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Get Your Feet in Shape for Spring!

 Get Your Feet in Shape for Spring!


After hibernating all winter, nothing beats getting outside and getting active at the first sign of spring weather. The sudden jump in activity after months of laying low with little to no activity increases the risk for developing foot pain. Most commonly, we see stress fractures in the foot and the development of heel pain known as plantar fasciitis. Stress fractures are often brought on by a sudden increase in activity or poor choices in footwear and can present as deep aching foot pain with warmth and swelling. Plantar fasciitis results from inflammation of the band extending from the heel to the toes known as the plantar fascia and causes aching stabbing pain in the heel on first rising which worsens with standing and walking. Luckily, both conditions generally heal easily, but must be caught and treated early.


Summertime brings on warmer temps and the switch from heavier footwear to sandals and flip flops. While flip flops are a nice way to free up your feet, the lack of arch support and stability can create abnormal stress on the foot and ankle. This lack of support can not only lead to plantar fasciitis but other tendon and ligament problems as well. Sandal season also offers an opportunity to examine your feet more closely after a long winter of neglect- lumps, bumps, corns and calluses may now be more apparent and need attention. Skin rashes, nails that have thickened or changed in color or texture should be examined by your foot and ankle physician. 





Spring /summer is the time for picnics, pool parties and enjoying the outdoors—not for suffering with foot pain. Follow these tips for keeping your feet pain-free this summer: 1. Don’t walk barefoot-  cuts and puncture wounds can easily become infected. 2. Apply sunscreen to your feet to protect against sunburn and skin cancers. 3. Wear socks to avoid fungal infections, blisters and calluses. Change socks as necessary to keep feet dry. 4. Don’t pop blisters. These are a natural barrier to infection. 5. Don’t fall for fashion trends. When buying sandals, make sure they provide arch support and heel cushioning. 6. Wear larger shoes to accommodate swollen feet, especially if you work outside. 7. Stay hydrated to avoid leg cramps and muscle spasms. 8. Warm up and stretch before exercising and cool down and stretch afterward to prevent injury. 9. If your feet hurt, come see us! Foot and ankle pain shouldn’t be ignored. Sheffield Foot and Ankle now has 2 convenient locations in Elyria and North Ridgeville, reach us at 440-934-8444. 





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