Boots were such a hot fall trend that they have stuck around for winter.  Check out the American Podiatric Medical Association's "Fall Into Boots That Feel Good Article" and find the boot that suits you. Some additional tips for boot shopping are listed below.

• Have Feet Measured
• Buy for the larger foot
• Try boots on in the afternoon - feet swell during the day
• There shouldn't be a break in period
• Take an insole with you, in case a boot lacks support
• Boots made of natural material are best
• Choose a boot with toe room, a firm heel counter, and traction

For many, it is time to recommit to diet and exercise programs for the new year.   However, some Americans might have trouble making it to the treadmil.  A recent study by the American Podiatric Medical Association has found that foot pain stops 72% of Americans from having a healthy work out routine. 

The most common cause of foot pain is ill-fitting or improper shoes.  Running and exercising are enough work, don't let poor quality shoes get in the way of your work out.  To ensure happy feet, get fitted every time you buy a new pair of shoes.  It is also important to buy the appropriate shoes for your sport or activity. Be sure to bring the socks you plan on wearing with your shoes, as the thickness of different socks can impact the fit of the shoe.  You may way to invest in moisture wicking socks, especially if you sweat a lot, to prevent blisters from building up during your work out.  Blister prevention patches are also great for minimizing pain at the gym.  Try Engo's blister prevention patches, available through our online product store.  It's a low friction patch manufactured with pressure sensitive adhesive.  Apply them directly to your footwear for blister protection and relief.  Best of all, they are sweat proof so you can still get the maximum benefit from your work out.

Don't let foot pain compromise your health. It's possible to get a good work out and not have foot pain get in the way! If you are experiencing problems with your feet, make an appointment to see your podiatrist.  Build your health from the ground up!

Inspect Feet Daily

Check your feet and toes everyday for cuts, bruises, sores, or changes to the toenails such as thickening or discoloration.

Wear Thick, Soft Socks

Avoid socks with seams, which could rub and cause blisters or other skin injuries

Exercise

Walking can keep weight down and improve circulation. Be sure to wear appropriate athletic shoes when exercising.

Have new shoes properly measured and fitted

Foot size and shape may change over time. Shoes that fit properly are important to those with diabetes.

Don't go barefoot

Don't go without shoes, even in your own home. The risks of cuts and infection is too great for those with diabetes.

Never try to remove calluses, corns, or warts by yourself.

Over-the-counter products can burn the skin and cause irrepearable damage to the foot for people with diabetes.

See your podiatrist

Regular check ups by a podiatrist - at least annually - are the best way to ensure your feet remain healthy. Call our office at 419-423-1888 or visit our website, vailfoot.com, to request an appointment.

Although dry skin is not usually serious, it may not be attractive and can cause you to be uncomfortable.  There are several factors that may cause your heels to become dry and cracked, weather being the number one culprit.  Some people enjoy the sparking winter wonderland that the first snowfall can bring but the winter months also bring harsh, cold weather. The decrease in humidity and temperature cause your feet to become dry.  Turning on the heat to escape from the cold weather may also be to blame, as air conditioning and central heating also decrease the humidity.   The weather may also worsen any existing skin conditions. 

Your hygiene routine may also be a cause of your dry skin.  Hot baths and showers can cause your skin to dry out as well as harsh soaps and detergents. Hot showers, especially long ones, break down the lipids in your skin causing it to dry out and the soap you are using may also be a cause.

But don't worry.  You can continue to enjoy your showers and soap because there are doctor approved products designed to help your dry skin.  Barefoot Bontanica cracked heel repair cream dissolves away dry callused skin and moisturizes the underlying healthy skin.  This product is great because it is a special podiatric physician and pharmacist formula.  It also contains certified organic ingredients and is easy to use. Simply apply to rough,dry, cracked or callused areas of feet twice daily (best after bathing, to trap moisture in skin.) For severe cases, use under cotton socks overnight the first few days of treatment. As callus tissue softens, gently reduce with a pumice stone. Barefoot botanica and other great doctor approved products are available through our online product store.  Remember, foot pain is not normal.  If you are experiencing any problems with your feet, don't hesitate to call our office at 419-423-1888 or visit our website to request and appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How Does Pregnancy Impact the Feet?

Pregnancy can impact the feet in numerous ways, from over pronation and plantar fasciitis due to increased body weight to an increase in foot size related to hormonal changes and leg cramps because of impeded circulation.

2. Is it normal for my baby's feet to look discolored or wrinkled or for his/her skin to peel when he/she is born? 

Babies spend anywhere from nine to ten month in a shelter protective fluid.  The feet need just as much time to fill out and turn a normal color as the rest of the body Once you give birth, your obscetrician and later your pediatrician will look for obvious abnormalities of your baby's feet and legs.

3. Are there certain things I can do to care for my baby's feet?

Caring for your baby's feed is no different than the care you provide to the rest of his/her body. Trim your child's toenails with baby nail clippers, making sure to cut straight across to avoid ingrown toenails. Also, be sure to thouroghly dry your baby's feet after a bath. Try Smartknit Kid's Seamless Sensitivity Socks - these soft anti-microbial socks don't wrinkle or bunch and are proven to reduce irritation on your tot's tootsies.

4. At What age should my child take his/her first step?

When physically and emotionally ready, your child will walk. Comparisons with other children are misleading, since the age for independent walking ranges from 10 - 18 months.

5. When should I put my baby in his/her first pair of shoes?

When your child first begins to walk, shoes are not necessary indoors. Allowing your youngster to go barefoot or to wear only socks helps the foot to grow normally and to develop musulature and strength, as well as the grasping action of toes. Of course, when walking outside or on rough surfaces, babies' feet should be protected in lightweight, flexible foot wear made of natural materials. Try Pedipeds- designed for infants and toddlers up to two years old, these soft, hand-stitched shoes provide a safe environment for tiny toes while allowing plenty of room for foot growth and muscle development.

6. When shoud I take my child to see a podiatrist?

The APMA recommends having your child examined by an APMA member podiatrist, if there is a family history of foot problems, once he/she begins to walk to make sure his/her feet are progressing normally. Many APMA member podiatrists special pediatrics.

7. When is a child's foot fully developed and why is this important?

Full skeletal maturity takes place in most individuals between the ages of 18-23 years of age. Foot maturity continues while many children are active on their feet. It is important to have your child's feet checked regularly by an APMA member podiatrist.

8. What steps should be taken to make sure a child's feet are not at risk when participating in sports?

When you child participates in sports, make sure he/she wears sport-specific shoes that fit properly. He/she should also warm up and cool down before and after participating in a sport and avoid poor outside playing conditions, such as very wet grass.

*source http://www.apma.org/ 

You may want to think twice about wearing those high heels everyday. Even though heels maybe considered "fashionable" and can make your legs look longer and your ankles thinner, you could be causing more damage to your feet than you know.

Some of the long term side effects you can suffer from wearing high heels include inflamed nerves and ligaments, shortened Achilles tendon and calf muscles, hammertoes, bunions, corns, ingrown toenails, as well as having bad posture. Many of these problems are caused by the increased pressure high heels put on the ball of the foot. One thing to remember is the higher the heel, the greater the pressure you are placing on that area.

When you wear heels higher than an inch and a half, you lift the heel up to an unnatural height which throws your balance off and could lead to falls. This will make your body compensate by adjusting the back, hips, and shoulders. This compensation causes bad posture and can lead to lower back pain, leg pains and headaches. The change in the position of your spine can also cause sciatica, a painful condition where nerves become trapped, triggering pain and numbness as far down as the feet.

Wearing high heels may also be linked to knee osteoarthritis. This is a painful degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of the cartilage surrounding the knee. Wearing high heels puts repetitive pressure and stress on the knee joint. You may not notice this at first, but by the time you do feel the effects of knee osteoarthritis, it's too late to undo the damage you have already done.

