May 2019

As obesity becomes a common issue worldwide, it is important to know the effects it can have on your feet. The most obvious impact is pain in the feet. The more you weigh, the more pressure you are putting on the lower half of your body. This extra weight may result in the arches falling. Once you have fallen arches, a condition called pronation may result. Pronation is when a person walks on the sides of their feet, rather than walking with their feet flat on the ground. Fallen arches and pronation may lead to a wide variety of issues on the feet, ankles, legs, hips and back. Engaging in a healthy lifestyle is the best way to prevent obesity and the slew of foot issues that it may cause.

Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Michigan Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.

Problems & Complications

Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.

Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.

Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Ferndale, and Milford, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Babies feet are soft and flexible, and this is a result of bones that have not fully developed. Research has indicated the importance of wearing shoes and socks that fit correctly, and this can help in preventing uncomfortable foot conditions. It is beneficial that children walk barefoot while indoors, and this aids in strengthening the toes which help to provide the grasping motion. It is important to measure children's feet approximately every other month until the age of three. This will ensure the correct size shoes are worn for their rapidly growing feet. Most babies are born with flat feet, and the arch will fully develop by seven years old. If you notice your child is walking with their feet pointed inward or outward, it is advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly examine your child’s feet.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Michigan Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Ferndale, and Milford, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

One of the first symptoms that is noticed in poor circulation is a numbing or tingling sensation that is felt in the feet. When the blood circulates properly, toxins are carried through the bloodstream for elimination. If the arteries are clogged, the blood may have difficulty moving freely through the body. There are several methods to improve poor circulation. Research has indicated that exercising regularly is beneficial in improving circulation, and this can include yoga, stretching, or walking. Additionally, this condition can be improved by incorporating foods into your diet such as fruits and vegetables. Many patients enjoy massages as an effective method to improve circulation. If you have poor circulation and would like information about how it affects the feet, please consult with a podiatrist.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Michigan Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

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 one of our offices located in Ferndale, and Milford, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Shoes are designed for different functions, and it is beneficial to wear the correct shoes for running and walking. Shoes that are ideal for walking will have rounded heels, and provide the proper amount of stability. This can enable the walker to maintain flexibility as each step is taken. If speed walking is favored, it is helpful to wear shoes that have adequate cushioning, which aids in shock absorption. For people who prefer running, the shoe should consist of a thicker sole, and are made with materials that are lightweight. Additionally, running shoes provide complete arch support, and will help to protect the muscles and ligaments of the feet. If you would like additional information about how to choose walking or running shoes, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with one of our podiatrists from Michigan Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Ferndale, and Milford, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.