May 2024

Flip-flops are a popular choice for casual footwear, especially as the weather warms up. However, their impact on foot health is a subject of ongoing debate. Typically, flip-flops offer minimal support to the arches of the feet, which can lead to problems such as plantar fasciitis or other forms of foot pain. The design of flip-flops forces the toes to grip the soles in order to keep the footwear in place while walking. This unnatural holding action can alter the way one walks, potentially causing long-term changes in foot structure and gait. The lack of cushioning and support also means that the feet are more vulnerable to injuries from stepping on sharp objects or from the stress of walking on hard surfaces. If you enjoy wearing flip-flops and are experiencing foot discomfort or changes in your walking pattern, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to determine the best footwear for your needs.

Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Michael A. Wood from Foot Health Institute. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

Flip-flops have managed to become a summer essential for a lot of people. While the shoes may be stylish and easy to slip on and off, they can be dangerous to those who wear them too often. These shoes might protect you from fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, but they can also give you foot pain and sprained ankles if you trip while wearing them.

When Are They Okay to Wear?

Flip-flops should only be worn for very short periods of time. They can help protect your feet in places that are crawling with fungi, such as gym locker rooms. Athlete’s foot and plantar warts are two common fungi that flip-flops may help protect your feet against.

Why Are They Bad for My Feet?

These shoes do not offer any arch support, so they are not ideal for everyday use. They also do not provide shock absorption or heel cushioning which can be problematic for your feet. Additionally, you may suffer from glass cuts, puncture wounds, and stubbed toes since they offer little protection for your feet.

More Reasons Why They Are Bad for Your Feet

• They Slow You Down
• May Cause Blisters and Calluses
• Expose Your Feet to Bacteria

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lansing, and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Achilles tendonitis is an ailment affecting the long tendon that connects the leg bones to the heel. This condition is particularly common among those engaged in high-impact activities, like running and jumping. The Achilles tendon's susceptibility to inflammation due to repetitive stress often leads to microtears and thickening. This results in Achilles tendonitis, which is characterized by posterior ankle pain and stiffness. However, the more severe consequence, an Achilles tendon rupture, typically occurs during forceful movements which result in sudden, intense pain and the inability to bear weight. Approximately 80 percent of Achilles tendon ruptures result in complete loss of function in the calf muscle. If you are experiencing pain in the Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you cease the activity causing the pain and make an appointment with a podiatrist as soon as possible. This foot doctor can conduct a thorough exam and determine the appropriate treatment. 

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Michael A. Wood of Foot Health Institute. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lansing, and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Strong feet are essential for stability, balance, and overall foot health. Incorporating targeted foot exercises into your routine can help strengthen the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in your feet while reducing the risk of injuries and improving performance in various activities. Toe scrunches are a simple yet effective exercise that involves scrunching your toes toward the sole of your foot and then spreading them out as wide as possible. Another beneficial exercise is toe raises, where you lift your toes off the ground while keeping your heels planted and then lower them back down. Additionally, practicing calf raises can strengthen the muscles in your lower legs and feet, enhancing stability and power. You can also use resistance bands to perform exercises, such as toe flexion and extension, which target specific muscles in the feet and ankles. It is important to be informed about overall foot health, and if you are seeking additional foot stretches to perform, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist. 

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Michael A. Wood from Foot Health Institute. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

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

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

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

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lansing, and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Maintaining foot health does not mean sacrificing style, especially when it comes to incorporating custom orthotics into your footwear choices. Women can effortlessly blend fashion and functionality by opting for lace-up shoes, brogues, loafers, or stylish flats that accommodate orthotic inserts. When styling shoes with custom orthotics, consider designs with removable insoles or spacious toe boxes to ensure a comfortable fit. Look for shoes made from breathable materials that provide adequate support and stability without compromising on style. To further care for your feet, alternate between different pairs of shoes to prevent excessive wear and tear, and regularly clean and air out your footwear to minimize bacteria buildup. If you want personalized advice on choosing the right footwear and orthotics to suit your foot health needs, It is suggested that you consult a podiatrist. This type of doctor can offer professional guidance and recommendations tailored to your individual requirements, ensuring both the health and style of your feet are well maintained.

Discover relief from persistent foot pain with custom orthotics and shoe inserts. If you’re battling heel pain, these personalized solutions offer targeted support, addressing the root causes of discomfort. Customized to your unique biomechanics, these inserts provide stability, alleviating both heel and foot pain. Say goodbye to the agony of every step and hello to a life free from constant foot pain. Invest in your well-being with custom orthotics or shoe inserts ensuring your feet receive the care they deserve. Step confidently, step comfortably – because a pain-free journey begins with the right support. 

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Lansing, and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s foot, medically known as tinea pedis, is a fungal skin infection that can affect anyone regardless of their athletic pursuits. This highly contagious fungus spreads easily from person to person, and thrives in moist environments such as pools, locker rooms, and public showers. The fungus responsible commonly affects the feet, causing redness, itching, and skin flakiness between the toes. Other symptoms of athlete's foot include burning or stinging sensations, blisters, and thick or discolored toenails. Symptoms may differ, depending on the type of athlete’s foot infection. Toe web infection typically results in skin peeling and cracking between the fourth and fifth toes. Moccasin type infection presents as thick, cracked skin on the bottom of the foot, often near the heel. It is sometimes accompanied by a foul odor. Vesicular type infection leads to blisters on the sole of the foot. If you suspect you have athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you seek prompt treatment from a podiatrist to limit the spread of infection.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Dr. Michael A. Wood from Foot Health Institute. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lansing, and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.