Quick Tips for Your Diabetic Feet!

Foot problems increase if you suffer from diabetes. Diabetics must constantly monitor their feet or face severe consequences, including amputation. Here's some basic advice for taking care of your feet:

• Always keep your feet warm.
• Don't get your feet wet in snow or rain.
• Don't smoke or sit cross-legged. Both decrease blood supply to your feet.
• Don't soak your feet.
• Don't use antiseptic solutions, drug store medications, or sharp instruments on your feet.
• Trim your toenails straight across. Avoid cutting the corners. Use a nail file or emery board. If you find an ingrown toenail, contact our office.
• Use quality lotion to keep the skin of your feet soft and moist, but don't put any lotion between your toes.
• Wash your feet every day with mild soap and warm water.
• Wear loose socks to bed.
• Try to wear seamless socks to avoid seems rubbing your feet.
• When drying your feet, pat each foot with a towel.
• Buy shoes that are comfortable without a "breaking in" period.
• Do not go barefoot.
• Check your feet daily for any cuts, bruises, wounds, or other injuries.

Community Foot Specialists - Podiatrists/Foot & Ankle Surgeons Serving Dayton and Springfield, Ohio Call today to schedule your appointment! (937) 426-9500

Can Smoking Cigarettes Cause Foot Pain?

By Dr. Adam Thomas

The answer is to this topic is yes, indirectly. Smoking is well known as a contributing factor to health issues. With respect to the feet and lower extremities, years of smoking can not only lead to the more common issues of breathing complications such as emphysema, COPD and lung cancer, but it can lead to cardiovascular issues and artery disease. The effects of years of smoking can lead to narrowing of the arteries due to the chemicals causing constriction of the arteries repeatedly. If this is combined in an individual more prone to high cholesterol, this can be a very bad mix. The arteries, therefore, can become blocked with plaques. The complications of this most people are aware of is the fact that it can lead to heart disease, CAD (Coronary Artery Disease) and eventually open heart bypass surgery. 

What is less known is the fact that the blockages don’t just happen in one area such as the heart but all through the circulatory system. If the first areas becoming blocked are in the lower extremities, the first signs and symptoms may not be chest pain but rather pain in the legs or the feet. When it starts, it may manifest with simple cramping upon walking a certain distance before having to rest (claudication). This is due to the reduced blood flow getting to the feet and legs as the demand for oxygen goes up with exercise or walking. As the disease progresses, the distance an individual can walk shortens until the pain happens with both walking and resting (rest pain). Theses pains in the legs and feet can be signs of PAD or Peripheral Arterial Disease. 

Peripheral Arterial Disease

Often times in the podiatrist office, the early signs of this disease can be caught and treated before progression. Simple testing can be performed in office and if detected, appropriate referrals can be made to a specialist who treats this disease. Newer technologies are available with minimal invasive techniques to help improve blood flow to the legs and feet which will in turn reduce the pain, improve quality of life, and reduce the chances of amputation which can be a devastating end result of this disease.   

Community Foot Specialists - Podiatrists/Foot & Ankle Surgeons Serving Dayton and Springfield, Ohio Call today to schedule your appointment! (937) 426-9500

Barefoot Running: The Big Debate

Barefoot running is running without shoes or running in shoes that have very thin soles. This type of running is also known as minimalist running or natural running. There is a big debate in the foot community about whether barefoot running or going barefoot at all is better than wearing shoes.

Against Barefoot Running

Those against barefoot running aren’t sure that this activity is better for you. Podiatrists on this side of the argument claim that running on softer surfaces like natural mud trails and grass provides cushioning similar to shoes. They also argue that most runners run on concrete, which is an unforgiving surface.

Pain is also a major topic that comes up in this argument. It is believed that running without shoes or the support of regular running shoes can cause common foot and ankle ailments. Podiatrists express that when you place additional strain on your Achilles tendon, the result is pain and Achilles tendonitis. Podiatrists also argue that barefoot running is the cause of plantar fasciitis and that running without arch support will most likely lead to pain in the plantar fascia. They do not recommend that people run without proper fitting shoes, especially if you have low or flat arches.

For Barefoot Running

Advocates for barefoot running are on the other side of the coin. Some claim that running shoes are a part of big business and that biased businesses fund their own research to yield results that suggest it is better to run with shoes. By doing this, people continue to believe that they need expensive running shoes with all of the “necessary features.” People then go out and buy the running shoes and businesses continue to make a profit.

Other barefoot runners do not necessarily believe it is all a conspiracy. They simply argue that there are some populations all over the world that suffer from less foot problems and the only difference is that those other populations do not wear shoes. Barefoot runners claim that shoes do not offer support and that they actually weaken the muscles in your feet and ankles. This is because shoes prevent you from learning how to truly use those muscles. Shoes can also cause you to walk with an improper gait for years, which could eventually throw your body’s alignment out of whack.

