Shopping for Shoes

If you read about foot health, you’re doubtlessly aware that picking good shoes is one of the most important things you can do to keep your feet comfortable and functional. But what does “good” mean, exactly? If you have a specialized condition, we at the Integrity Foot & Ankle Associates in Lorain will be happy to provide you with more personalized advice, as well as customized orthotics. But in general, there are a few things that everybody should keep in mind the next time they go shoe shopping.

When you try on shoes, it’s important to have them fitted as well as possible while erring on the side of more toe room. Wear socks of a similar thickness to the ones you plan to normally wear with the shoe, and try to go later in the day, after your feet have spread out a bit from carrying you for several hours. And remember when getting your feet measured that they are unlikely to be of the exact same size.

A good shoe will provide you with arch support, being neither completely flat nor inclined enough to slide your foot forward and squish your toes together. Athletic shoes will need to be breathable for most kinds of activity, but with solid heels and snug ankle cuffs. Be wary of shoes with soles that bend, and pay some mind to how you will keep an athletic or work shoe clean so you’ll be at less risk for microbial infections. If you plan to be working in slippery environments or ones where you might be carrying something heavy, OSHA provides additional resources to help you determine what you’ll need in a specialized work boot. (For example, you may need protection for your metatarsals and not just your toes.) But regardless of what kind of shoe you’re looking for, you’ll need one that fits you and is comfortable when you walk out of the store, not something that needs to be broken in.

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.

Foot Fungus

Also known as onychomycosis, foot fungus is specifically a fungal infection of the toenails. It causes toenails to become brittle and distorted, thicken, turn yellow, and emanate a foul smell. Foot fungus has the ability to cause a whole host of other problems, including uncomfortable mobility. We at Integrity Foot & Ankle Associates in Lorain, OH, have the expertise to help you or someone you know with various foot problems. Your Lorain podiatrist is dedicated to getting you on the road to treatment for a more comfortable life!

Foot fungus comes in varying degrees of severity. Sometimes treatment isn’t required if it doesn’t bother you. However, for severe cases, relief can only be achieved by a podiatrist’s treatment. The frustrating thing about foot fungus is that even if treatment is successful, nail fungus often comes back. There are a few risk factors to be aware of, some in your control and some not:

- History of athlete’s foot

- Sweating a lot

- Diabetes causes circulation problems and a weakened immune system

- Minor skin or nail injury, such as psoriasis

- Walking barefoot in public areas, especially at gyms, shower rooms, and swimming pools

- Seniors have reduced blood flow, so more exposure to fungi and slow-growing toenails

In order to prevent foot fungus, we recommend that you wash your feet regularly, choose a medical pedicure over a standard nail salon, wear sweat-absorbing socks and breathable shoes, especially wear footwear in pool areas and locker rooms, and either discard or disinfect old shoes. 

Do you have foot fungus? Stop into our office so we can have a look and get you started on a treatment plan! Integrity Foot & Ankle Associates is located on 1740 Cooper Foster Park Rd #B in Lorain, OH 44053. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit integrityfootandankle.com or call 440-282-1221.

Common Toe Deformities

Our feet withstand a lot. They hold up the full weight of our bodies and propel us forward. It’s important that we take care of our feet so that they can last us our lifetimes with little complication. Common toe deformities such as claw toe, hammertoe, and mallet toe can all be prevented if we treat our feet right. We at Integrity Foot & Ankle Associates in Lorain, OH, are dedicated to helping our patients find relief and educating them about how they can prevent future toe deformities. 

 

Claw toe, hammertoe, and mallet toe: it almost sounds like we’re going through a toolbox. But the names do lend to the visual abnormality of these deformities, as well as the discomfort. Most of the time, surgery will be required to completely correct these deformities. The tissue will need to be released and tendons will need to be lengthened. 

 

A closer look at the common toe deformities:

 

- Claw toe: This deformity is caused by one of the tendons in the foot contracting, raising the first bone in the toe and making the second two bones point downward. 

- Hammertoe: A normal toe should form a straight line with the three bones that make up the toe. This deformity raises the first toe bone, the second bone tilts downward, and the third bone becomes flat. Like claw toe, this is also caused by a tendon contracting in the foot.

- Mallet toe: This deformity is also caused by a tendon in the foot contracting. The first two toe bones remain straight, though they are slightly raised. The third bone points downwards.

 

Are you experiencing a toe deformity? Stop into our office so we can have a look and get you started on a treatment plan! Integrity Foot & Ankle Associates is located on 1740 Cooper Foster Park Rd #B in Lorain, OH 44053. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit integrityfootandankle.com or call 440-282-1221.

