Types of Ankle Strength Exercises

Strengthening the ankles is an important way to improve stability and reduce the chance of future injury. The ankle joint, which connects the leg to the foot, relies on surrounding muscles and ligaments for balance and support. When those tissues become weak, the foot may be more prone to sprains, instability, or recurring pain. Ankle exercises that focus on strength can be grouped into static, resistance, and dynamic movements. Static exercises allow the ankle muscles to tighten without moving the joint, helping to rebuild strength after an injury. Resistance work, such as using bands to push or pull the foot in different directions, helps improve stability in daily walking or running. Dynamic exercises target the arches and toes, such as lifting the arch, scrunching a towel with the toes, or picking up objects to build strength in the smaller muscles of the foot. If you have ankle weakness, it is suggested that you schedule  an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Cleveland Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctors to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Cleveland, Independence, and Kent, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Reasons for Burning Foot Pain

Burning pain in the feet often develops when nerves become compressed, irritated, or damaged. Peripheral neuropathy, which involves dysfunction of the nerves that transmit signals between the legs and feet, is a frequent cause. People with this condition often experience burning sensations, numbness, or tingling in both feet. Another source of burning pain is Morton’s neuroma, a thickening of tissue around a nerve in the ball of the foot that can make it feel like walking on a pebble. Metatarsalgia, which involves inflammation and pressure beneath the metatarsal bones, can also create burning pain in the forefoot, especially with prolonged standing or walking. Peripheral vascular disease can lead to burning discomfort when blood flow to the feet is reduced, especially during movement. If you are experiencing burning foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Cleveland Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Cleveland, Independence, and Kent, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Recognizing and Treating Diabetic Foot Ulcers Early

Diabetic foot ulcers are open sores or wounds that commonly develop on the bottom of the foot in people with diabetes. They may appear as red or deep wounds surrounded by callused skin and may feel tender, numb, or produce drainage. Poor circulation, nerve damage, and high blood sugar levels are major causes, increasing the risk of infection. Symptoms include swelling, foul odor, discoloration, or slow healing. Left untreated, ulcers can lead to serious complications, including infection and potential loss of limb. A podiatrist can diagnose the severity of the ulcer through a physical exam and may order imaging or lab tests. Treatment options include wound care, debridement, infection control, and specialized footwear. In advanced cases, surgery may be necessary. Regular foot inspections and early intervention are key to prevention. A podiatrist plays a critical role in managing both care and prevention. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist at the first sign of any foot concern.

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 podiatrists from Cleveland Foot & Ankle Clinic. 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 offices located in Cleveland, Independence, and Kent, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Let the Expert Treat Your Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails can be painful and can make wearing shoes or walking uncomfortable. Seek professional help if you believe you've developed an ingrown toenail and be treated safely. 

How Does a Blister Form?

Blisters that develop on the feet can make it difficult to walk and complete daily activities. When the skin is irritated, the body’s natural healing response is to protect the damaged area by forming a small bubble over it that is filled with fluid. As new skin develops, the blister will gradually drain, and is no longer needed. Blisters generally develop from excess friction that is caused by wearing shoes or socks that do not fit correctly. Additional reasons why they can form can come from existing medical conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. Effective prevention techniques can include wearing comfortable shoes, checking the feet for signs of rubbing, and removing the shoes if discomfort is felt. If you would like additional information about how to treat and prevent blisters, please consult with a podiatrist.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Cleveland Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

  • Bubble of skin filled with fluid
  • Redness
  • Moderate to severe pain
  • Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Cleveland, Independence, and Kent, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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