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Middlefield (860) 349-8500
Wallingford (203) 294-4977

April 2023

Tuesday, 25 April 2023 00:00

The Importance of Daily Foot Care

To say the feet are critical to functioning is an understatement. They absorb the full impact of the body’s weight, while keeping the body balanced and upright. A host of problems can affect the feet, which can impact comfort and reduce mobility. These can include cracked skin, ingrown toenails, and injured bones. Following a simple foot care routine can help keep the skin, bones, and muscles of the feet functioning properly.  Wearing well-fitted shoes that are supportive and comfortable are key factors in maintaining good foot health. If you shop for new shoes, it is important to do so later in the day when the feet are at their largest. The feet are then measured with the socks that will be worn with the intended shoes. It is beneficial for the feet to be exercised to stay strong, and simply walking can fulfill this need. Washing, drying, and moisturizing the feet daily, in addition to wearing socks that can add shock absorption, may help to protect the feet. If foot conditions develop, or if you would like more information about how you can take better care of your feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Gordon Fosdick from Affiliated Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Middlefield and Wallingford, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Published in Blog
Tuesday, 18 April 2023 00:00

Installations and Falls Prevention

If you are a senior citizen or are currently caring for one, then it might be important to remember that doing what you can to prevent falls can help maintain proper foot health. This is because suffering a fall can lead to foot injuries and other conditions in a senior. In order to prevent falls, you might consider the potential benefits of adding installations in the senior’s home. For example, installing certain objects around the home, such as handrails on both sides of the stairwell, can give a senior extra support when navigating the stairs. Additionally, the installation of grab bars in the shower or tub may help senior citizens support themselves and gain balance when bathing. Lastly, and importantly, you might consider installing a raised toilet seat that has armrests to provide ample stability for the senior when using the restroom. All of these installations might serve to increase the senior’s stability and decrease the likelihood of suffering from a fall. It is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for more information about preventing falls. 

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 Dr. Gordon Fosdick from Affiliated Foot Care Center. 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 offices located in Middlefield and Wallingford, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Published in Blog
Wednesday, 12 April 2023 00:00

Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked

Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.

Published in Blog
Tuesday, 11 April 2023 00:00

When Is an Ankle Brace Needed?

Patients with a condition known as foot drop, as well as other foot and ankle-related problems, may need the assistance of an ankle brace. This device is commonly called an AFO, or ankle-foot orthosis. The brace aids the wearer by providing stability in the ankle joint, maintaining its alignment, and preventing the foot from dragging on the ground while walking. AFOs are made of plastic, metal, or strong fiber, depending on the needs of the patient. A podiatrist can determine the type of AFO required by conducting a series of tests to assess muscle strength, joint mobility, and gait issues. Ankle-foot orthoses come in various forms, including solid, which encases the joint, and hinged, which provides controlled ankle movement. A typical AFO begins just below the knee and extends to the base of the toes. This type of device is commonly prescribed for patients with foot drop, nerve disorders, trauma, and other conditions that affect the gait. For more information on an ankle-foot orthotic device, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Gordon Fosdick from Affiliated Foot Care Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

  • Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
  • Ankle sprains
  • Broken ankles
  • Achilles tendinitis
  • Achilles tendon rupture
  • Stress fractures
  • Bursitis
  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome
  • Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

 

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Published in Blog
Tuesday, 04 April 2023 00:00

Common Causes of Foot Pain in Seniors

One in three people, who are older experience some type of foot pain, stiffness, or aching feet. Some of these may simply be attributed to age and wear and tear. Another cause may be wearing ill-fitting shoes. Many older people wear shoes that are too narrow, too small, and have heels that are too high. Other changes to the feet, such as loss of padding, fallen arches, and joint stiffness contribute to foot pain in seniors. In addition, several underlying illnesses may be factors, including diabetes, arthritis, and neuropathy. Foot pain in seniors may also result from an injury, standing for long periods, walking on hard surfaces, and carrying extra weight. A podiatrist is a specially trained doctor who deals with problems of the ankles, toes, and feet. It is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who will evaluate the type and source of the foot pain and be able to direct you to a treatment plan that works for you.  

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Gordon Fosdick from Affiliated Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

  • Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
  • Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
  • Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
  • Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
  • Shoes that don’t fit properly
  • Pressure sores
  • Loss of circulation in legs & feet
  • Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Middlefield and Wallingford, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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