What's That Tingling in My Feet?

If you are a patient with diabetes, you may want to talk to your podiatrist about diabetic neuropathy. Neuropathies are a family of nerve disorders that can be caused by diabetes. People with diabetes can, over time, develop nerve damage throughout the body. Some people with nerve damage have no symptoms. Others may have symptoms such as pain, tingling, or numbness- loss of feeling- in the hands, arms, feet, and legs. Diabetic neuropathies often manifest in your feet and may even be the first sign that you have developed diabetes.
The longer you live with diabetes, the more likely it is that you may develop neuropathy. Furthermore, this problem becomes magnified if you have difficulty controlling your blood sugars. However, some patients with diabetes never develop neuropathy and have no symptoms at all. Mild cases of neuropathy may go unnoticed for many years- and remain untreated. Symptoms of numbness, tingling, or burning should be brought to the attention of your podiatrist as there may be treatments available to help alleviate these sensations.
If you and your podiatrist discover that you do have neuropathy, there are a number of things you can do to keep your feet healthy:
*Check your feet every day and if necessary, use a mirror to view the bottoms and sides of your feet. Call your podiatrist at the first sign of swelling, redness, cuts, infection, or abnormalities.
*Make sure that your shoes are free of any debris before sliding them on. Even a tiny stone can cause damage.
*Have your primary care physician check your feet during each general visit. If a problem is identified, the physician will refer you to your podiatrist.
*Choose the right shoes. Shoes that are too tight or that rub can cause serious problems that can develop into serious health concerns.
*Wear white or light colored socks so that you can see if any blood or fluid from a sore may have developed during the day.
*Always wash your feet in lukewarm water. Dry them carefully, especially between your toes, and use products such as creams and powders that have been approved by your podiatrist or have the APMA Seal of Approval.
*Do not walk barefoot, even at home. You never know what may be lurking on your floors and in your carpets.
*Visit your podiatrist frequently to make sure that your diabetes is under control and that your feet stay healthy.
Dr. Tina A. Boucher, DPM
Central Connecticut Foot Care, LLC
Podiatrist Meriden CT
http://www.centralctfootcare.com/
Order your free copy of our books "Why Do My Feet Hurt?" and "Heal My Heel!" today! Copies will be sent to Connecticut residents only.

Knock your Socks Off!

November is Diabetes Awareness Month and Central Connecticut Foot Care Center is dedicated to helping educate our patients and the community about this epidemic.
According to the American Diabetes Association, nearly 12% of the Hispanic population has diabetes and 66% are at risk of developing the disease when compared to other ethnic groups. When it comes to your feet, diabetes is a very dangerous disease and should not be ignored. Even if you have your diabetes under control, you should see a podiatrist for routine diabetic foot care. Diabetes is the leading cause of non-traumatic lower-limb amputations and with proper care, most amputations can be avoided.
Think you know a lot about diabetes? Take this quiz created by the American Podiatric Medical Association to test your knowledge!
Dr. Tina A. Boucher, DPM
Central Connecticut Foot Care, LLC
Podiatrist Meriden CT
http://www.centralctfootcare.com
Order your free copy of our books "Why Do My Feet Hurt?" and "Heal My Heel!" today! Copies will be sent to Connecticut residents only.

Orthotics: What Are They?

Orthotics are custom molded devices which are designed specifically for your feet and then placed in your shoes. They are intended to correct abnormal foot biomechanics. They perform functions that make standing, walking, and running more comfortable and efficient by altering the angles at which the foot strikes a walking or running surface. Doctors of podiatric medicine prescribe orthotics as a conservative approach to many foot problems or as a method of control after certain types of foot surgery; their use is a highly successful, practical form of treatment.
Orthotics take various forms and are constructed of various materials. They fall into three broad categories: those that primarily attempt to change foot function, those that are primarily protective in nature, and those that combine functional control and protection. Orthotics can be categorized as rigid, semi-rigid, and soft.