Barefoot runners believe that shoes do not offer support, but they do believe that shoes offer protection from harmful objects like rocks, glass, nails, twigs, unfavorable weather, hot or cold surfaces, etc. This is the one true benefit of shoes, which is why some runners don’t run barefoot and opt for those minimalist running shoes like the Vibram FiveFingers.

Vibram FiveFingers

Below are other reasons why some believe barefoot running is better for you and your feet:

• Barefoot runners have lighter footfall. In other words, they tend to strike the ground with the middle or front of their feet instead of their heel. This type of running puts less pressure on your joints and reduces impact injuries.
  
• Barefoot runners are able to run faster. Without the weight of shoes, they can increase their speed.
• Barefoot runners save money by not purchasing expensive running shoes.
• Running barefoot allows you to feel the ground. Being able to feel the terrain allows you to change your gait so that you can improve the way you run and improve your balance.
• Runners who run in shoes get the same injuries like plantar fasciitis anyway.
• This is how we were designed to run. If we are born without shoes, it must mean that our bodies and feet are capable of adapting to walking and running on the earth barefoot.

Barefoot runners believe that if you suffer from any pain like plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis, it is because you made the switch to barefoot running too quickly. They suggest that you start walking around barefoot slowly on a soft surface like grass or dirt. Gradually work your way up to running on the soft surface. It helps you learn how to feel your feet so you do not strike the ground with too much force. You have to gradually train your body to make the switch. This means strengthening your feet, ankles, and calves before attempting that 10 mile run.

If you think about it, this is what you should do with any new physical activity. If you are just starting to lift weights, you don’t try to lift 300 lbs over your head on the first day. You could injury yourself. It is the same way with barefoot running. Since you will start to use more of your foot muscles that have been ignored while wearing comfy shoes, you don’t want to over work them or stress them. If you decide that barefoot running is right foot you, take it slow!

Caution:

Some people are not suited for barefoot running. If you have diabetes or live in a littered area, it is best to not to go barefoot as you could easily injury your feet.

Community Foot Specialists - Podiatrists/Foot & Ankle Surgeons Serving Dayton and Springfield, Ohio Call today to schedule your appointment! (937) 426-9500

X-rays Examined!

An X-ray is a form of electromagnetic energy. Podiatrists use this energy to make an image of your foot showing the soft tissues, tarsal bones, metatarsal bones, and phalanges. They order X-rays of the foot to be taken from different views: the front, side, and one at an angle.

The way an X-ray works is a film is put behind the part of your body having the X-ray. The X-ray machine shoots out X-ray particles that pass through your body and onto the film. The more X-rays that pass through and hit the film, the darker that part of the X-ray will be. Dense parts of your body, like bones, show up white on the film because they block out the X-ray particles. 

You might have heard that X-rays are harmful, but don’t worry. Doctors and radiologists take precautions to help keep you safe. The problem with X-rays is that they are a form of ionizing radiation, which means that when an X-ray hits an atom, it can knock electrons off the atom creating an ion (electrically charged atom). The charge of an ion can break DNA chains, which could result in death of the broken chain and cause various diseases. The DNA chain could also result in a mutation and cancerous cells. To prevent these complications, only the minimum amount of radiation required to get the best results is used by trained radiologists. Also, a lead apron or lead shield is used to protect certain parts of your body. X-rays are safe when used with care.

X-ray technology is an important tool that your podiatrist may use to help with the diagnostic process. It lets doctors see straight through your human tissue to examine any broken bones, detect arthritis or osteoporosis, and even identify unexplained pains without having to perform surgery to peek around. It can also help find the cause of tenderness, swelling, and deformities in addition to detecting cysts and tumors. They are also useful after surgery to make sure that you are healing correctly.

Community Foot Specialists - Podiatrists/Foot & Ankle Surgeons Serving Dayton and Springfield, Ohio Call today to schedule your appointment! (937) 426-9500

12 Year Old Almost Dies From Foot Blister

Macenzie Campbell, 12, almost died from a blister
after wearing shoes without socks

Macenzie Campbell was rushed to Royal Bolton Hospital when a blister on his foot became infected because he wore shoes without socks. His mother thought that the infection was a wart and applied a treatment but the next day, his foot had swollen and a red rash spread all over his body. After the rash started turning black, his body went into shock, his organs started to fail and his body began to shut down. Macenzie is now recovering at home, after doctors operated on his foot to remove the infected tissue and kept him in the hospital for a week. According to the doctors, he was six hours away from death.

