Items filtered by date: October 2024

Workplace falls are a significant safety concern that can lead to serious injuries, particularly to the feet. Preventing these incidents requires awareness of both unsafe actions and unsafe conditions. Common unsafe actions include rushing, not using handrails on stairs, and failing to keep walkways clear of obstacles. Unsafe conditions often involve wet floors, poor lighting, and uneven surfaces, which can increase the risk of slips and trips. To minimize the likelihood of falls, it is essential that a clean and organized work environment is maintained, proper lighting is ensured, and spills are addressed promptly. Additionally, appropriate footwear with good traction can help protect the feet from injury. Falling can seriously impact the feet and may cause a temporary loss of wages. If you have injured your feet from falling at work, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective treatment solutions and appropriate fall prevention advice.

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 Ali Davis, DPM from The Foot Clinic. 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 Overland Park, KS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Basketball is an exhilarating sport that can lead to various foot and ankle injuries due to its fast-paced nature. One common injury is a calf muscle strain that occurs from sudden movements or jumps, resulting in pain and stiffness in the lower leg. Plantar fasciitis is another frequent issue that results in inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, often causing sharp pain, especially the first steps after resting. Ankle sprains are prevalent as well, typically resulting from twisting or landing awkwardly, leading to swelling and bruising. Additionally, achilles tendonitis, an inflammation of the tendon connecting the calf to the heel, can develop over time due to repetitive stress. If you enjoy playing basketball and have endured a foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can effectively treat these types of injuries.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Ali Davis, DPM from The Foot Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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

A broken toe can occur due to various reasons, including trauma from dropping heavy objects on it, stubbing the toe, or injury from participating in sports. Common symptoms include intense pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. Long-term complications can arise, such as chronic pain, deformity, or arthritis if the injury is not properly managed. Healing time typically ranges from four to six weeks, depending on the severity of the fracture. To prevent broken toes, individuals should wear appropriate shoes that provide support and protection, especially during physical activities. Additionally, being cautious in environments with potential hazards can reduce the risk of toe injuries. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you the correct treatment method.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Ali Davis, DPM from The Foot Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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

Managing ankle arthritis can be significantly aided by incorporating specific foot exercises into your routine. Ankle pumps are particularly beneficial, and are done by flexing and pointing the foot repeatedly. This can help to improve circulation and reduce stiffness. Another helpful exercise is ankle rotation, which involves gently rotating the foot in a circular motion, promoting flexibility and easing joint pain. The ankle alphabet exercise also proves effective. By using your foot to write the letters of the alphabet in the air, you engage various ankle muscles and enhance mobility. These exercises help maintain joint function, alleviate discomfort, and improve overall ankle health. If you have arthritis in your feet and ankles, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you additional relief and management techniques. 

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Ali Davis, DPM from The Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that extends from the heel bone to the toes. This injury often results from repetitive strain, such as from running or sudden increases in physical activity. Prolonged standing, exercising on hard surfaces, and wearing poorly fitting or unsupportive shoes can also contribute to damage. Individuals with flat feet, high arches, are overweight, or are over the age of 40, as well as those with previous foot or ankle injuries, are at higher risk for developing plantar fasciitis. Symptoms typically include heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. Effective management and treatment are key to alleviate pain and prevent further issues. If you are experiencing foot pain or suspect plantar fasciitis, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Ali Davis, DPM  from The Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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