You can also permanently damage your Achilles tendon. This is the tendon that runs along the back of your leg from your heel. The tendon is designed to be flexible so your foot can lie flat, but with continued high heel wear the tendon becomes shortened. This happens because your heel points upwards and tightens up. Stretching it again is very painful. You will also experience pain if you try wearing flat shoes because of this reason. This problem can be avoided by wearing heels that are 1.5 inches in height or lower. Once you reach the heel height of 3 inches or higher, that is when you start to shorten the Achilles tendon. You don't need to wear these higher heels everyday to have this type of damage. Just wearing them 2-3 times a week is all it takes.

Some other complaints you might have if you are wearing tight, ill-fitting shoes includes bunions or hammertoes. Bunions are bony growths at the base of the big toe. The big toe will angle inwards towards the other toes and the bump can become swollen, inflamed, painful and unsightly. Hammertoes will develop because the shoes will force the toes to crumple up. This shortens the muscles inside and leaving them permanently bent. You may also experience the "pump bump". This is where the straps and the rigid backs of pump style shoes cause a bony enlargement on the heel.

If after reading all of this and you still can't give up your high heels, you may want to try a couple of these suggestions. Try wearing a heel with a slightly thicker heel. This will help to distribute the weight more evenly. Also wear soft insoles to reduce the impact on your knees. You also want to make sure your shoe fits snug and your foot doesn't slide forward. This causes more pressure on your toes. If you plan on a night of dancing in your high heels, put them on for a couple of hours before you go out. This way, your feet get a chance to get used to them.

If you are experiencing any of these problems from wearing high heels, please contact Dr. Vail at 419-423-1888 or visit our website at www.vailfoot.com to schedule your appointment today.

Heel pain is a common complaint we hear a lot about. There are several causes of heel pain and unless you have an accurate diagnosis, you may not be able to treat your symptoms properly. To have a proper diagnosis, you must see your doctor so that the appropriate treatment can be directed at the cause.

Some of the most common causes of heel pain are: plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, tarsal tunnel syndrome, stress fractures, and posterior heel pain. If you are unsure of the cause of your pain, you should seek medical attention. When you have any of the following symptoms, you should see a doctor.

• Inability to walk comfortably o the affected side
• Heel pain that occurs while resting or at night
• Heel pain that goes beyond a few days
• Discoloration or swelling of the back of the foot
• Signs of infection that include fever, redness or warmth
• Any other unusual symptoms

Once you have your diagnosis, you can start to treat your symptoms. Here are some of the most common treatments for heel pain. Remember, not all of these treatments are appropriate for every condition but they may be helpful in your situation.

Give your feet rest. Avoid any activity that is causing your pain. If you walk or run, take a couple days off. Usually resting will help eliminate the most severe pain and allow the inflammation to cool down.

Apply Ice. Icing will help to reduce some of the symptoms and help control the heel pain. Icing is especially helpful after they symptoms intensify greatly.

Preform exercises and stretches. There are specially designed exercises and stretches to relax the tissues that surround the heel bone. If you do these simple exercises in the morning and evening, they can help alleviate the pain and you'll feel better quickly.

Take anti-inflammatory medications. Taking anti-inflammatory medications will help control not only the heel pain, but also decrease the inflammation. Most of the time over-the-counter medications will work. In the case they are ineffective, prescription options are available.

Try shoe inserts. Shoe inserts like heel cushions or orthotics are often the key to successful treatment of heel pain. These type of shoe inserts often allow you to continue your activities without having heel pain.

If you are experiencing heel pain, you should schedule your appointment with Dr. Vail by calling 419-423-1888. You can also get more information on heel pain by visiting our website at www.vailfoot.com.

27 Standouts Named To 2010-12 USA Mens Basketball Team

- 11 Olympians Among The 27 Players Selected For The USA National Team -

Featuring nine members of the gold medalist 2008 U.S Olympic Team and a total of 11 Olympians who have captured a combined 15 Olympic medals (9 gold and 6 bronze). The selections of these 27 athletes were announced by USA Basketball Chairman Jerry Colangelo.

The US National Team will be competing in the FIBA World Championship in 2010, and if they qualify will be competing in the Olympics in London in 2012. There will be 9 returning gold medalists from the 2006-08 sqaud. These returning players are: Carmelo Anthony (Denver Nuggets), Carlos Boozer (Chicago Bulls), Chris Bosh (Miami Heat), Kobe Bryant ( LA Lakers), Dwight Howards (Orlando Magic), Lebron James (Miami Heat), Chris Paul (New Orleans Hornets), Dwayne Wade (Miami Heat), and Deron Williams (Utah Jazz). Rounding out the Olympian list is 2004 bronze medalists Lamar Odom (LA Lakers), and Amar'e Stoudemire (Phoenix Suns).

Completing the list of National Team players are:

Lamarcus Aldridge (Portland), Chauncey Billups (Denver), Kevin Durant (Oklahoma City), Rudy Gay (Memphis), Eric Gordon (LA Clippers), Danny Granger (Indiana Pacers), Andre Iguodala (Philadelphia), Al Jefferson (Minnesota), David Lee (New York), Brooke Lopez (New Jersey), Kevin Love (Minnesota), O.J Mayo (Memphis), Kendrick Perkins (Boston), Derrick Rose (Chicago), Gerald Wallace (Charlotte), and Russell Westbrook (Oklahoma City). With this USA Basketball team 24 of the 27 players have prior USA Basketball experience.

2010 FIBA World Championship

The 2010 FIBA World Championship for Men will be held Aug. 28th - Sept. 12th in Turkey. Twenty-four teams qualified to compete in the FIBA Championships and those teams were divided into four preliminary round groups consisting of six teams each. The U.S. was drawn on Dec. 15th into preliminary round Group B, and is joined by Brazil, Croatia, Iran, Slovenia, and Tunisa.

The U.S. will open the Worlds on Aug. 28th against Croatia, a team it has never faced in World Championship play, but a squad the USA is 3-0 against in Olympic action. The Americans will then meet Slovenia on the 29th, a team it defeated 114-95 in the 2006 World Championship. The remaining schedule for the U.S. looks like this:

August 28th: USA vs Croatia 7 p.m. @ Istanbul

August 29th: USA vs Slovenia 4:30 p.m. @ Istanbul

August 30th: USA vs Brazil 9:30 p.m. @ Istanbul

September 1st: USA vs Iran 7:00 p.m. @ Istanbul

September 2nd: USA vs Tunisia 4:30 p.m. @ Istanbul

Eight Finals- Will be played Sept. 4th - Sept. 7th

Quarterfinals- Sept 8th

Dr. Vail's office would just like to remind our fellow athletes out there, while off-season training is going on for you basketball players we highly recommend you come in for a pre-season checkup and you may call us to set up that appointment (419) 423-1888. Whether your son or daughter may need orthotics for his/or her shoes, we have a wide variety of products on our online store.

Maybe you have Athletes Foot? Wouldn't you like a product that kills up to 99.9% of the bacteria in your shoe GURANTEED!!

The product I have posted here is the SteriShoe Ultraviolet Shoe Sanitizer --This product is doctor tested and highly recommended. Please view all our products at our online store, as there are very many cures to an athletes foot.

Although tempting, do not use hand me down shoes as they could impact the development of your child's foot. Have your child's shoe size and sock size re-measured because children's feet grown and change rapidly. Consider comfort, support, and fit before purchasing a pair of shoes.

Properly fitting shoes are equally as important for the scholar athlete. Shoes should be specified to the sport or activity your child is involved in.

Tips For Choosing Footwear

-Have your feet measured each time you shop. Feet change size over time

-Put weight on your feet while they are being measured.

-Shop for shoes at the end of the day. Your feet swell throughout the day and this ensures a better fit.

-Fit shoes to the larger foot if your feet are different sizes.

-Have shoes fitted to your heel as well as your toes.

-Always try on shoes! Sizes vary depending on the brand.

-Walk around in the shoes to make sure they are comfortable.

-Leave a 1/2" space from the end of your longest toe to the end of the shoe.

-Always allow for "wiggle room" for your toes.

-Avoid shoes with a heel 2 inches or higher.

Tips modified from the footwear recommendations guide of The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

Call us or Visit Vailfoot.com to schedule a foot exam. You can also try Deodorizing Foot Wash from out product store to keep you child's new school shoes smelling fresh.

