"I don't think I could sustain the proper running mileage and type of mileage that I need to do as a professional triathlete with only barefoot running," Corbin said. However, even though many Americans have opted for barefoot running shoes since last year, the trend seems to be going downhill recently. The US accounts for about 4 percent of all minimalist running shoes sold year to date, according to Matt Powell an athletic-shoe analyst for SportsOneSource.  Minimalist and barefoot peaked last year. Most runners are returning to shoes that offer more cushion and stability,” said Powell.

Allowing your body time to adjust properly to barefoot running is essential, and part of this preventative care involves talking to a podiatrist like Dr. Neal Frankel of A Foot & Ankle Centre. Dr. Frankel can advise you on a running regimen, as well as provide information on techniques of barefoot running to help avoid foot pain, heel pain, and injury.

Barefoot Running

The Impact of Barefoot Running

-Running without shoes changes the motion of your running, as most running is done by landing on the heel of the feet.
-Running barefoot requires a different way of running; the landing is done on the front part of the feet.

The Advantages of Barefoot Running

-When running and landing on the front feet, the impact on the feet and ankle is reduced, this can reduce stress injuries.
-It strengthens muscles in the feet and ankles and the lower legs.
-Balance of the body is improved and there is a greater sensory input from the feet to the rest of the body.

The Drawbacks of Barefoot Running

-No protection while running, makes it likely that runners will land on sharp objects and scrapes, bruises and cuts on the feet will result.
-Blisters may form.
-Possibility of plantar fascia problems.
-Risk of getting Achilles tendonitis.

So what can runners do to make barefoot running safe? It’s best to make a slow transition from running shoes to barefoot running. Once the feet begin to adjust, try walking, then jogging and gradually increasing the distance. Minimalist running shoes may also be an option.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Chicago, Lincolnwood, and Oak Brook, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

Read the full article on Barefoot Running.

A child’s feet are formed from soft, pliable cartilage which makes them more susceptible to deformities. A young child can be affected by foot conditions such as:

• Intoeing
• Outoeing
• Flat feet
• Warts
• Heel pain

Tips for Parents

Parents can help promote normal, healthy foot development for their baby.

• Examine your baby’s feet regularly.  If you detect any unusual signs, contact your child’s pediatrician or podiatrist right away.
• Encourage exercise.  Lying uncovered allows the baby to kick and move feet and toes freely so not to inhibit normal development.
• Cover feet loosely.  Tight clothing or covers restrict movement.
• Alternate your baby’s position several times a day.  Lying too long in one spot may place unnecessary strain on the feet and legs.

Growing Up

As your baby continues to grow and develop, so will the feet. It may be necessary to change shoe and sock size every few months, as tight-fitting footwear can aggravate preexisting conditions.  After the first steps are taken, you should also carefully observe walking patterns. Intoeing, outoeing, and gait abnormalities can be corrected when they are detected early.

A baby’s feet will carry them throughout life, so it’s important to begin foot care at a young age. Neglecting your child’s foot health invites problems in other parts of the body, such as the back and legs.  Whenever you have questions about your child’s foot health, or if you suspect a problem with the development of your child’s feet, contact our Lincolnwood, Chicago or Oakbrook, IL office.

According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, flip flops do not offer a lot of support for the feet. With no straps around the ankle, the joint stays unsecured. Doctors also advise to not wear flip flops for extended periods of time. “Use it wisely. A few hours here and there” said Dr. Larry Ketner, a podiatrist currently studying this case from Peru.

Speaking to a podiatrist like Dr. Neal Frankel of A Foot & Ankle Centre will help you better understand the steps you can take to ensure that your feet stay healthy while wearing flip flops.

Flip-Flops and Feet

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

· Ankle problems
· Hip problems
· Lower back problems
· Changes in the way you walk

Are there injuries associated with flip-flops?