A blister is the result of friction or rubbing on the skin. It forms when the outer layer of skin separates from the inner layers causing fluid to build up in between them. A blister could also be filled with pus if it is infected. Typically, a blister develops if the skin is wet or moist and is continually rubbed in the same location, and they are most common on the feet and hands. If you are suffering from a blister, you might wonder, “When is it okay to drain it?”

Do not drain it if...
If the blister is small and not too painful, keep it clean and leave it intact. Do not try to drain it because the skin acts as a barrier to keep bacteria out and lowers the risk of infection. Also, the fluid within the blister keeps the underlying skin clean and promotes healing. Cover the blister with a bandage or gauze pad and it should heal on its own. If you are diabetic, do not attempt to puncture or drain your blister and please see a podiatrist.

Drain it if...
If the blister is large, painful and prevents you from your daily activities, you may want to try to drain it. First, make sure your hands are clean and clean the blister thoroughly. Wipe the blister with rubbing alcohol, and use the rubbing alcohol to sterilize a sharp needle. Puncture the blister near the edge not the middle because you want to try to avoid disturbing the unbroken skin over a blister. Let the fluid drain and when it is done, apply an antibiotic ointment and cover the blister with a bandage.

Don’t forget to look for signs of an infection: pus drainage, redness or warmth around a blister, an increase in pain, red streaks in skin, and fever. If a blister becomes infected, one of the risks include secondary impetigo, a contagious bacterial infection. Another risk is cellulitis, a serious skin infection that may affect tissues under your skin and spread into your bloodstream. In the case of Macenzie Campbell, he suffered from Sepsis, a life-threatening bacterial infection in the blood stream.

To prevent blisters, minimize the friction and keep your feet dry by wearing fresh socks. You should also wear proper fitting shoes.

Community Foot Specialists - Podiatrists/Foot & Ankle Surgeons Serving Dayton and Springfield, Ohio Call today to schedule your appointment! (937) 426-9500

Marvin Jones of the Bengals Out with Foot Injury

Third-year wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals, Marvin Jones, sustained a left foot injury during Saturday's practice at the Paul Brown Stadium. Coincidentally, Jones suffered what is called a "Jones Fracture." These fractures can be tiny stress fractures or an acute and sudden break in the foot. Jones fractures are caused by repetitive stress, overuse of the foot, or trauma.

Jones had surgery over the weekend and it consisted of having a pin placed in the fifth metatarsal bone. It is likely that he will miss the rest of preseason and the first month of the 2014 NFL season (first three games). The Bengals hope that he will be able to return after the bye week for the game against the New England Patriots, scheduled Oct. 5 at 8:30 pm.

Community Foot Specialists - Podiatrists/Foot & Ankle Surgeons Serving Dayton and Springfield, Ohio Call today to schedule your appointment! (937) 426-9500

Walk Your Feet!

Walking is a very inexpensive way to stay healthy and help keep your feet in shape. This is an activity suitable for all ages that can happen any time, year round and practically everywhere. It is also a great way for people to start getting the recommended amount of exercise, especially if they are unused to physical activity, pregnant, or overweight.

Most of us are familiar with the benefits of exercise; it helps control weight, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. More specifically, walking is an aerobic exercise that delivers oxygen rich blood to your muscles. It is a healthy activity that will improve your cardiovascular fitness and lower your blood pressure as well as your risk for heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Walking on trails and natural ground also prevents older adults from falling because they will be more use to the unevenness of the ground, which helps to improve their balance. Additionally, walking is a low-impact exercise that will be easy on your joints.

Did you know that a brisk walk can burn up to 100 calories per mile? You should try briskly walking for 30 minutes a day. If you have been inactive and are just beginning, start off slow and walk at least 5 to 10 minutes around the block. Work your way up to the “30 minute brisk walk” goal. It is okay to take it easy until you feel comfortable walking faster for longer periods of time, as any exercise is better than none.

After you start habitually walking, you should notice that you feel better overall. This is because your body will release endorphins that help relieve stress, anxiety, and decrease depression. Walking also gives you a chance to clear your mind and keep it sharp— some even consider it a type of meditation. Walking daily helps boost your mood, helps you get a good night’s sleep, keeps your muscles strong, and helps you live happier longer. 

Before you start, be sure to wear proper fitting walking shoes to help prevent bunions, blisters, or calluses. Your shoes should be comfortable and offer enough support for you feet. Also, don’t forget to wear socks. Now get out there and enjoy the fresh air! :)

Community Foot Specialists - Podiatrists/Foot & Ankle Surgeons Serving Dayton and Springfield, Ohio Call today to schedule your appointment! (937) 426-9500

The Right Shoe for You

By Dr. Bridget Brondon

Just like all feet are different shapes and sizes, shoes are all different shapes and sizes as well.  No two brands measure the same way, for example Adidas shoes generally run bigger than Nike and Puma shoes run small and narrow.  Even within a certain brand of shoes, different styles can fit differently.

