While high heels are commonly worn by many women, they can have long term effects on the feet. High heel wearers can walk with shorter and more forceful strides, and their toes are usually in a flexed position. This can put more strain on the muscles since the calf muscles have shortened. Additionally, once a regular high heel wearer goes back to more comfortable shoes like sneakers or flip flops, they are at a greater risk of developing an injury because they are putting their injured feet into a new environment. Ultimately, wearing high heels on a daily basis can lead to issues such as hammertoes, bunions, sprained ankles, fractures and ligament tears. If you are suffering from injuries due to wearing high heels, or you would like tips on how to prevent injuries while wearing high heels, consulting with a podiatrist is recommended. A podiatrist will be able to treat your foot and ankle problems and offer advice on how to prevent future injuries.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Central Ohio Comprehensive Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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

When the feet sweat profusely, it is referred to as plantar hyperhidrosis. Many patients find it is an uncomfortable and embarrassing condition and it may even cause difficulty in participating in social events. There are two types of this condition. The most common form is called primary focal hyperhidrosis and this type occurs when the nerves responsible for signaling your sweat glands become overactive. Research has indicated this form may be caused by genetic factors, or it can possibly develop from excess emotional stress. The less common form, called secondary hyperhidrosis occurs when excess sweating is due to a medical condition like diabetes, low blood sugar, thyroid problems, heart attack, or nervous system disorders. Mild relief may be found when inner soles are worn, and powder is used inside the shoes as this may help to absorb a large amount of sweat. If you notice your feet are sweating more than normal, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the correct treatment methods. 

If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact one of our podiatrists of Central Ohio Comprehensive Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

Hyperhidrosis of the Feet

Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.

Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.

Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.

In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.

A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.

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

Because older adults often deal with balance and mobility issues, their risk of falling is increased. Proper footwear can help reduce that risk, even in those with diabetes, arthritis and neurodegenerative diseases. High heels and sling-back or backless shoes can be particularly hazardous as they reduce a person’s ability to maintain balance. While older adults with diabetes or foot pain are often more familiar with foot care practices, all older adults can benefit from contacting a podiatrist to learn more about foot and ankle health and what shoes are best for improving balance and reducing their risk of falling and serious injury.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Central Ohio Comprehensive Foot Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

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

How to Prevent Falls

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

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

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

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

Women who wear high heels and are in their 30s and 40s are most at risk of developing Morton’s neuroma: a thickening of nerve tissues between bones on the bottom of the toes. This can cause a burning pain in the ball of the foot that graduates to a numbness or intense pins-and-needles feeling between the 3rd and 4th toes. Typical treatment for those with Morton’s neuroma calls for a change in footwear, either OTC or prescription painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications. If the condition persists for more than a year, a possible surgical solution to remove the damaged nerve or an endoscopic decompression to fix the nerve may become necessary. To learn more about treatment for Morton’s neuroma, please consult with a podiatrist.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Central Ohio Comprehensive Foot Care. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

The Achilles tendon is an integral part of having mobility in everyday activities. It is located in the back of the leg, and connects the calf muscles to the heel. It is considered to be the strongest tendon in the body, but can still become injured and cause pain. Injuries can happen as a result of playing sports, suddenly stepping off of a curb, or wearing high heels over an extended period of time. Many patients can endure a partial tear, which may occur from an Achilles tendon that has gradually become weak. A complete tear will most likely make walking impossible and immediate treatment is recommended. If you have experienced any type of injury to your Achilles tendon, please consult with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Central Ohio Comprehensive Foot Care. Our doctors 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 Delaware and Westerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.