Tips for a Safe Pedicure

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When sandal season arrives, many people treat themselves to a pedicure to get beautiful feet they can show off. And though a pedicure can be relaxing and enjoyable, proper precautions must be taken in order to keep your feet healthy. Many nail salons can be hot spots for dangerous infections and illnesses if proper cleaning precautions are not taken.

The best thing you can do is inquire about sanitation and cleaning processes before you make your appointment. If you plan to get a pedicure, these are the basics about health and safety that you should know before you step into the salon.

Be Cautious With Medical Conditions

If you have diabetes or a foot condition, consult with your podiatrist before getting a pedicure. Often, you can still get a pedicure, but may need a modified or gentler version in order to be safe.

Foot Bath Safety

Shared pedicure equipment can lead to serious infections and cross contamination if it’s not properly sanitized. Foot baths, especially, can be germ magnets if they’re not properly maintained. You can end up with warts, athlete’s foot, or other infections. Ask the salon staff if they clean and filter the foot bath after every customer. The jets in whirlpool foot baths harbor bacteria and can’t easily be cleaned, so look for pipeless foot baths and/or the use of disposable liners used for each client.

Proper Sterilization of Tools

Any metal tools should be completely sterilized between each client. Many salons use a blue liquid disinfectant that is very effective. Autoclaves are also a great way to sanitize metal tools. If you’re extra cautious, consider bringing your own tools with you each time.

The Rule for Non-Metal Tools

Emery boards, wood and rubber manicure sticks, and any non-metal tools cannot be sterilized, so they should never be shared. Ensure they throw them away after each client. Never allow the use of a “used” non-metal tool of any kind.

The Right Way to Trim

Toenails should always be cut straight across to avoid painful ingrown nails.

Say No to Razors

Never allow a salon to use a foot razor on your feet, which can invite bacteria and fungus into your body and can damage the skin. Instead, a pumice stone can be used to gently smooth rough patches. In addition, don’t shave your legs right before your appointment, because tiny nicks and cuts could allow bacteria into your skin.

Be Gentle

There’s no need to use sharp instruments to clean under the nails or remove cuticles. Instead, a wooden or rubber manicure stick can be used to remove debris under the nails, and cuticles can be gently pushed back with an orange stick – never cut. Your cuticles are there to protect your nails from infection, so treat them kindly!

You can have beautiful and healthy feet if you take these precautions before your next pedicure. These small steps are well worth the time to ensure you don’t pick up any unpleasant or potentially dangerous infections.

The skilled team at Family Foot and Ankle Clinic can help you keep your feet feeling great throughout your life. If you have a foot problem, contact our office today to schedule your appointment!

Stinky Feet Culprits and Solutions

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Although foot odor is a common problem, it’s also one most of us would like to avoid. It can be embarrassing and downright unpleasant – for you and those around you. Fortunately, there are some common causes of stinky feet and some quick, simple ways you can help keep it at bay.

Hormones and Foot Sweat

It seems obvious: the more feet sweat, the more they tend to smell. But why do some people’s feet seem to always be sweaty? Hormones may be to blame.

Hormonal changes that occur during the teen years can lead to excessive foot sweating – and subsequent odor, especially in shoes worn frequently. So it’s not just your imagination – your teenage son’s feet really do stink worse than everyone else’s.

Similarly, a pregnant woman’s heightened sense of smell may make her more aware of her own foot odor. Pregnancy hormonal changes often cause feet to sweat more.

Stress can also play a role. The hormones your body releases when you’re anxious or stressed can make feet (and hands) sweat more than usual.

Medical Conditions Related to Foot Odor

Although sweaty feet aren’t always a cause for concern, it’s important to note that some medical conditions could be related to excessive sweating. A condition called secondary hyperhidrosis can result from certain conditions such as heart failure, Parkinson’s, diabetes, thyroid problems, rheumatoid arthritis, and more.

Secondary hyperhidrosis causes sweating all over the body – not just your feet. If you sweat excessively all over and don’t know the cause, a visit to your doctor is advised to rule out any possible medical problems.

How to Combat Foot Odor

If you’ve got foot odor due to hormones or you’re simply on your feet a lot, there are some measures you can take at home to combat this.

