Aging Feet

As you grow older, your body may not work the same as it used to. Some of your body parts will deteriorate in function and lose strength. Your feet are no different. At Integrity Foot and Ankle Associates in Lorain, OH, Drs. Michael Wenowitz and David Hintz specialize in treating aging feet. Here are three feet conditions you may face as you age.

Osteoarthritis 

Osteoarthritis is a common type of arthritis that affects the joints of the hips, spine, knees, and even large toe. Also known as degenerative joint disease, osteoarthritis develops more commonly in older people. Your Lorain, OH podiatrists recommend proper footwear and special shoe inserts to reduce pain and inflammation. 

Bunions

Bunions are pesky not to mention painful bumps formed on the joint of the large toe. This condition is caused by the inflammation of the bursa or tiny fluid-filled sacs that serve as cushions in the joints. Common symptoms of bunions besides pain include stiffness, bone deformity, and swelling. Surgery is rare, but the last resort if bunions are not taken care of immediately.

Heel Pain

Let’s face it, aging is a real pain in the neck. But at Integrity Foot and Ankle Associates located in Lorain, OH, you don’t have to suffer in aching gloom, especially if you’re experiencing heel pain. Heel pain or fasciitis develops from irritated nerves, arthritis, stress fractures, tendonitis, and much more. Drs. Wenowitz and Hintz will prescribe medications, walking casts, or physical therapy to promote healing of this condition. 

Doctors David J. Hintz and Michael A. Wenowitz run Integrity Foot & Ankle Associates at 1740 Cooper Foster Park Road #B, Lorain, Ohio, 44053. To schedule an appointment or to learn more about how aging affects foot health, visit Integrity Foot and Ankle or call 440-282-1221.

How to Stay Safe in High Heels

Are you head over heels in love….with high heels? The American Podiatrist Medical Association revealed that nearly half of all women strut into life with high heels. While definitely in style, research shows this footwear isn’t the best for your feet. From ankle injuries, stiffened Achilles’ tendon, back and knee pain to restricted blood flow, bunions, and hammertoes, high heels can result in many long-term health issues. At Integrity Foot and Ankle Associates in Lorain, OH, Drs. Michael Wenowitz and David Hintz provide expert podiatrist treatment for heel pain and other shoe-induced ailments. 

Get the Right Size

Most foot problems stem from ill-fitted shoes and high heels are no different. Measure your feet before shopping for shoes. Many shoppers tend to buy heels that are narrow around the toes. Instead, buy a wider size that allows your toes to breathe and wiggle. Your feet will thank you!

Ditch the Pointy-Toed Heels

We know you love your Louboutins but pointy-toes and high heels are one of the worst combinations for your feet. The double pressure on your toes and heels are not a look. When buying high heels, stick with a round-toed heel or chunky high heels like wedges or platforms

Maintain a Consistent Heel Height
When buying heels, make sure all your high heels are at a consistent height. A constant up and down injures the Achilles tendon, not to mention stiffness and pain.

Count Your Hours

Like most aspects of life, too much of anything is bad for you. High heels have the same principle. Avoid wearing heels for long hours, especially all day. Your Lorain, OH podiatrists recommend wearing high heels for no more than two to three hours. 

Opt for Sneakers

Going for a walk during lunch? Anticipate a mad dash to catch the train home? Opt for sneakers or any other comfortable shoes whenever possible. If you’re doing a lot of walking or even running, know high heels are not only a poor choice for your feet, but also for moving around. Plan for emergencies and keep a pair of sneakers on hand.

Exercise
After a long day in heels, it’s important to stretch your toes and muscles so they can finally relax.  At Integrity Foot and Ankle Associates, we recommend toe stretching exercises to relieve stiffness and strengthen your muscles.

Doctors David J. Hintz and Michael A. Wenowitz run Integrity Foot & Ankle Associates at 1740 Cooper Foster Park Road #B, Lorain, Ohio, 44053. To schedule an appointment, visit Integrity Foot and Ankle or call 440-282-1221.

Heel Spurs 101

Do you have heel spurs? Heel spurs are a condition caused by an overgrowth of calcium deposits in the heel. At Integrity Foot and Ankle Associates in Lorain, OH, Drs. Michael Wenowitz and David Hintz treat all types of foot-related health conditions, including heel spurs. Here’s everything you need to know about heel spurs. 

What Causes Heel Spurs

Heel spurs are formed when there is bony-like growth or calcium deposit in the heel. One of the most common reasons why heel spurs occur is because of incorrect footwear, from wearing worn shoes to flat shoes like flip-flops. People with arthritis and diabetes are also at risk for heel spurs. Other groups who are at risk include:

-Athletes

-People who are on their feet frequently

-Elderly people

-Overweight individuals

-People with injuries such as  bruised heels and gait issues

Symptoms

Heel spurs are not visible to the human eye and usually painless. However, some people still experience heel pain as a symptom. Other symptoms include:

-Inflammation

-Pain in other parts of your feet

-Swelling of the heel

Treatment

Treating heel spurs requires several lifestyle changes such as wearing proper footwear with good support for your feet and including more rest into your routine. Your Lorain, OH podiatrists also recommend physical therapy and exercise to prevent long-term pain. 

Doctors David J. Hintz and Michael A. Wenowitz run Integrity Foot & Ankle Associates at 1740 Cooper Foster Park Road #B, Lorain, Ohio, 44053. To schedule an appointment, visit Integrity Foot and Ankle or call 440-282-1221.