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Methods That May Help to Prevent Falling

It is crucial for elderly patients to protect themselves in their homes. This may be helpful in preventing falling, which can cause serious health issues and complications with the feet. It may be beneficial to slow your pace as you walk and complete tasks in your home. Additionally, it can help to wear slippers that have a non-slip sole. Research has indicated that when grab bars are installed in the shower and bath area, the risk of falling may be reduced. It is important to have routine medical exams so current prescriptions may be evaluated, in addition to having a thorough eye exam. If you would like more information about falls prevention techniques and how to help protect your feet, it’s suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. Joshua David Scoll from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

  • Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
  • Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
  • Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
  • Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
  • Utilizing a walker or cane
  • Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
  • Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

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Methods That Can Determine Shoe Size

Research has indicated that it is incredibly important to wear shoes that fit your feet correctly. This may be helpful in preventing unwanted foot conditions from developing that can include hammertoes, bunions, and blisters. There are several methods that can be implemented to obtain an accurate measurement. Your foot can be traced on a large piece of paper while wearing socks that are normally worn, along with a pair of shoes you typically wear. Brannock devices are typically found in shoe stores, and can be effective in determining the correct shoe size. When running shoes are purchased, it is important to ensure that there is adequate room for the toes to move freely in. Your feet may change size if weight is gained, or if a foot injury has occurred, which is why it’s beneficial to have a current measurement taken. If you would like to have a podiatrist properly measure your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment.

It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.

Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting

  • Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
  • Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
  • Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
  • Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
  • Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Philadelphia, Bensalem . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Possible Causes of Stress Fractures

Stress fractures are defined as a small break in one or more bones in the feet. They can occur as a result of frequently running for extended periods of time, or from participating in jumping activities. Additionally, they may happen if there is a change in the style of jogging you’re used to, or a change in the running surface. A common symptom that is associated with stress fractures can include pain during physical activity. This pain may also return after resting. Typically, effective treatment generally means the activity must be ceased that caused the fracture, and a boot or cast may be recommended for the healing process. If you have pain in your foot and think you may have a stress fracture, it is strongly advised that you speak to a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

  • Runners                                
  • People affected with Osteoporosis
  • Tennis or basketball players
  • Gymnasts
  • High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Philadelphia, Bensalem . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Treating Your Child’s Ingrown Toenail

When it comes to caring for your child’s feet, it’s important you look for symptoms of any existing or developing foot conditions. One common condition that can develop among babies and young children is an ingrown toenail. Ingrown toenails are characterized by a toenail that grows into the skin on the side of the toe, often appearing red and swollen. Typically, it is more common that the big toe is affected by this condition. In more severe cases, a white or yellowish liquid may drain from the affected toe, which normally is a sign that an infection in present. To help prevent this condition from afflicting your child’s toes, it’s recommended that you make sure you’re cutting their toenails straight across and that they wear footwear that is not too constricting or tightly fitted. Ingrown toenails are often quite painful and should be treated with professional care. For a safe recovery, and to avoid the development of an infection, we suggest you consult with a podiatrist as soon as possible to treat your child’s ingrown toenail.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

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