 

Corn 101

Do you have corn? No, not that type of corn. We’re talking about foot corn, coined because of the yellow scaly thick circles of skin on your feet. At Integrity Foot and Ankle Associates in Lorain, OH, Drs. Michael Wenowitz and David Hintz specialize in treating all foot conditions, including corn.

What is Corn?

A corn is a thick layer of hardened skin that usually forms in response to increased pressure and friction on a specific region of the body. Corns typically occur on feet, toes, hands, and  fingers. 

Causes

-Wearing too snug or tight shoes

-Walking or standing frequently

-People with diabetes are more at risk for foot corn due to poor blood flow to the feet.

Symptoms

-Sensitive skin

-Feet that hurt while wearing shoes

-Bumpy hard skin

-Rough, yellowing patches of skin

Treatment

There are many home remedies and over-the-counter products to treat foot corn. Try soaking your feet in a warm bath with Epsom salts. After the corn is softened, use a file or pumice stone to gently remove the thick layers of skin. Another treatment option is corn pads, which can be found at your local pharmacy. Using salicylic acid, these pads are an effective way to remove foot corn in just a few weeks.

If you’re still experiencing painful foot corn, visit Integrity and Ankle Foot Associates today. Your Lorain, OH podiatrists will file away the corn for you and offer special tips and tricks to prevent future foot corn.

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.

What is Toe Walking?

Toe walking is when your child walks on the balls of their feet without their heels touching the floor. This condition is common amongst kids who are just beginning to learn how to walk and usually isn’t a concern because most children will outgrow it. However, if your child is still toe walking after two years old, visit Drs. David Hintz and Michael Wenowitz at Integrity Foot and Ankle Associates in Lorain, OH for an appointment today.

Causes of Toe Walking

Walking on tiptoes is unusual for children past two years old and causes stiffness of the ankles. Sometimes this behavior is a result of underlying conditions including: 

Heel Pain

Your child may be toe walking because of pain in their heels. Pediatric heel pain is caused by Sever’s disease, a condition where the heel’s growth plate is heavily inflamed and swelled up. Typically, children going through early puberty or who are active in sports are at a risk for developing Sever’s disease. 

Short Achilles Tendon

Your Achilles tendon is located on the back of your heel and extends up to your lower legs. This tendon helps your child move and walk. If an Achilles tendon is too short, that means the heel can’t reach the ground. This is why your child prefers to walk on their tip-toes instead of their feet. 

Other conditions that are linked to toe walking include cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorders, and muscular dystrophy. 

Treating Toe Walking

Your Lorain, OH podiatrists pride themselves in taking care of their littlest patients, and that includes your child suffering from toe walking. At Integrity Foot & Ankle Associates, we will evaluate your child for the best possible treatment plan to stop toe walking. Ranging from physical therapy and stretching treatment plans to braces and footwear with special soles, Drs. Hintz and Wenowitz will help your child walk normally in no time. 

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 toe walking, visit Integrity Foot and Ankle or call 440-282-1221.

Diabetes and Foot Care

Foot care with diabetes can be tricky. For people with diabetes, even the smallest blister can grow into something serious like an amputation. At Integrity Foot and Ankle Associates in Lorain, OH, Drs. David Hintz and Michael Wenowitz specialize in diabetic foot care. If you have diabetes, here’s everything you need to know about proper footcare to stay safe.

Diabetes and Your Feet

People with diabetes can’t process glucose properly. With consistently high levels of blood glucose in the body, many diabetic patients are prone to reduced sensation in their feet and damage to the nervous system. 

How to Take Care of Your Feet

Drs. Hintz and Wenowitz of Lorain, OH advise their diabetic patients to maintain their blood glucose levels to stay healthy. But at the same time, one should practice proper foot care to prevent any injuries. Here are three tips to keep in mind when it comes to your feet when you have diabetes.

Proper Shoes:

When looking for proper shoes, always opt for comfort first. Ditch the heels, flip flops, and anything else that doesn’t give good ankle support. Athletic shoes or comfort shoes are one of the best shoes to wear. 

Toenail Care:

Your toenails need some special attention too! Make sure to moisturize your nails, especially during the winter months. Dry weather leads to cracked skin, heel fissures, and chilblains. Trimming your nails regularly, enjoying foot baths, applying cuticle oil and lotion to your toes every night, and airing out your feet at home are just a few tips for healthy foot care.

