February 2021

Many pregnant women realize their feet have become bigger during their pregnancy and can permanently remain that way. This can happen from weight gain, or hormonal changes that naturally occur to aid in the delivery process. Swollen feet are a common ailment during pregnancy, and they can be noticed when the feet are at their largest at the end of the day. Mild relief may be found when compression socks are worn, and it may help to perform simple cardiovascular exercises. Pregnant women find it helpful to frequently elevate their feet, which may be beneficial in distributing the fluid from the feet to the legs. If you have questions about swollen feet or foot pain during pregnancy, it is strongly suggested that you speak to a podiatrist.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from Piedmont Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Greenville, and Easley, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

People who enjoy the sport of golf are often unaware of the importance of wearing the correct golf shoes. Research has shown the average golfer to walk approximately 10,000 steps, and it is beneficial to wear golf shoes that fit correctly. Using a Brannock device will help you to determine a proper foot measurement. If the second toe is longer than the big toe, it is suggested to increase by a half size. Additionally, it is advised to measure the feet at the end of the day, when they are at their largest. The inside of the shoes and the cleats can help you to understand what type of walker you are, and this is helpful in choosing the correct golf shoes. If you would like more information about how to purchase golf shoes, please consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with helpful information.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Piedmont Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Greenville, and Easley, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A bunion is a bony bump on the big toe joint which may be painful, red, swollen, stiff, or sore. Over time, the bunion pushes the big toe out of alignment and towards the smaller toes. When conservative treatments, such as footwear modifications or padding the bunion do not yield results, surgery may be recommended. There are several different types of surgery for bunions. In an osteotomy, the surgeon makes small cuts in the bones to realign them. In an exostectomy, the surgeon removes the bony protrusion from the joint, but does not realign the bones. In an arthroplasty, the surgeon removes the damaged portion of the big toe joint. In an arthrodesis, the surgeon removes the arthritic surface of the joint and then uses screws of plates to close the space. Arthroplasty and arthrodesis are usually reserved for elderly patients, those who have had previous failed surgeries, and those with severe arthritis. If you have bunions, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine the right treatment for you.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Piedmont Podiatry Associates. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Greenville, and Easley, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Many people who are eager to take up the sport of running often start with walking. This generally means that two different pairs of shoes are worn. Walking shoes typically have a lower heel, and shoes that are worn for running have a thicker sole. This adds to the cushioning of the shoe, and the sides can also be thicker. A good pair of running shoes will help to protect the joints, ligaments, and muscles while running is done. This is not necessary while walking, which has a result of less impact on the body. If you would like additional information about the differences between walking and running shoes, please consult with a podiatrist who can provide the information you are seeking.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with one of our podiatrists from Piedmont Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Greenville, and Easley, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.