While they may look clunky, the principles behind the shoes are quite grounded. The shoes feature a rounded sole, which requires the wearer to constantly adjust their balance. This constant balancing will certainly work out several muscle groups. But what if the wearer has foot problems? Can these problems be aggravated by these new shoes? Overall leg weakness with weak core muscle and lower extremity imbalance are just some examples of potential problems.

So are they for you? The trick with Shape-Ups is to treat them as what they are sold as, a work out plan. As with any new work out plan, start slowly. It takes time for your body to adjust to any new pair of shoes, specialty or not. Should you encounter any problems, foot, ankle, leg, or lower back pain, stop wearing the shoes immediately and make an appointment to see your podiatrist. You can schedule an appointment at Atlantic Foot & Ankle Specialists online at https://www.atlanticfeet.com/appointment.php or call our office at (912) 355-4557.

More information on Shape-Ups can be found at the links below.

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/2010-06-30-toning-shoes_N.htm

http://living.health.com/2009/05/14/gear-guide-skechers-shape-ups-fitness-shoes/

Many individuals have never gone to visit a podiatrist or neglect to think that their feet should be check just like their teeth. When some people finally decide to see a foot & ankle specialists, they notice had they went a long time ago, possible issues could have been caught and treated in the early stages. Any foot or ankle related issues can be treated by a podiatrist. From muscular to skeletal different treatment options can be used by podiatrists to alleviate or successfully your problem. Why wait so long to visit if you know that the pain or unsightly appearance will only lead to more discomfort or makes you feel uneasy.

Here are clues that you should look into proper foot care:

Do you have heel pain? Well, it may not go away. You need to have your feet examined to determine what type of heel pain you have and get the proper treatment. You want to rule out possibility of bone spurs, gout crystals, and other injuries by visiting the podiatrist and not taking heel pain lightly.

Discolored or yellow toenails need to be looked at even if you think it’s not serious. Usually this is a type of fungus of the nail which can be very easily treated with topical ointments, and in severe cases oral medications which are monitored by the podiatrist.

Ingrown toenails should be taken seriously because,they can become very infected at a fast rate. This can be caused by curvature or skin growth, actually grows into the skin and creates a very painful border to a toenail.

Other problems that should be a red flag are: open sores, bunions, hammer toes, discomfort with toenails, pain in the ball of the foot,a gout flare up, abnormal swelling or numbness.

Do not take your feet for granted, call us today if you have questions 912-355-4557 or visit our website, www.atlanticfeet.com. We treat children and adults. We will help you.

Melissa Robitaille, D.P.M.Medicine, Surgery and Injuries of the Foot, Ankle and Leg for Adults and Children http://www.atlanticfeet.com

Athletes are at high risk for developing disorders of the Achilles tendon. Achilles tendonitis and tendonosis are also common in individuals whose work puts stress on their ankles and feet, such as laborers, as well as in “weekend warriors”—those who are less conditioned and participate in athletics only on weekends or infrequently.

As “overuse” disorders, Achilles tendonitis and tendonosis are usually caused by a sudden increase of a repetitive activity involving the Achilles tendon. Such activity puts too much stress on the tendon too quickly, leading to micro-injury of the tendon fibers. Due to this ongoing stress on the tendon, the body is unable to repair the injured tissue. The structure of the tendon is then altered, resulting in continued pain.

There is speculation that it may take as long as a year for David Beckham to recover from his injury. In diagnosing Achilles tendonitis or tendonosis, the surgeon will examine the patient’s foot and ankle and evaluate the range of motion and condition of the tendon. The extent of the condition can be further assessed with x-rays or other imaging modalities.

Treatment approaches for Achilles tendonitis or tendonosis are selected on the basis of how long the injury has been present and the degree of damage to the tendon. In the early stage, when there is sudden (acute) inflammation, one or more of the following options may be recommended:

* Immobilization. Immobilization may involve the use of a cast or removable walking boot to reduce forces through the Achilles tendon and promote healing.
* Ice. To reduce swelling due to inflammation, apply a bag of ice over a thin towel to the affected area for 20 minutes of each waking hour. Do not put ice directly against the skin.
* Oral medications. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, may be helpful in reducing the pain and inflammation in the early stage of the condition.
* Orthotics. For those with over-pronation or gait abnormalities, custom orthotic devices may be prescribed.
* Night splints. Night splints help to maintain a stretch in the Achilles tendon during sleep.
* Physical therapy. Physical therapy may include strengthening exercises, soft-tissue massage/mobilization, gait and running re-education, stretching, and ultrasound therapy.

