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159 North 3rd Street
Macclenny, Florida 32063

Wednesday, 04 December 2024 00:00

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

Tuesday, 03 December 2024 00:00

Wearing high heels can significantly impact both physique and gait. The elevated heel forces the body to shift its weight forward, which can alter posture and lead to an unnatural spinal curve. This change in alignment often results in tension in the lower back, hips, and knees. Over time, consistent use of high heels can contribute to muscle imbalances, as certain muscle groups, such as the calves, become shortened while others, like the hamstrings, may weaken. Gait is also affected, as high heels cause the wearer to take shorter, less stable steps, increasing the risk of stumbling or twisting an ankle. Additionally, the pressure placed on the toes can lead to foot problems like bunions or hammertoes. If you have developed foot pain from wearing high heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer relief and treatment tips, in addition to guiding you toward appropriate high-heel choices. 

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. John L. Coleman from Florida. Our doctor 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 our office located in Macclenny, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 26 November 2024 00:00

An ankle sprain occurs when one or more ligaments surrounding the ankle joint are stretched or torn. This often results from a sudden twist, misstep, or uneven surface. People with high arches, weak ankle muscles, or a history of previous sprains may be more prone to this injury. Ankle sprains are typically classified into three grades, mild, moderate, and severe, depending on severity of ligament damage. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, stiffness, and difficulty bearing weight. More severe sprains can lead to ongoing discomfort and instability if not properly treated. A podiatrist plays a key role in diagnosing and managing ankle sprains by assessing the severity of the sprain and recommending appropriate treatment, including braces, exercises, or custom orthotics to support healing. Repeated sprains may increase the risk of chronic ankle instability. If you have injured your ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Dr. John L. Coleman from Florida. Our doctor 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 our office located in Macclenny, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Tuesday, 19 November 2024 00:00

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition characterized by pain and inflammation in the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue connecting the heel to the toes. This tissue supports the arch of the foot, but repetitive stress or strain can cause tiny tears, leading to irritation and discomfort. The hallmark symptom is sharp heel pain, especially noticeable with the first steps in the morning, or after periods of inactivity. People who are on their feet for long periods, have flat feet or high arches, or wear unsupportive footwear are more prone to developing plantar fasciitis. Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation and supporting the arch. Stretching exercises, custom orthotics, and anti-inflammatory medications are common approaches. Severe cases may benefit from targeted exercises, steroid injections, or, in rare instances, surgery. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. John L. Coleman  from Florida. 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?

  • Excessive running
  • Non-supportive shoes
  • Overpronation
  • Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

  • Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
  • Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
  • Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

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 Macclenny, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Plantar Fasciitis
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