The so-called rigid orthotic device, designed to control function, may be made of a firm material such as plastic or carbon fiber and is used primarily for walking or dress shoes. It is generally fabricated from a plaster mold of the individual foot. The finished device normally extends along the sole from the heel to the ball of toes of the foot. It is worn mostly in closed shoes with a heel height under two inches.

The semi-rigid orthotic provides for dynamic balance of the foot while walking or participating in sports. Each sport has its own demands and each sport orthotic needs to constructed appropriately with the specific sport and athlete in mind. This functional dynamic orthotic helps guide the foot through proper functions, allowing the muscles and tendons to perform more efficiently. The classic semi-rigid orthotic is constructed of layers of soft materla, reinforced with more rigid materials.

The soft orthotic device helps to absorb shock, increase balance, and take pressure off uncomfortable or sore spots. It is usually constructed of soft, compressible materials, and may be molded by the action of the foot in walking or fashioned over a plaster impression of the foot. This orthotic usually extends from the heel past the ball of the foot to include the toes. The advantage of any soft orthotic device is that it may be easily adjusted to changing weight-bearing forces. The disadvantage is that it must be periodically replaced or refurbished.

Various other orthotics may be used for multidirectional sports or edge-control sports by casting the foot within the ski boot, ice skate boot, or inline skate boot. Combinations of semi-flexible material and soft material to accomodate painful areas are utilized for specific problems.

Only a licensed health care professional can diagnose and prescribe medical treatments, including orthotics. There are some outstanding over-the-counter products which your podiatrist may recommend as an interim treatment, but remember that you will want the advice of your doctor before buying these devices from a retail store, since wearing the wrong type of insert can be detrimental to feet, especially for people with diabetes or arthritis.
Dr. Tina A. Boucher, DPM
Central Connecticut Foot Care, LLC
Podiatrist Meriden CT
http://www.centralctfootcare.com/
Order your free copy of our books "Why Do My Feet Hurt?" and "Heal My Heel!" today! Copies will be sent to Connecticut residents only.

ING Hartford Marathon

On a crisp fall morning at 8AM, more than 10,000 people will wait for the sound of horn. Some have been preparing for this event all their lives, while some are brand new and have just begun this year. No matter what level, this is a major event in their careers. 45,000 people will wait, watch, and cheer them on in a race to the finish.

Running careers, that is. October 15, 2011 is the ING Hartford Marathon and Half Marathon, an event which three of our patients will take part in. The full marathon will take runners through Hartford, East Hartford, and South Windsor, while half marathon runners will travel through Hartford and West Hartford.

There are many opportunities to volunteer at the race, with jobs ranging from course clean-up to selling merchanidise. Runners may also chose to run for a cause, like the American Cancer Society or Jane Do No More.
We wish all of our patients who are running the best of luck, good times, and healthy feet!
Dr. Tina A. Boucher, DPM
Central Connecticut Foot Care, LLC
Podiatrist Meriden CT
http://www.centralctfootcare.com/
Order your free copy of our books "Why Do My Feet Hurt?" and "Heal My Heel!" today! Copies will be sent to Connecticut residents only.

Boots Day by Day: Wednesday

Style: Classic Cowboy Boots
Problem: Narrow toebox can caused blistered and cramped toes.
Solution: Wear only for short periods of time and allow toes to stretch.
Our recommendation: Ariat Heritage Western Russet Rebel. Available from http://www.zappos.com/. $169.95.

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

Boots Day by Day: Tuesday

Style: Playful Rain Boot
Problem: Rigid shape limits natural foot movement and provides no arch support.
Solution: Try cushioned insoles and arch supports.
Our recommendation: Land's End Wellie Boot. Available from http://www.landsend.com/. $69.50

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

Boots Day by Day: Monday

Style: Sleek Riding Boots.
Problem: Synthetic materials trap in heat and moisture, causing odor.
Solution: Select natural materials like leather that allow proper airflow and keep feet dry.
Our recommendation: Land's End Diana Low Heel Riding Boots. Available through http://www.landsend.com/. $168.00

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

Boots Day by Day: Sunday

Style: Day of foot rest!
Problem: All that boot wearing takes a toll, even with expert podiatric advice.
Solution: Massage and apply lotion to the feet! If you must venture out, put on a pair of supportive and comfy sneakers.

