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.

The main reason why cracked heels develop is a lack of moisture in the skin. It can happen for various reasons, consisting of standing on hard surfaces for most of the day and wearing shoes with an open back. Medical conditions such as dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, or a thyroid disorder regularly have the symptom of cracked heels. Cracked heels can be unsightly and may develop into a serious foot condition if left untreated. The cracks can deepen and bleed, and these are known as fissures. One of the first signs this condition may be developing is thick skin on the edges of the heels. Temporary relief may be found when the feet are soaked in warm water, followed by applying a good moisturizer. Additionally, a pumice stone can be used to remove a portion of the thickened skin, and it may help to wear appropriate shoes that can provide adequate heel support. If you have developed cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer you permanent relief, which may come from prescribed medicine.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Steven Black, DPM from California . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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.