Once you reach the age of 65, you are much more likely to fall and suffer a serious injury. With most people in this age group taking a tumble in their own home, it makes sense to keep your own dwelling as safe as possible to avoid “falling” into this category yourself. First, make sure there is an adequate amount of lighting throughout your home. You’ll also want to remove tripping hazards such as clutter, loose rugs, unsecured wires, and unstable furniture. Fix any uneven surfaces in and around your home. Install grab bars in the shower and next to the commode, as well as non-slip mats in the bathroom and kitchen. Keep stairs clear of clutter, make sure the handrails on your stairs are secure and that you use them, and always take your time walking up and down the stairs. Be mindful of your steps and try not to rush around. It is also important to identify any medically related risk factors such as gait abnormalities or other foot conditions that may affect your balance and sure-footedness. Make an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer advice on proper footwear, and fix any foot or ankle conditions that may be compromising your foot health.
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 Dale Delaney, DPM from InStride Kinston Podiatry 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:
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 Kinston, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Many pregnant women experience swollen feet and ankles, mainly because of hormonal changes, as increased production of progesterone slows down digestion and circulation. Further, a buildup of blood to support the pregnancy means there is more fluid to build up in your feet. Other causes include humid weather, standing on your feet too long, and wearing tight clothing and shoes. Some ways to keep down the swelling (edema) include eating less salt and more foods containing potassium, cutting back on caffeine, drinking lots of water, and keeping your feet elevated as often as possible. In addition, you can take a short walk each day, wear compression socks, and avoid standing for long periods. Swelling normally develops in the third trimester and may continue after you give birth, but eventually it will subside. If the swelling in your feet becomes severe or painful, it is suggested that you seek the attention of a podiatrist immediately for a diagnosis and treatment plan.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dale Delaney, DPM from InStride Kinston Podiatry Center. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.
How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Kinston, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
One common sports injury that occurs in the big toe is known as turf toe. This condition, which is most common among football and soccer players, happens when the big toe is sprained because of a repetitive upward bending of the joint. This action usually takes place when the big toe is jammed or injured when pushing off while jumping or running. Turf toe is extremely common when playing on turf, particularly because the foot is more likely to stick to the hard surface under it and jam. Common indications of turf toe include pain, swelling, and a lack of joint movement in the big toe. Turf toe is often treated by rest, ice, compression and elevation, but in extreme cases, surgery may be necessary. Athletes who notice that they have symptoms similar to turf toe would be wise to check with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat the injury.
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 Dale Delaney, DPM from InStride Kinston Podiatry Center. 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:
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 Kinston, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia—a long fibrous tissue spanning the sole of the foot—becomes damaged or torn due to overuse, obesity, or structural issues with the foot. Pain and stiffness from plantar fasciitis is typically worse in the morning upon waking, and gets better as the body warms up. You can help prevent plantar fasciitis from occurring by warming up before exercising, wearing shoes that fit well with structure in the heel and support in the arch, and gradually build up duration and intensity when modifying your workout routine. If you have pain in your heel, make an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dale Delaney, DPM from InStride Kinston Podiatry Center. 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?
How Can It Be Treated?
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 Kinston, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