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

Boots Day by Day: Saturday

Style: Slouch Boot
Problem: Narrow and very high heel transfers body weight onto the ball of the foot, causing pain and numbness.
Solution: Select a lower heel or stacked style of heel for additional support.
Our recommendation: Dansko Brinkley. Available at http://www.zappos.com/. $265.

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

Boots Day by Day: Friday

Style: Trendy Ankle Bootie
Problem: Lack of ankle support coupled with a high heel can cause imbalance.
Solution: Select a heel no more than two inches in height and don't walk long distances.
Our recommendation: Clark's Vermont Terrace. Available through http://www.clarksusa.com/. $119.99

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

Selecting the Best Boot For You

There are a lot of options when it comes to picking out boots (and this series will show you that!), but finding the best boot for your foot is key. If a style doesn't fit your foot, try another! You are not limited when it comes to boot variety. Never try to stuff your foot into anything- you will just end up with more foot problems!

*Have feet measured, size can change throught life! Keep in mind- your boot size may not fit the same in all styles and brands.

*Try boots on in the afternoon- feet tend to swell during the day.

*Buy for the larger foot- most feet are not te exact same size.

*Carry an insole when boot shopping in case a pair lack the proper arch support.

*Boots should feel comfortable when tried on in the store, there shouldn't be a "break-in" period.

*A boot constructed of natural materials, like leather, will keep feet dry and comfortable during the winter months.

*Choose a boot with plenty of toe room, a firm heel counter, and traction to ensure stability.

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

Back to School Shoe Shopping Part 4

When the final weeks of a care-free summer vacation come to a close, the sounds of school bells, slamming locker doors, and students clamoring into classrooms are heard loud and clear once again. But before each new school year begins, parents eagerly seek out a wide array of school supplies and stlish new fashions for their children. One of the most important purchases on any parent's back-to-school shopping list is a pair of new shoes. For many parents, back-to-school shoe shopping may seem easier than a pop-quiz in gym class- but several important factor should be considered:

*Children's feet change with age. Shoe and sock sizes may change every few months as a child's feet grow.

*Shoes that don't fit properly can aggravate the feet. Always measure a child's feet before buying shoes, and watch for signs of irritation.

*Never hand down footwear. Just because a shoe size fits one child comfortably doesn't mean it will fit another the same way. Also sharing shoes can spread fungi like athlete's foot and nail fungus.

*Examine the heels. Children may wear through the heels of shoes quicker than outgrowing shoes themselves. Uneven heel wear can indicate a foot problem that should be checked by a podiatrist.

*Take your child shoe shopping. Every shoe fits differently. Lettinga child have a say in the shoe buying process promotes healthy foot habits down the road.

*Always buy for the larger foot. Feet are seldom precisely the same size.

*Buy shoes that do not need a break in period. Shoes should be comfortable immediately. Also make sure to have your child try on shoes with socks or tights, if that's how they'll be worn.

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

Boot Day by Day: Thursday

Style of Boot: Furry Snow Boot
Problem: Sole can become slick in inclement weather leading to trips or falls.
Solution: Select a rubber sole with deep grooves for proper traction.
Our recommendation: Jambu Nomad. Available on http://www.zappos.com , $163.00.

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

Fall Shoe Clean-Up

Doing a fall clean-up of your closet and have shoes you don’t wear anymore, don’t fit, or don’t like? Drop them off at Central Connecticut Foot Care Center  at 807 Broad Street in Meriden through October 6th and we’ll donate them to Master’s Manna in Wallingford. Men’s, women’s, and children’s shoes in all sizes and styles will be accepted. Please bring gently used or like-new shoes only.

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

Foot Problems Sideline Basketball's Ming

Yao Ming who captured American basketball hearts when he was the No. 1 in the 2002 NBA draft retired from American basketball on July 20th. During a news conference in Shanghai the 7 foot 6 inch tall player told journalists that foot and ankle fractures were keeping him from the game. He had played just five games in the past two seasons. Yao is only 30 years old.

