Foot stretches offer a simple yet powerful way to improve flexibility, relieve tension, and prevent injuries. One effective stretch is the toe stretch, where you sit back on your heels, gently pressing your toes into the ground to stretch the top of the foot. Another beneficial stretch is the calf stretch, achieved by placing hands on a wall, stepping one foot back, and pressing the heel into the ground while keeping the back leg straight. Additionally, the plantar fascia stretch targets the sole of the foot, as you sit with one leg crossed over the other, gently pulling your toes back towards the shin. These stretches can alleviate discomfort caused by conditions like plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis, while also enhancing overall foot mobility and function. Incorporating these stretches into your daily routine, especially before and after physical activity. If you are interested in learning more about specific foot stretches and how they can help relieve foot pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with David Mansky, DPM from Mansky Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hastings, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Blistering skin lesions on the feet of the elderly can be a common and concerning issue. These lesions, often filled with fluid, can result from various factors, including friction, pressure, and decreased skin integrity associated with aging. The skin of elderly individuals tends to become thinner, drier, and more fragile over time, making it more susceptible to damage and blister formation. Moreover, age-related conditions such as diabetes and reduced mobility add to the risk of blistering skin lesions. Diabetic neuropathy can lead to decreased sensation in the feet, making it harder for individuals to detect and address issues like friction and pressure points, which can eventually lead to blisters. If left untreated, blistering skin lesions can increase the risk of infection and other complications, particularly in elderly individuals with compromised immune systems. If you are elderly and experiencing such blisters, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact David Mansky, DPM of Mansky Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hastings, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Early onset gout, a form of arthritis, can be a debilitating condition that disrupts daily life and impacts overall well-being. Gout typically manifests as sudden and intense pain, swelling, and tenderness in the joints, often affecting the big toe initially. This inflammatory response occurs due to the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, resulting from an imbalance in the body's production and excretion of uric acid. While gout is commonly associated with older age and certain lifestyle factors, like diet and alcohol consumption, it can also develop in younger individuals, often due to genetic predisposition or underlying health conditions. Managing early onset gout involves a multifaceted approach, including medication to alleviate symptoms, dietary modifications to reduce purine-rich foods, and lifestyle changes to maintain a healthy weight and minimize alcohol intake. Gout typically affects the big toe, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. If you have been afflicted with gout, it is suggested that you seek prompt attention from a podiatrist who can offer you relief and prevention methods.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact David Mansky, DPM from Mansky Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hastings, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Discovering you have osteoarthritis in your feet and ankles can be disconcerting, but understanding how it affects your body is the first step toward managing it effectively. Osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis, can also impact any joint, including those in your feet and ankles. In the foot, the big toe is often the primary site of osteoarthritis. This condition occurs when the normal cycle of joint damage and repair is disrupted, leading to changes in joint structure and function. The damage primarily affects the cartilage, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes bone-on-bone friction during movement. Genetics, joint injuries, and certain medical conditions can increase your risk of developing osteoarthritis. Symptoms vary but can commonly include pain, swelling, stiffness, and even audible noises like crunching or grating when moving the affected joints. If you suspect you have osteoarthritis in your feet or ankles, seeking prompt evaluation and treatment from a podiatrist is important. Left untreated, osteoarthritis can lead to complications like a stiff big toe, bunions, corns and calluses, which can further impair mobility and the quality of life. If you believe you have symptoms of osteoarthritis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options tailored to your needs. 

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact David Mansky, DPM from Mansky Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hastings, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Big toe pain can be a significant hurdle for competitive tennis players, impacting their performance and enjoyment of the game. This discomfort often stems from repetitive movements, such as pivoting, pushing off, and sudden stops, all of which put strain on the big toe joint. The condition, known as big toe arthritis or hallux rigidus, is characterized by stiffness, swelling, and pain in the joint at the base of the big toe. In tennis players, the constant lateral movements and high-impact footwork can exacerbate this issue. The pain can be particularly debilitating during serves, volleys, and quick direction changes on the court. To manage big toe pain, athletes may need to modify their training routines, wear supportive footwear, and use orthotic inserts. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to alleviate symptoms and restore mobility. If playing tennis has caused pain in your big toe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective treatment measures.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact David Mansky, DPM of Mansky Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hastings, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.