Different sized feet

Try and have your foot measured either by someone who knows how to do it at the store, or if you see a foot doctor, you can ask them to measure it also.  This will at least give you a starting point regarding size and width of your foot.  Keep in mind, however, that you may need to go up or down a half-size or more depending on the brand and style of the shoe.

 The only way to know exactly what your size is for a specific shoe is to try on the shoes in the store.  Also, when trying on shoes, try on BOTH the right and left shoes. Most people have one foot that is slightly larger than the other and this can make a difference in the overall comfort of the pair of shoes.  When in doubt, go with the size for the larger foot, not the smaller foot. That way you are less likely to get rubbing or irritation from a shoe that is too small.  If there is a significant difference in the size of your feet, you may need to get a different size for each.  Not all companies offer this, but New Balance is one option that does.

The shape of our feet can also determine which shoes are better for our feet than others.  Frequently in the office, I will hold up a shoe to a patient’s foot and half of the foot will be hanging over the side!  If your foot does not fit within the lines of your shoe, it is likely causing increased pressure on your foot from squeezing into it.  If you have a wider foot, look for a shoe with a rounded or square forefoot area (the part from the ball of the foot forward).  If you have a narrower foot, look for a shoe that has straps or laces to help hold it on your foot better.  Also, if you have some type of deformity of the foot, such as a bunion or hammertoes, make sure that the shoe you select can accommodate the deformity without adding extra pressure to the area.

The fabric of the shoe can also make a big difference.  Tighter fabrics with less give to them, such as new leather or plastic, can cause irritation if they are rubbing on prominent areas of the foot.  Softer fabrics can be more flexible which may not be good if you need more support.

Keep in mind, our shoe size and shape frequently change with time due to gravity and standing/walking on our feet over the years.  Don’t worry so much about the number on the shoe box.  Most people won’t be able to guess the size of your feet just by looking at them so it shouldn’t be a big deal if you have to go up from an 8 to a 9.  Comfort and preventing problems should be more important than the number.

Community Foot Specialists - Podiatrists/Foot & Ankle Surgeons Serving Dayton and Springfield, Ohio Call today to schedule your appointment! (937) 426-9500

Plantar What?

Plantar Fasciitis (pronounced "PLAN-ter fash-ee-EYE-tus"), one of the most common causes of heel pain, presents itself when there is an issue with the long band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot. This long band is called the plantar fascia, and it creates the arch of the foot by connecting the heel bone to the toes.

If your plantar fascia is irritated or inflamed, a likely result is heel pain often described as a stabbing feeling in the foot. Most patients agree that the pain is triggered after long periods of rest. For example, they might feel pain in their foot when they take their first steps out of bed or after sitting or lying down for a while. Other patients, such as athletes, feel pain after prolonged periods of activity or exercise (but not during).

Along with plantar fasciitis, many patients suffer from heel spurs, a bony projection in the heel.  A common misconception is that heel spurs cause plantar fasciitis, but most heel spurs cause no symptoms and many go undetected for years.

The following are risk factors for developing plantar fasciitis:

• Being overweight/ obese
• Age (between ages of 40 and 60)
• Tight calf muscles
• Faulty foot mechanics such as high arches or flat feet
• Impact activity from running or other sports
• New or increased activity
• Occupations that require you to spend long hours on feet

Some simple treatments that you can do from the comfort of your home include rolling a frozen water bottle underneath your foot and stretching your calf muscles multiple times a day. You could also do a towel stretch by using a towel to pull the top part of your foot back towards you while sitting down.

If you suffer from a more severe case of heel pain, come see us. Some of our treatments include taking an oral anti-inflammatory, cortisone injections, shoe orthotics, and night splints. Call our office to schedule an appointment today.

Community Foot Specialists - Podiatrists/Foot & Ankle Surgeons Serving Dayton and Springfield, Ohio Call today to schedule your appointment! (937) 426-9500

Barefoot Beach Activities

If you are up for new fitness challenges this summer, try an athletic activity such as beach soccer, beach volleyball, or barefoot beach running. There are numerous benefits to these intensive sand workouts. One important benefit to note is that beach activities are easier on your joints because the sand absorbs most of the impact every time your feet hit the ground. You should also keep in mind that the sand is a surface that is constantly changing under your feet. For this reason, running (or jumping for that matter) on the beach works the muscles differently than running on hard surfaces. For example, the ankles need to make constant adjustments with each stride in order to preserve balance. Other muscles such as the lower back, hips, core abdominals, and calves are used more because they too need to compensate to maintain balance.

