Travel Tips to Help Prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis

The travel season has begun, time to pack your bags and head off to your favorite destination. But while you're riding in the car or travelling by plane, remember to stretch those legs to help prevents a serious condition known as Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT).
DVT is a condition in which a blood clot (a blockage) forms in vein located deep within the leg. These clots most commonly occur in the veins of the leg, but can also develop in other parts of the body. If the clot breaks loose and travels through the bloodstream, it can lodge in the lung. This blockage in the lung, called a pulmonary embolism, can make it difficult to breathe and may even cause death.
Some people are more at risk than others for developing DVT. Risk factors include varicose veins, blood clotting disorders, pregnancy or recent childbirth, obesity, tobacco use, and heart disease. People over 40 years old, those who have had recent surgery, or those who are immobile through inactivity or wearing a cast are also more at risk for DVT.
People with DVT in the leg may have either no warning signs or their symptoms can be very vague. If any of the following warning signs or symptoms are present, it is important to make an appointment with our office for an evaluation:
*Swelling in the leg
*Pain in the calf or thigh
*Warmth and redness of the leg
If you are at risk for DVT and plan on taking a long trip this season, follow these tips to reduce the likelihood of developing a blood clot:
**Exercise legs every two or three hours to get the blood flowing back to the heart. Walk up and down the aisle of a plane or train, rotate ankles while sitting, and take regular breaks on road trips.
**Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids; avoid caffeine and alcohol.
**Consider wearing compression stockings.
Dr. Tina A. Boucher, DPM
Central Connecticut Foot Care, LLC
Podiatrist Meriden CT
http://www.centralctfootcare.com

Today is National Flip-Flop Day!

It's an unwelcome fact that warm weather lovers don't want to hear: yuor favorite pair of flip-flops is bad for your health. The health of your feet, that is.
A survey by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) found that 50% of Americans have experienced foot pain or discomfort at some point. Improper footwear if often a chief cause of this pain, and many types of flip-flops can directly cause foot problems due to lack of support and other factors.
"During the warmer months of the year, many podiatrists treat a greater number of foot problems that can be traced back to wearing flip-flops," said Michael King, DPM, president of APMA. "However, people don't have to give up wearing this type of footwear altogether. There are certain types of flip-flops that offer a superior amount of stability and support than others."
Looking to avoid a flip-flop fiasco? View the video below for a list of helpful flip-flop tips, and browse this blog for recommendations on flip-flops.

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!

Hit the Beach- But Watch Out For Your Feet!

One perk of a beach-bound vacation is looking forward to lounging happily with your toes dangling in the warm weather, shoe-free, with the sand at your feet. Your dream vacation does come it its own set of tootsie troubles. Since we'd all rather spend time collecting sea shells than doctor's bills, there are ways to prevent foot predicaments so you can enjoy your vacation:
*Limit walking barefoot as it exposes feet to sunburn, as well as plantar warts, athlete's foot, ring-worm, and other infections and also increases risk of injury to your feet.
*Wear shoes or flip-flops around the pool, to the beach, in the locker room, and even on the carpeting or in the bathroom of your hotel room to prevent injuries and limit the likelihood of contracting any bacterial infections.
*Remember to apply sunscreen all over your feet, especially the tops and fronts of ankles and don't forget to reapply after you've been in the water.
*Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. This will not only help with overall health, but will also minimize any foot swelling caused by the heat.
*Keep your blood flowing wiht periodic ankle flexes, toe wiggles, and calf stretches. Take a walk and enjoy the view every few hours.
*Some activities at the beach, lake, or river may require different types of footwear, so be sure to ask the contact at each activity if specific shoes are needed. To be safe, always pack an extra pair of sneakers or or protective water shoes. If your shoes will be getting wet, they should be dried out completely before your next wearing to prevent bacteria or fungus from growing.
*If you injure your foot and ankle while on vacation, seek professional medical attention from  podiatric physician.
In case of minor foot problems, be prepared with the following on-the-go kit:
**SUNSCREEN!- to make sure that you protect all of your skin, including your feet, against the scorching sun.
**Flip-flops- for the pool, spa, hotel, and airport security check points. We can recommend some brands that are better for your overall foot health.
**Sterile bandages- for covering minor cuts and scrapes.
**Antibiotic cream- to treat any skin injury.
**Blister pads or moleskin- to protect against blisters.
**Anti-inflammatory medication- to ease tired, swollen 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!

