Foot or ankle injuries can make each step painful and unsteady. A cane, crutches, or a walker can reduce pressure on the injured area while supporting safer movement. These devices are used after fractures, severe sprains, and tendon injuries. The right choice depends on the injury and how much weight the patient can safely place on the affected foot. Poor fit or technique can place extra stress on the injury and increase the risk of falling.

Proper fit helps protect the foot or ankle while it heals. Cane and walker handles usually reach the wrist crease when a patient stands upright, with the elbows slightly bent. Crutches should sit below the armpits, and body weight should rest on the hands. A cane is held on the side opposite the injured foot or ankle. When using a walker, patients should place it a short distance ahead before stepping into its center. Rubber tips should be checked for wear because damaged parts can slip. Patients should follow instructions about whether they can place full, partial, or no weight on the injured side.

A podiatrist can examine the injured foot or ankle and assess balance. This evaluation helps determine which device provides the right level of support. The podiatrist can adjust its height, explain safe movement, and check whether shoes fit securely. Guidance can cover rising from a chair, managing stairs, and moving across uneven ground. New pain, swelling, or numbness can mean too much pressure is reaching the injury. Skin irritation can also develop where a device rubs against the body. A podiatrist can identify these problems and make adjustments that protect the injured area. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to check healing and decide whether the walking aid should still be used. If you need a cane, crutches, or a walker, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for guidance on proper use and adjustments.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Dr. David Ungar from Personal Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Farmington, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Properly fitting shoes can make a major difference in everyday foot comfort. Shoes that are too tight may squeeze the toes and create pressure points, while shoes that are too loose can allow excessive movement inside the shoe. Wearing the wrong size regularly may contribute to blisters, corns, and painful foot problems. A good shoe should feel comfortable from the beginning and provide enough room for the toes to move naturally. The heel should stay secure without rubbing. The arch area should feel supported without creating uncomfortable pressure. Choosing the right shoe size is especially important if you already experience foot pain or have a condition that changes your foot shape.

Start by tracing your foot on a piece of paper while standing. Measure the length and width of the outline to help determine your shoe size. Measure both feet because one foot may be larger than the other. Shop for shoes in the afternoon rather than at night, because feet often become larger during the day. Wear the type of socks you normally use with the shoes. Try on both shoes and walk around the store before buying them.  Do not assume shoes will stretch enough to become comfortable later.

Wearing improperly sized shoes can contribute to several foot conditions. Wearing tight shoes may increase pressure that contributes to bunion, hammertoe, and ingrown toenail pain. A podiatrist can examine your feet and identify problems related to footwear. Treatment may include addressing pressure areas, recommending supportive shoes, and treating irritation or inflammation. If pain is persistent, the podiatrist may use imaging tests to evaluate underlying bone or joint concerns.

The right shoes should support your feet without restricting natural movement. Pay attention to new discomfort rather than waiting for a small problem to become severe. If you have foot conditions from wearing the wrong size shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions and guidance on how to choose the right shoes. 

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Dr. David Ungar from Personal Foot Care. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Farmington, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The Achilles tendon is a strong band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It helps the foot point downward and plays an important role in walking, running, and jumping. Achilles tendon injuries range from irritation and small tissue damage to a complete tear, called a rupture. A rupture can happen when the tendon is suddenly placed under intense stress. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. Some patients feel or hear a pop when the tendon tears. A complete rupture can make it difficult to push off the injured foot or stand on the toes of that leg.

Achilles tendon injuries can occur during activities that involve sudden starts, stops, or changes in direction. Running and jumping can also place significant force on the tendon. A rupture sometimes occurs in people who participate in sports only occasionally. Age can affect the tendon, and certain medications can increase the risk of injury. A podiatrist can ask how the injury happened and examine the foot, ankle, and lower leg. The examination can include checking tenderness, swelling, and ankle movement. The podiatrist can also test how well the Achilles tendon is working. Imaging tests can help determine the location and extent of an injury when more information is required.

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the Achilles tendon injury. A podiatrist can provide or coordinate care designed to protect the tendon and restore function. Treatment can include immobilization, and other forms of medical care. A complete rupture can sometimes require surgery, depending on the patient's health and activity level. A podiatrist can also monitor healing and determine when it is appropriate to increase activity. Rehabilitation can focus on restoring strength, flexibility, and normal movement. Proper evaluation is important because continuing activity with an injured Achilles tendon can interfere with recovery. The goal of treatment is to support healing and help the patient return safely to normal activities. If you have symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. David Ungar of Personal Foot Care. 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 our office located in Farmington, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Rare foot conditions can cause unusual pain, stiffness, or changes in the structure of the feet. One example is a complex regional pain syndrome. It often begins after an injury and can cause persistent burning pain, swelling, and skin changes. Symptoms may make it difficult to move the affected foot comfortably. Another rare condition is tarsal coalition, which occurs when two bones in the foot are connected where a movable joint would normally be present. Although people are born with this condition, pain may not appear until later in life.

Tarsal coalition can make the foot stiff and more likely to experience sprains or other injuries. Reduced movement may also place greater stress on nearby joints and contribute to early osteoarthritis. Another uncommon problem is Bessel-Hagen disease. This inherited condition causes abnormal bony growths that can affect the feet and other areas of the body. Some growths cause no discomfort, while others can become painful if they press against nerves or interfere with normal movement. These rare foot conditions can affect mobility in different ways, making an accurate diagnosis important.

A podiatrist can evaluate unexplained foot pain and determine whether a rare foot disorder may be contributing to the symptoms. Medical imaging may be used to identify conditions such as tarsal coalition. Depending on the diagnosis, professional treatment may include foot orthotics or other approaches designed to improve function. Surgery may be considered in certain cases when a condition seriously limits foot mobility. Some rare foot diseases may produce few noticeable symptoms, which can make professional assessment especially valuable when unexplained problems continue. A podiatrist can determine the source of discomfort and develop a treatment plan based on the specific condition. If unexplained foot pain, stiffness, or structural changes are affecting your comfort or mobility, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. David Ungar of Personal Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Farmington, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.