Tips for Relieving Pain, Maintaining Metatarsals of Dancers

Follow these common sense rules for keeping on your toes throughout auditions, rehearsals, performances, and those fabulous cast parties after the show.

The Right Shoes Can Relieve Foot Pain
- Wear the right shoe for the right activity. Invest a little extra money to make sure you buy comfortable, well-made shoes that support your feet and ankles for your regular daily activities such as walking, shopping, or running errands.
- Obviously different types of dancing require different types of shoes (or in some cases, no shes at all). If your old dancing shoes are barely fit for walking, throw them away and get new ones. Don't dance in shoes that are past their prime.
- Avoid walking barefoot outside. Although it may be tempting to feel the soft grass beneath your feet, it's actually tempting fate. Underneath an apparently well-manicured lawn or a groomed sandy beach can be hidden debris that can lodge in your foot and cramp your dance style. In summer, the searing sun can heat sand and sidewalks to dangerous temperatures that can burn the soles of your feet.
- Wear comfortable, well-cushioned shoes for long walks. Save the heels and sandals for parties and dates. If you want to keep dancing, don't wear high heels with pointed toes no matter how cute the shoes are or how much you paid for them.

The Right Activity Can Relieve Foot Pain
-Make an appointment with a doctor if you have an injury or pain that won't go away. Sprains and other injuries need to be examined, x-rayedm and treated by a podiatrist or orthopedic surgeon. Dancing on a sore foot or a weak ankle will only make them worse.
-Sometimes an injection, orthopedic shoe (or insert), or series of stretches can relieve your symptoms without surgery. Typically a surgical procedure is only necessary to permanently correct structural problems with the feet. Don't be too eager to have surgery unless every other option has been exhausted. If you have corns, bunions, or hammertoes that don't hurt, then focus on preventive care instead. Painless problems before surgery can become painful after surgery. Relieving pain should always be the deciding factor in surgically correcting a foot problem.

Starting today August 5th, 2010 Ashley Spencer will be performing Pedicure and Manicure treatments here at Dr. Thomas Vail's. Ashley is currently slated for these treatment dates on Thursdays. Ashley currently resides in Tiffin, OH and has been performing these treatments for a good number of years now.

Pedicures:

Deluxe Pedicure: (1 hour) - The ultimate pedicure to pamper your feet, this service begins with a hot soak. Nails are shaped and filed, cuticles are detailed then calluses are smoothed. The pleasure continues with a salt glow scrub or moisturizing mud mask. Steam towels remove the scrub or mask and prepare skin for a relaxing massage. Your choice of high quality polish or clear is then applied. This treatment is $40.

Spring Day Pedicure (45 Minutes) - Our Spring Day pedicure begins with a hot soak. Nails are shaped and filed cuticles are detailed then calluses are smoothed. Enjoy a full leg and foot massage. Steam towel wrap ensures your pedicure is delightful. Your choice of high quality polish or clear is then applied. This treatment is $35.

Express Pedicure (25 Minutes) - Short on Time? The express pedicure is the bare essentials, begins with a hot soak. Nails are shaped and filed, cuticles are detailed then calluses are smoothed. Your choice of high quality polish or clear is then applied. This treatment is $30.

Alpha Pedi for Men (20 minutes) - This pedicure will put every man at ease, begins with hot water soak, nails are shaped and filed, cuticles are detailed then calluses are smoothed. It ends with a relaxing foot massage. This treatment is $25.

Manicures:

Ultimate Pamper Manicure (45 minutes) - This invigorating treatment starts with a soak (optional) and hydrating hand softening. Nails are filed and shaped, cuticles are detailed then followed by a relaxing warm massage. The hands and arms are then lavished in a luxurious warm mud mask to keep skin youthful. Your choice of high quality polish or clear is then applied. This treatment is $35.

Spring Day Manicure (30 Minutes) - Lavish yourself with a soak and hydrating hand softening. Nails are filed and shaped, cuticles are detailed then followed by a realaxing warm massage. Your choice of high quality polish or clear is then applied. This treatment is $30.

Express Manicure (15 minutes) - In a hurry? Indulge yourself with a nail filing, shaping and cuticle detail. Your choice of high quality polish or clear is then applied. This treatment is $25.

Alpha Manicure for Men (20 minutes) - Begins soak, nails are shaped and filed, cuticles are detailed. It ends with a relaxing warm massage. This treatment is $20.

Ages 12 & Under

Little Feet Pedicure (20 Minutes) - A very gentle foot soak and scrub to make all little feet extra soft, followed by nail shaping and little foot massage. Your choice of high quality polish or clear is then applied. This treatment is $15.

Little Hands Manicure (20 Minutes) - A manicure fit for little hands complete with light hand massage and nail shaping. Nail topping of choice fit for a princess. This treatment is $10.

Please contact our office and ask for Ashley to schedule an appointment. Our Phone # is (419) 423-1888

1. Keep your feet dry. Fungi thrive in warm, dark, moist environments. This means your shoes are a fertile location for fungi to grow. Once your feet are exposed to the fungi, your shoes will not prevent the fungi from growing. But ensuring that your feet stays dry helps prevent fungi from ever taking hold. You should always alternate shoes every other day at the minimum to allow them the proper amount of time to air out. Don't store your shoes in your gym bag or locker if they will not get enough air to dry out. You should also disinfect your shoes to kill the fungi and bacteria that can live in your shoes. If you sweat a lot, you should consider using a foot powder to absorb excess moisture. You may also want to change your socks in the middle of the day.

2. Avoid places where fungi thrive. Fungi thrive in public showers, like the ones found in locker rooms, pools, public beaches and at camp grounds. Do not think that you should limit your activity and never visit these places, and don't sacrifice your hygiene for fear of foot fungi. Simply wear a pair of flip flops or other shower sandals in public showers and locker rooms. This will limit your contact with these fungi and help prevent their further spread. If someone in your family has foot fungi, try to keep the shower they are using clean, or ask them to use a different shower than the rest of the family. Consider a spray disinfectant that you can leave in the shower and ask them to use it after every shower.

3. Keep your feet clean. Clean feet are less susceptible to fungal infections, as you are likely to knock out the fungi before it can take hold on your feet. Wash your feet every time you take a shower or bath. Be sure to dry your feet thoroughly, especially in between your toes. This is also a good time to check your feet daily for any changes in shape or color- usual indicators of a problem.

4. Keep your feet healthy. Healthy feet are less susceptible to fungal infections. Not only should you keep them clean, but you should condition your skin as well, especially if you spend time barefoot. Skin that receives regular attention will be healthier, and thus less susceptible to fungal infections. Treat your calluses by trimming them with a file or pumice stone. Moisturize your feet, except for in between your toes, where your feet are already moisture rich. These two steps will help prevent your skin from cracking. Cracking leads to open skin which is more susceptible to fungal and bacterial infection than healthy skin. you should use antibiotic cream on all cuts and abrasions on your feet to help them stay clean and heal faster.

If you think you are beginning to develop a fungal infection of the skin or nails of your feet please don't hesitate to contact your podiatrist. We have a number of treatment options and the sooner we start your treatment, the higher your chances of success and the less time it will take to return your skin or nails to normal. Also, try FungaSoap, a product from our online store. FungaSoap is specially formulated to help kill fungus. Using it before fungi have the chance to take hold will help prevent infections from even starting. Click here to learn more or order this product.

This amazing Two-sided Footscrubber® leaves feet incredibly soft, smooth and touchable. Use the Footscrubber® to cleanse, exfoliate and polish feet. Used regularly, it helps remove calluses, and reduces dry, cracked heels. They are made by a women's cottage industry in Pakistan, and it's so effective that Seventeen Magazine called it "the Arnold Schwarzenegger of pumice stones." It can even be heated or chilled before use. A portion of each sale is used to help educate children in Pakistan.

We recommend that you follow your treatment with a moisturizer. This will help improve the health and look of your skin, and the warm water soak will help open up your pores to absorb more of the moisturizer. You can also visit our website for more information (with greater detail) on how to maintain healthy, good-looking feet.

Click here to visit our online store for more on this product or to order.

