When specific types of high heels are worn, they may give the legs and feet the illusion of looking leaner and elegant, despite the possible foot problems that may develop. These problems can include the formation of bunions, hammertoe, and ingrown toenails. It is important that high heels fit properly, and the shoe size may need to increase if weight is gained. Research has indicated that feet may feel more comfortable when high heels are made with thicker heels. This is helpful in providing the balance that is needed to perform daily activities, in addition to providing a more even distribution of body weight. Many patients choose to wear insoles, which may prevent foot pain. If more information is needed about the types of high heels to purchase, it is strongly suggested that you speak to a podiatrist, who can address any concerns you may have.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our doctors from Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. Our doctors 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 South Amboy, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Patients who have bunions may notice their daily activities can be interrupted as a result of the pain and discomfort they may cause. It appears as a bony protrusion on the side of the big toe, and it may make it difficult to wear shoes. A bunion can gradually form from genetic factors, or from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Patients have found mild relief when a protective pad is worn on top of the bunion, in addition to soaking the affected foot in warm water. If the bunion is prominent, surgery may be an option  which is referred to as a bunionectomy. There are toe exercises that can be performed which can be helpful in strengthening the overall foot. If you notice the beginning signs of a bunion, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the correct treatment technique.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact one of our doctors of Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in South Amboy, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Living with diabetes requires careful attention to foot health. High blood sugar levels can damage nerves and blood vessels, leading to decreased sensation and circulation in the feet. Because of this, even a small cut, blister, or sore may go unnoticed, and develop into a serious complication, if not addressed promptly. A diabetic foot exam is a key step in preventing these problems. During the exam, a podiatrist checks the skin for cuts, calluses, infections, or signs of poor healing. They also test for nerve function and circulation to detect early changes that could put you at risk for ulcers or infections. Wearing proper footwear and daily at-home foot checks are often discussed as part of the visit. Regular foot exams can help catch issues before they become severe. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you schedule regular foot exams with a podiatrist to protect your long-term health.

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 one of our doctors from Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. Our doctors 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 South Amboy, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet, often developing between the toes. It occurs when the fungus grows in warm, moist environments, such as sweaty socks or communal showers. Causes include direct contact with contaminated surfaces, shared footwear, and poor foot hygiene. Risk factors include excessive sweating, wearing tight or non breathable shoes, and weakened immunity. Symptoms may include itching, burning, redness, peeling skin, and an unpleasant odor. A podiatrist can provide an accurate diagnosis, recommend antifungal treatments, and offer guidance on proper foot care to prevent recurrence. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment remedies, which may include prescribed medication.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our doctors from Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in South Amboy, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.