Barefoot running also strengthens foot muscles by allowing your feet to move through their natural range of motion. Another benefit is that athletic beach activities burn more calories than running on hard surfaces because you have to expend more energy pulling your legs out of the sand. For instance, you use more energy to lift your knees higher than you would if you were working out on a hard surface. One of the best benefits of physical activity on the beach is the Zen feeling you can experience. You do not have to inhale any fumes or exhaust from passing cars, you get a chance to smell fresh water, hear the waves, see the beautiful ocean, and feel the spray of the ocean breeze. An added bonus is that sand is a great exfoliator so it’s like getting a natural pedicure.

If you are interested in athletic beach activities, follow these tips:

• Take it easy. You may need to keep the length of your activity shorter than usual since you will use more energy on the sand. You don’t want to overexert yourself. 
• Do not expect to move at your normal pace. The sand is a more difficult terrain to master, and it will surely slow you down.
• Ease into barefoot running. If you plan on barefoot beach running, run at low tide and closer to the shore where the sand is more compact to avoid injuries. Also, you want to slowly build strength in your feet and ankles. You don’t want to start off doing too much too frequently since your feet and lower leg muscles are accustomed to support from shoes.
• Shorten your stride. Take smaller, quicker steps instead of forcing your feet into the sand. Staying light on your feet will help you from sinking.
• Stay hydrated. 
• Protect your skin. Being at the beach means you will be in direct sunlight. Apply sunscreen.
• Keep an eye out for sandcastles and beach holes!
• Don’t forget to stretch. Take the time to thoroughly stretch to keep your muscles loose and flexible.

Now get out there and have fun!

Community Foot Specialists - Podiatrists/Foot & Ankle Surgeons Serving Dayton and Springfield, Ohio Call today to schedule your appointment! (937) 426-9500

Bouts of Gout

By Dr. Bridget Brondon

Gout is quickly becoming a problem we see more and more of in our office.  We all probably know someone with gout, or if we’re really lucky, we have it ourselves (not!).  There have even been dinosaur bones discovered with gout in them, so humans are not alone!  But what is gout and how big of a problem is it?

Gout is a form of arthritis, which is why it affects the joints of our feet.  It occurs when there is an excess of uric acid in our bodies.  This can happen one of two ways: we can either produce too much uric acid or we don’t get rid of it fast enough.  Most people fall into the group that does not get rid of the uric acid fast enough.  This can be due to your regular metabolism, but there are other things that can decrease the uric acid excretion, such as certain medications (aspirin and water pills especially), alcohol intake, and certain foods, especially red meat and high fructose corn syrup.  Kidney problems can also cause this because they are the filtration system that cleans out the uric acid from the body. Dehydration can also bring on a gout attack.

When uric acid builds up in our bodies, it ends up circulating through our bloodstream and one of its favorite places to get stuck in is the joints of our feet, most commonly in the big toe joint.  Other areas of the feet often affected are the middle/arch area of the foot, where lots of very small joints are present, and in our smaller toes, but gout can occur in any joint of the body.  Other body parts that can be affected are the hands, fingers, and ankles.  

The uric acid particles form crystals within the joint, under a microscope, look very similar to sewing needles.  The inflammation from these crystals is what causes the pain.  Other symptoms include redness at the joint, swelling, warmth in the area, and A LOT of pain.  Without any treatment, in time, these crystals would naturally get broken down and absorbed into the body, but who wants to suffer through all that pain when there are medications that can help?

So, how do you know if you have gout?  The symptoms above are a very good first indication.  An aspiration of the joint can also be done where some fluid from the joint is removed with a needle and sent to the lab to look for crystals in the fluid.  Your doctor can also run a blood test to determine your uric acid levels to check if it is high.  It is important to note, however, that during the first few days of an attack, very often your uric acid level in your blood is often normal, because a lot of the uric acid has made its way to the joint and is no longer in the blood stream.  Bloodwork is usually done a month or two after an attack to determine what the baseline uric acid level in your body is when you are not undergoing an attack.  If it is naturally high, you may need long term therapy to lower it.

The most common medications that are used for treatment for an acute gout attack (when the joint is super red, swollen, warm and painful) are anti-inflammatory medications and colchicine (brand name Colcrys).  Anti-inflammatories, such as Indomethacin, Aleve, Advil, Ibuprofen, Motrin, or a Medrol dose pack (steroid pack) can help to decrease the inflammation present made by the crystals and help reduce the swelling and pain.  Colchicine works to stop the inflammation from being created in the first place.  Sometimes, these two medications are prescribed at the same time to work together to get rid of the inflammation.