Ming is not only an icon in China, but across the world as well. While playing for the Washington Wizards, Ming also anchored the national team in China. His sponsorship deals included Apple, Inc., Reebok International, Coca-Cola Co., T-Mobile USA Inc., and McDonald's Corp. The Yao Ming Foundation donated $2 million to victims of the 2008 earthquake in China's Sichuan province and was an advocate against AIDS discrimination in China. Ming was ranked the fifth highest paid non-US athlete in the world, making $36 million a year.

Ming will continue his career with the Shanghai Sharks, a team which he owns and played with early in his career. He carried China's flag in the Olympic opening ceremonies in Beijing in 2008.

One of the first breaks came in February 2008, but Ming still played in the Olympic games that summer. Later, the same foot was fractured in the third game of the Rockets-Los Angeles Lakers Western Conference semifinal in 2009.

Ming is the son of two professional basketball players and is married to Ye Li, a former women's national player. They have one daughter.

Talk has recently circulated that Ming could be entered in the Basketball Hall of Fame within the next couple of years, but Ming has told them to put off the nomination.
Dr. Tina A. Boucher, DPM
Central Connecticut Foot Care, LLC
Podiatrist Meriden CT
http://www.centralctfootcare.com/
Order your free copy of our books "Why Do My Feet Hurt?" and "Heal My Heel!" today! Copies will be sent to Connecticut residents only.

Dr. Scholl's New Line of Shoes

So we're all about finding shoes that are not only comfortable, stylish, and ok for your feet, and I was skeptical when I heard about Dr. Scholl's new line of shoes.
When you think of Dr. Scholl's, do you think of shoes? I think of foot products and that orthotic machine in stores that helps you pick out orthotics. Any shoes made by Dr. Scholl's that I had seen in the past were not very stylish either.
However, Dr. Scholl's Shoes, the shoe portion of Dr. Scholl's, licensed by Brown Shoe Company (whose other brands include Famous Footwear, Carlos, LifeStride, and many others) under Merck Consumer Care, began a campaign in the spring to reinvent not only the company's image as a shoe retailer, but the shoes themselves.
If you knew about Dr. Scholl's Shoes, it was probably because of the Original Exercise Sandal, which was created in the late 1960's and is still being produced today (the new version has a lighter heel made of plastic instead of wood).
Along with the new image and shoes, Dr. Scholl's introduced new technology to their shoes. There are nineteen different icons which will accompany your shoes, from memory foam cushioning, breathable, lightweight, and water resistant.
We love being able to tell our patients about shoe lines that are not only good for their feet, but good for their pocketbook too. It appears that we can add Dr. Scholl's Shoes to our list. I went on their website and checked out these new shoes. What I discovered surprised me! From ballet flats to slouchy boots, to casual sneakers, Dr. Scholl's has really stepped up the styles and fashion. Here are a few of my favorites:

Dr. Scholl's Shoe may be purchased from Dr. Scholl's directly at http://www.drschollsshoes.com/, and soon through retailers like Lord & Taylor, Macys.com, Piperlime, and Urban Outfitters.
Dr. Tina A. Boucher, DPM
Central Connecticut Foot Care, LLC
Podiatrist Meriden CT
http://www.centralctfootcare.com/
Order your free copy of our books "Why Do My Feet Hurt?" and "Heal My Heel!" today! Copies will be sent to Connecticut residents only.

