Sock It to Me

Eight girls wearing toe socks (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Socks are a vital part of foot health and safety. If you look for a great pair of socks and expect a quick find, think again. You will have to consider what activity you are participating in, then select socks that meet all the criteria necessary for a pleasant experience. Outdoors can be tough on your feet, so let’s walk that walk first.

There are 250 thousand sweat glands on your feet. All operate at peak performance meaning your socks better be up to a lot of moisture wicking capability or else you will drown in your shoes. Well, probably not, but you will need to choose a sock that is either merino wool or synthetic, or a combination of both. This will allow you with the moisture wicking properties necessary to keep your feet dry and prevent blisters.

Socks will need to fit your foot because if they are too long they will bunch in the toes causing discomfort, and if they are too short they will slide down into your shoe. If you’re hiking you will have to get socks that come just above your boot tops, which will prevent abrasion from boot tops. Socks can be manufactured with extra padding or cushioning at the heel and ball of foot. This increases the density of the stitches PSI or you can weave in tough, long wearing material like acrylic. Make sure socks, with all their extra cushioning, fit into your shoes or boots without feeling tight.

As a review, please remember that a great pair of general purpose outdoorsy type socks will include:

• Keep your feet dry. Dry feet will prevent blisters and provide comfort in a variety of situations. Your best fabric selections are merino wool, synthetic or a combination. Avoid the old cotton tube socks because they absorb sweat, are quick to saturate, and slow to dry.

• Have protection for your feet. Provide a little cushioning so your feet do not feel the impact of running and hiking.

• You need a perfect fit. Fit your feet properly with socks. If your socks are, too long or too short, a foot injury is likely to result.

You probably don’t think of socks in the “high tech” sense, but advancements in fabrics and design allow the creation of an entire line of specialized socks. Such socks include liner socks, waterproof socks, heated socks and toe socks. Toe socks are like a glove for your foot. When designed with seamless construction, they prevent blisters from occurring between the toes. They may not be ideal for all pursuits, but try them for running and hiking. You can learn more about specialized socks at your local sporting goods retailer.

Before you get off on the great adventure, make sure your feet are in shape. Call Dr. Boucher at (203) 238-3668 and address any outstanding foot concerns with her.

References:

http://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/socks.html

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Capsulitis: Take Time Now and Get it Treated

Right knee. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Two bones coming together in the body form a joint. Joints are what allow the body to move. Capsular ligaments surround the joint. They are tough cord like structures that are similar in strength to tough leather. They hold the bones together in alignment and allow the joint to move within its appropriate range. Bones are tougher than ligaments and have strength more in the range of low grade steel. With ligaments holding the joint together, if a traumatic injury occurs, since the ligaments are the weaker of the two structures, they give way first. Faulty biomechanical structure can also cause stress that results in an injury.

Activities done every day may contribute to stress that leads to injury. Some of the day to day activities that you do that may be contributing factors include:

• Stooping while gardening
• Squatting down frequently
• Climbing ladders
• Working close to the ground or floor
• Wearing high heels

All of these activities force the body into a position where the toes are excessively bent and a great deal of pressure is placed on the toes. Eventually, this constant overstretching occurs and capsulitis sets in. If the aggravating activity continues the injury becomes more serious and takes longer period of time to heal.

The pain caused by capsulitis is a continual nagging discomfort. At times the pain may closely resemble that of Morton’s neuroma, making it difficult or somewhat confusing to diagnose. A clear history of prior foot injuries, complaints and activities may assist Dr. Boucher with her evaluation, so a patient should be prepared to answer questions. You should contact Dr. Boucher if you suspect you have capsulitis.

Fortunately, there are conservative treatments that should help with the discomfort. These may include:

• Oral anti-inflammatory medications
• Cortisone injections
• Topical analgesics

You need to avoid the aggravating activity as much as possible and protect your feet by wearing shoes that have a more durable sole. Avoid flip-flops, high heels, boat shoes, skimmers and flats. These shoes have flimsy soles and will not protect your feet. Call Dr. Boucher at (203) 238-3668 if you suspect you have capsulitis. A delay in treatment will worsen the condition and extend the recovery time.

References:

http://www.centralctfootcare.com/library/3763/Capsulitis.html
http://www.foot-pain-explained.com/capsulitis.html

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Contact Dermatitis - Calls for Rash Measures

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Have you ever experienced a breakout on your feet with inflammation and itching, and not understood what was happening? It was probably contact dermatitis. It’s not serious or life threatening, but it is annoying and may drive you crazy.

Symptoms of this condition may include:

• Red rash or bumps
• Itching
• Dry cracked red patches
• Blisters
• Pain and tenderness

Causes of contact dermatitis are varied and may include soaps, chemicals and poisonous plants as well as other substances your skin may be exposed to. Two types of dermatitis are recognized - irritant contact and allergic contact. Irritant contact occurs when a substance damages the outermost layer of skin. In some instances a single exposure can result in an aggravating outbreak. Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when the skin is exposed to a substance that sensitizes it. Exposure to an allergen may cause an outbreak of red rash, bumps and sometimes blisters. Common offenders are natural rubber, metals such as those found in costume jewelry, cosmetics, perfumes and poison ivy. You may not develop an immediate allergic reaction to the offending substance, but it may build up until you suffer an immune reaction. It may take years, but once you have an allergic reaction, you will always have that allergy.