1. Support. Most flip flops/sandals do not offer you the support that your feet need, especially in the arch. This is especially true of patients who suffer from a biomechanical problem, like low or high arches, and those patients who suffer from plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is an over-use injury in which the plantar fascia (the band of tissue which connects your heel to your toes) becomes inflammed and painful. Wearing your flip flops full time can lead to foot fatigue and problems like plantar fasciitis, as they lack the necessary support that your feet require. Some sandals are designed with arch support in mind. Click here to see our line of Orthaheel Sandals with arch support.

2. Protection. Let's face it: sandals do not protect your feet. They are open to debris, falling objects, stubbed toes, and even sun damage. Wearing shoes ensures that your feet will be protected. This is especially true in areas where you know your feet need protection, like on hikes in the woods, walks through your neighborhood, or while working (especially construction/landscape/home improvement jobs).

3. The right shoes for your activity. Sandals are often not the right shoe for your activity. Things like walking long distances, exercising, and standing for long periods/on hard surfaces require that you don't wear flip flops. This is because these activities are hard on your feet. Without the support and protection we talked about before, you're just inviting foot problems into your life. Make sure your shoes are appropriate for your activity. Remember: a little prevention goes a long way.

4. Air to your feet. Not to say sandals are all bad. They do offer some advantages. First of all, sandals let your feet receive air. Especially during hot summer months when your feet are sweating a lot, you are susceptible to fungal infections. Allowing air to your feet means that they will be dryer, and thus less susceptible to fungal infection.

5. Protection in public areas. Fungi thrive in wet, warm, dark places. This means areas like public pools and public showers are a prime place for these to grow. Wearing flip flops while in a locker room, dorm, or pool shower will help ensure that you avoid fungal infections. Remember that a concentration of people increases the odds that one of them is carrying a fungal infection.

6. Convenience. It is very true that sandals are very convenient. When you need to run to the bank, it's easy to slide on your flip flops and go. This is a great use for them. They're also great shoes to get you from your car down to the beach or lake, and the sand cleans out of them quickly and with little effort. Just remember that if your errands involve a lot of walking (like buying groceries) you should be putting on more supportive shoes, like tennis shoes.

So there you have it. Sandals/Flip flops have their place. They're a very convenient and fun form of foot wear. But be careful not too over-use them, as this can lead to problems. Just balance their fun and function with that of other shoes to ensure that your feet have a healthy summer season.

Looking for added comfort in your flip flops. Click here to check out Dr. Jill's Sandal gel toe spreader- an insert for your favorite flip flops to help ease any rubbing or discomfort you experience with your favorite sandals.

1. Check your shoes/boots. Many people keep a pair of hiking boots for their periodic camping trips and outdoor excursions. This is a great idea. Boots designed for hiking have great features to help your feet function within the contexts of outdoor activity. They are durable and can withstand the assault of debris, thorns, rocks, and all the other obstacles found along the trail. They offer ankle support to prevent injuries on unstable or uneven surfaces. And they have lots of arch support to ensure that your feet won't get tired and to help prevent over-use injuries like plantar fasciitis. Since your boots may have been in the bottom of your closet or in the basement all year, you should check them. If they're worn out, they won't be able to offer you the support and protection they are intended to. You should replace old hiking boots to avoid complications.

2. Be careful around campsites. Campsites aren't always the safest place. Fires, tools, and the many ropes and stakes around the campsite mean you will need to pay attention to where you're going and take your time when transporting cooler chests, water jugs, dishwater, trash, firewood, etc. It is usually a good idea to tie bright colored flags or trail tape to your tent/dinner fly ropes to help you remember they are there. Avoiding tripping and other under-foot hazards means avoiding sprained ankles and other traumas. Make sure any knives, saws, hatchets, axes, and other tools are picked up after use and are sheathed appropriately. Teach your children about campsite safety and be consistent with enforcing the rules. This will protect them and teach them how to be safe when you aren't around and in their future.

3. Take breaks. If your feet are tired, let them rest. If your hikes are few and far between, then set reasonable goals for the distance of your hikes. And remember your experience level. If you enjoy the outdoors but aren't the most experienced hiker or navigator, it is safest and smartest to stay on well marked, maintained trails. There are many opportunities within state parks and campgrounds to find this kind of trails. Always carry a small emergency first aid/ survival kit with you on walks. Preparation is the main difference between cases of wilderness survival and tragedy.

4. Practice safe and ethical camping practices at all times. Not only will these protect your feet, but they will protect your whole body, your legal rights, and the environment. remember not to disturb wildlife and to, as the old outdoorsman mantra goes, "leave only footprints and take only photos". Be sure to be courteous to all other campers, hikers, and sportsmen- we all share the same interests and environments. And please learn all the rules pertaining to your campground, state or federal park, lake, river, wildlife preserve, etc. Knowing the rules where you intend to enjoy nature protects the wildlife, plant life and environment as well as allows everyone to enjoy the area.Looking for a way to spice up your camping trip? Maybe you only have a weekend or two days. Maybe you don't want to travel long distances. Ohio has a bounty of state parks. Visit their website for more information, to locate parks near you, and to reserve campsites. You can also try ideas like primitive camping, building your own shelter (please bring and leave with your own materials), biking cross country to a camping destination (which challenges you to pack light and live simply), trying new outdoor activities as well as camping (like hiking, fishing, canoe/kayaking, white water rafting, horseback riding, disc golf- there are countless opportunities), and sleeping under the stars without a tent or shelter. We hope you enjoy your summer outdoors and protect your feet so you enjoy many more years of excursions.

First, softball is usually a pretty safe sport to play. There is no contact, and most recreational leagues are designed with fun and sportsmanship in mind. But as with all physical activity, injuries are always possible. Common in softball are turned ankles (due to sharp turns while running and possibly from contact the base in an awkward manner, whether running or sliding into the base). This is an injury we see often and are able to treat. Turning your ankle can result in a sprain or tearing of the ligaments along the sides of your ankles. Sprains can be painful, and limit your mobility and physical activity. Seeing your podiatrist immediately means he will be able to immediately begin treating your injury and return you to your softball team. Also, beware of over-use injuries, especially if softball has been added to your normal exercise routine. These include plantar fasciitis (an inflammation of the tissues that connect your heel to your toes) and stress fractures. Both conditions can be painful and limit your physical activity. We also offer many treatments for these two conditions. Making an appointment at the first signs of injury and/or pain can greatly speed your recovery.

Also, keep your cleats in mind when you participate in softball. Be sure to check if your league has any specific requirements on cleats (some ban metal spikes for example). You should remember that even though you aren't in your cleats for long periods of time, you need to pay attention to them. Any shoes, especially ones that your wear while running and possibly jumping, need to have adequate support for your arches and should protect your feet. If your cleats cause you pain, or are worn out, you should replace them. Check your cleats every season to ensure that they are in good condition. Also, make sure your cleats have adequate time to dry between games and practices. This means you need to take your cleats out of your car trunk or bat bag to dry out. This helps prevent the growth of fungi, which can cause athlete's foot or yellow, cracked nails. Fungi thrive in warm, dark, wet environments, like in your cleats. Be sure to air them out and periodically (once a week) disinfect them with Lysol spray or a similar product.

Not at a high fitness level? That's ok! A "5k" race means it is 5 kilometers long: that's only 3.1 miles. Also, many races offer you the opportunity to join a run and a walk heat (group of people who start a race at the same time). This means that no matter your fitness level, you can help others by joining in to raise money for a good cause. And most races offer prizes (some door prizes and others based on place and category) and t-shirts or other memorabilia. We encourage you to find your race this summer.

Remember to keep your feet in mind when racing this season. Nothing will derail your training progress or your ability to excel in the big race faster than foot and ankle problems. When any problems arise, including pain or injury, don't hesitate to call our office. The sooner we can begin treating your injury, the sooner we can have you at performance levels and out training again. Also, make sure that your shoes are in shape for this season too. Old shoes will land you in our office and off your feet quickly. Check to be sure your shoes are in good condition and replace them if they are not. They should offer adequate support to your arches, and plenty of padding as your feet continually contact the road. Remember to always lace your shoes fully. And don't forget: we're the experts on your feet and foot health. As such, you should feel comfortable reaching our office if problems arise. Happy running!

