Exercising the feet is essential for maintaining overall foot health, particularly in older adults. Strengthening the intrinsic foot muscles, the small muscles that support stability and movement can enhance toe strength, balance, and mobility. These muscles are key for proper foot alignment, helping prevent foot deformities like bunions or hammertoes, which can lead to discomfort or instability. Regular foot exercises can also help improve muscle strength and joint flexibility, reducing the risk of falls by promoting better balance and stability. Strong feet contribute to better weight distribution and shock absorption, which decreases the likelihood of injuries. Incorporating exercises like toe curls, arch lifts, and ankle circles into a regular routine targets these small muscles, and fosters better movement and coordination, as well as enhances quality of life as we age. If you would like to learn more about how to properly care for your feet, including additional exercises to keep your feet strong, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Highlands Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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

Lymphedema in the feet occurs when lymph fluid builds up in the tissues, causing swelling. This condition results from a blockage or damage in the lymphatic system, which is responsible for draining excess fluid from tissues and returning it to the bloodstream. Lymphedema can be caused by infections, surgery, radiation treatment for cancer, or congenital conditions where the lymphatic system is underdeveloped. People at a higher risk include those who have undergone cancer treatments, have had lymph node removal, or suffer from chronic venous insufficiency. Treatment focuses on managing the swelling and improving lymph drainage. Compression therapy, such as wearing specialized stockings, is commonly used. Manual lymph drainage, a specialized massage technique used by a podiatrist, can help reduce swelling. If your feet are swollen and you are not clear on the cause, it is strongly suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and care.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Highlands Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

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

A high ankle sprain is an injury to the syndesmotic ligament complex that stabilizes the tibia, or shin bone, and fibula. This type of sprain occurs when the ankle is forcefully twisted outward or when the leg rotates inward while the foot is fixed. Unlike common ankle sprains, high ankle sprains often heal more slowly due to the involvement of these critical ligaments. Early symptoms include pain above the ankle, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight. Risks for high ankle sprains include sports activities, especially those involving sudden changes in direction or impact. Complications from untreated high ankle sprains can lead to chronic instability and susceptibility to future injuries. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and imaging tests like X-rays or MRI scans to assess the severity of the injury. Treatment varies depending on the injury's extent. If you are experiencing ankle pain, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and care.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Highlands Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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