Items filtered by date: December 2022

Swollen feet during pregnancy are often a nuisance for most women. Larger shoes may need to be purchased, and they can produce a general feeling of discomfort. Knowing swollen feet will gradually dissipate may help to ease thoughts about the tenderness that is often associated with this condition. There are various reasons why feet can become swollen during this time. These can include the extra fluid and thicker blood the body produces to support the growing fetus, in addition to hormone changes that can affect circulation. This can cause the blood to collect in the legs, and mild relief may come from frequently propping them up. It may also help to reduce the amount of time standing and walking during the day. Additionally, limiting sodium intake and sleeping on the left side may be beneficial in reducing the amount of swelling in the ankles. If you have questions about your swollen feet during this time in your life, please ask a podiatrist who can help you with your concerns.

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 Gerald McCool, DPM from McCool Podiatry. 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?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in El Paso, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Individuals who suffer from diabetes often have to take extra special care of different parts of their body. This is because diabetes makes the human body suffer from nerve damage, among many different things. However, nerve damage in the feet is often one of the most serious effects of having diabetes. Due to the nerve damage in the feet, many diabetics might experience some loss of feeling in the feet. As a result, diabetics ought to take extra special care of their feet because this lack of feeling may result in unnoticed afflictions of the foot if not closely monitored. Diabetics can make a point of examining their feet to ensure that they are not missing any signs of a foot condition. For example, performing a simple foot examination can improve the extent to which an individual is monitoring and checking for signs of damage to their feet. If you suffer from diabetes, contact a podiatrist for help today. 

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Gerald McCool, DPM from McCool Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in El Paso, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

As one gets older, caring for the feet becomes more and more important. A daily regimen of foot care is recommended by experts in geriatrics. Inspecting the feet for cuts, bruises, and sores is something that should be done every day, either by yourself or by a caregiver. Many older people develop underlying conditions that contribute to foot problems that if ignored can have serious repercussions, including numbness, inability to feel hot and cold temperatures, and increased risk of falling. For this reason, maintaining both a healthy diet and doing low-impact exercises regularly can go a long way to keeping you mobile, independent, and able to carry out daily activities. Wearing supportive shoes with ample cushioning is suggested, and going barefoot is to be avoided if possible. If your feet are in constant pain, if they are numb, or if you have sores that take a long time to heal, it is a good idea to consult a podiatrist.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Gerald McCool, DPM from McCool Podiatry. Our doctor 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 our office located in El Paso, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Orthotics are defined as supportive insoles that provide bone and joint stability, in addition to soft tissue protection. Many patients with flat feet are interested in wearing orthotics, which may relieve this condition. Moving efficiently can be done by having the midfoot flex like a bow while adding shock absorption to the walking style, or gait. There are two types of flat feet consisting of rigid and flexible. Orthotics that have low arches are suggested for people who have rigid flat feet, and flexible feet are indicated when the arch appears while sitting. These individuals may benefit from wearing medium arch orthotics, so it is essential to know which type of flat feet you may have. Additionally, orthotics that have deep heel cups can help to protect the fatty pad that is found under the heel bone. This is generally inadequate in providing heel stabilization. Many people who have flat feet choose to wear orthotics for many reasons, and it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist if you are interested in pursuing this form of relief.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Gerald McCool, DPM from McCool Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in El Paso, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.