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How Arthritis Can Make Walking Difficult for Middle and Older Aged Adults

Arthritis is a common cause of walking problems in middle and older aged adults. It often affects the joints in the hips, knees, ankles, and feet, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. These symptoms can make it harder to walk comfortably or for long periods of time. Some people with arthritis may also feel unsteady on their feet, increasing the risk of falls. Foot conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, and joint deformities often develop alongside arthritis and can make walking even more difficult. Wearing supportive shoes and custom orthotics can reduce pain and improve balance. Targeted stretching and gentle exercises can also strengthen muscles and support joint health. If arthritis is making walking a challenge, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer treatments to relieve discomfort and help you stay active.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from New Tampa Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

  • Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
  • Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
  • Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Wesley Chapel, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!

Struggling With Heel Pain? Custom Orthotics Can Help

Struggling with heel pain? Discover the relief Custom Orthotics can bring. Customized to your foot's unique structure, Custom Orthotics offer targeted support, alleviating pressure points and redistributing weight. This means reduced heel pain and a more comfortable step, every time. Whether you're walking, working, or working out, Custom Orthotics ensure your heels feel cushioned and cared for. Experience the transformative power of Custom Orthotics with us today! Call today for more information.

Causes and Risk Factors of Ingrown Toenails

An ingrown toenail develops when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. This condition commonly affects the big toe and can lead to infection if not treated properly. Several factors increase the risk of developing ingrown toenails, including improper nail trimming, wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, and sustaining toe injuries. Curved or thick nails may also contribute to the problem, making certain individuals more prone to ingrown toenails. Those with diabetes or circulation issues are at a higher risk of complications. Repeated pressure from activities like running or dancing can also aggravate the condition. Ingrown toenails can be painful, causing difficulty in completing daily tasks. If you have a painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer you appropriate treatment solutions.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of New Tampa Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

  • Bacterial infections
  • Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
  • Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
  • Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
  • Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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

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Orthotics and Winter Sports

Wearing orthotics during winter sports, such as ice skating and cross-country skiing, can significantly enhance comfort and performance. Custom orthotics are designed to provide proper arch support and improve alignment, reducing strain on the feet and lower limbs. In ice skating, they can help prevent foot fatigue by stabilizing the foot within the skate, allowing for better control and less risk of injury. For cross-country skiing, orthotics offer added support for long-distance movement, ensuring proper posture and helping to prevent discomfort or injury during prolonged activity. The additional cushioning and stability orthotics provide also reduce the impact on joints, especially on hard, icy surfaces. If you enjoy participating in these types of winter sports and have a foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and educate you on the benefits of wearing custom made orthotics. 

If you are experiencing discomfort in your feet and would like to try custom orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from New Tampa Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Custom Orthotics?

Custom 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. 

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Shoe inserts come in a wide variety and 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, custom 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're experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibility of using custom orthotics or shoe inserts. A podiatrist can determine which type of custom orthotic or shoe insert is right for you and help you take the first steps toward being pain-free.

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

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