Never play in the rain during a thunderstorm. Rain showers are usually safe, but any time you hear thunder or see lightning, it is time to move inside. You should also avoid very strong winds, as they can carry debris which can cause injury. Other strong weather problems you may encounter in the spring include tornadoes, hail (which Findlay witnessed yesterday), and even snow/ice when the temperature drops. Remember to stay away from dangerous weather conditions and heed all warnings from the National Weather Service.

Don't allow your search for puddles to lead you into unsafe areas. Streets often retain a lot of water in puddles or along drains. But playing in the street is never a good idea. Stick to puddles on sidewalks, or in grassy areas like your yard or park. Remember that wet grass can be quite slippery, so beware of falling down.

Dress appropriately for puddle jumping and spring weather. Sometimes spring rain can be cold. Protect yourself by layering the appropriate amount of clothing under a waterproof raincoat or jacket. This will keep your insulating under layers warm and dry, so you won't get too cold while playing in puddles. Remember that when you're wet, you will get cold faster. Be especially careful on colder days.

Wear the right shoes. Any time you are going to jump in puddles, you risk hitting debris or the side of a the hole the puddle has gathered in. Make sure your shoes offer support for your ankles and arches, and make sure they are closed toed to protect your whole foot from cuts, bruises and abrasions. Waterproof shoes or boots are also a good idea. Not only are rain boots fun and in style, they also keep your feet dry. This is the best protection against fungi which thrive in warm, wet, dark places (like your shoes). These kinds of shoes are also made to get wet and dry easily, which means that you won't have to wait as long for them to dry. Make sure your shoes are completely dry before wearing them again.

We hope you enjoy the spring season and the ever changing weather it offers. We hope you find some time to enjoy a rainstorm, even if it is from your porch or window with a hot cup of coffee in your hand. We also hope you and your children are able to enjoy the weather safely and avoid any foot or ankle complications. If problems should arise, do not hesitate to call our office. The sooner we can see you and begin treatment, the sooner we can have you out enjoying your spring- rain or shine.

Exercise for health! Exercise is the best thing you can do for your body, especially paired with a balanced diet. Exercise helps us burn calories which cause unhealthy fat; strengthen our existing muscles, bones, ligaments, and tendons; reduce weight which causes stress on joints; reduce risks of many diseases like heart disease; reduce cholesterol, a major health risk; improve our mental state; and help us look our best. And these are just a few of the major reasons exercise is so good for you. This does not mean you need an expensive gym membership or a personal trainer. Walking a half hour a day is something you can do no matter your age or fitness level. It is one of the best ways to get back into the swing of exercising, and begin to work yourself back into shape for other activities. You should walk at a pace where you can still hold a conversation, but your heart rate should be elevated. Choosing a walking partner is also a great idea; it will reduce your boredom and keep you accountable for your daily walking routine. And spring is a great time to enjoy mild weather, budding plants, fresh smells, and enjoy some sunshine. Walking is also easy on your feet, as it is a low-impact exercise. It is one of the best ways to get back into exercising regularly.

Remember to wear the correct shoes for your activity. Exercise is nearly impossible when your feet hurt. Wear shoes designed for your activity. If you are walking, wear walking shoes. If you are lifting weights, then cross trainers are a good choice. Runners should invest in a good running shoe. Shoes are designed with activities in mind to offer you the correct amount of support and cushion for your activity. Old or worn out shoes will not offer you the correct support, and can lead to problems like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, shin splints and stress fractures. Make sure your shoes are in good condition and always lace them entirely. You should also know that the right shoes will protect your feet from debris and other hazards as you exercise. Closed toes shoes may not make a stubbed toe pain-free, but they may prevent it from being a broken toe. Also, the wrong shoes can cause more problems. High heels or flip flops are not intended for walking long distances, so leave them out of your exercise program, or just running errands. These shoes do not offer the support your feet need, and at the end of the day your feet will be painful. Plan ahead with shoewear.

Wear sunscreen anytime you are outside, whether it be to exercise, do yard work, or just to relax. The sun is harmful to skin, and can lead to skin cancer. Putting sunscreen on any exposed skin, even on your feet, can help prevent sun burns and other skin damage.

Don't ignore your pain. Pain in your feet and ankles is not normal. If you experience any pain in your feet or ankles, this can be a sign of an injury. If you are experiencing pain or an injury, take the time off from your workouts to come see the podiatrist. We can help you recover and find relief from the pain, so that you can continue to exercise and improve your health without suffering through the pain of an injury.

Remember to drink plenty of fluids, water especially. Yes, sports drinks do help return electrolytes, but remember that your body's main need is water, so drink plenty of it. Not only will this help you to recover from your workout, but drinking water when dieting helps you to feel full and reduce cravings and hunger. Your body will function better when you get plenty of water, and you will be able to exercise longer in hot weather when you are properly hydrated. Remember that you need to drink water before, during and after your workout to maintain your hydration.

Do your homework. There are lots of diets and exercise programs available to you from every media source. This can be overwhelming at times. We encourage you to get back into an exercise routine, and choosing a program from television or online is fine. But remember that you need to consider the cost of these programs and equipment. Will you use a home gym, or will it just gather dust? Do you prefer to exercise outside by biking, walking or running? Pay attention to how you like to exercise and take that into consideration before buying a product. Also remember that these people are trying to make a profit and need to market their products. Although machines and programs can be a big help, you can also live a healthy life just by eating right and exercising regularly, even if its in a simple way like jogging. If you are looking for exercises you can do without a lot or no equipment, or for free resources, try scouring the web. There are lots of ideas you can share or receive for free. Even chat groups can help support your efforts to healthier living. Do not think that everything involved in losing weight requires a huge price tag.

Don't give up. Being consistent with exercise programs is a challenge! You may be able to work out one evening but not another. You may give in to a craving and "ruin" your diet. Realize that changing your diet and exercise routine is not an over-night endeavor. It will take time to change your standard behavior and attitude to one that encourages exercise and good food choices. Relapses happen to everyone. This does not mean that you should give up. You will not "ruin" a diet with one lapse, since this will be compared to the progress you have already made. Giving up on your new program is the only way to ruin yourself. A set back is not the end of an exercise routine or diet program unless you let it be the end of it. Work a little harder the next day and reset your attitude. Remember that you will need breaks from exercise routines as well. Trade one future scheduled rest day for your relapse day. Just remember that you need to get out and try again.

We hope that this spring will help you improve your health and well being! If you have any questions about exercise programs, or want to make comments to other patients, feel free to use this blog. And if you experience any problems with or pain in your feet and ankles, don't hesitate to call us. We want to get you back to enjoying the spring and your workouts as soon as you can!

What are APC Injections?

APC or PRP injections are a simple procedure in which platelets are concentrated and then injected into an injury or problem site to help the patient heal from their injury or condition. They are very safe and have little or no side effects. APC injections work to restore your feet to their original condition faster than with rest alone. These injections have prevented surgery candidates from requiring surgical intervention.

How APC Injections Work

The first step of the procedure is to remove 1-2 ounces of blood from one of the patient's veins. This blood is then processed through a centrifuge, separating red blood cells and plasma. The plasma contains platelets which are your body's growth and healing factors. The platelets are concentrated and injected into the patient's heel (after an initial numbing of the foot) to relieve pain and help fight the plantar fasciitis naturally. With the concentration of your body's own healing factors, your body can heal itself in a reduced amount of time.

Side Effects

APC or PRP injections are relatively side effect free! This is because the injection utilizes the body's own healing factors, preventing reaction to the injection materials. It does not utilize any illegal or banned substances (like steroids or human growth hormone) which makes it a prime treatment for athletes. There may be some pain or discomfort associated with the treatment, since an injection is involved. Your podiatrist can recommend or prescribe pain killers for this. Also, some patients experience some inflammation with this treatment. Since anti-inflammatories can interfere with the effectiveness of this treatment, patients will have to cope with any discomfort associated with inflammation and footwear or ambulation.

Why You Should Choose APC Injections

There are many reasons to choose APC injections for the treatment of your plantar fasciitis.

