Falling can be life-threatening among the older population. A fracture may happen, and this can impact the ability to complete daily activities. It can change the quality of everyday life, possibly limiting exercising, which may affect cardiovascular health. Effective fall prevention methods can be implemented, which may help limit or prevent falling. These can include installing grab bars in the toilet and shower area, and many patients find it helpful to use a bathmat. Additionally, improving lighting in the household and removing worn rugs from the living room is beneficial. Regular physical and eye examinations can help update existing eyeglasses and medications, and adding handrails to the stairs may help prevent falling episodes. Suppose you would like additional information about how falling can affect the feet and what you can do to protect them. In that case, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can guide you toward efficient fall prevention techniques.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Steven Black, DPM from California . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Many people will experience heel pain at some point in their lives. There are various reasons why heel pain can develop, and it may gradually become worse if prompt medical attention is not received. A common cause of heel pain is the foot condition that is known as plantar fasciitis. This happens when the plantar fascia becomes torn or inflamed. This can be a runner’s worst nightmare, and running is often stopped until treatment is completed. Heel pain and the corresponding conditions that caused it may be prevented by losing weight, if applicable, and maintaining healthy eating habits. Additionally, it is beneficial to wear appropriate shoes, and this may include choosing shoes that have a low and cushioned heel. If you have heel pain for any reason, it is suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can determine the cause and offer correct treatment procedures.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Steven Black, DPM of California . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Lancaster, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Wearing high heels can impact your feet negatively. While sometimes, no other style will fit with an outfit, the risks of wearing such shoes should be known and their use should be limited. High heels can cause pain and blisters, but they can also injure the ankles or cause stress fractures, as well as make existing foot problems worse. Wearing high heels can also cause pain in the body beyond the feet. One might practice walking in high heels before they are worn, perform stretching and strengthening foot exercises, and soak the feet to try and ward off foot problems. If you have additional questions or concerns about wearing high heels, or if you have foot pain from wearing them, it is suggested that you talk to a podiatrist and obtain an examination of your feet.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Steven Black, DPM from California . Our doctor 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 office located in Lancaster, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Some patients may not be fully familiar with the similarities and differences between orthotics and prosthetics. While both can be used to treat conditions of the feet, they are significantly different. Importantly, prosthetic devices in this context are mostly artificial legs. These devices can be used if an individual has lost a leg, perhaps by amputation. Orthotics, on the other hand, are either custom-made or over-the-counter shoe inserts that are designed to treat specific conditions of the feet. Therefore, both orthotics and prosthetics are significantly different medical devices. However, they are also similar in some respects. Namely, both orthotics and prosthetics can help individuals with serious health conditions to live lives that are better and less restrictive. It is suggested that you contact a podiatrist for more information about these devices.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Steven Black, DPM from California . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Lancaster, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.