· Sprained ankles
· Blisters
· Infections
· Cuts and Scrapes

I like wearing flip-flops, are there safe alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and are made of high quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more, but will also last longer as a result; make sure you are purchasing your flip-flops from a respected brand too. Replacing your flip-flops every 3-4 months is suggested to provide maximum support and protection for your feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Chicago, Lincolnwood, and Oak Brook, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

Read more on Flips-Flops and Feet.

Shoes like gladiator sandals which women love to wear are trendy and stylish but do not provide a lot of support for one’s foot or ankle. This can throw off the biomechanics of their feet leaving them at risk of developing a very serious and intense foot injury or condition. It is suggested that if you are planning to walk for a longer period of time outside or know that you are going to be on your feet for a while, that you should wear sneakers that guarantee support for your foot and ankle.

If you suspect a problem with your biomechanics and believe it is causing foot pain, ankle pain, or walking instability, it is recommended to see a podiatrist, like Dr. Neal Frankel of A Foot & Ankle Centre for immediate consultation, care, and treatment options.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body causing an interference with the biological structure and focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

- In 1974 biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination to the area.

Modern technology improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes providing a better understanding of podiatry concepts for biomechanics. Computers provide accurate determinations about the forces, moments and patterns of the foot and lower legs with the most important information captured.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Chicago, Lincolnwood, and Oak Brook, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot ankle injuries.

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One photo displayed a gruesome surgical procedure of Bryant’s foot, which he shared with his 2.5 million Twitter followers. The graphic photo shows a number of surgeons working on the open area around the 34-year old’s ankle. Bryant had to undergo surgery to repair his Achilles in April, but is slated for a return for the Lakers 2013-14 season opener.

Achilles Injuries can be painful and sometimes require surgery as with Kobe Bryant’s case. If you injured your Achilles tendon, a podiatrist like Dr. Neal Frankel of A Foot & Ankle Centre can determine your condition and follow the appropriate treatment options for your needs.

What is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles to the calf and heel of the foot. The strongest tendon in the body, it is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such so important, any injuries to it can cause severe complications and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What are the symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

- Inflammation
- Pain Ranging From Dull to Severe
- Increased blood flow to the tendon
- Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

- Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
- Complete immobility

Treatment and Prevention

- Stretching before and after exercise
- Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses
- Proper footwear

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Chicago, Lincolnwood, and Oak Brook, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot ankle injuries.

Athletes as young as 12 or 13 years old are beginning to suffer from fractures and other foot related problems that might be brought with them into adulthood. In the study conducted by Loyola University Medical Center, 70 percent of youngsters were likely injuries due to overuse of their feet. “We should be cautious about intense specialization in one sport before and during adolescence," said Dr. Neeru Jayanthi, sports medicine physician at Loyola University, "Among the recommendations we can make, based on our findings, is that young athletes should not spend more hours per week in organized sports than their ages."

Dealing with a stress fracture can be a painful endeavor. Treatment and recovery can be aided with the help of a podiatrist like Dr. Neal Frankel of A Foot & Ankle Centre.  Dr. Frankel can help by examining the stress fracture and determining the best course of treatment.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

The Stress Fractures occur on the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  Then the feet and ankles lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection the bones receive the full impact of each step.

What are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures are common among individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles.

Stress factors are most common among:

-runners                                 
-people affected with Osteoporosis
-gymnastics
-high impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures, and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness.

The individual and the degree of injury depend on the fracture of the foot. Some fractures heal very fast while others take a long times and one would need crutches.

If you have any questions, contact one of our offices located in Chicago, Lincolnwood, and Oak Brook, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

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David Loo shows that foot and ankle orthotics can allow anyone to regain full mobility. This is proof that foot conditions are something that can be overcome. If you have a need for ankle-foot orthotics, it is highly recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist, like Dr. Neal Frankel of A Foot & Ankle Centre. Dr. Frankel can work with you on treatment options for your foot conditions that might require the use of ankle-foot orthotics.

