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May 2020

It can be difficult for older people to properly care for their feet. This can be a result of having trouble bending down to trim the toenails, and they may not notice if there are existing cuts or bruises on the feet. Wearing shoes that fit properly is crucial in possibly preventing painful foot conditions from developing. These can include corns, bunions, and calluses. Cracked heels is a common ailment among seniors, and mild relief can be felt when a good moisturizer is frequently applied. When the toes are not trimmed on a routine basis, or when they are trimmed improperly, ingrown toenails can develop, and can become infected without prompt treatment. Many elderly people are under the care of a podiatrist who can guide them with properly taking care of their feet.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Bazzi Podiatry. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Detroit, West Detroit, Northwest Detroit, Sterling Heights, Hamtramck, Dearborn Heights, and Madison Heights, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Monday, 18 May 2020 00:00

It's Time for Beautiful Feet

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

Stress fractures primarily occur when the feet are overused. As foot muscles get tired, they are unable to absorb as much shock from impact, and the stress is transferred to the bone. Over half of all stress fractures occur in the lower leg, and athletes involved in activities such as basketball, running, and gymnastics are at a higher risk for trauma. Since stress fractures can be difficult to diagnose through an X-Ray, communicating the risk of stress fractures to doctors is key, because they may have to resort to CT scans or MRIs. If diagnosed with a stress factor, rest is key.  However, a podiatrist may be able to recommend shoe inserts or braces to help as well. For the best treatment methods, please consult with your local podiatrist. 

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Bazzi Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then 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. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

  • Runners                                  
  • People affected with Osteoporosis
  • Tennis or basketball players
  • Gymnasts
  • 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. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Detroit, West Detroit, Northwest Detroit, Sterling Heights, Hamtramck and Dearborn Heights, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
Monday, 11 May 2020 00:00

Treating Cracked Heels

Cracked heels, while physically embarrassing, can also bring a great deal of discomfort and pain to the affected foot. Some common causes of cracked heels may include open-back footwear, weather, and improper skin care. To help remove the dry skin, use a filer and gently scrape the areas that are hardened. Exfoliating, washing, and thoroughly drying the feet may also be beneficial to treating cracked heels. Using a daily moisturizer can also help to ease the discomfort of cracked heels, and it keeps the skin hydrated. In order to safely treat and heal cracked feet, seek the care of your podiatrist.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Bazzi Podiatry. 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 Detroit, West Detroit, Northwest Detroit, Sterling Heights, Hamtramck and Dearborn Heights, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Monday, 04 May 2020 00:00

How Do Ankle Sprains Occur?

The definition of an ankle sprain is a torn or stretched ligament in the ankle. The purpose of the ligaments is to hold the ankle bones in place, and they may become damaged if a foot injury has occurred. It can happen from stepping off of a curb unexpectedly, which may twist the outside ligaments of the ankle joint. Common symptoms that many patients experience from an ankle sprain can include severe pain and discomfort, swelling, and it may become difficult to walk. Many ankle sprains can be prevented by properly stretching the feet before beginning a run, and it is beneficial to wear shoes that fit correctly. If you have endured an ankle sprain, please consult with a podiatrist who can help you determine which treatment methods are best for you.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from Bazzi Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

  • Pain at the sight of the tear
  • Bruising/Swelling
  • Ankle area is tender to touch
  • In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
  • Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Detroit, West Detroit, Northwest Detroit, Sterling Heights, Hamtramck and Dearborn Heights, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Ankle Sprains
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