January 2018

Exercises for the feet can be extremely effective in relieving foot pain in addition to preventing possible injuries. Conditions that may benefit from exercise may be plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. After applying consistent effort, the pain may ease in a few weeks, possibly resulting in much needed relief. An effective stretch for the plantar fascia is to sit while crossing one foot over the knee, pulling the toes back until you feel the muscle stretch. After holding this position for a few seconds, switch to the opposite side. Using a towel that’s wrapped around the ball of your feet while keeping the knees straight and pulling the toes toward the body can be beneficial in stretching the Achilles tendon. Holding this stretch for a few seconds will also stretch out the bottom of the feet. However, before performing any of these stretches speaking with a podiatrist is highly recommended.

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. Amy Dunetz from Florida. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

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

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

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

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

A large bony protrusion under the big toe is often referred to as a bunion. It often appears
red and swollen, which may result in difficulty in buying footwear. Choosing high heels that are worn most of the day is a possible cause of painful bunions because of the pressure the toes incur. The outdoor temperature may be a factor in determining what type of shoes are worn. People who live in warmer climates are more likely to wear shoes with open toes, frequently preventing bunions from developing. Possible ways to prevent this condition is to eliminate wearing shoes with pointed toes and high heels on a regular basis. If a bunion does start to form, you may notice discomfort and pain at the bottom of the big toe, and the use of a foot splint may be an option for treatment as soon as it is noticed. Surgery may be necessary if prolonged discomfort is felt and the bunion exacerbates. If you are experiencing symptoms of a bunion, contact a podiatrist to discuss treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. Amy Dunetz of Florida. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

There are many types of heel pain, some of which are gradually felt, and some that are acute, typically caused by an injury. If pain under the heel is experienced, it may be a common condition referred to as plantar fasciitis. The pain is generally worse in the morning and may travel further down the foot. Having a bruised heel will begin as gradual pain occurring over a period of time, often affecting athletes due to the overuse of the plantar fascia tendon. Sever’s disease is characterized by pain in the back of the heel, often felt by young athletes. Swollen heels are another cause of heel pain and may be indicative of Achilles bursitis. A fracture may be possible if a fall was involved, often causing severe pain and making it difficult to walk. A consultation with a podiatrist is recommended if swelling, pain, or a "pins and needles" sensation is experienced in or around your feet.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Amy Dunetz of Florida. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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