Prevention
To prevent Achilles tendonitis or tendonosis from recurring after surgical or non-surgical treatment, the foot and ankle surgeon may recommend strengthening and stretching of the calf muscles through daily exercises. Wearing proper shoes for the foot type and activity is also important in preventing recurrence of the condition.

Do not hesitate to call us if you are experiencing the same or similar symptoms as David Beckham.

Melissa Robitaille, D.P.M.
Medicine, Surgery and Injuries of the Foot, Ankle and Leg for Adults and Children
http://www.atlanticfeet.com

So, how do you reduce the swelling? As mentioned before gravity is your enemy and it plays a major role in swelling by pulling the fluid to the feet. To stop this gravitational movement it is important to elevate your feet at least three to four times a day. You can do this by simply propping your feet up on a pillow when laying on the sofa or propping your foot up on a chair when sitting down. Also, don’t be a couch potato. Exercise is important. Get up and go for a walk or participate in maternity fitness classes. This will facilitate fluid movement and reduce edema. You can also wear full length support hose and even go get a foot massage and wear loose fitting shoe gear which all will help reduce swelling.

I know your asking yourself is this fluid ever going to go away. The answer is yes. Once the baby is born, the fluid will find its way back to the veins and will be circulated out of the body. And over the next few weeks after delivery you will notice a gradual reduction in swelling and you will be back to normal after all the excessive fluid is excreted by the body. However, if you still have questions concerning your feet, or you feel like you have excessive swelling, or experiencing pain, any pain with your feet don’t hesitate to make an appointment today with your doctors here at Atlantic Foot and Ankle Specialists.

Melissa Robitaille, D.P.M.
Medicine, Surgery and Injuries of the Foot, Ankle and Leg for Adults and Children

http://www.atlanticfeet.com

There is a South American herbal extract in the product that the Paraguay Indians use to boost the effect of the medicines, it’s called ILEX. This product offers extensive results as well as deep penetrating pain relief.

We can supply you with the Biofreeze Roll-on, Spray and Biofreeze Gel to get rid of your pain. This product is made with different applicators. Some of our older patients find the roll-on as a convenient way to get to the tough to reach places.

BioFreeze is not an oily or greasy product. It will not leave stains and has a fading scent. There aren’t any oils, aloe, petroleum or waxes in BioFreeze.

BIOFREEZE products can also help relieve the following other pains:
Foot, Heel, Arch Pain, Sore Muscles, Muscle Sprains, Tendonitis, Sports Injuries,
Painful Ankle, Knee, Hip & Elbow Joints, Back, Shoulder, Neck Pain, Arthritis

Call our office today and ask about our BioFreeze product to help you body get back on track: 912-355-4557 or visit our website at: http://www.ourdoctorstore.com/atlantic/store/search.asp

Melissa Robitaille, D.P.M.
Medicine, Surgery and Injuries of the Foot, Ankle and Leg for Adults and Children
http://www.atlanticfeet.com

The fungus most commonly attacks the feet because shoes create a warm, dark, and humid environment which encourages fungus growth.

The warmth and dampness of areas around swimming pools, showers, and locker rooms are also breeding grounds for fungi. Because the infection was common among athletes who used these facilities frequently, the term “athlete’s foot” became popular.

Not all fungus conditions are athlete’s foot. Other conditions, such as disturbances of the sweat mechanism, reaction to dyes or adhesives in shoes, eczema, and psoriasis, may mimic athlete’s foot.

Symptoms

The signs of athlete’s foot, singly or combined, are dry skin, itching, scaling, inflammation, and blisters. Blisters often lead to cracking of the skin. When blisters break, small raw areas of tissue are exposed, causing pain and swelling. Itching and burning may increase as the infection spreads.

Athlete’s foot may spread to the soles of the feet and to the toenails. It can be spread to other parts of the body, notably the groin and underarms, by those who scratch the infection and then touch themselves elsewhere. The organisms causing athlete’s foot may persist for long periods. Consequently, the infection may be spread by contaminated bed sheets or clothing to other parts of the body.

Prevention

It is not easy to prevent athlete’s foot because it is usually contracted in dressing rooms, showers, and swimming pool locker rooms where bare feet come in contact with the fungus. However, you can do much to prevent infection by practicing good foot hygiene. Daily washing of the feet with soap and water; drying carefully, especially between the toes; and changing shoes and hose regularly to decrease moisture, help prevent the fungus from infecting the feet. Also helpful is daily use of a quality foot powder.