Examine Your Feet:

Make sure to examine your feet for any new injuries or blisters, whether it’s before bed or after taking off your shoes. Catching an injury earlier is better than waiting. This is another reason why regular visits to our office, Integrity Foot & Ankle Associates are important if you have diabetes. Your Lorain, OH podiatrists will perform thorough examinations and suggest helpful tips like special footwear and massage to protect your feet. 

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 toe walking, visit Integrity Foot and Ankle or call 440-282-1221.

What Causes Gout?

Of the many kinds of arthritis that affect the feet, the most identifiable is gout. At Integrity Foot and Ankle Associates Drs. David Hintz and Michael Wenowitz specialize in a variety of treatments to provide pain relief to gout patients. However, long-term solutions are likely to require some changes in lifestyle. It is our hope that if more people know what causes gout, they’ll be able to avoid it or seek treatment as soon as they recognize symptoms.

 

Gout is caused by the accumulation of spiky crystals made from uric acids. Alcohol, meat, and sugar contain substances called purines that break down into uric acid. If something prevents the kidneys from filtering uric acid, they form crystals that get stuck in your joints. The base joint of the big toe is the most commonly affected location, but crystals can also build up in the ankles, fingers, or elbows too. If the crystals have been building up for a while, a sudden influx of purines can trigger a gout attack. During an attack, the joint swells noticeably, turns red, and is extremely painful or sensitive. Gout attacks often last for hours and could go on for days.

 

Unfortunately, there are some medications that put people at a higher risk for gout. You can decrease your risk by staying hydrated and avoiding excessive intake of alcohol, soda, and meat (particularly organ meat and seafood). Your trusted Lorain, OH podiatrists perform tests on your joint fluid to determine whether you have a dangerously high amount of uric acid crystals. If a patient is at risk, we provide them with anti-inflammatory medications and discuss dietary changes.

Do you think you could be suffering from gout? Come in for a visit so we can see what’s going on. We will get you started on a treatment plan unique to your problem! 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 gout, visit Integrity Foot and Ankle or call 440-282-1221.

 

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.

Stinky Feet

Yikes! What stinks? 

Whether you’re simply lounging your legs on the couch or wriggling your toes on a moist sandy beach, it’s clear that feet have a reputation to reek. At Integrity Foot and Ankle Associates in Lorain, OH, Drs. Michael Wenowitz and David Hintz treat all types of foot-related health conditions, including bromodosis, or stinky feet. Here’s everything you need to know about stinky feet. 

What Causes Stinky Feet?

Bromodosis is caused by a build-up of bacteria and sweat on your feet. It’s normal for your feet to sweat, especially when this area of the body contains more sweat glands than any other region. When we sweat, our body is cooled down and our skin is moistened. Bacteria that naturally occur on the feet help break down sweat. However, if there’s too much sweat build-up, the bacteria will release a foul odor, a smell we relate to as stinky feet. Bromodosis is also caused by fungal infections like athlete’s foot which starts between the toes. 

Ways Sweat Builds-up

-Not changing socks each day

-Not washing or drying feet

-Poor hygiene

-Wearing wet shoes

-Sweating and wearing socks or shoes before the sweat dries.

-Wearing tight-fitting socks or shoes

Treatments

Stinky feet is not a major medical issue, in fact, it can easily be treated at home. Start by creating a foot hygiene routine, such as washing your feet with mild antibacterial soap and drying them after. Another step is to change socks each day and wear dry shoes. Keep your toenails trimmed and clean between the toes. If you’re experiencing something more serious, such as bromodosis from an infection, contact our Lorain, OH office today to book an appointment.

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.

Risk Factors for Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis remains a mysterious condition. Although the connective tissue at the bottom of each foot is subjected to a lot of daily wear, it is unknown why some people develop inflammation and others don’t. However, there are often specific factors that can be identified as increasing the risk of fascia strains. At Integrity Foot & Ankle Associates in Lorain, our podiatrists are specialists in sports medicine and offer comprehensive treatments for plantar fasciitis and other causes of foot pain, but our patients will need to do what they can to mitigate their risk factors.

Plantar fasciitis is common in distance runners, whose feet are subjected to an especially high amount of stress. It’s also seen in people whose jobs require them to be on their feet for most of the day, such as hairdressers, and in people whose shoes don’t allow them enough arch support. But people who are overweight are also at increased risk, as are people who are new to physical activity or who have recently returned to it. Researchers have noticed that people with plantar fasciitis often have tight calf muscles, suggesting that the plantar fascia is being overstretched to compensate for the heel being pulled upwards.

