Items filtered by date: November 2024

Custom orthotics are specially designed shoe inserts that address various foot and ankle conditions, helping to restore normal gait and improve overall foot function. For individuals with neuropathic conditions, such as diabetes, orthotics can offer cushioning and prevent pressure ulcers. In cases of ligament sprains, they provide stability and support during recovery. Flat foot, which leads to overpronation, benefits from orthotics that lift the arch and reduce strain. Conversely, a cavorasus foot, or a high arch, requires orthotics that redistribute pressure evenly. Each orthotic is customized based on the patient's specific needs, ensuring the right fit and functionality. If you are having foot problems, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can evaluate your foot structure, gait, and condition to prescribe the most effective orthotic solution.

If you are experiencing discomfort in your feet and would like to try custom orthotics, contact William Beaton, DPM from Advanced Podiatry and Wound Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Custom Orthotics?

Custom 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. 

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Shoe inserts come in a wide variety and 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, custom 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're experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibility of using custom orthotics or shoe inserts. A podiatrist can determine which type of custom orthotic or shoe insert is right for you and help you take the first steps toward being pain-free.

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

Driving for extended periods can lead to various types of foot and ankle pain, commonly referred to as driver's foot. One prevalent issue is pain in the heel and arch, often caused by maintaining pressure on the accelerator or brake pedals for long durations. This repetitive motion can lead to conditions such as plantar fasciitis or tendonitis. Additionally, discomfort may arise in the toes, particularly from cramped foot positions, leading to conditions like Morton’s neuroma. Drivers may also experience ankle pain due to the constant flexing and extension required for operating the pedals. Poor footwear choices can make these issues worse, as shoes lacking proper support contribute to fatigue and discomfort. If you have foot pain from driving, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you relief and treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with William Beaton, DPM from Advanced Podiatry and Wound Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Preventing running injuries is vital for maintaining a consistent training routine and enhancing overall performance. One of the most effective strategies is wearing the right running shoes, which should be tailored to your foot type and running style. Proper footwear provides essential support, cushioning, and stability, reducing the risk of injuries such as stress fractures and tendonitis. Additionally, incorporating a gradual training plan is essential, and avoiding sudden increases in distance or intensity will allow your body to adapt. Regular stretching and strength training can improve flexibility and strengthen muscles, further protecting against injury. Listening to your body and taking rest days when needed is equally important for recovery. If you have injured your foot or ankle while running, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can provide the appropriate treatment solutions.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact William Beaton, DPM of Advanced Podiatry and Wound Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

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

Foot ulcers and infections are serious concerns for seniors with diabetes, especially those with neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy reduces sensation in the feet, making it harder to notice injuries like cuts, blisters, or ulcers. These unnoticed injuries can quickly worsen, leading to infections. Poor circulation in individuals with diabetes further slows the healing process, increasing the risk of ulcers becoming severe. Infections that result from ulcers can escalate, potentially leading to complications, such as gangrene, which may require amputation, if not treated promptly. Regular foot checks, proper hygiene, and early intervention are essential in preventing and managing foot ulcers. If you are elderly and have diabetes, or are caring for an older person with diabetes, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to set up routine visits for foot exams. 

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 William Beaton, DPM from Advanced Podiatry and Wound Care. 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 St. Petersburg, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.