Although the two categories of dermatitis provide a guideline, there are substances that may cross the line and become both. Some of the known offenders include:  

• Antibiotics or other medicinal compounds found in ointments that you may apply to your skin
• Fragrances found in lotions
• Nickel
• Shoes and socks
• Natural rubber
• Adhesive tapes

Bacterial and fungal skin infections may appear as a complication because of constant scratching. Moist and draining blisters provide a haven for bacteria and fungus. People with diabetes need to be especially aware of the potential risks of contact dermatitis. If you have diabetes and experience an outbreak should contact Dr. Boucher immediately.

If you are able to identify the substance which has caused your reaction, and remove contact, symptoms may resolve within a couple of weeks. Cold compresses and over-the-counter anti-itch medication may help, as well as, foot soaks in mild solutions of salt water, vinegar or betadine. However if you have attempted home treatment and your condition has not improved, contact Dr. Boucher at (203) 238-3668 and let the healing begin.

References:

http://www.centralctfootcare.com/library/1754/Allergies.html
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/contact-dermatitis/DS00985/DSECTION=symptoms

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Morton’s neuroma, you’ll be painfully aware of it.

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Morton’s neuroma is a condition affecting the ball of your foot between the third and fourth toes. It can be intensely painful or sting, burn and sometimes feel numb. Many people who suffer this painful condition describe the sensation as having a foreign object in their shoe. Morton’s neuroma is a thickening of the tissue around the nerve leading to the toes and usually develops because of injury, irritation or simply because of the pressure from long hours on your feet. Although you can’t really see it the pain is sure to make you aware of it and symptoms usually get progressively worse unless steps are taken to reduce stress on the foot. Diagnosis of Morton’s neuroma is done by physical examination. Dr. Boucher will feel and press on the area causing the pain and question you about your symptoms. An ultrasound may be used to confirm the diagnosis because it offers a clear picture of soft tissue damage.

There are a number of treatment options that range from lifestyle changes and things you can try at home to surgery. Dr. Boucher will most likely reserve surgical options as a last resort. Although surgery has a high success rate, the possibility of permanent nerve damage exists. Recommendations for at home treatment to help relieve pain and allow nerve to heal include:

• Change of footwear
• Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication
• Modification of activities that place stress on your feet
• Ice packs

Medical treatment of Morton’s neuroma will depend on the severity of your case. Dr. Boucher may suggest foot pads or orthotics to redistribute the pressure on your foot. Orthotics are available over the counter, or Dr. Boucher may custom design them for you. Other options include:

• Steroid injections
• Temporarily freezing the nerve
• Decompression surgery
• Surgical removal of the nerve

Morton’s neuroma is a commonly seen condition and Dr. Boucher’s experience at healing will help relieve your pain and speed you to recovery. No foot condition that causes pain should be ignored. If you haven’t gotten relief from pain by changing your footwear to a roomier toe design and giving yourself a break from rigorous activities that may be contributing to the pain, you should make an appointment with Dr. Boucher by calling (203) 238-3668.

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.

References:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/mortons-neuroma/DS00468
http://www.medicinenet.com/mortons_neuroma/article.htm

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Do stinky feet have you hiding in shame?

(VOA Photo S. Herman) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

There is really no delicate way to say it - foot odor is obnoxious and embarrassing. The good news is there are several things that can be done to counteract the problem. So don’t hide at home in shame.
Foot odor is caused by sweat and although sweat itself has no odor it creates a place for bacteria to thrive. Bacteria occurs naturally on your feet and hair on the toes increases the hiding places for the bacteria. Your feet are more densely covered with sweat glands than any other place on your body. Because your feet are usually encased in shoes all day the sweat has no chance to evaporate, so it’s trapped inside your foot wear.

Although there are several factors that can contribute to smelly feet, there is also a multitude of preventive and extinguishing methods that can control and eliminate the problem. Factors that contribute may include:

• Certain medications
• Hormonal changes
• Stress

Now that you know the problem exists let’s look at options for correcting it. Preventive measures and methods to extinguish the problem are quite often the same. What you can do to eliminate foot odor includes:

• Wash your feet daily, dry thoroughly especially between the toes and apply foot powder
• Wear clean socks
• Don’t wear the same shoes two days in a row and allow them to dry thoroughly
• Avoid synthetic socks as they don’t allow for as much breathability as natural fibers
• A few pinches of baking soda, which is very inexpensive, can keep your feet and shoes fresh
• Swabbing feet with rubbing alcohol will freshen feet and rid them of bacteria
• Use a hand sanitizer to aid in killing bacteria on your feet
• Rub your feet with corn starch as it will absorb perspiration

There are other more aggressive methods of treating foot odor if you have a persistent problem.  A low level electrical current can be applied to the skin, which will hold foot sweating at bay for several weeks. In the most severe cases, Dr. Boucher can cut a nerve that controls the sweating.

