Basketball players of all ages, genders, and levels of ability can suffer a variety of injuries. In fact, many basketball-related injuries occur every year—in both organized and unorganized team sports. The most common sites of basketball-related injuries are the ankles and feet. The good news is that most basketball-related injuries are sprains and strains, which can be effectively treated and healed with proper care. A sprain occurs when ligament(s) surrounding a joint (like the ankle) become stretched beyond their limits, or even torn. A strain is a tear in a muscle or tendon which is either partial or complete. It is important to see a podiatrist when you have injured your foot or ankle playing basketball to receive proper treatment and avoid future problems. An improperly healed ankle sprain, for instance, can lead to chronic ankle instability and future ankle sprains.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Imaze Marian Davis, DPM of Marian Davis, DPM, PA. Our doctors 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 Miami, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

When the skin on your heels is allowed to become overly dry, rough and thick, this can sometimes set the stage for cracked heels to develop. That is because when the weight of the body bears down—and the heel naturally spreads out—this callused, inflexible skin can crack. If cracked heels (heel fissures) are left untreated, they can deepen, become painful and possibly even bleed or become infected. The best way to treat cracked heels is to avoid getting them at all. Applying topical emollients or occlusive moisturizers at night and covering your feet with socks can help seal in moisture and keep the heel hydrated. Also, gently massaging the heels with a pumice stone may help to smooth out mildly cracked heels, but this practice is not advised for people with diabetes or nerve damage. If your heels are badly cracked, red, painful, bleeding, or you believe they may be infected, it is suggested you contact a podiatrist to receive professional care.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Imaze Marian Davis, DPM from Marian Davis, DPM, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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

Many people stopped wearing high heels during last year's lockdown. People who have chosen to resume wearing high heels as more social and workplaces open up may be experiencing foot pain. This may be a result of a shortened Achilles tendon and may take time to adjust when high heels are worn again. There are foot conditions that may develop as a result of frequently wearing high heels, including plantar fasciitis, bunions, and hammertoes. Additionally, ailments consisting of Morton’s neuroma and corns may cause pain from wearing high heels. The good news is that high heels can be worn as desired when the heels that are chosen are not higher than an inch and a half. This can give the appearance that is wanted and the feet can be protected at the same time. If you have questions about how high heels can affect the feet, please feel free to confer with a podiatrist who can address any concerns you may have. 

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Imaze Marian Davis, DPM from Marian Davis, DPM, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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

Diabetes frequently constricts blood flow to the extremities, which can develop into peripheral neuropathy. Your feet may become numb, resulting in a slowing of the healing process. Even a tiny unhealed, or undetected, sore on the sole of the foot may become ulcerated and require medical attention. Proper foot care is imperative for diabetics and is a good way to ward off foot ulcers, swelling, pain and infection. For starters, make an appointment to see a podiatrist regularly to monitor the health of your feet. In addition, begin a regular regime of washing, drying, moisturizing, and exercising your feet. Check, or have someone else check, your feet daily for any sores and bruises, swelling and pain, corns or calluses, and changes in color. It is recommended that diabetics cease smoking, which adds to the constriction of blood vessels and furthers neuropathy. Keep toenails trimmed properly to avoid ingrown toenails and infections. Wear shoes that protect your feet from heat or cold. These measures, along with regulating blood sugar levels and eating a healthy diet, can help protect you from the dangers of foot ulcers. If you have questions about diabetic foot care, please make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Imaze Marian Davis, DPM from Marian Davis, DPM, PA. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Diabetes frequently constricts blood flow to the extremities, which can develop into peripheral neuropathy. Your feet may become numb, resulting in a slowing of the healing process. Even a tiny unhealed, or undetected, sore on the sole of the foot may become ulcerated and require medical attention. Proper foot care is imperative for diabetics and is a good way to ward off foot ulcers, swelling, pain and infection. For starters, make an appointment to see a podiatrist regularly to monitor the health of your feet. In addition, begin a regular regime of washing, drying, moisturizing, and exercising your feet. Check, or have someone else check, your feet daily for any sores and bruises, swelling and pain, corns or calluses, and changes in color. It is recommended that diabetics cease smoking, which adds to the constriction of blood vessels and furthers neuropathy. Keep toenails trimmed properly to avoid ingrown toenails and infections. Wear shoes that protect your feet from heat or cold. These measures, along with regulating blood sugar levels and eating a healthy diet, can help protect you from the dangers of foot ulcers. If you have questions about diabetic foot care, please make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Imaze Marian Davis, DPM from Marian Davis, DPM, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Many people begin to develop balance problems as they age, putting them at a higher risk of falling. A few simple exercises can be done at home to improve health and mobility. (If you haven’t done any exercise in a while, it is always a good idea to check in with a health professional before embarking on any new program.) Just to be safe during these simple exercises, be sure to stand near a wall or chair, or keep a walking aid nearby before starting. It’s a good idea to start cautiously, building up the number of repetitions gradually to avoid injury. Heel-to-toe walk: Place the heel of your right foot directly in front of your left, looking straight ahead, and step down. Repeat 5 times. You may need to lightly touch the wall for stability. One-leg stand: Stand facing the wall, arms straight out in front, and lightly touch the wall in front of you. Lift one foot off the floor and hold for 5 -10 seconds. Repeat with the other foot. Do this 3 times. Sideways walking: Stand up straight with both feet together. Step out to the side with one foot, transfer your weight, and bring the other foot next to it. Repeat 10 steps. Then reverse direction. If you continue to experience balance problems, it may be a good idea to check in with a podiatrist for a complete biomechanical evaluation.

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 Imaze Marian Davis, DPM from Marian Davis, DPM, PA. 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 our office located in Miami, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Many people begin to develop balance problems as they age, putting them at a higher risk of falling. A few simple exercises can be done at home to improve health and mobility. (If you haven’t done any exercise in a while, it is always a good idea to check in with a health professional before embarking on any new program.) Just to be safe during these simple exercises, be sure to stand near a wall or chair, or keep a walking aid nearby before starting. It’s a good idea to start cautiously, building up the number of repetitions gradually to avoid injury. Heel-to-toe walk: Place the heel of your right foot directly in front of your left, looking straight ahead, and step down. Repeat 5 times. You may need to lightly touch the wall for stability. One-leg stand: Stand facing the wall, arms straight out in front, and lightly touch the wall in front of you. Lift one foot off the floor and hold for 5 -10 seconds. Repeat with the other foot. Do this 3 times. Sideways walking: Stand up straight with both feet together. Step out to the side with one foot, transfer your weight, and bring the other foot next to it. Repeat 10 steps. Then reverse direction. If you continue to experience balance problems, it may be a good idea to check in with a podiatrist for a complete biomechanical evaluation.

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 Imaze Marian Davis, DPM from Marian Davis, DPM, PA. Our doctors 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 our office located in Miami, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.