Ankle Foot Orthotics and What They Do

Usually used for the foot or ankle, orthotics provide support for weakened limbs or help direct the limbs so they may function properly. These orthotics can help strengthen muscles as well as benefitting muscles that need to be loosened or lengthened. Usually the orthosis is designed in a rigid L shape that is contoured to the calf and flesh colored in order to blend with the patient’s appearance.

When are Orthotics Necessary?

Orthotics are prescribed when someone is diagnosed with diseases that affect the musculature such as polio and multiple sclerosis. However, ailments such as arthritis and stroke, or foot conditions that “toe in”, may also require orthotics.

As opposed to metal braces of previous years, modern orthotics have improved tremendously. Many of today’s orthotics are manufactured with lightweight plastics and other advanced materials to provide new levels of support and comfort.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices in Chicago, Lincolnwood, and Oak Brook, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment services for all your podiatric needs.

Read the Full Article on Orthoses.

Extra weight doesn’t have to be substantial to have an impact on your feet and ankles. As little as 10 or 20 pounds can trigger pain in the lower extremities. Being overweight changes the way your foot functions, and the force on the feet intensifies.

The most common foot problems from being overweight include:

• Plantar Fasciitis: Excess weight adds strain to the plantar fascia, overusing and weakening it. This causes it to become inflamed and irritated. Heel pain is one of the most common problems caused by weight gain.
• Tendonitis: When the feet endure extra weight, it eventually causes the tendons/ligaments to be overused, which leads to injury and inflammation.
• Fallen Arches: An increase in body weight and pressure causes the supporting structures in your feet (muscles, tendons, and ligaments) to become stretched and weakened, breaking down over time. This can weaken the muscle which gives the foot its arch, causing over-pronation and leading to other problems such as knee and hip pain.
• Other effects from carrying extra weight include changes in posture, changes in gait (steps become shorter) and stress fractures.

Losing extra pounds can help ease the pain and reduce problems caused by carrying excess body weight. Unfortunately, it's tough to lose weight when your feet hurt. To combat foot problems triggered by weight gain, ease into a low-impact activity that doesn’t require you to place pressure on your foot, such as water aerobics.  Always start any new workout routine slowly and work with your regular physician and podiatrist at Dr. Frankel to find healthy ways to modify your diet and select the best, supportive footwear for your feet.

Foot pain is never normal, regardless of weight, as it indicates some type of stress or injury. You should always consult an experienced podiatrist at our Chicago office if you are experiencing any pain in your foot.

Wallace’s injury lingered until late February, according to Knicks Wallace had a stress fracture in the foot, which would require regular-season ending surgery. The Knicks hoped Wallace would be able to contribute to the playoffs; instead he played only under four minutes on Monday, before having to leave due to foot pain.   

It is important to carefully consider all treatment options before choosing a surgical treatment. If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain and are considering surgery, you should seea podiatrist like Dr. Neal Frankel of A Foot & Ankle Centre, who understands how crucial foot surgery is before making adjustments and getting back into the game. With Dr. Frankel’s help, your injury can be evaluated properly and the right treatment options can be provided for you.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to help with the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary are:

- Removing foot deformities like bone spurs and bunions
- Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
- Reconstruction to attend injuries caused by accidents or malformations

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will be dependent on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

- Bunionectomy for painful bunions
- Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
- Nerve removal for painful nerve endings

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, when it is undertaken, if can provide more complete pain relief than before, and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Such techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices in Chicago, Lincolnwood, and Oak Brook, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment services for all your podiatric needs.

Read more on Foot Surgery.

The former U.S. Ryder Cup player broke his ankle by rolling backward on his blades. He then hit a hole in the ground while waiting for his fiancée, Erica Kahldin, to catch up stated Terry Reilly of Wasserman Media Group. His ankle collapsed sideways, which resulted in a small fracture. “Just a freak little thing,” said Reilly.  