 

  • Let your shoes dry out. Alternate shoes each day and leave the damp ones out in open air for at least 24 hours or until they’ve dried completely.

  • Wash your feet thoroughly each day in the shower, preferably with an antibacterial soap. But, avoid harsh soaps if you have eczema or another skin condition. Just clean your feet thoroughly twice a day with a gentle skin cleanser.

  • That trusty antiperspirant you use under your arms can also be used on your feet! Apply a light layer to your freshly washed feet before you put on your socks or shoes.

  • Consider the materials in your footwear. Plastic or non-breathable shoes are bound to trap moisture and bacteria, leading to odor. And polyester or nylon socks don’t breathe as well as natural cotton or wool. You may wish to change into a clean, dry pair of  socks half way through your day if possible.

See your podiatrist if your foot odor doesn’t improve with these steps. He or she may need to determine whether a bacterial or fungal infection is causing the issue, or may prescribe a stronger treatment to help combat the sweating.

Are you troubled by excessively sweaty feet or foot odor? Contact the podiatry office of Dr. Jeffery LaMour to get control of this condition and feel great about your feet again!

Do You Have Plantar Fasciitis’ How to Tell

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With 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 tendons, your feet are complex and amazing machines that take you places each day. And because your feet work so hard and have so many parts, a lot can go wrong.

Plantar fasciitis is one of those “little” things that can go wrong that can turn into a significant problem if left untreated. Here’s how to know if you have plantar fasciitis, and what you should do about it.

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Your plantar fascia is a ligament that runs along the bottom of your foot and connects your heel to the ball of your foot and supports your arch. If it gets strained or overextended, it can get irritated and inflamed. This inflammation is known as plantar fasciitis.  Repeated strains can cause tiny tears in the ligament, which result in increased pain and inflammation. 

Know the Symptoms

The most common sign of plantar fasciitis is heel pain, especially first thing in the morning. This is because when you get out of bed, the plantar fascia may experience a sudden stretching or overextension after being in a more relaxed position at night. It can also get worse if you’ve been on your feet for a long time. Because most of these symptoms often come and go, many people think it’s not serious or simply ignore it.

What Causes It?

There is no single cause of plantar fasciitis, but the following can make you more likely to get it:

  • Wearing shoes without proper arch support. This allows the ligament to overstretch.
  • Being overweight. Excess weight may put more pressure on the plantar fascia.
  • Having tight calves and Achilles tendons. This can result from wearing high heels frequently or simply not stretching the muscles enough.
  • Having high arches or flat feet. Some people are simply born with a tendency toward plantar fasciitis due to the genetic mechanics of their foot.
  • Being a runner or spend a lot of time on your feet. This puts strain on all the ligaments in your feet, including the plantar fascia. Make sure you wear quality, supportive footwear at all times.

What You Should Do

Foot pain should never be ignored. If you think you have plantar fasciitis, it’s important to have your feet examined by a podiatrist. Leaving it untreated can lead to further pain and tearing of the ligament, heel spurs, chronic heel pain, and even leg and back pain.

The condition can often be treated with non-invasive methods such as rest, ice, stretching, and proper supportive shoes. Throw out flimsy flip flops, old worn out shoes, and shoes that hurt your feet. Some cases may need physical therapy, orthotics, or a special boot or splint you wear at night.

Plantar fasciitis is a classic example of a common foot problem that is often successfully treated when caught early. If your feet hurt, they are trying to tell you something. Contact the office of Dr. Jeffery LaMour to schedule your appointment and learn how you can keep healthy for a lifetime!

Foot Care Tips for Summer

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When summer comes, you’re probably thinking about vacations, barbecues, beaches, and more. But when you’re having your fun in the sun, don’t neglect your feet – or you may pay for it with pain, injuries, and other foot problems. Keep these simple and easy tips in mind as you enjoy the summer months.

Save Bare Feet for Swimming

Many people love to walk around barefoot once the mercury rises, but you could be inviting problems by skipping your shoes. Bacteria, fungi, parasites, and other germs are everywhere, and if you have even a tiny cut on your foot, you could be inviting an unwanted visitor into your body. You could also burn your feet if you’re walking near a grill or campfire, or on a hot rubber surface or synthetic decking material, which can easily reach over 100 degrees on a sunny day.
Invest in a comfortable and supportive pair of summer shoes, and use them whenever you’re outside.