-APC injections are effective! We have found these injections to be very effective for people who prior to the availability of this treatment would have needed surgical intervention. Often these patients do not require further care after their treatment, with the exception of follow-up visits concerning the APC injection. When paired with an orthotic for biomechanical control, APC injections become even more effective.

-APC Injections are safe! There are little side effects due to the fact that APC or PRP injections utilize your body's own healing and growth factors.

-APC injections reduce recovery time. If you experience an injury or pain from plantar fasciitis, APC injections concentrate your body's natural healing abilities and can help you recover in half the time that you would normally.

-APC injections can prevent the need for surgery. Many patients who undergo conservative treatments and find no relief become candidates for surgical intervention. APC injections present another option before surgery becomes a necessity, and prevent many people from going this route. Surgery involves increased risks and a longer healing time, meaning time off work or from your sport or exercise program.

-APC injections have been effective in tissues that do not heal well on their own. This not only reduces healing time, but is a great relief to doctors who have few options for treating areas that do not heal well under normal circumstances. A fast, full recovery also helps prevent repeat injuries.

Who is Utilizing APC Injections?

According to a March 2010 article in the Wall Street Journal, many high profile athletes have used APC or PRP injections with great success. Seattle Mariners pitcher Cliff Lee took advantage of this therapy for an abdominal strain, and he's not the only Seattle athlete to do so. Mariners and Seahawk's team doctor E. Edward Khalfayan has used APC injections for many athletes. He even states that is has helped players return from ankle sprains in as little as 2-3 weeks, when the injury usually keeps them out for 6-8 weeks. The Journal also reports that Kenyon Martin, power forward for the Denver Nuggets used the treatment for a strained left knee and Pittsburgh Steelers safety Troy Polamalu and receiver Hines Ward used the injections for a strained calf and sprained knee respectively before contributing to their team's Super Bowl XLIII victory. Tiger Woods also used the treatments for his left knee before participating in four majors. But APC injections aren't just for high-profile athletes. Many doctors are reporting high rates of success utilizing the injections on many patients for a range of injuries and ailments. According to the article, the treatment can help in cases of plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, osteoarthritis, muscle strains (including hamstrings, calfs and abdominals/obliques), joint sprains (including knees, ankles, and elbows), and in cases of tennis elbow.

Notes on APC Injections

-APC injections do not require FDA regulation, since they utilize your body's own healing factors. They do, however, regulate the centrifugal and other blood equipment, so rest assured that the handling of your blood and platelets before the injection is safe.

-Most insurances do not cover APC injections. This is because the treatment is still considered by most of these insurances to be experimental. This is because the is a lack of published studies on the effectiveness of the treatment. Be assured that studies continue to be done, and because of the lack of side effects, utilizing this treatment helps us to compile further data and help the scientific community move closer to completing its research on this procedure. This means we can work toward insurance reimbursement for this treatment, making it more available to and affordable for our patients. Who knows, you may need the injection again after an injury or trauma.

-There is some recovery time with APC injections. You do not want to over-use the foot after the injection, and you will likely be required to be non-weight bearing on that foot through use of crutches or a surgical or walker boot. Your time under these restrictions will be brief, but this is still an important part in the healing process.

-Following all your doctor's orders makes any procedure more effective, and the same is true with APC or PRP injections. Compliance will help you reach a full recovery.

If you think you are a candidate for APC injections, or have more questions for the doctor or nursing staff, call our office at 419-423-1888. We are happy to help and we can also schedule you for a consultation with the doctor.

Wearing Shoes

A child learning to walk receives important sensory information from the soles of their feet. Shoes, particularly those with hard and inflexible soles, can make walking more difficult. Your toddler doesn't need shoes until they have been walking for a couple of months, and then only to protect their feet from sharp objects. It is important to allow your child to go barefoot regularly to help them develop balance, coordination and posture. Have your child's shoes professionally fitted, which should include measuring each foot for length and width. Children's feet grow very quickly and their shoe size may need updating every few months. Shoes that are too tight can hamper your child's walking and cause problems, such as ingrown toenails and bunions.

Suggestions for shoes

Shoes for your toddler should ideally have features including:

-Firm, comfortable fit both lengthways and widthways

-Rounded toe

-Plenty of room for the toes

-Flexible, flat sole

-Heel support

-Laces, straps or equivalent to prevent excessive movement or slipping of the foot inside the shoe

Flat Feet

The sole of a normally developed foot has an arch, called the medial arch, formed by muscles and ligaments. For the first two years, your child's feet will seem to have fallen arches. Flat feet are normal in a young child due to weak muscle tone in the foot, a generous padding of fat and loose ankle ligaments that permit the foot to lean inwards. As your child masters walking, the ligaments and muscles will strengthen and the fat pads in the arch area won't be so noticeable. by around five years of age, your child should have normal arches in both feet.

Feet that turn inwards

Many toddlers walk 'pigeon-toed', with either one or both feet turned inwards. In most cases, this is simply a sign of developing posture and balance, and should resolve by itself (without the need for medical intervention) somewhere between the ages of three and five years. However, if the in-toeing is severe, seems to involve the leg and hip as well as the foot, or isn't improving by the time your child is around one and a half to two years of age, see your podiatrist for assessment. Excessive in-toeing may be caused by a variety of underlying difficulties, such as hip joint problems.

Feet that turn outwards

Very occasionally, toddlers walk with their feet turned outwards. This tends to be more common in children who were born prematurely. In most cases, out-toeing resolves by itself as posture and balance matures, but see your podiatrist if you are concerned.

Problems that need professional attention

You should see your doctor or podiatrist if you are worried about your child's feet or gait. Problematic symptoms may include:

-Abnormally shaped toes

-Ingrown toenails

-Bunions or other deformities

-Stiffness in the foot

-Limping

-The child complains of pain while walking

-Severe in-toeing or out-toeing

-Flat feet beyond the age of five years

-A sudden change in the way your child walks

-If your child isn't walking at all by two years of age

Things to remember

-Most toddlers are flat-footed when they first start walking because the muscles and ligaments of their feet are underdeveloped

-Toddlers should go barefoot as often as possible to encourage balance, posture and coordination

-See your doctor or podiatrist if you are concerned about your child's feet or gait

Diabetes is a condition in which the amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood is too high because the body is unable to use it properly. This is because the body's method of converting glucose into energy is not working as it should.

THERE ARE TWO COMMON FORMS OF DIABETES:

-Type 1, also known as insulin dependent diabetes. This usually affects children and young adults. People with this type of diabetes require daily insulin injections.

-Type 2, also known as non-insulin dependent diabetes, is by far the most common and usually affects people over the age of 40 years old.

How diabetes can affect your feet

Your feet are supplied with blood to keep them healthy. They also have a multitude of nerves that act as an emergency warning system. For example, if you have a stone in your shoe, nerves will send a message to your brain to investigate. However, if your diabetes is poorly controlled for a long period of time, this may lead to:

-nerve damage, or "peripheral neuropathy", which impairs sensation to the feet, and/or

-reduced blood supply, also known as "poor circulation"

Nerve damage may mean that you no longer notice the stone in your shoe, due to loss of sensation to your feet. This could then lead to an injury you can't feel, and possibly infection. If you have poor circulation, any injuries or infections to your feet (i.e. cuts, burns, or scratches) will take longer to heal. this is due to less blood flowing into the arteries in your feet. Blood provides energy to work muscles and aids in healing any tissue damage. If you have poor circulation, you will need to take extra care to protect your feet from injury. Most foot problems in people who have diabetes occur when injuries- and often infections- go unnoticed and untreated, or when healing is delayed due to poor circulation.

How can I detect any changes early?

A six monthly foot assessment by your podiatrist will help to detect any changes early- before they become a problem. In an assessment, your podiatrist will examine your circulation by feeling foot pulses. They will also examine sensation by testing reflexes, vibration and pressure sensitivity. Your podiatrist will also look for general foot conditions that may lead to future problems. They will also work with you to show you how to monitor your own feet, in between consultations.

TO PREVENT PROBLEMS

-Protect your feet from injury

-Inspect your feet every day (your podiatrist can show you how). After a shower, while drying your feet thoroughly, is a great time for this daily activity.

