With flip-flops covering most Americans’ feet this June, how can we avoid drying out our feet? Dry skin can come from sun exposure, weather changes, dry air, and exposure to chemicals such as soaps and chlorine found in swimming pools. Salt from the ocean can dry your skin as well! For some, your skin may just be naturally drier and more prone to fissuring and cracking. The danger of dry skin is that these cracks can be a portal for harmful bacteria to cause infection. This is especially dangerous for persons with diabetes.

So how can we protect our feet from the harsh elements?

• Apply a thick layer of cream or lotion before bed each day and use an occlusive layer, such as socks to maintain a moist environment
• Remember to avoid applying cream or lotion between toes
• Ask your doctor if you need urea, lactic acid, hyaluronic acid, dimethicone, glycerin, lanolin, mineral oil and petrolateum based creams or fluocinolone acetonide
• Avoid hot showers
• Wear closed toe shoes at least part of the time
• The American Academy of Dermatology also recommends
  • Use gentle chemicals to cleanse in the shower
  • Limit your showers to 5-10 minutes
  • Blot your skin with a towel
  • Apply moisturizer immediately after bathing
  • Ointments and oils are more effective than lotions (olive or jojoba oil are simple choices)
  • Avoid products with alcohol, retinoids, fragrances, or alpha hydroxyl acide (AHA)
  • Use gloves or closed toed shoes for outdoor functions that might put you in contact with water, sun, chemicals, or damaging work
  • Choose a non-irritating laundry detergent
  • Use a humidifier

Skin care is easy once the habit is created. Remember to place your moisturizer in an easily visible spot near your bath or shower and soon you will be keeping your feet fissure-free with 5 quick minutes each day!

Please contact us online or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with us at our Columbus or Gahanna office

June brings the first waves of summer with higher temperatures and longer days. Despite the widespread availability of sunscreen, the Center for Disease Control reports that only 37% of women and 15% of men apply sunscreen to prevent sunburns. As a result, half of Americans have been sunburned in the last 12 months. It is well known that sunburns cause some of the most common cancers including melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma. What is not well known is that melanoma can form on the feet—as much as 15% of cutaneous melanoma occurs on the foot and ankle.

How can you protect your feet and ankles and prevent skin cancer?

• Apply a thick layer of at least SPF 15 sunscreen to your feet and ankles before going out in the sun, even on a cloudy day
• Reapply at least every 2 hours
• Wear protective shoes until you have to remove them—water shoes are an excellent choice
• Find shade as often as possible
• Avoid indoor or outdoor tanning
• Check your feet—look for dark spots called nevi and monitor them for changes in size, shape, color or new symptoms such as itching or pain at the site of the lesion and visit a medical professional if you note changes
• Monitor for any dark spots or lines on the toenails or skin overgrowth at the nail borders
• Talk to your podiatrist about any changes to the skin on your feet and ankles

Up to 9,000 Americans die each year from melanoma. These deaths can be reduced or even prevented by sun protection, foot monitoring and open dialogue with health care providers. If you have any concerns, see your podiatrist or regular health care provider for treatment. People with diabetes should see their podiatrist regularly. Fun in the sun can be safe and healthy by following these easy steps. Enjoy your summer!

Please visit our website for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with us at our Columbus or Gahanna office

Running is one of the most natural things we can do! Running is also a great way to stay in shape and is a relatively inexpensive hobby. It does not require expensive equipment, gym membership fees, or extensive training – it’s something that we all know how to do. Running for as little as 12-20 minutes three times a week can improve bone density. According to the American Heart Association, 75 minutes of running each week can prevent cardiovascular diseases. Studies even suggest that dementia can be prevented by running. These are just a few benefits of running. If you are thinking about taking up running, or you already have, here are a few tips to help prevent injuries. Before starting any exercise plan, speaking to your primary care physician is important.

• Good running shoes that are made for your foot type are essential for running. A podiatrist can help determine the best shoes for your foot type. Running stores often provide an analysis as well to determine the best shoe for a specific foot type.
• Alternate shoes every 400 miles, and consider having two pairs to alternate between to allow the shoes to dry out between runs.
• Start slowly and work your way up. The recommendation is not to increase distance by more than 10% each week. A good pace is a “conversational pace.” You should be able to hold a conversation while running.
• If something hurts for two days while running, then take two days off. Once you return, if it still hurts, then consider seeing a physician.
• It is better to go further at a slower pace at first, than to worry about speed when you are just beginning. Speed comes with time. Work on endurance first.
• Stretching before and after running is a great way to decrease muscle aches and pains and helps to prevent injuries.