Back-to-School Shoe Shopping Part 3

Fall is here and the kids are heading back to school. And of course, everyone wants new shoes. While the latest styles may be what your kids are screaming for, you may want to remember some important tips before letting fashion take a front seat to practicality and safety.
Kids come in all shapes and sizes and so too do their shoes. Shop at stores with experienced sales people that feature a wide selection of footwear styles, sizes, and widths. Do not assume a given size will fit the same for different brands of shoes. Avoid man-made materials (like rubber and plastic) because they limit breathability. Hand-me-down clothes are great- but not shoes. Once you've purchased those new shoes, remember to check them every several months, since kids' feet grow rapidly.
While flip flops are all the rage for the beach and the pool, they can create problems in crowded school hallways and getting on and off the school bus. While it may not be easy to coax your kids out of flip flops for school, its safer for them to wear a shoe with more support. Your podiatrist can recommend some great options for teenagers that may fit the bill in the fashion area while still providing support and comfort throughout the day.
If your children will be participating in sports this fall, send them onto the field or the court with properly fitted shoes that are designed for that specific sport. Basketball shoes, for example, are designed for quick stops and starts, and ankle support, while a football cleat needs to serve an entirely different purpose. Let the shoe fit the sport and try to get help when choosing shoes for each sport.

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

Back-to-School Shoe Shopping Part 2

This video was produced by the American Podiatric Medical Association and is an excellent how-to guide on selecting the proper footwear for your children this back-to-school season.

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

Back to School Shoe Shopping Part 1

As parents and children begin the annual hunt for deals on back-to-school items, shopping for healthy shoes should top the "must-buy" list for more important reasons than just a fashionable new look. According to the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), well-fitting shoes not only reduce the incidence of foot and ankle injuries in kids, but also encourage physical activity, helping to decrease the likelihood of childhood obesity.
Your podiatrist will tell you that if your child's feet hurt, he or she will be far less likely to participate in outdoor sports and other activities that keep him or her moving and physically fit. With childhood obesity considered an epidemic today, it is vital that parent take just a few moments during this busy back-to-school season to select a shoe that provides adequate support and fits properly. It is one of the easiest ways to keep your child pain-free and healthy.
Shopping for healthy shoes, however, can be a daunting task without knowing what to look for- but the following APMA tips can make your back-to-school purchases easy, smart, and safe.

*Before buying a shoe perform the "1, 2, 3 Test":  First, squeeze the back of a shoe's heel and ensure that it does not collapse. Second, grab the front (toe box) of the shoe and make sure that the shoe bends where the child's toes would naturally bend in the shoe. Third, grab the shoe at both ends and try to gently twist. Shoes should never twist in the middle and should be rigid. If a shoe fails any of these three steps, don't buy it.

*Look for the APMA's Seal of Acceptance. Many products, including select children's footwear models made by Pediped, Reebok, and Tsukihoski, have been awarded the APMA's Seal of Acceptance for demonstrating proper foot health. Look for the APMA Seal on product packaging or a manufacturer's website.
*Never hand down footwear. Sharing shoes can spread and encourage the growth of fungus and bacteria such as athlete's foot, and regardless of shoe size, shoes can fit every child differently.
*Have a child's foot professionally measured regularly.  Most shoe stores will be happy to professionally measure a child's foot, or your podiatrist can measure you child's foot during a foot health check-up to ensure proper fit. Also, measure for proper length from toes to the tip of shoes to prevent irritation and injury.
*No "break-in" period. Your child's shoes should be comfortable to wear immediately and should not require a break-in period for comfort.

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

Shoe of the Month: Clogs

Look past the tough exterior to find the softer side of clogs. Choose a pair with ultra-soft soles that provide cushioning, such as APMA-accepted Crocs, which are ideal for sufferers of plantar fasciitis, neuromas, bunions, hammertoes, or achy feet. The wide toe box also affords the front of the foot lots of room to move around, making it a very comfortable shoe inside and out. Our pick is Aetrex's Berries Clog, which comes in an astonishing 11 different colors. It has an anti-microbial lining to help prevent fungal and bacterial infections as well as memory foam to provide optimum comfort. It's also easy on, easy off thanks to the design of the Berry. Find this line and the rest of the Aetrex shoes sold exclusively in our office.
Dr. Tina A. Boucher, DPM
Central Connecticut Foot Care, LLC
Podiatrist Meriden CT
http://www.centralctfootcare.com/
Order your free copy of our books "Why Do My Feet Hurt?" and "Heal My Heel!" today! Copies will be sent to Connecticut residents only.