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February 2019

Monday, 25 February 2019 00:00

Methods That May Help to Prevent Falling

Research has shown that falling is common among people who are sixty-five years and older. Severe falls can result in broken bones or head injuries, and a fear of falling may deter the individual from staying active. Many older people have diminished coordination and flexibility, and this may make it easier to fall. Additionally, dizziness may be caused by certain medications, and objects may be harder to see as a result of fading eyesight. It may be beneficial to make some changes to the living environment. These may include securing railings on the steps, and increasing the amount of lighting throughout the house. Many patients find it safer to have grab bars installed in the bathroom and shower area, or it may be helpful to use a shower chair. Using a walker or cane may also be beneficial in preventing falls. If you would like additional information about falls prevention, then it is recommended you speak to a podiatrist to learn about more helpful methods.

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 Dr. Lubrina Bryant from District Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctor 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 our office located in Washington, D.C . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Parents are naturally concerned for all parts of their children’s health, but it is easy to sometimes forget about children’s feet. Fortunately, there are some easy ways to make sure your children’s feet are staying as healthy as they should be. Keeping feet clean and dry helps to prevent bacterial and fungal infection. Good hygiene will assist in stopping conditions like athletes’ foot, that thrive in moisture, from developing. Cutting toenails straight across will help to prevent uncomfortable ingrown toenails and showing children this technique in their younger years will help them carry this habit into adulthood. Shoes that fit properly are also essential. Children’s feet are constantly growing, so it is important to get their feet measured when buying new shoes. Tight shoes put children at a higher risk for blisters, corns, calluses, and ingrown toenails, which can all become infected. If you would like additional information about how to care for your child’s feet, then it is recommended to speak with a podiatrist to learn more about children’s foot health.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Dr. Lubrina Bryant of District Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

  • Make sure their shoes fit properly
  • Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
  • Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
  • Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
  • Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
  • Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
  • Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
  • Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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

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Published in Blog
Monday, 11 February 2019 00:00

Poor Circulation May Affect the Feet

The symptoms which are often experienced if you have poor circulation may be a tingling sensation in the hands and feet, in addition to feeling cold frequently throughout the day. Research has indicated it may be a symptom of a serious health issue which may include a heart attack or stroke. Poor circulation may develop as a result of a compromised blood flow, and this may prevent the body’s organs from receiving nutrients and oxygen. Some patients may notice muscle cramps in their feet, a general feeling of fatigue, or possibly pain and discomfort in the affected limbs. There may be measures that can be implemented which may help the symptoms of this condition, and these may include incorporating a gentle exercise program into your daily routine, and ingesting foods which can lead to a healthy lifestyle. If you are noticing any symptoms of poor circulation, it is advised to seek a consultation with a podiatrist who can properly diagnosis this condition.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Lubrina Bryant of District Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

  • Numbness
  • Tingling
  • Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
  • Pain
  • Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

Read more about Causes Symptoms and Treatment for Poor Circulation in the Feet
Published in Blog
Monday, 04 February 2019 00:00

Children and Blisters

If you notice an area of skin on your child’s foot in the shape of what appears to be a small bubble, you are most likely looking at a blister. They are typically caused by excess friction that is placed on that portion of the skin, and this generally originates from wearing shoes or socks that are too tight. There may be additional reasons why blisters might occur, which may include allergic reactions, extreme burns, or insect bites. The body creates a natural defense mechanism to protect the affected area, and it’s important to tell your child to refrain from touching or popping the blister. If it should burst as a result of pressure that is applied to it, it is beneficial to wash the area with clean water, and this may possibly promote healing. If pain is caused by a blister that forms on your child’s foot, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Lubrina Bryant of District Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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

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