Aside from checking with a doctor or healthcare professional before starting any exercise or fitness regimen, be sure to have a podiatrist conduct a thorough foot exam to correct and/or prevent foot problems that may worsen with exercise. Orthotics, or custom shoe inserts may be beneficial to prevent injuries in the foot.

Please visit our website for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with us at our Columbus or Gahanna office

In the United States alone, 1.4 million people are diagnosed with diabetes each year!  The prevalence in the population is 9.3%, and 86 million Americans have been diagnosed with “pre-diabetes.” Diabetes is ranked the 7th leading cause of death.  Being diagnosed with diabetes is life altering, but the diagnosis is what you make of it.

Many people receive the diagnosis and ignore it or avoid it because it scares them.  Diabetes is a very manageable disease and nerve damage can be prevented by eating a healthy diet, staying active, checking blood sugar levels at home, and taking medications as prescribed.  Keeping blood sugar levels down are the key to preventing damage.

Diabetes can wreak havoc on many organs and various parts of the body, including the feet.  High blood sugar levels damage the nerves in the feet/legs making it difficult to feel the feet or legs.  This condition is called diabetic neuropathy.  When this happens it is important to never walk around barefoot, and to also be cautious with hot water or hot surfaces that may cause a burn that you may not be able to feel.  Patients with neuropathy should check their feet daily for redness, blisters, or wounds.  It may also be a good idea to discuss getting diabetic shoes from your podiatrist to help prevent wounds.

If you have been diagnosed with diabetes it may be time to see your podiatrist.  Stay involved in your health and tackle diabetes head-on!

Please visit our website for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with us at our Columbus or Gahanna office

Wesley Johnson of the LA Clippers sat out of the game against the Lakers recently due to foot pain. Johnson has what is known as plantar fasciitis. Approximately 10% of people will suffer from plantar fasciitis at some point in their life, and it is responsible for 80% of heel pain. Plantar fasciitis is inflammation and pain along the fascia on the bottom of the foot that attaches the toes to the heel bone. Plantar fasciitis can be caused by a direct injury to the fascia, overuse, obesity, or wearing unsupportive shoes. It is most common in ages 40-60, but can occur at any age.

Patients with flat feet are also more prone to develop this condition. The most common presentation of plantar fasciitis is pain with the first few steps in the morning, or after sitting for a long period of time. For most people, the pain improves with a few steps. Plantar fasciitis is also often associated with heel spurs. Although many patients have heel spurs, the spurs are typically not the cause of the pain.

Plantar fasciitis responds well to conservative treatment in 90% of cases. Conservative treatment consists of the following:

• stretching
• icing
• anti-inflammatory medications
• rest
• physical therapy
• orthotics
• steroid injections

Once conservative treatment has failed for approximately 6 months, then surgical options are considered. Surgery consists of removing part of the plantar fascia from the insertion on the heel bone.

Other causes of heel pain include stress fracture, traumatic fracture, or tumor. If you are suffering from heel pain, stay in the game, and contact your Columbus Podiatry & Surgery. You can visit our website for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with us at our Columbus or Gahanna office

You may have heard the saying “April showers bring may flowers,” but April is also national foot health awareness month. Having healthy feet is imperative for staying active and fit. The average moderately active person will take 216,262,500 steps in their lifetime, which is equivalent to 110,000 miles. That is a lot of miles to put on your feet! Here are some recommendations to keep your feet healthy.

• Check your feet daily for any cuts, redness, or calluses, especially if you are diabetic. Use a mirror if you cannot see the bottom of your feet.
• Ensure that your shoes fit well and do not rub or cause red spots. Supportive shoes are also important. Flats, flip-flops, and high heels should be kept to a minimum. If you are diabetic consult your podiatrist for shoe recommendations.
• Do not wear socks that are too tight. Always wear clean, dry socks.
• After bathing, dry the feet completely, especially between the toes.
• Use lotion on the feet, but not between the toes.
• Do not go barefoot.
• Do calf stretches before and after exercising.
• When you apply sunscreen, don’t forget to apply some to your feet!
• Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most beneficial things you can do.
• If you get a cut that does not heal, see your podiatrist right away.
• If you injure your foot or ankle, see a podiatrist right away.
• Trim or file toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails. If you are diabetic or have poor circulation, consult your podiatrist first.
• If you are diabetic, good blood sugar control is essential to keeping your feet healthy.
• If you have decreased sensation or feeling in your feet, be careful of hot surfaces and hot water.