Use Flip Flops Safely

Flip flops are extremely popular summer footwear. Although they shouldn’t be your everyday go-to footwear, you don’t have to avoid them completely. Here’s how to wear them and be kind to your feet:

  • Use them only for short jaunts or poolside days
  • Find a pair with proper arch support and quality materials
  • Don’t wear them if the soles are worn out, they cause sores or blisters, or they make your feet hurt
  • Skip them if you have diabetes, bunions, hammertoes, or other foot conditions

Protect Your Feet from the Sun

If any of the skin on your feet is exposed to the sun, it needs sunscreen – just like the rest of your body. In fact, the tops of the feet are a very common area where people get sunburned. Apply an SPF of at least 30 anytime you go outside, and reapply at least every two hours – or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.

Stay Hydrated for Healthy Feet

Your body needs plenty of water each day, and this is especially true if you’ve been out in the sun and sweating. Make sure you drink plenty of non-caffeinated beverages, especially water, throughout the day. This will keep your feet from swelling and your muscles well hydrated for fewer cramps.

Let Your Shoes Dry

If you put on a pair of wet shoes, you’re inviting bacteria and fungus to grow. This can lead to foot odor, toenail fungus, and other problems. If you plan on getting your shoes wet, have a dry pair on hand to wear while the others dry out.

Healthy Foot Care is Always in Season

Your feet will take you to all your fun summer outings – so be kind to them. Give them the support and protection they need so you can enjoy the summer without foot pain, fungus, or other problems.

Foot pain, infections, and other issues can be addressed by a qualified podiatrist. Contact the office of Dr. Jeffery LaMour to get your feet in their best possible condition!

What You Should Know About Achilles Tendinitis

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Perhaps you’ve heard of Achilles tendinitis and think it only happens to marathon runners or hard-core athletes. But this injury can happen to people of all ages and athletic levels. If it’s not properly treated, it can lead to an extremely painful tendon rupture.

How Does it Happen?

You use your Achilles tendon every day. It’s the largest tendon in your body and connects your calf muscle to your heel bone. It is strong and tough, but it takes a lot of abuse from daily walking, running, and jumping. If you overuse it (like during intense exercise), or if you suddenly increase your activity (common with “weekend warriors”), it can become inflamed and painful.

Symptoms of Achilles Tendinitis

It’s important to recognize the possible signs of Achilles tendinitis. If you continue to strain the Achilles tendon while it’s inflamed, it can lead to a rupture that requires surgery. It can also cause a bone spur (hard, bony growth) on the back of the heel.

Possible symptoms include:

  • Pain and stiffness in the calf or heel area in the morning
  • Pain in the back of the heel that feels worse when you exercise
  • A bone spur or hard bump on the back of the heel
  • Swelling in the back of the heel and/or calf that gets worse with exercise

How It’s Treated

Most cases of Achilles tendinitis can be effectively managed with non-surgical treatment by your podiatrist. Your options may include:

  • Rest. You’ll have to take a break from the activities that make the pain worse.
  • Ice. Icing is a great way to naturally relieve inflammation and pain.
  • Calf stretches. Your podiatrist can show you how to do specific exercises to gently stretch the tendon and help it heal.
  • Supportive shoes and/or orthotics. Some people benefit from a special shoe or insert that raises up the heel slightly, giving the tendon an opportunity to heal. Your podiatrist can recommend the right ones for you.

When Surgery is Needed

If your pain is not relieved after several months of non-surgical treatment, your podiatrist may discuss surgery with you. There are a variety of surgical techniques designed to repair the tendon and remove a bone spur if needed.

Dr. LaMour will discuss your surgical options and make sure you’re comfortable moving forward with the surgery and recovery. Most people who have a damaged tendon and daily pain find that the surgery provides much-needed relief.

If you have heel pain or other symptoms of Achilles tendinitis, contact our podiatry office to learn how you can address the problem and get back to the activities you love!