It is possible to have only one gout attack in your lifetime, but it is far more likely that they may come and go throughout your life if your uric acid is not properly managed long term.  This is done with medication taken daily to help with the excretion of uric acid from the blood on a daily basis, so the levels do not rise high enough to cause a gout attack.  There are primarily 2 medications that do this: Allopurinol and Febuxostat (brand name Uloric).  Allopurinol is generally the first medication tried.  The dosage of this medication can be tweaked to fit your needs.  This medication does not work for everyone though and flares can continue to occur, or sometimes a patient can have a reaction to the drug.  Febuxostat is an alternative option in these cases.  It is also a safer drug for those patients with kidney problems.

Although gout may be a problem that only bothers you every once in a while at the beginning, it is important to seek long term treatment if you are prone to gout attacks.  The longer uric acid remains at a high level in your body, the more lasting damage you can have to your joints, even if you aren’t having any pain at the time.  Just like with osteoarthritis, even when you aren’t having symptoms, the damage to your joints is still occurring.  The same thing is true for gouty arthritis.  Over time, it also begins to take less to trigger a flare-up so they can happen more easily and more frequently.  With time, the uric acid crystals within the joint eat away at the cartilage which can cause problems with motion and inflammation in the future as well.  The crystals can over time deposit themselves permanently in the joints as well, which can cause stiff joints, bumps, and irritation.

So, what can you do to prevent a gout?  Well, once you have it, you have it.  But you can prevent attacks primarily by watching what you eat.  You can still eat all of your favorite foods, but moderation is the key.  Drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated and help flush your kidneys.  If you do get an attack, see your doctor right away. We want to help you start feeling better faster!
Community Foot Specialists - Podiatrists/Foot & Ankle Surgeons Serving Dayton and Springfield, Ohio Call today to schedule your appointment! (937) 426-9500

Mowing the Lawn Barefoot?

Many people admit to mowing their lawns barefoot.  The feel of fresh cut grass is all too tempting… but don’t do it!

Please keep in mind that a lawn mower is a machine that uses a rotating blade at high speeds to cut grass. You should not mow your lawn barefoot or while wearing flip flops, sandals, or other open-toed shoes. The mower can cause flying debris, and wearing shoes helps you avoid stepping on hidden objects like twigs, rocks, mulch, broken glass, etc.

Wearing appropriate shoes also prevents your feet from turning green (caused by the chlorophyll in the grass).  Plus, if you have diabetes, going barefoot is generally a big no-no. Walking barefoot leaves you open to any number of injuries and if you suffer from neuropathy, you may not be able to feel that you are injured.

According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, thousands of people are injured by lawn mowers every year. Types of injuries include cuts, burns, other infection-prone lacerations, broken bones (fractures), severed tendons, and amputations. Minor injuries and superficial wounds require immediate treatment, so flush wounds with water and apply antibiotics to prevent infections. For more serious injuries, surgical intervention is usually required.

Still, many people make the decision to mow the lawn barefoot after weighing the risks: their age, slope of the lawn, type of mower they will use (riding mower vs. push mower), mowing pattern, height of the grass, etc. Nonetheless, it is best to take safety precautions to avoid any serious injury.

• The American Podiatric Medical Association suggests that you always wear hard-top shoes when operating a lawn mower.
• Before you start mowing, remove objects like toys and yard tools off of the lawn.
• Do not remove safety devices such as guards or shields from your lawn mower.
• Try to use the “grass catcher” or “clip bag” that usually comes as an attachment to help prevent projectiles from causing harm.
• Make sure you have firm footing at all times. Pay attention to the change in slope and terrain.
• Do not mow the lawn if it is wet. This helps prevent slipping on the grass.
• Do not use your feet to remove debris in lawnmowers. Use a stick or broom handle instead.
• Never touch the lawn mower blade with your hands or feet, even if the engine is off. The second you free a jammed blade, it could start to spin and cause an injury.
• Do not let children ride on a lawn mower — not even on the lap of a parent. A majority of injuries happen to children, and many doctors see foot injuries related to children who were riding as “passengers.” Typically, children fall off of the mower and get run over, resulting in serious injury/ amputation.
• Do not mow while heavily medicated, intoxicated, sick, or overly tired.
• Be sure you know how to stop the mower at a moment’s notice.
• If you have to walk backwards, be careful to avoid running over your toes (yes, it does happen).
• Continue to maintain your lawn mower to ensure that it is working correctly.

**Remember** If you like the feel of fresh cut grass you can always walk around your lawn without shoes and socks after you finish mowing it. To cut a long story short, don’t mow the lawn barefoot. Take care of your feet because they don’t grow back!