These are just a few recommendations to keep your feet healthy. If you have any concerns, it is best to seek treatment early to prevent more serious complications. Regular follow-ups with a podiatrist are important for diabetics. Keep your feet healthy so you can go the extra mile, even when it isn’t national foot health awareness month!

Please visit our website for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with us at our Columbus or Gahanna office

Diabetes Mellitus affects more than 230 million people worldwide! That is equivalent to approximately 20 times the number of people living in the state of Ohio alone. One out of every three people with diabetes is unaware they have the disease. There are three types of diabetes: type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and gestational diabetes. The number of Americans with diabetes is expected to double or triple by the year 2050. While these statistics are grim, there are many things that can be done to prevent type 2 diabetes.

Here are some simple lifestyle changes that can prevent diabetes:

• Stay at a healthy weight. Type 2 diabetes and obesity are closely linked, and maintaining a healthy weight can really make a difference! The goal is to maintain a BMI less than 25.
• Eating well is also important in prevention. Surprisingly, studies have shown that women that consume processed red meat are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Eating less meat may be preventative as well as avoiding foods high in saturated fats, cholesterol, and sugar. Eating whole grains, nuts and citrus fruits have also shown to be preventative. Having a diet high in fiber can also help control blood sugar, thus lowering the risk of developing diabetes. Stay away from fad diets, and make it a goal to simply make healthier choices.
• Ditch the soda for coffee! Drinking soda can increase your diabetes risk by 26%, but drinking more than 1 cup of coffee a day can be preventative.
• Be active. Walking for just a few minutes about half an hour after dinner has shown to be helpful by lowering blood sugar levels. Weight lifting can also lower blood sugar better than aerobic exercise can, while maintaining muscle mass and speeding metabolism. However, a good mix of aerobic exercise and weight training is ideal for maximum benefit.

These are just a few tips for a healthier lifestyle that may aid in the prevention of developing type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes has some genetic components, but developing the disease is greatly affected by lifestyle. It is never too late to start living a healthier lifestyle, and if you are at increased risk of developing diabetes it is important to talk to your doctor and get screened for diabetes.

Please visit www.ColumbusFoot.com for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist in Columbus, Ohio. Columbus Podiatry & Surgery is located on the North side of Columbus, Ohio near Worthington.

Columbus Podiatry & Surgery in Gahanna. Please call 614-476-3338 (FEET) for an appointment with a podiatrist in Gahanna, OH today.

Ballet is a beautiful mix of art and athleticism. However, fifteen to twenty percent of ballet injuries involve the foot! Dancers are notorious for having painful, or even ugly feet due to the enormous amount of pressure that is put on the tips of the toes repetitively. Dancers essentially use their feet in ways that they were not made for, and if they are not careful this can lead to potentially career ending injuries.

Dancer’s fracture is a common injury in ballet and happens when landing from a jump on an inverted foot causing a fracture of the 5th metatarsal bone, which runs along the outer edge of the foot. Treatment for a Dancer’s fracture consists of ice, rest, elevation, immobilization, and rehabilitation. Sesamoiditis is also common among dancers. The sesamoids are bones that are underneath and behind the big toe. Sesamoiditis occurs when the tendon attaching these two bones get irritated and inflamed while the dancer is on demi point. A J shaped pad can be placed under the sesamoids to provide cushioning. Anti-inflammatory drugs may also be helpful, as well as taking some time off to allow proper healing. Hallux valgus, or bunions can be seen in anyone, but have a tendency to occur much sooner in dancers. Bunions can be treated conservatively with orthotics, strengthening, and activity modification. Surgery is reserved for severe cases if there is significant pain involved. Hallux rigidus, or limitus causes a decreased range of motion at a joint, which most commonly occurs at the metatarsal phalangeal joint in dancers. Modifications to dance routines can be made to prevent further injury. Stretching, rest, and ice are often adequate treatment options for hallux rigidus. Lateral ankle sprains are almost inevitable in dance. Treatment of ankle sprains includes anti-inflammatory medication, ice, rest, wrapping with an ace bandage, immobilization with a CAM walker, and rarely surgery.

Important tips to prevent ballet’s damaging effects on feet are allowing adequate rest between workouts, and taking it slow when working on anything new. If at all possible, do not dance on hard or uneven surfaces. Most importantly, if you notice pain, then stop and rest!

