Frozen Toes

Cold feet are certainly uncomfortable- whether they're your own or your mate's bumping your leg in the night. Brr! If you've ever allowed your feet to get really cold, you know that it can feel like they'll never be warm again.

But what about feet that feel cold even when the air temperature is a comfortable 74 degrees F? Cold feet aren't necessarily a concern, but they can be a sign of an underlying systemic disease. That's why persistently cold feet should be examine by a qualified podiatrist.

Often, cold feet are a sign of poor circulation. When circulation is adequate, the arterial blood supply to the feet keeps them warm and comfortable. However, when circulation is compromised, feet may feel colder. When this is the case, the feet should be kept warm using natural fiber socks and leather footwear that holds heat in. Because poor circulation, like diabetes, can interfere with healing properties, care should be taken to protect feet from cuts or hot spots that can lead to sores or infections.

Cold feet may also be a sign of peripheral neuropathy, which is characterized by loss of sensation in the feet, and is often a sign of diabetes. Other problems for which cold feet may be a symptom include heart disease, multiple sclerosis, and Raynaud's disease.

Dr. Tina A. Boucher, DPM
Central Connecticut Foot Care, LLC
Podiatrist in Meriden CT
http://www.centralctfootcare.com/
Order your feet copy of our books "Why Do My Feet Hurt?" and "Heal My Heel!" today!

Ouch! Ankle Fractures

Ankle fractures result when the ankle is forced inward or outward past its normal range of motion. Fractures result from the same causes as sprains. This can occur when a jumping or running athlete lands on an uneven surface. It may also occur when the foot is firmly planted and the body gets twisted. Equipment and surface conditions may also play a role. Sports most commonly associated with ankle fractures include: Basketball, Football, Baseball and Soccer. An ankle fracture is accompanied by one or all of these signs and symptoms:
Pain at the site of the fracture, which in some cases can extend from the foot to the knee.
Significant swelling, which may occur along the length of the leg or may be more localized.
Blisters may occur over the fracture site. These should be promptly treated by your surgeon.
Bruising, which develops soon after the injury.
Inability to walk—however, it is possible to walk with less severe breaks, so never rely on walking as a test of whether a bone has been fractured.
Change in the appearance of the ankle so that it differs from the other ankle.
Bone protruding through the skin—a sign that immediate care is needed! Fractures that pierce the skin require urgent attention because they can lead to severe infection and prolonged recovery.
How to prevent ankle fractures
Taping, bracing, and high top shoes may help prevent some ankle fractures. Maintaining excellent ankle muscle strength and balance, and wearing the Proper footwear when participating in sports also may reduce your risk.

Dr. Tina A. Boucher, DPM
Central Connecticut Foot Care, LLC
Podiatrist in Meriden CT
http://www.centralctfootcare.com/
Order your free copy of our books "Why Do My Feet Hurt?" and "Heal My Heel!" today!

Gifts for the Foot Lover

If you're having trouble thinking of the perfect gift for that special someone in your life or that person you just never know what to buy them, what better way to show that you care than to purchase an item that is dedicated to their foot and ankle health? There are many products on the market for pedicures, foot health, keeping your tootsies warm, and more! Check out a couple of our favorites!

• Sole Savior’s SOS Safe Salon Pedicure Kit – Give this great kit to any pedicure enthusiast and you’ll ensure their comfort and their safety as well. http://www.solesavior.com/
• Heaven4Toes’ Products – Make every step a walk in the clouds and enjoy your favorite activities in divine comfort. http://www.heaven4toes.com/
• Injinji Footwear, Inc.’s Performance Series Tetratsok – For the athlete on your list, these socks protect, prevent blisters, and out-perform any ordinary tube closed sport sock. http://www.injinji.com/
• See Kai Run’s toddler footwear – For baby gifts, these little shoes can’t be beat. They come in hip, urban styles and modern color palettes. http://www.seekairun.com/
• FitFlops – For vacation or those living in warmer climates, these flip flops are all the rage this year. Get them before they disappear. http://www.thefitflop.com/

Dr. Tina A. Boucher, DPM
Central Connecticut Foot Care, LLC
Podiatrist in Meriden CT
http://www.centralctfootcare.com/
Order your free copy of our books "Why Do My Feet Hurt?" and "Heal My Heel!" today!
http://www.centralctfootcare.com