If you think you have sustained an ankle injury such as this you should seek out a podiatrist such as Dr. Neal Frankel of A Foot & Ankle Centre. Dr. Frankel will diagnose any injuries you may have as well as provide you with treatment options that work for you.

Broken Ankles

The ankle consists of three bones- the tibia, the fibula, and the talus. The tibia and the fibula are the two bones that connect to your knees. They sit directly above the talus bone, which is protected by a fibrous membrane and allows slight movement in the ankle joint. A break usually occurs in one of these bones after the foot is twisted too far, a strong impact like jumping from a great height, or repeated stresses like running.

Diagnosis

If you suffer an ankle injury, it is essential that you receive a correct diagnosis. One of the first signs that the ankle is broken is an inability to put any weight on it. There will often be severe bruising and swelling at the sight of the injury. Your doctor may also order an x-ray be taken to determine the exact location and extent of the injury.

Treatment

Without proper care, a broken ankle may not heal properly and could cause arthritis and instability later in life. Therefore, seeking proper treatment is essential to making a full recovery.

To learn more about treatment methods on broken ankles, follow this link.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices in Chicago, Lincolnwood, and Oak Brook, IL offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Subsequently, an announcement was made recently by Tigers head coach Kevin Rand saying Garcia will return to conditioning drills and will be invited to participate in more spring training games later in Lakeland

An injury like Garcia can be managed and taken care of by a podiatrist like Dr. Neal Frankel of A Foot & Ankle Centre. Dr. Frankel can examine your heel pain, determine the severity of your injury, and work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options.

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 thing of the past.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices in Chicago, Lincolnwood, and Oak Brook, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment services for all your podiatric needs.

Read the full article on Heel Pain.

Cracked heels are most commonly caused by splitting of the skin as a result of severe dryness or thickening of a callus on your heel. Severe cases of dry, cracked heels can occur for numerous reasons, including:

• Cold winter weather or dry climates
• Dehydration
• Having diabetes
• Scrubbing feet too harshly
• Soaking in a hot bath or shower for too long or too frequently
• Not moisturizing the feet
• Increased weight
• Walking barefoot or wearing open-backed sandals or shoes
• Prolonged standing at work or home
• Chronic skin problems, such as eczema or psoriasis

Here are a few tips for keeping heels from cracking:

• Moisturize the feet daily
• Avoid walking barefoot or wearing open-backed shoes
• Opt for mild soaps that won’t dry out your heels
• Increase your water intake to keep your body hydrated
• Limit time in the shower as hot water dries out the skin
• Use a pumice stone or file as directed by your doctor to gently decrease the thick layer of skin

When to Visit Chicago

What may begin as an annoyance or simple cosmetic issue, cracked heels can lead to pain and serious infection if not managed properly. Most cases of dry, cracked heels will get better with a little foot pampering or over-the-counter foot cream.

When heels are severely cracked or painful and conservative treatments aren’t effective, visit our Chicago office. People with diabetes are at an especially high risk for health problems and should not wait to have dry feet cared for. Severely cracked heels need moisture to avoid pain, bleeding and infection. A podiatrist can work with you to relieve your cracked heels with conservative treatment options.

Boseman faced several challenges using the equipment, some of which included placing stress on his feet and hands. “Wearing the shoes was the worst thing because shoes have come a long way in terms of sole and support; especially when you put spikes on the other side of it,” said Boseman. He used up five or six pairs of shoes during the course of filming, which then led to bruising in his bones and didn’t heal months later, stated Boseman.   

It is important that the right shoes are worn for protection and guard against pain and discomfort. Boseman’s experience with bruising in the feet was a result from poor and ill fitting shoes. A podiatrist like Dr. Neal Frankel of A Foot & Ankle Centre can make recommendations on how to care and find shoes that fit you, as well as help you with any foot pain you might have experienced from wearing improper footwear.

The Importance of Proper Foot Support

Walking is an everyday function for both men and women, and in order to keep your body’s balance in order, you are going to need shoes that provide the proper kinds of support. 