One bit of good news about plantar fasciitis is that it doesn’t usually appear in people who have heel spurs, so it’s probably possible to stretch the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon enough so that a heel spur won’t wear them down too much. The less good news is that plantar fasciitis is common in people with fallen arches. However, it may be possible to reinforce and arch without restoring to surgery, by making use of customized orthotics and physical therapy to strengthen the foot muscles. Patients should also make sure they are stretching their calf muscles before work-outs and giving them enough time to recover afterward.

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.

 

Hallux Rigidus

Your big toe plays a major role in the balance of your foot, so it’s a serious problem if your toe is becoming less flexible. Hallux Rigidus is a term that describes arthritis in the metatarsophalangeal, or MTP joint, which connects the big toe to the rest of the foot. We at the Integrity Foot & Ankle Associates of Lorain have helped a lot of people to manage this condition, but if it’s not caught early, it can cause permanent damage.

Some people have a genetic susceptibility to cartilage damage in their feet, but loss of cartilage can be exacerbated by overuse. If a person’s ankle rolls inwards, they’ll put a lot of stress on their MTP joint. A person who suffers from gout or has a rheumatoid condition will also have damaged cartilage, and as the bones of their toes rub together, they may grow a spur. This may cause a visible bump in the top of the foot that could be mistaken for a bunion, and a patient will likely feel pain in their big toe when they push off from the ground while walking. Some people also feel more pain in damp weather.

It’s always important to wear shoes with sufficient room in the toe box, but that’s especially true if you’re experiencing MTP stiffness. If your stiffness has already progressed, you might need to wear a shoe with a rocker-shaped bottom to compensate for your big toe’s inability to help you move. We can provide nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs to reduce swelling, and can provide corticosteroid injections in more advanced cases. Many people find corrective orthotics helpful. It may also be possible for us to remove a bone spur surgically. However, patients need to see us before too much irreplaceable cartilage is lost or our options will be more limited, and it’s better to see us before spurs develop.

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 Pain in Children

Children are more vulnerable to some kinds of injuries than adults, including a certain type of foot pain. Sever’s Disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, commonly strikes children between the ages of eight and fourteen, especially when they are highly active. Although this can be frightening for them and their parents, we at the Integrity Foot & Ankle Associates in Lorain want to reassure our patients that it is temporary and we are able to help.

In children, the heel bone contains a growth plate from which new tissue develops. Growth plates are weaker than ordinary bone tissue and the Achilles tendon attaches to the pack of the heel, subjecting this particular growth plate to a lot of strong forces. Children who run frequently and play sports such as soccer and basketball, or who are overweight, may suffer overuse injuries including inflammation of the growth plate. This would cause swelling and tenderness or soreness, which would get worse while walking and may be present in one or both feet.

Children suffering from frequent heel pain will need to reduce their activity. Our podiatrists will conduct an examination to determine whether there is a biomechanical problem, such as a tight Achilles tendon, that could be contributing to the growth plate’s inflammation. To return to activity, a patient will need to do stretching exercises to loosen their tendons, and to make sure they warm up before any strenuous activity. Children may also benefit from wearing heel pad shoe inserts and from switching to shoes that provide better arch support. Once the growth plate solidifies, it will not become inflamed again.

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.

Xerosis

Dry skin is common, especially with old age and during the cold months. No matter how common, though, steps should still be taken to replenish moisture in your skin. Skin that is left severely dry can become itchy and scaly, which are signs that your xerosis has progressed into pruritus. We at Integrity Foot & Ankle Associates in Lorain, OH, take pride in educating our patients about proper foot care. We want all of our patients feeling the best they can!

While xerosis is a minor and temporary problem that does not normally require medical attention, if severe enough, it causes significant discomfort. Some symptoms include skin that is dry, itchy, scaly, tight (especially after a shower), white, flakey, irritated, or finely cracked. You should immediately see your doctor if you find that your skin is oozing or peeling, or if your skin worsens or develops a ring-shaped rash.

Preventing xerosis is quite simple, though sometimes inevitable for those over sixty-five. At that point, you can reduce the severity of your xerosis by changing up your routine:

-Use cleansers without fragrances, dyes, or alcohol

-Bathe for a shorter period of time

-Bathe in lukewarm water (never hot water)

-Place a humidifier in your home

-Drink plenty of water

-Always apply sunscreen before going outdoors

-Use oil-based lotions daily (especially after bathing)

-Do not scratch your xerosis!

-Pat your skin dry after bathing (no vigorous towel drying)

-Use body soap with added oils for hydration

-Avoid extended periods of time in pools and hot tubs

Do you have xerosis? Stop into our office so we can have a look and get you started on a treatment plan! Integrity Foot & Ankle Associates is located on 1740 Cooper Foster Park Rd #B in Lorain, OH 44053. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit integrityfootandankle.com or call 440-282-1221.

