Items filtered by date: February 2023

People who are obese may have fallen arches or flat feet. This can happen because of the added weight the feet must endure while walking and standing. This can lead to pronation, which causes the patient to walk slightly on the outside of the foot instead of with the feet flat on the ground. Their feet may become wider, and this may be especially true of people who have been overweight for some time. Muscle mass may be lost in obese patients, and this can cause difficulty walking. Excess weight can be lost by implementing healthy eating habits and walking for approximately 30 minutes each day. This is often done slowly and will become easier the more it’s done. If you have questions about obesity, foot pain, or related conditions, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can address any concerns you may have.

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 Prince William Foot & Ankle Center, PC. Our practitioners 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 our offices located in Gainesville and Dulles, VA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many women enjoy wearing high heels for the style. Studies have even indicated that women who frequently wear high heels have sensed a renewed confidence level, in addition gaining a few inches in height. Despite these seemingly positive aspects, high heels can be uncomfortable, possibly causing painful foot conditions. These types of shoes come in various shapes and colors, and it is possible that stylish, yet comfortable high heels can be worn. This can be done by choosing a shoe that has a lower heel and a platform under the toe, which can be successful in giving the illusion of wearing a larger heel. The chunky heel, also known as the block heel, is a popular choice among women who wear high heels for the majority of the day. The feet often feel better in these types of shoes, and harmful foot conditions may be prevented. If you have questions about what type of high heel is best to wear for the health of the foot, please ask a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you are seeking. 

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Prince William Foot & Ankle Center, PC. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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

Blisters on the feet are common. Many people experience this uncomfortable condition as a result of wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Blisters are caused by excessive friction, and may easily become infected if not cared for properly. A blister is defined as a small area, which resembles a bubble that is filled with fluid and develops over the raw skin. It is the body’s natural method of protecting the area until new skin has formed, and will drain gradually when it is no longer needed. While the blister is intact, it is beneficial to wear a protective covering over it, which may help to keep it from draining prematurely. Blisters can form for other reasons, including existing medical conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis, or they can occur as an allergic reaction to an insect bite. There are various types of bandages and prevention methods for blisters, and it is suggested to consult with a podiatrist if you would like to learn more about how to manage blisters on the feet.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Prince William Foot & Ankle Center, PC. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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