Poor foot support can cause pain and discomfort in the lower back, hips, knees, neck and shoulder. It also can lead to emotional stress, and physiological changes in the body. In order to avoid these problems, you must have proper foot support.

The arch is the most important part of the foot, which is where most of the support and balance of your feet lies. The arch of your foot varies in height, and as you age, this height can change. Proper foot support will help musculoskeletal issues, which causes inactivity or disability.

Shoes to Consider:

- Good heel and arch support
- Have proper length and width for your feet
- Avoid tight/cramped shoes
- Have many eyelets –will give feet better support when the laces are tied

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices in Chicago, Lincolnwood, and Oak Brook, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment services for all your podiatric needs.

Read More on Proper Foot Support.   

If you are experiencing foot pain and think it might be caused by arthritis, you should seek the care of a podiatrist like Dr. Neal Frankel of A Foot & Ankle Centre is experienced in treating patients with foot pain caused by arthritis, and can provide you with a proper diagnosis to determine if your foot pain is in fact caused by arthritis.

Arthritic Foot Care

We walk approximately 75,000 miles in the average lifetime, putting a great deal of stress on the 26 bones and 30 joints that we have in our feet. Our feet lose flexibility and elasticity as we get older. Our shock absorbers weaken, and if arthritis occurs, the joints become inflamed and distorted. Arthritic foot care and treatment is crucial when this happens.

Take care of your feet by wearing footwear that is well-fitted. Certain conditions can develop when you wear shoes that don’t fit properly; such as hammertoes, neuroma, and bunions. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room in the shoe can help your feet be comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot can become problematic. Buying shoes with adequate arch support helps; especially those that contour to your foot.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

Specific exercises may help prevent further pain and injury and increase your mobility.

To learn more about arthritic foot care, please follow the link below.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices in Chicago, Lincolnwood, and Oak Brook, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment services for all your podiatric needs.

Read more on Arthritic Foot Care.

What is Sever’s Disease?

Sever’s disease is a condition that typically affects growing adolescents.  It can cause much pain and is dealt with through medical attention.  If you think that a young person you know is suffering from Sever’s disease, have them seek the care of a podiatrist such as Dr. Neal Frankel of A Foot & Ankle Centre. Dr. Frankel can determine the cause of your pain as well as provide you with treatment options.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Toe gait- develops in which the child must change the way they walk to avoid placing weight on the heel. This can lead to other problems as well in the future.

Symptoms

Acute pain – pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually in the heel when the child engages in physical activity.
Highly active – very active children are among the most susceptible, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.
Improper pronation – the rolling of the foot during walking or running. Obesity can be another cause of improper pronation.

To learn more about treatments and diagnosis of sever’s disease, follow link below.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices in Chicago, Lincolnwood, and Oak Brook, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment services for all your podiatric needs.

Read the Full Article on Sever’s Disease.

Although wearing high heels is fashionable to many women; it is show to have its disadvantages as well. If you think you have flat feet you should seek out the care of a podiatrist such as like Dr. Neal Frankel of A Foot & Ankle Centre. Dr. Frankel will diagnose any foot conditions you may have as well as provide you with a range of treatment options.

What are Flat Feet?

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – if you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms:

• Pain around the heel or arch area.
• Trouble standing on the tip toe.
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle.
• Flat look to one or both feet.
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn.

For more information on the treatment of flat feet, visit our link below.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices in Chicago, Lincolnwood, and Oak Brook, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment services for all your podiatric needs.

Read more on Flat-feet.

If you are suffering from any podiatric complaints that may be related to age you should seek out the care of a podiatrist such as Dr. Neal Frankel of A Foot & Ankle Centre. Dr. Frankel can diagnose any injuries you may have sustained as well as provide you treatment options that work for you.

Geriatrics and Podiatry

When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and even rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health without care.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseases can affect your overall health and having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities.

