December 2023

As the temperatures plummet and the outside environment becomes frosty, safeguarding your feet during outdoor work is paramount. Wearing proper footwear is the frontline defense against the biting cold. Choose insulated, waterproof boots that shield your feet from moisture and provide thermal protection. Layering socks is an effective strategy, ensuring warmth without compromising circulation. Choose moisture-wicking materials to prevent sweat accumulation, as dampness can intensify the cold. Additionally, ensure your boots are breathable to discourage moisture buildup. Regular breaks offer an opportunity to warm up and restore circulation. Invest in quality, insulated insoles to add an extra layer of warmth and comfort. Be mindful of frostbite warning signs, such as numbness or tingling, and promptly address any discomfort. Prioritize foot hygiene to prevent issues like frostbite and trench foot. If you are seeking additional tips on foot protection while working during the winter months, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Ahmad Elsamad, DPM from The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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

The question of when babies should start wearing shoes is a consideration that aligns with their developmental milestones. As a general guideline, infants typically are barefoot in their early months, allowing their delicate feet to explore and develop naturally. Shoes are introduced when babies begin to take their first steps, usually at the age of nine to 12 months. At this stage, shoes provide protection and support for those wobbly steps, aiding in balance and preventing potential injuries. Prioritizing shoes that are lightweight, flexible, and properly fitted is vital, ensuring the natural growth and formation of the feet. Soft-soled shoes with room for toes to move are recommended, promoting proper foot development. As children gradually transition to more stable steps, selecting shoes that accommodate their newfound mobility becomes an essential consideration for their comfort, safety, and continued healthy foot development. If you would like more information about what type of first shoes to buy for your child, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Ahmad Elsamad, DPM of The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

Claw toe, a foot deformity characterized by a claw-like appearance of the toes, demands prompt attention to alleviate discomfort and prevent worsening. Non-surgical interventions are often the initial line of defense, focusing on enhancing toe flexibility and optimizing foot mechanics. Taping or splinting to maintain toes in a more natural position, can reduce the progression of a claw toe. Gentle exercises also promote joint mobility and encourage toes to assume a healthier alignment. Activities like picking up small items with your toes can be beneficial. In severe cases, surgical options become a consideration. Joint fusion or tendon and bone operations may be recommended to address the root cause and provide lasting relief. Early intervention significantly improves the prognosis for individuals grappling with claw toe deformity. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to managing claw toes. Early intervention significantly improves the prognosis for individuals with claw toe deformity.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Ahmad Elsamad, DPM of The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Merrillville, and Munster, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a common reason for long-lasting heel pain. It can affect both active, young people and older people who do not move as much. This condition happens when the plantar fascia, a band of tissue in the foot, is repeatedly strained. It is often linked to tight calf muscles. Podiatrists can generally diagnose this condition by talking to the patient and examining their foot. They only use imaging tests if the case is unusual or does not get better with initial treatment. The main symptom is a sore heel, especially when taking the first steps in the morning or after sitting for a while. Treatment involves changing activities and stretching the calf and foot. Special shoe inserts that support and cushion the heel can also help. If pain continues after six months, podiatrists may suggest less invasive treatments or even surgery. These treatments help the body heal itself or relieve pain. However, some injections, while they reduce pain, could also weaken the foot tissue. Surgery options involve releasing tension in the calf or making small cuts in the plantar fascia to encourage healing. If you have chronic plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine what the best treatment options are for you.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Ahmad Elsamad, DPM  from The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . 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 offices located in Merrillville, and Munster, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.