Items filtered by date: August 2024

Orthotics are shoe inserts that support and align the foot, helping to address various conditions like flat feet, plantar fasciitis, or overpronation. They are made from various materials, including plastic, foam, and carbon fiber, which offer different levels of support and flexibility. Soft orthotics provide cushioning and are ideal for relieving pressure on sore spots, while rigid orthotics offer more structural support, beneficial for controlling motion in the joints. Semi-rigid orthotics strike a balance between comfort and support, making them versatile for various activities. Athletic shoes often come equipped with built-in arch supports and heel cups to enhance comfort and performance. These features help distribute pressure evenly across the foot, reduce strain on the arches, and stabilize the heel during movement. Whether you need extra support for a specific condition or enhanced comfort during exercise, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to see if orthotics can help you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Kentston Cripe, DPM from Roseville Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

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 but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that 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 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 are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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

Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, occur when the skin on the heels becomes dry and thickened, leading to painful cracks, termed fissures. This condition often results from excessive pressure, poor foot hygiene, or prolonged exposure to dry environments. Common causes include wearing open-backed shoes, standing for long periods of time, and having underlying conditions like diabetes or eczema. Risk factors include obesity, lack of moisture, and certain medical conditions that affect skin health. Symptoms of cracked heels often include rough, thickened skin on the heels, visible cracks, and discomfort or pain, particularly while walking. Painful cracked heels can interfere with completing daily activities. If you have developed this condition, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can offer treatment, which may include prescribed medication.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Kentston Cripe, DPM from Roseville Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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

Ankle muscle strength is important for maintaining stability, balance, and overall mobility. Strong ankle muscles support daily activities such as walking, running, and jumping, and help prevent injuries by providing support and absorbing shock. Ankle muscle testing evaluates the strength and functionality of the muscles surrounding the ankle joint. This assessment helps to identify weaknesses or imbalances that may contribute to instability or increased injury risk. Testing typically involves exercises and movements that challenge the ankle's range of motion and strength, such as resistance tests and functional tasks. Poor ankle strength can result from injury, inactivity, or medical conditions like arthritis. If ankle strength is found to be poor, targeted exercises, and strength training can help improve muscle function. Addressing underlying causes, such as correcting biomechanical issues or treating injuries, is also essential to restoring optimal ankle strength and function. If you have ankle pain and feel weakness in your ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment options.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Kentston Cripe, DPM from Roseville Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, causing it to lean inward toward the other toes. This condition, also known as hallux valgus, develops gradually and is often aggravated by wearing tight shoes or genetic predisposition. Bunions can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty fitting into shoes comfortably. Relief methods focus on managing symptoms and preventing further progression. Wearing shoes with a wide toe box and low heels reduces pressure on the bunion. Padded shoe inserts or orthotics can provide additional support and alignment for the foot. If you have developed a painful bunion, it is suggested that you contact this type of doctor who can target specific treatment methods that are right for you, which may include surgery for permanent removal. 

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Kentston Cripe, DPM of Roseville Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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