As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns, etc.

Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock, the higher the chance of exposure to bacteria.

Lastly, good foot health means you can have a more active lifestyle.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices in Chicago, Lincolnwood, and Oak Brook, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment services for all your podiatric needs.

Read more on Geriatrics and Podiatry.

Keep feet clean

The best line of defense against fungal infections is proper hygiene and regular inspection of the feet and toes. Wash feet with soap and water daily, and dry them thoroughly to prevent infection. Wear shower shoes in public places, like pools and locker rooms. And to prevent ingrown nails and toenail fungus, keep toenails trimmed straight across.

Avoid walking barefoot

Walking outside in the summertime without shoes increases the risk of injury and infection.

Protect feet from the sun

Wearing sunscreen is extremely important in the summertime- and that means lathering up the exposed skin on your feet and ankles too.

Keep your feet fungus free

Coupled with good foot hygiene, you can also prevent toenail fungus by alternating your shoes. And if you suspect a fungus infected nail, visit Dr. Frankel right away for early treatment.

Treat your feet to a pedicure

Eliminate rough, dead, winter skin and improve the appearance of your toenails with a pedicure. Do it yourself or pamper yourself to a professional one for attractive summer feet you'll be proud to show off. But don't leave nail polish on all summer long. Remove it periodically to allow your nail bed to breathe.

Prevent painful blisters

Sandals and flip flops can lead to irritating blisters when they rub against your bare skin. Use padding or bandages to prevent and reduce friction.

Examine your flip flops

Flip flops are great for allowing your feet to breathe all summer long, but thong sandals can result in sore feet and ankles. Choose styles with arch and heel support to keep feet healthy and pain free.

Following these easy steps during the summer months can go a long way in keeping your feet looking and feeling their very best. Inspect your feet daily, and if you encounter any unusual foot problems or experience pain, contact our Chicago office for a thorough evaluation.

Buying running shoes a half to a whole size larger than what you’d normally wear is recommended because feet typically swell during exercise and need the extra room.  Getting a running-gait analysis is also recommended because it is a process that can assess the needs of your feet.  McKell also recommends not buying into trends, since everybody is different.  

As McKell points out, getting the proper running shoeis vital to a good workout and learning the difference between walking and running shoescan help you get the most out of your workout and prevent injuries. In order to further help you with your exercise regimen, it is recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist such as Dr. Neal Frankel of A Foot & Ankle Centre. Dr. Frankel can work with you and give you a better understanding how your feet are affected by both running and walking shoes.

Walking

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

Heel – walking shoes also have a beveled or angled heel. This helps absorb shock and puts less pressure on the ankles.

Running

Light Weight – running shoes are generally made of more lightweight material to reduce the amount of weight your body needs to lift with each stride.

Thicker Soles – running shoes also provide shock absorbers that reduce the rippling effects of impacting the ground during each stride.

To learn more about how these types of shoes play a role in fitness, visit our link below.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices in Chicago, Lincolnwood, and Oak Brook, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment services for all your podiatric needs.

Read the Full Article on The Difference Between Running and Walking Shoes.

Cold feet due to poor circulationare a difficult condition to treat. If you are experiencing overly cold feet that you think might be due to poor circulation, you should seek the care of a podiatrist like Dr. Neal Frankel of A Foot & Ankle Centre.   Dr. Frankel will give you a thorough examination to determine the cause of your cold feet and recommend appropriate treatment options.

What is Poor Circulation?

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. It usually restricts the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development.

It can also cause:

- Muscle pain 
- Numbness in legs
- Cramps
- Skin discoloration
- Weakness
- Slower nail & hair growth
- Stiffness
- Erectile dysfunction

To learn more about poor circulation in the feet and how it affects your health, visit our link below.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices in Chicago, Lincolnwood, and Oak Brook, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment services for all your podiatric needs.

Read the Full Article on Poor Circulation in the Feet.