So take heart, there is a solution for you. On those really depressing days, when even the dog won’t fetch your shoes, you have foot odor control options. Dr. Boucher is available to advise you on your foot odor problem. Call her at (203)238-3668. She can help your feet feel fresh all day.

References:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Foot_odor
http://www.epodiatry.com/smelly-foot.htm

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Summertime Blues - The Water’s Edge; Appropriate Water Footwear

HDRI photograph of sunset on Lake Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Summer is almost here. Schools everywhere are letting out and families are trying to figure out the whole vacation thing. Whether you choose inland lakes, beautiful coastal regions, or the azure blue of the Caribbean, the allure of the water is sure to play a part in your vacation. However, remember that there is no time to relax your foot care routine while on vacation. Protect your feet because not only are injuries and ailments inconvenient to your vacation plans, but they can also be painful and cause you to miss out on a lot of the action. Even what seems harmless, like an easy stroll on the beach, can hide dangers. Protect your feet with appropriate footwear at all times, even while in the water.

Shoe manufacturers make it so easy now with the quick dry materials, open ventilation and multifunctional water shoes. Just grab a pair and go.
 
Pools

If you are at poolside, not only do these provide hazard protection from deck slippage, but they can protect from hidden dangers in the water.  One such hidden danger is broken glass on the pool bottom or rough tile edges, both capable of cutting your feet. You don’t want to be the one that’s bleeding in the pool. Another danger of public pool areas is athlete’s foot fungus, which loves moist and damp areas. This is the same fungus which can invade your toenails.  So now you’ve progressed from a minor ailment to a major catastrophe, which can become a very lengthy battle and one that is difficult to win.
 
Beaches

If you’re drawn to the beaches, keep water shoes on your feet if you plan on getting wet, or sandals while on the dry sand. Hidden objects lay just below the surface, such as coral, rocks, broken glass, metal and sticks that can cause lacerations and puncture wounds. Openings in the skin then allow bacteria to enter the body.
 
Lakes

If you enjoy inland lakes and waterways, there is appropriate footwear for canoeing, kayaking, walking shorelines and fording streams.

Water shoes are a critical element in swimming and fitness. They are the first line of defense that protects your feet from injuries and bacteria.  If the unthinkable happens and you are injured, contact Dr. Boucher at (203) 238-3668. Her expert healing hands can get you right back to having fun, just like life was meant to be.

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.

References:

http://gmagoldie.hubpages.com/hub/002-EZ-Swimmer-Swim-Shoes-Are-Essential

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Blue Ridge Trail Head or Pennsylvania Avenue - Pros and Cons of Trail Running

Kilian Jornet, during his winning run at 08 UTMB (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Runners are always looking for something to make their somewhat lonely and tedious sport a bit more interesting and challenging. One of the options that they exercise is trail running. Many runners believe that the softer footing is better for the health of feet and ankles and in some circumstances it is. But the looser terrain and frequent obstacles can pose a trip and fall or sprain injury hazard if you lose focus for so much as one moment. Another thing that trail runners need to be concerned with is the rise in the terrain. There is some question as to how steep the angle is before it has an adverse effect on the Achilles tendon. The selection of a surface to run on may be more of a choice based on what type of pain, if any, that you are dealing with. Whereas running on the street provides a flat level surface, it is somewhat hard.  However, studies show that our bodies are somewhat adaptive. The softer terrain of trail running may have its own appeal, at first thought, but there are masked dangers like stumps, rocks, holes and an uneven path under foot. Roadways are equally hazard strewn, but you are closer to help if need be, or help is closer to you.

If you are weighing your options, remember there are other suitable surfaces that offer you a safe and pleasant experience. These alternatives may include:

• Grass
• Dirt roads
• Athletic tracks
• Treadmills
• Sand

A park like setting and a run on the grass provides an appealing alternative. The grass provides spring underfoot and will definitely lessen the impact forces. You will have to contend with other people, bicycles, dogs on leashes, holes in the grass and possibly debris. Dirt roads are softer than concrete or asphalt and provide good stability for the feet and ankles. Athletic tracks with their extruded rubber or other synthetic surfaces may be the perfect blend between soft and sturdy, but it would do nothing to alleviate boredom, and could possibly cause an overuse problem such as iliotibial band syndrome which causes pain in the outer knee. Treadmills provide yet another opportunity, but most runners would prefer the outdoors. If you are running on a treadmill, to optimize your workout, adjust it to an incline. There is no scenery on a treadmill, so tedium may set in, but it is an option, especially for cold or rainy stretches. Sand on the beach is one more possibility. No prettier or more enjoyable than a run there. If you are new to running on sand, you might want to condition first by staying on the firmer wet sand.

Options presented here should help you to make a decision. Our best advice is...mixing it up. If an injury does occur, you are lucky to have Dr. Boucher at your toe tips. She provides a full range of podiatric services, with a little compassion and humor thrown in for good measure. Call her at (203)238-3668 and let her heal your feet.

References:

http://www.fitsugar.com/What-Iliotibial-Band-Why-Does-Cause-Me-Pain-69008
http://voices.yahoo.com/pros-cons-trail-running-7004092.html

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