Community Foot Specialists - Podiatrists/Foot & Ankle Surgeons Serving Dayton and Springfield, Ohio Call today to schedule your appointment! (937) 426-9500

Noticing a Neuroma?

Dr. Adam Thomas

A neuroma is the swelling and thickening of nerves in the ball of your foot. It is often referred to as a “pinched nerve.” If you feel tingling, burning, or numbness in your toes, pain or irritation in the ball of your foot, or pain between toes while walking, you could be experiencing symptoms associated with a neuroma. People who suffer from this condition also report feeling like there is something inside their foot or feeling like they have a pebble in their shoe. Many factors can lead to the formation of a neuroma whenever the nerves are compressed:

A majority of people who develop neuromas are women.

• Repeated stress on the foot from activities (like running)
• Improper footwear that squeezes the toes together (ie: High heeled shoes that force the forefoot into a narrow space) 
• Foot deformities like flat feet, hammertoes, bunions, or a high-arched foot 
• Inflammation of the nerve as a result of trauma

There are some home treatment options if you have a neuroma. You can rest the foot, massage the affected area, or apply an ice pack to lessen the pain. Or you can take anti-inflammatory medicine to reduce pain and swelling. Another alternative is to keep pressure off of the foot by using over-the-counter shoe pads or wearing shoes with thick, shock-absorbent soles. Also, as a preventative measure, wear shoes that have room for your toes and if a high heeled shoe is higher than two inches, you should probably avoid it.

The pain associated with a neuroma should not be ignored. Visit your local podiatrist for diagnosis and a treatment plan because if a neuroma is left untreated, it tends to get worse. Some treatment options include padding shoes, anti-inflammatory medicine, cortisone injections, or custom orthotics (shoe inserts). If conservative treatments fail, your podiatrist may consider surgical intervention.

Community Foot Specialists - Podiatrists/Foot & Ankle Surgeons Serving Dayton and Springfield, Ohio Call today to schedule your appointment! (937) 426-9500

What's That Smell?

Did you know that each foot has more than 250,000 sweat glands? This means that your feet have the potential to sweat… A LOT! But why do they smell?

You might be surprised to learn that your sweat is not the source of the odor because sweat is only made of salt and water. The real cause of odor in stinky feet is the bacteria on your skin. The bacteria feed off of your sweat and dead skin, eventually excreting waste that has a strong odor. Bacteria love dark, warm, and damp places— sounds like your socks and shoes right? Your feet sweat and if the sweat is unable to evaporate, it comes into contact with your socks and shoes, the perfect place for bacteria to breed and thrive.

If you want to prevent smelly feet, wash and dry your feet every day! You can even use a pumice stone to help remove dead skin.  Do not wear closed toe shoes without socks. Also, try not to wear the same pair of shoes two days in a row. The rotation of shoes allows the first pair to dry out while you wear the second pair.

Be sure to wear a fresh pair of socks (preferably made out of a material that helps keep feet dry like wool or other moisture-wicking fibers). Another quick tip is to turn your socks inside out before you toss them in the washer to make sure that they are washed more thoroughly. Still, the main goal is to keep your feet clean, dry, and cool. If you lessen the amount of moisture in socks and shoes, you also prevent the growth of bacteria.

Another way to help prevent foot odor is your diet. After foods are broken down, their compounds are absorbed in the body and released through your skin. Some of these foods have been known to cause odors like garlic and onions. At the very least, try to eat a well balanced diet.

If you are currently a victim to smelly feet, you can reduce your foot odor by using powders like talcum powder, baking soda, or corn starch. They absorb sweat and some prevent bacteria growth. Also, you could soak your feet in black tea or apple cider vinegar. You can even wipe your feet down with a Vodka-soaked washcloth!

It is important to keep in mind that there are other reasons why your feet could smell:

• Excessively sweaty feet (Hyperhidrosis )
• Poor Hygiene
• Hormone changes
• Medication
• Stress
• Alcohol and drugs

If you have more questions about this topic and your foot health, contact your local podiatrist.

Community Foot Specialists

Community Foot Specialists - Podiatrists/Foot & Ankle Surgeons Serving Dayton and Springfield, Ohio Call today to schedule your appointment! (937) 426-9500

You Can't Run Through a Stress Fracture!

Dr. Adam Thomas

Spring is finally here, and as more and more of you are considering outdoor running, you should familiarize yourself with the associated foot and ankle risks like stress fractures.

What is a Stress Fracture?

A stress fracture is a tiny crack on the surface of a bone or an incomplete fracture. When a muscle is overused, fatigued and no longer able to absorb the shock from impacts, it transfers stress to nearby bones, resulting in fractures.