What is Metatarsalgia?

Do you feel a sharp pain in your foot when you stand on tiptoe? Chances are you have metatarsalgia, or in other words, the ball of your foot has become inflamed. Although this is not a serious condition, it can definitely make it difficult to complete day to day activities. We at Integrity Foot & Ankle Associates provide treatment for an array of ailments, including metatarsalgia. Your Lorain, OH, podiatrist wants to make sure your problem is treated quickly and efficiently so that you can go back to doing the things you need to do, pain-free!

Symptoms of metatarsalgia include a sharp, aching, or burning pain in your foot, numbness or tingling in your toes, a feeling that there’s a pebble in your shoe, and pain that worsens over time. If pain lasts longer than a few days, it’s recommended that you see your podiatrist at Integrity Foot & Ankle Associates to make sure there isn’t something more serious going on. 

Only by making yourself aware of what causes metatarsalgia can you begin to prevent it. Some causes of metatarsalgia include:

- Certain foot shapes

- Stress fractures

- Intense activity

- Foot deformities

- Morton’s neuroma

- Excess weight

- Ill-fitting shoes

Are you suffering from metatarsalgia? Stop into our office so we can have a look and get you started on a treatment plan! Integrity Foot & Ankle Associates is located on 1740 Cooper Foster Park Rd #B in Lorain, OH 44053. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit integrityfootandankle.com or call 440-282-1221.

Foot Fungus

Also known as onychomycosis, foot fungus is specifically a fungal infection of the toenails. It causes toenails to become brittle and distorted, thicken, turn yellow, and emanate a foul smell. Foot fungus has the ability to cause a whole host of other problems, including uncomfortable mobility. We at Integrity Foot & Ankle Associates in Lorain, OH, have the expertise to help you or someone you know with various foot problems. Your Lorain podiatrist is dedicated to getting you on the road to treatment for a more comfortable life!

Foot fungus comes in varying degrees of severity. Sometimes treatment isn’t required if it doesn’t bother you. However, for severe cases, relief can only be achieved by a podiatrist’s treatment. The frustrating thing about foot fungus is that even if treatment is successful, nail fungus often comes back. There are a few risk factors to be aware of, some in your control and some not:

- History of athlete’s foot

- Sweating a lot

- Diabetes causes circulation problems and a weakened immune system

- Minor skin or nail injury, such as psoriasis

- Walking barefoot in public areas, especially at gyms, shower rooms, and swimming pools

- Seniors have reduced blood flow, so more exposure to fungi and slow-growing toenails

In order to prevent foot fungus, we recommend that you wash your feet regularly, choose a medical pedicure over a standard nail salon, wear sweat-absorbing socks and breathable shoes, especially wear footwear in pool areas and locker rooms, and either discard or disinfect old shoes. 

Do you have foot fungus? Stop into our office so we can have a look and get you started on a treatment plan! Integrity Foot & Ankle Associates is located on 1740 Cooper Foster Park Rd #B in Lorain, OH 44053. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit integrityfootandankle.com or call 440-282-1221.

Common Toe Deformities

Our feet withstand a lot. They hold up the full weight of our bodies and propel us forward. It’s important that we take care of our feet so that they can last us our lifetimes with little complication. Common toe deformities such as claw toe, hammertoe, and mallet toe can all be prevented if we treat our feet right. We at Integrity Foot & Ankle Associates in Lorain, OH, are dedicated to helping our patients find relief and educating them about how they can prevent future toe deformities. 

Claw toe, hammertoe, and mallet toe: it almost sounds like we’re going through a toolbox. But the names do lend to the visual abnormality of these deformities, as well as the discomfort. Most of the time, surgery will be required to completely correct these deformities. The tissue will need to be released and tendons will need to be lengthened. 

A closer look at the common toe deformities:

- Claw toe: This deformity is caused by one of the tendons in the foot contracting, raising the first bone in the toe and making the second two bones point downward. 

- Hammertoe: A normal toe should form a straight line with the three bones that make up the toe. This deformity raises the first toe bone, the second bone tilts downward, and the third bone becomes flat. Like claw toe, this is also caused by a tendon contracting in the foot.

- Mallet toe: This deformity is also caused by a tendon in the foot contracting. The first two toe bones remain straight, though they are slightly raised. The third bone points downwards.

Are you experiencing a toe deformity? Stop into our office so we can have a look and get you started on a treatment plan! Integrity Foot & Ankle Associates is located on 1740 Cooper Foster Park Rd #B in Lorain, OH 44053. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit integrityfootandankle.com or call 440-282-1221.