-See your podiatrist immediately if something is not healing.

GENERAL GUIDE:

-Maintain acceptable blood sugar level control

-Don't smoke

-Exercise regularly

-Avoid barefoot walking

-Keep your feet clean

-Wear well-fitting shoes

-Cut and file nails carefully

-Have corns, calluses and other foot problems treated by a podiatrist

-Seek your podiatrist's advice before using a commercial corn cure

Footwear advice

The best type of footwear fits well and protects your feet. Whenever possible, wear shoes to avoid injury. Ensure your shoe is deep enough and broad enough.

Some other pointers

-Where possible, wear lace-up shoes as they don't cause foot and leg fatigue or lead to toe-clawing.

-Check inside your shoes for rough edges or exposed tacks- shake them out to make sure there is nothing inside.

-Cotton hosiery, socks and tights, worn with leather upper shoes are good choices.

Remember:

-Altered sensations may lead to numbness in the feet. Cuts, blisters, ingrown toenails and corns may go unnoticed.

-Reduced blood supply (poor circulation) can slow down the healing process.

-Protect your feet from injury.

-Inspect your feet every day.

-Have a Regular (every 6 months) foot assessment.

Who gets heel pain?

The greatest incidence of heel pain is seen in middle-aged men and women. It is also seen in those who take part in regular sporting activities and those significantly overweight and on their feet a lot. Heel pain can also occur in children, usually between 8 and 13, as they become increasingly active in sporting activities.

The causes of heel pain

While heel pain has many causes, it is usually the result of faulty biomechanics (abnormalities in the way we walk and/or the structure of our feet). This can place too much stress on the heel bone and the soft tissues attached to it. The stress may also result from injury, or a bruise incurred while walking, running or jumping on hard surfaces; wearing poorly constructed footwear; or being significantly overweight. Systemic diseases such as arthritis and diabetes can also contribute to heel pain.

Common Complications

Heel Spur

A common cause of heel pain is the heel spur, a bony growth under the heel bone. There are no visible features on the heel, but a deep painful spot can be found in or around the middle of the sole of the heel. Approximately 10% of the population may have heel spurs without pain. Heel spurs result from strain on the muscles of the foot. This may result from biomechanical imbalance, a common condition occurring in many people.

Plantar Fasciitis

Both heel pain and heel spurs are frequently associated with an inflammation of the long band of tissue that connects the heel and the ball of the foot. The inflammation of this arch area is called plantar fasciitis. The inflammation may be aggravated by shoes that lack appropriate support, especially in the arch area, and by the chronic irritation that sometimes accompanies an athletic lifestyle.

Other Causes of Heel Pain

-Excessive rolling in of the feet when walking.

-An inflamed bursa (bursitis), a small, irritated sack of fluid at the back of the heel.

-A neuroma (a nerve growth).

-Other soft-tissue growths.

-Heel bumps or "pump bumps", a bone enlargement at the back of the heel bone.

-Bruises or stress fractures to the heel bone.

Overcoming the problem

If pain and other symptoms of inflammation- redness, swelling, heat- persist, you should limit normal daily activities and consult your local podiatrist. Your podiatrist may conduct a number of x-rays to look for heel spurs or fractures.

Treatment

Early treatment might involve exercise and shoe recommendations, taping or strapping, and anti-inflammatory medication (such as aspirin). Taping and strapping supports the foot, placing stressed muscles in a restful state and preventing stretching of the plantar of the plantar fascia. Other physical therapies may also be used, including ice packs and ultra-sounds. Orthotic devices (shoe inserts) are also commonly used to treat heel pain. These orthotics are custom molded to your feet and correct the biomechanical imbalances that you may have. These treatments will effectively treat the majority of heel and arch pain without the need for surgery. Only a relatively few cases of heel pain require surgery. If required, surgery is usually for the removal of a spur, but also may involve release of the plantar fascia, removal of a bursa, or a removal of a neuroma or other soft-tissue growth.

Recovery

Your recovery will depend on the cause of your heel pain and your additional health. If you are suffering with a heel spur or plantar fasciitis, it normally takes about six to eight weeks for a healthy individual to fully recover. That is when the injured area is fully rested or properly strapped.

Preventing Future Problems

Footwear

Wear shoes that fit well, on the front, back and sides, and have shock-absorbent soles, rigid uppers and supportive heel counters. Do not wear shoes with excessive wear on the heels and soles.

Stretches and Exercise

Prepare properly before exercising. Warm-up before running or walking, and do some stretching exercises afterward. Pace yourself when you participate in athletic activities. If overweight, try non-weight-bearing activities such as swimming, cycling, or using a stair-steeper or elliptical machine. Mixing these activities with high-impact work outs such as running and activities involving jumping is a good idea for any athlete or exercise participant. Exercise will also help reduce your body weight, which adds to the stress on your feet.

Additional Control

Your podiatrist may also use taping or strapping to provide extra support for your foot. Orthotic devices (shoe inserts) custom made to suit your needs and your feet may also be prescribed for daily use.

This injury is most often caused by repeated use of the foot, especially when performing a repetitive or high impact action (running is both of these). There are a few things that you can do to prevent an injury of this type. First of all, vary your workouts. Pair you high impact workouts like running or aerobics with low impact, high cardiac output exercises like biking, swimming, walking, or a low impact exercise machine like a stair climber or elliptical. You can also look for low impact seasonal activities like cross country skiing or snow shoeing. You should also make sure you are wearing the appropriate footwear for all your activities. Wear tennis shoes for workouts or runs, and be sure your shoes are in good condition with adequate support and padding. Remember to lace and tie your shoes completely. People who work on hard surfaces, like concrete, or stand for long periods of time are not only susceptible to plantar fasciitis, but also to stress fractures. Be sure that your work shoes are supportive and not high heeled. You may also want to consider orthotics as a preventative measure, as they return your foot to a neutral biomechanical position and help relieve some of the stress placed on your foot.

If you think you are experiencing a stress fracture, just remember RICE: rest, ice, compression, and elevation. This will help you find some relief and will aid in reducing any swelling you may experience. You can also take an over-the-counter pain medication for any soreness, discomfort, or pain. You should then call your podiatrist to set up an appointment for diagnostic tests and to begin your treatment. Leaving stress fractures untreated will lead to further pain, and a more severe fracture. They need to be treated as soon as possible.

The plantar fascia is the band of connective tissue which connects the heel of the foot to the toes. When it is over-used it can become inflammed and painful. This condition is known as plantar fasciitis. The pain from plantar fasciitis is usually described as ranging from an ache or throb to a stabbing pain, and it is most commonly located on the bottom of the foot, where the arch meets the heel. The pain is often at its worst in the morning or after sitting down, and may subside once you use your foot.

There are a few common causes of plantar fasciitis. Athletes and those who exercise for enjoyment or health reasons often experience this condition, as repeated use can cause strain on the plantar fascia. Runner especially experience over-use injuries like plantar fasciitis, stress fractures of the feet and ankles, and shin splints. Also, people who spend a lot of time on their feet in a day are susceptible to plantar fasciitis. Standing on hard surfaces, like concrete, can exacerbate the problem. And the shoes you are wearing factors in as well. Shoes that do not support your arches are more likely to contribute to problems of your feet. And lastly, your existing foot biomechanics factor in to your overall foot health. If you have high arches or low arches, in-toeing, out-toeing or another structural problem with your feet, you may experience side effects, among them plantar fasciitis.

What can you do to prevent or treat plantar fasciitis? There are many options for prevention and treatment of plantar fasciitis. Firstly, your shoes are the most important part for preventing this condition. Make sure you are wearing the appropriate shoes for your activities. You should be wearing athletic shoes with good support for your sports or exercise routines. And if you will be walking long distances you should wear the appropriate shoes (not sandals or heels). Keep your shoes in mind when planning your activities and replace shoes that are worn out. Replacing your shoes so they offer the correct support will prevent lots of pain and the expense and time off from an injury. A second option is conservative footcare. Conservative footcare is any non-surgical care we can offer. This includes taping, braces, cortisone injections, APC injections, ESWT treatments, stretching exercises, night splints, physical therapy, medications and orthotics. There are many options for helping you relieve your pain conservatively. Custom molded orthotics are one of the most successful ways to treat plantar fasciitis. Unlike over-the-counter or "Custom Fit" orthotics, these are made from a 3-D scan of your foot to fit it exactly, offer support, and return your foot to a neutral position. These are also a great idea for athletes who want to prevent over-use complications in their feet. Orthotics also help align your body, and can aid in the relief of ankle, knee, hip or back pain caused from misalignment.

