Items filtered by date: July 2023

Every year about one quarter of older adults experience a fall, which is the leading cause of injury in people aged 65 and above. Specific physical changes, including muscle weakness, balance problems, and declining vision, can contribute to the risk of falling. As one ages, navigating stairs, curbs, and loose carpeting can become increasingly difficult. In addition, chronic conditions such as arthritis and diabetes can negatively affect balance, coordination, and stability. Additionally, some medications commonly taken by seniors, such as blood pressure or other ailments, can cause dizziness or drowsiness that further increases the risk of falling. Balance and strength training exercises, tai chi, and yoga are a few options seniors have that may help to decrease the likelihood of a fall. Flexibility training exercises to increase the range of motion and reduce stiffness can help improve reaction times. Using an assistive device, such as a walker or cane, is another way to help seniors become more stable on their feet. For further information about the prevention of falls, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

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 Soorena Sadri, DPM from FootWorx Active Podiatry. 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 Fort Myers, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a condition that affects the joints in the big toe. It often begins in that area, and it may spread to other parts of the foot if treatment is not received. Gout can happen when excess uric acid occurs and collects in the joints of the toes. Common symptoms that many people experience with gout can include intense pain, swelling, and it can be difficult to walk. Foods that are eaten with purines may produce uric acid, and it is beneficial to limit eating these types of foods. These can include shellfish, red meat, and drinks that are made with large amounts of sugar. Additionally, drinking plenty of water daily to stay hydrated may help to avoid painful gout episodes. Many people enjoy getting massages and have reported they may help to relieve the pain of gout. If you have pain in your big toe, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat and offer prevention techniques against gout.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Soorena Sadri, DPM from FootWorx Active Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

For a marathon or long distance runner, the feet play an extremely important role. For this reason, attention to the type of footwear that is chosen is paramount. One of the first concerns is the support and cushioning that is needed. Shoes that are too minimal in these aspects may cause excruciating pain after running 26.2 miles. Some shoes can be too stiff, and others not stiff enough. Arch support and cushioning are two concerns that must be addressed when buying running shoes. If your arches hurt, it may be wise to consider having custom orthotics made by a podiatrist to counteract this problem. Gel inserts are another option. Performing a series of foot exercises may help maintain good health of the soles of the foot and preventing plantar fasciitis. Rolling the foot over a tennis ball, or frozen water bottle, performing toe splay exercises, and rotating the ankles also may help. This can be followed by soaking the feet in a warm foot bath with Epsom salts. For help with foot pain of any sort after running a marathon, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Soorena Sadri, DPM of FootWorx Active Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

• Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
• Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
• “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
• Cross-Training is Crucial
• Wear Proper Running Shoes
• Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury

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

Diabetes is a serious medical condition that can affect the nerves in the feet. Many diabetic patients develop neuropathy, which is the inability to feel cuts and scrapes that have developed on the feet. This can lead to getting infections and foot ulcers, both of which need immediate medical attention. Proper diabetic foot care begins with washing and drying the feet daily, followed by inspecting the soles of the feet for any abrasions. Many people choose to use a mirror to do this, or to ask a family member or caregiver to help them accomplish this. Additionally, it is beneficial for the toenails to be trimmed weekly. It is wise to stop smoking, if applicable, which may help to increase blood flow to the feet. Many diabetic patients know the importance of wearing shoes at all times, which can help to prevent stepping on objects that can damage the skin. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Soorena Sadri, DPM from FootWorx Active Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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