Please visit www.ColumbusFoot.com for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist in Columbus, Ohio. Columbus Podiatry & Surgery is located on the North side of Columbus, Ohio near Worthington.

Columbus Podiatry & Surgery in Gahanna. Please call 614-476-3338 (FEET) for an appointment with a podiatrist in Gahanna, OH today.

The pediatric population suffers from a distinct group of conditions, some of which adults do not suffer from. Younger patients have open growth plates leaving them vulnerable to injuries involving the growth plates, or due to the fact that some bones have not ossified, or hardened. However, pediatric patients are still vulnerable to the majority of adult foot complaints as well.

Some of the most common foot complaints in pediatrics are ingrown toenails, plantar warts, flat feet, and heel pain. Ingrown toenails are a common complaint because of rapid growth spurts in children leading to tight fitting shoes. When wearing shoes that are too tight the toes undergo trauma by rubbing against the shoe causing inflammation and infection. Another reason that children are more prone to ingrown nails is due to improper cutting or trimming of the nails. Plantar warts seem to be more prevalent in children since they have not had time to develop immunity against the wart virus (human papilloma virus). Children and adolescents are also exposed to the virus if they are involved in sports where they use a locker room, or walk barefoot near a pool. Flat feet are a common complaint, and are particularly concerning for many parents. If the flat feet are symmetrical, and do not cause pain, then orthotics and supportive shoes can be used, but if the flat feet are associated with pain or asymmetrical, then surgery may be considered. Heel pain in pediatrics that occurs during the ages of 8-12 is often due to Sever’s Calcaneal Apophysitis, or Sever’s disease. Sever’s disease is an overuse injury that causes inflammation and pain of the heel bone, or calcaneal bone. The pain is felt where the Achilles tendon inserts onto the heel bone, and is aggravated with activity. Sever’s disease is more common in males, but is also seen in females that are active in sports. Sever’s disease is often preceded by a growth spurt. Following growth spurts the calf muscles and Achilles tendon may become tight causing strain and excessive pulling on the heel bone.

The previous conditions just name a few of the common complaints in the pediatric population. However, there are many other conditions that are specific to the pediatric population. If your child suffers from any foot conditions, then do not hesitate to contact your Podiatrist.

Please visit www.ColumbusFoot.com for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist in Columbus, Ohio. Columbus Podiatry & Surgery is located on the North side of Columbus, Ohio near Worthington.

Columbus Podiatry & Surgery in Gahanna. Please call 614-476-3338 (FEET) for an appointment with a podiatrist in Gahanna, OH today.

Summer is not quite here, but for many people the warmer weather leads to poor choices in summer shoe gear. Women are especially notorious for wearing shoes that are terrible for their feet, but men also make poor shoe choices. Eight out of ten women say their shoes are painful. Vanity often comes before comfort for members of both genders. Some of the most popular shoe choices in the summer include flip-flops, sandals, and tennis shoes for the active outdoorsy types.

Flip-flops are well known for their bad reputation, but they do serve a purpose and should not necessarily be completely banned from your closet. Flip-flops have a bad reputation because they do not have arch support, they are thin, and leave the foot vulnerable to injury. However, there are higher quality flip-flops that DO have arch support and thicker soles, which would make them more comfortable, but still does not solve the problem of vulnerability to injury. Flip-flops are great for the beach, or lounging around, but terrible for long distance walking. In fact, flip-flops are recommended on the beach over barefoot walking to prevent injury and possible infection due to a puncture wound. Flip-flops are also a great way to prevent getting fungal infections at gyms, hotels, or public pools. Flip-flops have many great uses, but the problem is that they are abused. Although they are convenient and easy to put on, they are not meant for daily use at school or work, unless you work as a lifeguard! Whether you wear flip-flops, sandals, or tennis shoes ensure that they provide arch support, cushioning, and are worn appropriately depending on the activity.

Flip-flops can cause injuries such as, stress fractures, cuts, and stubbed or fractured toes due to the lack of protection. Too many people go on vacation, and utilize flip-flops as their primary shoe gear and end up with injuries. Moderation, planning ahead, and choosing quality shoe gear are the keys to injury prevention!

Please visit www.ColumbusFoot.com for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist in Columbus, Ohio. Columbus Podiatry & Surgery is located on the North side of Columbus, Ohio near Worthington.

Columbus Podiatry & Surgery in Gahanna. Please call 614-476-3338 (FEET) for an appointment with a podiatrist in Gahanna, OH today.