FICTION: The plantar fascia is a muscle on the bottom of the foot.FACT: It’s not a muscle – although it is, indeed, located on the bottom of the foot. It’s actually a ligament – a thick, fibrous band of tissue that supports and stabilizes your arch. FICTION: You get plantar fasciitis only if you have flat feet.FACT: People with flat… - Understanding Gout
You’ve got to start by knowing a little something about purines to understand gout. You eat purines every day because they’re in many foods. You eat them, and they break down into a waste product called uric acid, which you then excrete through your urine. So far, so good. The problem is that some people… - Holiday Gifts That Give Comfort and Joy to Feet
Giving thoughtful gifts, presented with heart and soul, is a wonderful part of the holiday season. This year, consider offering your loved ones gifts that pamper their feet. In the hustle and bustle of life, people can overlook their feet all year long. You have an opportunity to remind them of the importance of good foot… - Celebrate National Sock Day
Socks have come a long way since the basic dress blacks and thick tubes of mid-century modern life. Socks have become a fashion statement for kids and adults alike, allowing us to show off our personalities. Video game characters, bananas, a master painting by Pablo Picasso, and pretty much any other image can be knit together… - Tips to Avoid Holiday Pitfalls
Our podiatrists focus on our patient’s feet and ankles, but we’re happy when you’re in good health overall. Unfortunately, Thanksgiving’s fast approaching and it can jumpstart you into several weeks of unhealthy holiday behaviors. With just a bit of mindfulness, however, you can stop them from becoming long-term habits. Here are some typical pitfalls and what you… - Proper Healing Takes Time
Foot and ankle injuries don’t always heal quickly. And yet, modern society expects everything to happen fast! Your internet search is taking more than a few seconds to load? Ugh – cause for annoyance. Traffic jam on the interstate? – permission to feel impatient and anxious. On TV, the hero wraps up a crisis neatly and… - 5 Diabetes Complications of the Feet
Let’s dive more deeply into some of the effects of diabetes on the feet that we touched upon in last week’s blog. We mentioned five effects: wounds that won’t heal, fungal infections, numbness, cracked heels, and weakened bones: Wounds that won’t heal. For the non-diabetic, a cut or scrape is usually no big deal and will heal quickly. That’s not… - 6 Powerful Reasons to Avoid Type 2 Diabetes
Thirty-four million people in the United States have Type 2 diabetes. Sadly, all of them are at a higher risk of health complications in ways that might surprise you. In observance of Diabetes Awareness Month, let’s look into six of these complications: Legs and feet can develop problems with circulation and nerve function. Our patients with diabetes… - There’s Help for Skin Problems on Your Feet
Are your feet smooth and unblemished? Free from bumps and lumps of all kinds? We’d be surprised if they were. The skin on your feet can itch like crazy, turn angry red, break out into tiny bumps, form big lumps, or turn as flaky and scaly as a lizard’s. Patients who come to us with complaints about…