December 2018

Women who enjoy wearing high heels are aware of the visual benefits from wearing this type of shoe, which may be a pleasing accessory to stylish clothing, or enhancing the shape of the foot. Research has shown that if high heels are frequently worn, the possibility of developing plantar fasciitis may increase. This may be a result of uneven weight distribution, which may force the arch to gravitate into a position that is unnatural. This may lead to possible deterioration of the plantar fascia, which is known as the band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. Additionally, many women experience pain in the Achilles tendon, and this may be a result of weakened calf muscles. If high heels are a crucial element to your wardrobe, it may be wise to choose shoes with a lower heel that offers more support. Your feet may feel better if gentle stretches are performed before wearing this type of shoe for any length of time, and this may aid in keeping the calf muscles strong. If you would like additional information about how high heels can affect the feet, please consult with a podiatrist.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact the podiatrists from Dr. Siegerman & Associates. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Drexel Hill and West Chester, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The medical name for Athlete’s foot is referred to as tinea pedis. This common fungal infection that attacks the skin on the feet may typically affect a large percentage of people who will develop this at some point in their lives. This fungus can enter the body through tiny cracks in the skin. It is generally found in public pools and surrounding areas, locker rooms, or contaminated surfaces. Patients who experience this contagious skin condition may often notice itchy and red skin between the toes or on the sole of the foot, blisters, or in severe cases, cracked skin may develop. There may be several ways to prevent this condition from developing, including washing and drying the feet regularly, avoiding the sharing of shoes and towels, and failing to alternate shoes. If you feel you have Athlete’s foot, it is suggested to speak to a podiatrist who can offer proper treatment options for you.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with the podiatrists from Dr. Siegerman & Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Drexel Hill and West Chester, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The act of falling can cause serious repercussions, and it is advised to learn about ways that prevent this from occurring. There are several consequences that may happen when a fall is endured, and this may include bone fractures, head or brain injuries that may be of a serious nature, or painful and uncomfortable cuts or bruises. Research has shown that approximately one third of seniors who reside in the United States will fall during the year, and this may cause many people to refrain from the activity that may have caused the fall. There are simple techniques that may be implemented, which may diminish the number of times falling may occur, and these may include removing any clutter that may be present, repairing carpeting that may have loosened, or removing any throw rugs that may be slippery. Additionally, it may be beneficial to install grab bars in the shower area, wear clothing that fits properly and does not drag on the floor, and install proper lighting, which may improve overall vision. If you have fallen, and have injured any part of your foot, it is suggested to seek the counsel of a podiatrist, so a proper examination can be performed.

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 the podiatrists from Dr. Siegerman & Associates. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Drexel Hill and West Chester, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

If you have ever experienced a condition that is known as heel fissures, you are most likely familiar with the discomfort it may cause. This unsightly ailment may also be referred to as cracked heels, and may cause difficulty in walking and standing. This condition may develop in anyone and may typically occur if standing is done for most of the day, or if open-back shoes are worn, which may provide minimum support. Additionally, people who are obese may notice symptoms of cracked heels and this may be a result of the additional weight the heels must endure. These signs may include the skin on the heel appearing thickened and dry, and small cracks in the skin may begin to form. Research has shown there may be measures that can be taken to prevent cracked heels from developing, which may include washing and drying the feet thoroughly, followed by utilizing a good moisturizer, and wearing shoes that provide adequate support for the heel. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested to speak with a podiatrist, so the correct treatment can begin.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact the podiatrists from Dr. Siegerman & Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Drexel Hill and West Chester, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.