What causes it?

If an individual is continuously striking their feet on surfaces, while either running or jumping, the risk of causing a stress fracture injury increases. Other causes include participating in athletic activities that increase physical stress, running on irregular surfaces, inappropriate footwear, and improper training.

Although stress fractures are caused by an abnormal force on a normal bone such as a young person running, they are also caused by a normal force on an abnormal bone, like an older person walking regularly. Oftentimes, stress fractures that occur from the latter are the result of bone density loss.

How does it relate to running?

Stress fractures, as a result of athletic activity, are fairly common and runners are especially susceptible to them. In many instances, the runner does not even know that an injury to the bone has occurred. If you feel pain that increases in severity, do NOT try to “run through the pain.” Continued force on the injured bone can progress the fracture, cause more damage, and worsen the pain.

Where is it common?

A majority of all stress fractures occur in weight bearing bones such as the lower leg and the foot. More specifically, stress fractures can be found in the metatarsal bones of the foot, and they are most common in the 2^nd metatarsal because it is the longest.

How do you treat it?

Treatment involves rest which means no more running… until healed. Treatment also includes anti-inflammatory medication and in some cases, a splint or crutches are necessary.

How do you prevent it?

You can lessen the risk of stress fractures by changing your athletic conditioning. Start slowly, gradually increase the intensity of workouts, and avoid doing too much too soon or applying too much force too early.

You should also ensure that you have the proper shoes for the activity- cleats, running shoes, basketball sneakers, etc. They all offer different ankle and arch support, with different gripping capabilities. Try eating foods with the minerals magnesium, calcium, and potassium or foods that have vitamins D and K to improve bone health. Some foods to try are broccoli, nuts, flax seeds, salmon, spinach, bananas, and dairy products.

If you have severe pain that is not going away and believe that you have sustained a stress fracture, please contact your local podiatrist.

Community Foot Specialists - Podiatrists/Foot & Ankle Surgeons Serving Dayton and Springfield, Ohio Call today to schedule your appointment! (937) 426-9500

Painful Ingrowns? You Don't Have to be Stuck at Home

Dr. Belinda Dotter, myself and one of the medical assistants

Within 5 minutes of running on the treadmill I felt a sudden sharp, stabbing pain in my toe. From past experience, I knew exactly what it was- an ingrown toenail. It was too painful to continue my workout so I headed home.

An ingrown toenail doesn't sound like much, but these can cause a lot of pain if left untreated and can affect simple tasks in your everyday life.  If yours are anything like mine, then even the smallest touch will make you cringe. An ingrown toenail is a common condition in which the corner or side of one of your toenails (usually the big toe) grows into the soft flesh of that toe. The result is pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes, an infection.

The old me would have taken matters into my own hand and tried to remove the ingrown toenail myself. You would think from past experience I would know this is a big no-no but that never stopped me before. I always made it 10x worse trying to remove the corner of the nail myself. The new me works for a podiatrist, so at this point I know better.

The following day I decided to schedule an appointment with Community Foot Specialists. I wanted to get back into a regular exercise routine, I wanted to take my children to the park, I wanted to do regular every day activities without the almost unbearable pain from the ingrown toenail.

At Community Foot Specialists, we try to get our patients in as quickly as possible so I was relieved that I was able to be seen for an evaluation the next day by Dr. Dotter at our Main Street location in Dayton, Ohio.

Based upon the doctor’s professional opinion, I was able to be seen the following day for the procedure. And I was a nervous wreck. I’m not sure why... it’s not like I didn't know what was going to happen. But the thought of my toe being numbed and my nail being clipped out had me ready to cancel my appointment.

Once I had arrived at my destination the medical assistant got me right back to a room. Within minutes, the doctor came in and talked to me about what was going to happen. She then numbed my toe. She was very gentle and to be completely honest I couldn't really feel it. I waited for my entire toe to numb before she came back to remove the nail. It only took a couple of minutes and she only took out the corner. As a woman, I was worried that the doctor would take off more toenail than necessary. I mean, it IS Summer and I love my flip flops!

Relief! That’s all I could think. I couldn't believe how easy and quick the procedure was.

If you are dealing with an ingrown toenail, or what you think may be an ingrown toe nail, I highly recommend coming in to see the doctors at Community Foot Specialists. And I’m not just saying that because I work here. At Community Foot Specialists our doctor’s mission is to provide patient centered, high-quality foot and ankle care, delivered by knowledgeable, compassionate podiatrists and a professional, caring staff… and I experienced exactly that.

Community Foot Specialists - Podiatrists/Foot & Ankle Surgeons Serving Dayton and Springfield, Ohio Call today to schedule your appointment! (937) 426-9500