We hope that as you train for fun, competition, or health reasons you remember that your training doesn't have to be painful. Your feet and ankles can perform to the level you desire, but you may need a little help. Call our office as soon as you have a problem and we can begin treating you to get you back to your highly active level.

Everyone here at The Advanced Footcare Clinic is excited about the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympic Games. We have been following many sports, and enjoying all the interesting stories about the athlete's backgrounds, personal challenges they face, and the difficulties of their sports. We know that many of our patients are interested in these games as well, and that many of our patients enjoy exercising for pleasure and for their health. Like these athletes, you too may experience foot and ankle problems when you are using your feet in athletics. That is why we are happy to present a brand new blog on the Olympics and your footcare. Simply go to: http://olympicsfootdoc.blogspot.com/ to visit our new blog all about Olympic events, medal updates, injury reports on the athletes, and injuries and conditions you may suffer from while participating in Olympic activities on your own (like skiing or skating) or other non-Olympic activities. We know that the feet are the foundation of your whole body, and when you experience a problem with them, it hinders your everyday and athletic activity. That is why we want to educate our patients on their footcare, and incorporating the interesting topic of the Olympics makes that fun and easy. So visit our blog, or look to this one for continuing updates on the Olympics and your foot health.

The Advanced Footcare Clinic will be at the Day of Dance for Health event sponsored by Blanchard Valley Health Systems! The event is to raise awareness for women's health issues, as well as enjoy a day to enjoy different dance styles, watch dance performance groups, take in music, eat good food, sign up for give-a-ways, receive health screenings and even win door prizes. Our office will have a booth at this event to share valuable health information about your feet. When you are exercising or dancing regularly you can really improve your over-all health. But nothing will hinder your ability to do so quicker than sore feet. So we want to give you tips on how to avoid this type of pain, as well as making you aware that we are available when you do experience foot problems. We will also have special offers and products from our office. Our display will include examples of our new therapeutic shoes. We want our patients to see that our shoes are not what they traditionally think of as therapeutic shoes, but they have been updated to offer great style as well as great footcare. And these shoes are available to all our patients, not just diabetics. We will also have an offer on a free pair of Dr. Comfort brand slippers for anyone who makes an appointment to see the podiatrist. And lastly, we will be offering free giveaways on some of our most recommended moisturizers, creams, scrubs, soaks, and other products.

The event will be held on Saturday, February 27th from 10:00am to 2:00pm. It will be in the University of Findlay's Koehler Center and the admission fee is a toothbrush and/or tube of tooth paste for charity. There is no preregistration required. Any questions can be directed to 419-423-5551. We look forward to seeing you that Saturday to enjoy yourself and learn all about women's health needs.

The Advanced Footcare Clinic is here to help you keep your feet healthy and feeling great. However, we recognize that from time to time your feet will experience problems that require a visit to our office. But there are steps you can take everyday to keep your feet healthy and prevent injuries that may occur. While we recommend all of our patients to follow these guidelines, we especially recommend that diabetic patients follow these guidelines. For a person with diabetes, a small foot problem can quickly become a big problem. Following these basic guidelines will help you recognize any new problems that may arise. At our office, we have five general tips we recommend to our patients:

1.Choose comfortable shoes. It sounds simple, but comfortable, supportive shoes are one of the primary ways to prevent injury to your feet.

2. Practice good foot hygiene. It's hard to forget to brush your teeth or take a shower, but sometimes its easy to forget how important good foot hygiene is. Good foot hygiene can prevent bacteria and infection from entering your feet.

3. Keep them covered at all times. The best way to prevent foot and ankle injuries from foreign objects is to keep your feet covered. For children, it is especially important to keep feet covered to prevent warts and other infections.

4. Check out those feet. Make it a habit to regularly check your feet to make sure there isn't anything out of the ordinary that you should have checked out.

5. Come in to see us. At the first sign of a problem be sure to call us for an appointment. We are here to help with any problems you may be experiencing with your feet!

Following these tips will help you keep your feet healthy and feeling great! Check out our website and blogs for the most up-to-date information on foot health.

Exercise, Walking, and Running Shoes:

New Balance: 1011* 587(lat) 817 766

Asics Gel: Evolution Foundation Fortitude

Etonic: Stable Pro

Nike: Equation Structure Triax

Brooks: Beast*/Ariel* Addiction Adrenaline Vapor

Saucony: Grid Stabil* Onmi Hurricane

Adidas: Adistar Control Supernova Sequense

Mizuno: Renegade

Basketball:

Nike Air: Air Force STAT Air Huarache Max Elite

Adidas: KG Bounce T-MAC

New Balance: 904 8026

Dress shoes should fit the following criteria:

Firm Heel

Torsionally Stable (do not twist easily)

Removable Insole

The Following brands have several models which fit the above criteria:

Rockport, Hush Puppies, Ariat, Dansko, Kumfs, Wolky, Timberland, Sanita, Nickels, Aravon, Naot, Dunham, Sudini, Slaamander, Nautica, Paul Thomas, Munro, Selby, Theresia, Neil M.

Remember: As the seasons change, so should your shoes. Here are a few tips offered by the American Podiatric Medical Association on how to best keep your family's feet comfortable and protected every season:

- Do not assume a given size will fit the same for different brands of shoes

- Avoid man-made materials because they limit the breathability

- Never use "hand-me-down" shoes

- Check your child's new shoes every few months to make sure they are fitting properly as children's feet grow quickly

- In the fall, Dr. Vail can recommend some great options for teenagers that may also still be fashionable enough for them to wear to school

- Make sure the shoe "fits the sport" when selecting an athletic shoe

- The toebox of many shoes is often made too narrow; be sure your toes have enough room to move.

At the Advanced Footcare Clinic, we are committed to helping you have happy, healthy feet. If you have any questions or would like to be fitted for shoes, please call our staff at (419) 423-1888.

Last year, Dr. Thomas F. Vail saw over 200 patients with severe heel pain

Heel pain, caused by an inflammation of the plantar fascia (muscles and nerves under the heel), is the most common conditions that brings patients into our office. Structural misalignmnet, typically resulting in flat feet or highly arched feet, is the primary cause of heel pain.

Typically, heel pain is most severe in the morning because calves and feet muscles are tighten at night at the stretching of these muscles is painful.

While severe heel pain can be fixed through surgery, recover is a grueling and extensive process; the foot must be casted for four weeks and rehabilitation lasts 2-4 months.

While surgery is a possibile avenue to reduce heel pain, the Advanced Footcare Clinic is committed to conservative treatments that have maximum benefits with limited down time for our patients.

This is why, three years ago, the Advanced Footcare Clinic began offering APC (Autologous Platelet Concentrates) injections. These injections, largely published by Pittsburgh Steeler Hines Ward and New York Yankee Xavier Nady, permit podiatrists to inject into highly inflamed areas to reduce pain and inflamation.

An APC injection isolates the blood's platelets, growth factors, from a patient's own blood. After isolating the blood's platelets, they are reinjected into the patient's inflamed areas.

Since it is the patient's own blood, there are no side effects. Furthermore, recovery time is only two weeks!

The process takes about 15 minutes. The process can be repeated, as it encourages the natural healing process through each person's own blood platelets.

If you are experiencing heel pain and would like to hear more about APC injections, as well as other options, we are here to help. Please feel free to contact our staff at (419)423-1888.

As we move forward with our blog, we hope to promote podiatric awareness as a vital part of your healthy, active lifestyle. Here you will find a variety of articles and topics including the latest developments in podiatry, podiatric treatments and helpful foot care advice from Dr. Thomas F. Vail and his staff.

We hope you find our blog to be helpful, engaging and informational to ensure the long-term health of your feet.
As always, feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns.