December 2020

It is common for people to spend more time enjoying the outdoors when the weather is warm. However, falling episodes may not decrease while outside. There are many methods that can be implemented which can help to prevent falling. These can include wearing shoes that have rubber soles and flat heels, which can help to improve traction and stability. Additionally, keeping walkways and stairs free of clutter can help to prevent tripping. Walking with another person can be helpful, as they can assist you if you fall. Falling can affect the feet in numerous ways, and it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist for more fall prevention techniques.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. Robbi Young from Grand Haven Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Serious foot problems can be more likely among people who have diabetes, and they can result in serious complications if left untreated. If you have diabetes, certain foot symptoms can be a cause for concern and should be examined by a professional. Tingling, burning, or numbness in the feet, a burning pain, a dull ache, a loss of sensation, foot swelling, and cramps in your calves when resting or walking are all signs of potentially serious problems. Symptoms that affect the skin of the lower limbs, such as having shiny, smooth skin on the feet, hair loss, a lack of sweat, or wounds and sores on the feet that don’t heal are also a cause for concern. Additionally, if you see changes in the color, shape, or temperature of your feet, notice a cut or blister that you can see but can’t feel, or smell a foul odor coming from a wound, then you should seek immediate medical attention. A podiatrist can help you take care of your feet.

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 Dr. Robbi Young from Grand Haven Foot & Ankle. 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 Grand Haven, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Bunions are a very common foot condition that cause a bony lump to form at the main joint of the big toe. This occurs when the joint is pulled out of alignment because the big toe is turned towards the rest of the toes. While bunions may not cause pain or symptoms at first, they can eventually push the other toes out of alignment making it difficult to wear shoes or walk. Bunions even have a tendency of causing skin irritation as the shoes rub against the affected area. Bunions can be caused due to inherited defects in the foot structure, wearing poorly fitted shoes, arthritis, conditions that damage the nerves in the feet, and of course injuries. If you are suffering from a painful bunion, consulting with a podiatrist for pain relief methods is highly suggested.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. Robbi Young of Grand Haven Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

As the foundation of your body, your feet play an important role in helping you go about your day. But despite their importance, we often neglect our feet, increasing our risk of developing various foot problems. Taking small steps every day to care for your feet can help keep them healthy. Wearing comfortable, properly fitted shoes can help prevent problems such as hammertoes, corns, calluses, blisters, ingrown toenails, and general foot pain. Wearing socks can keep excess moisture off your feet, and pad the foot, preventing excess wear and tear. Taking walks regularly helps strengthen the muscles of the feet. Finally, washing and drying the feet thoroughly can help prevent foot odor and fungal infections, while moisturizing the feet can prevent dry and cracked heels. For more information about everyday foot care, please consult with a podiatrist.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Robbi Young from Grand Haven Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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