Tips

*
Avoid walking barefoot; use shower shoes.
*
Reduce perspiration by using talcum powder.
*
Wear light and airy shoes.
*
Wear socks that keep your feet dry, and change them frequently if you perspire heavily.

Call Atlantic Foot & Ankle Specialists with any concerns you may have: 912-355-4557.
Melissa Robitaille, D.P.M.
Medicine, Surgery and Injuries of the Foot, Ankle and Leg for Adults and Children
http://www.atlanticfeet.com

So, how do you know if you have plantar warts? There are various signs and symptoms that include:

Hyperskeratotic thickening of the skin. Plantar wart may resemble a callus due to its tough, thickened tissue.

Pain. A plantar wart is usually painful especially during normal activity such as walking and standing, and there is pain when the wart is pressed from either side.

Tiny black dots. These often appear on the surface of the wart. These are infarcted blood vessels within the verrucous tissue.

Interruption in the continuity of the skin lines. The hyperkeratotic lesion will cause a disruption of the skin lines.

Don’t forget to biopsy. Although the above signs and symptoms usually are a good indication of a plantar wart. Never self diagnose and when in doubt call Atlantic Foot & Ankle Specialists and we can give you the proper type of clinical exam.

If you are wondering how to think of this new PedEgg invention, just think of and cheese grater and the block of cheese as your foot. If you use this in an improper manner and you have foot problems, you could possible make it worse. There is no way for one to judge if they have taken off too much skin until it’s too late. The PedEgg makes it very easy to shave too much skin off until your foot is raw. This is an uncomfortable feeling and can be very dangerous for those who are diabetic or may have infections. Please trust us when we say visiting Atlantic Foot & Ankle Specialists is the best way to go. We know feet. The PedEgg may cause a problem that you will have to call us to fix so, beware of the PedEgg!
Look at this educational video to find out more about your foot problem(s).
http://www.atlanticfeet.com/videos.php
Call us today if you think that you need help with your feet. 912-355-4557.

Melissa Robitaille, D.P.M.
Medicine, Surgery and Injuries of the Foot, Ankle and Leg for Adults and Children
http://www.atlanticfeet.com

Choose proper footgear. Buying shoes is the only real expenditure necessary for walking, so don’t cut corners on your shoe budget; treat your feet well! If you experience swelling in your feet, try on athletic shoes in the afternoon – when your feet are most swollen – to ensure an accurate fit. Look for a shoe that is stable from side to side; well-cushioned; enables you to walk smoothly and comfortably; and gives you enough room to wiggle your toes, yet be snug in the heel.

Pay attention to your feet. Changes and/or pain in the feet and ankles are not normal and could indicate a serious foot ailment or circulatory problem. Warning: Self-treatment can turn a minor problem into a major one, making fitness more difficult. Become familiar with your feet and ankles by examining them – before and after – walking. If you notice red spots, swelling, or other abnormalities, including numbness, tingling or burning, consult a podiatric physician as soon as possible.

Walk on soft ground. With age, the natural shock absorbers (or “fat padding”) in your feet deteriorate, as does bone density, particularly in women. These factors combined make seniors prone to stress fractures. Softer ground is more foot-friendly, producing less shock than harder surfaces. If possible, walk on grass or dirt paths that are flat, even and well manicured.

Avoid walking in cold weather. Cold weather causes numbness, limiting your ability to detect trauma or wounds to the feet. It also makes surfaces harder, exerting undue shock on the feet and ankles. Head to the local mall or walk at an indoor track or exercise facility.

If you have diabetes, use extra precaution. If you suffer from diabetes, you are prone to infection from even minor injuries. Many people with diabetes experience a loss of sensation in the feet, making it difficult to detect injury. Untreated or improper self-treatment of ailments could lead to serious, permanent damage or possible amputation. Check your feet daily for redness, blisters or injury. If you experience any numbness, tingling or have wounds or abnormalities of any kind, see a podiatric physician immediately.

Exercise smart. Establishing an exercise program is a huge undertaking, and even the most minimal injury could “sideline” you for days – even months. Knowing your limit and exercising with caution can ward off injuries and frustration. Set appropriate and realistic goals. Pace yourself, choose an activity you like, increase your exercise program gradually, and pay attention to what your body, including your feet, tells you. Drink fluids on hot days or during very strenuous activities, to avoid heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

Call Atlantic Foot & Ankle Specialists if you are concern about your feet.

Melissa Robitaille, D.P.M.
Medicine, Surgery and Injuries of the Foot, Ankle and Leg for Adults and Children
http://www.atlanticfeet.com