Gaga Going Googoo Over Foot Pain

We never said that wearing overly high heels was going to win you a Grammy, but it certainly is going to cause you foot pain.
Lady Gaga is seeing a foot specialist, a chiropodist because of pain she is suffering due to her love of high heels (get a definition of what a chiropodist is here: Chirpodist definition). Among cracked, dry heels, Gaga has also gotten severe corns and acute tendonitis.
Gaga has joked that she would "rather die" than be seen wearing flat shoes, saying "You see legendary people taking out the trash. I think it's destroying show business. I'd never give up my wigs and hats for anything. I would rather die than have my fans not see me in a pair of high heels."
The singer is reportedly getting help, including physio on her feet, as well as seeing a podiatrist who recommended wearing sneakers. I can't see that happening, but if the pain is as bad as it sounds, Gaga will have to lay off the high heels or continue in pain! I'm surprised as well that no one recommended orthotics for the star, which would greatly relieve some of the pain she is feeling in her tendons.
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!

Shoe of the Month: Flip Flops

Even the most intuitive person may havev trouble deciding between the countless flip-flop color and style choices. Select a pair that has some support and is unable to bend in half to minimize foot pain often caused by flip-flops. Blisters are typically caused by poor-fitting straps, so choose a style made of natural materials, such as soft leather, and make sure the foot doesn't hang off the edge. Heel pain sufferers should pass on flip-flops. We recommend Moszkito's flip-flops, which have built-in arch support, designed to help heel pain sufferers. Through the end of the month, mention this blog post, and get $5 off.
Dr. Tina A. Boucher, DPM
Central Connecticut Foot Care, LLC
Podiatrist Meriden CT
http://www.centralctfootcare.com

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics can change your life! Here are some points about orthotics:

*It's like walking on air!
*Orthotics are shoe inserts that correct abnormal or irregular gait problems
*Allow people to walk, stand, and run more effectively and with less pain
*Absorb shock, increase balance, take pressure off sore sports, decrease strain
*Great for diabetic, arthritic and deformed 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!

Running Injuries and Your Feet

Spring is a great time to get back into your running routine or to ramp up your training and exercise for the coming summer months. But it's always important to take it slowly to train carefully with the advice of an expert to avoid running injuries.
Before you get started, no matter how fit you may be, it's important to remember that stretching before and after a run is a great way to minimize injuries. Choosing proper footwear is very important and your podiatrist can help you choose the right shoe for your level of activity. Finally, you will want to work with the doctor to develop an effective training routine that allows your body (and more importantly, your feet) to adapt to a new level of exercise. But no matter how careful you are, you may end up with some common injuries such as those listed here.

Shin Splints: Shin splints, which are painful and appear at the front and inside of the leg, are often caused by running on hard surfaces, overstriding, muscle imbalance, or overuse. Shin splints can also be related to the shape and structure of your feet. Treatment includes rest, stretching, changing your running technique, and rebalancing foot mechanics with the use of an orthotic device in the shoe. Physical therapy can also be helpful. If you begin to feel this type of pain, slow down, take shorter strides, and see a podiatrist at your first opportunity.
Stress Fractures: A stress fracture is a tiny or incomplete crack in a bone that is often caused by overuse. Stress fractures occur most frequently in the foot and ankle, so your podiatric physician is well trained to diagnose and treat this problem. Signs of a stress fracture are pain that increases with activity and decreases with rest, pain that increases over time or pain that persists even at rest. Often a stress fracture will result in swelling and a spot that feels tender to the touch.
Prompt diagnosis and treatment of a stress fracture can often prevent further injury. A podiatrist can determine your best treatment with x-rays and a physical exam. Many stress fractures can be treated with rest, ice, and over the counter pain relievers. For most people, an appropriate period of rest will be sufficient for the bone to heal, but like all fractures, the bone can take up to 8 to 10 weeks to heal completely. In other cases, your podiatrist may need to immobilize the affected bone with a cast, cast boot, fracture shoe, or a splint. Surgical intervention may be suggested if other, more conservative treatments are not effective.
Blisters and nail problems: Runners often have blisters and nail problems but with a little maintenance and care, they can be avoided or minimized so that they don't limit your ability to keep up your training routine.
Blisters are caused by skin friction. Don't pop them. Apply moleskin or an adhesive bandage over a blister, and leave it on until it falls off naturally in the bath or shower. Keep your feet dry and always wear socks as a cushion between your feet and shoes. If a blister breaks on its own, wash the area, apply an antiseptic, and cover with a sterile bandage.
Ingrown toenails are nails whose corners or sides dig painfully into the skin, often causing friction. They are frequently caused by improper nail trimming but also by shoe pressure, injury, or poor foot structure. Runners are particularly susceptible to nail problems, and long-distance runners often lose some of their toenails entirely while they are training. If an ingrown portion of the nail is painful or infected, your podiatric physician can remove the affected portion to allow for healing. It is possible to permanently remove the offending portion of the nail to prevent occurrence.
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!