There are specific foot conditions that may benefit from wearing orthotics. These can include flat feet, high arches, and plantar fasciitis. Orthotics are defined as prescribed heel or shoe inserts that are made to treat foot conditions. They generally provide more support in shoes and are available in various shapes and sizes. Custom-made orthotics are known to fall into three categories. Hard materials such as plastic are used to make functional orthotics, and can be durable and long-lasting. They can help to offer support to the foot and improve ankle mobility. Accommodative custom orthotics are made of softer materials, and are generally well-cushioned. They are effective in reducing the stress of standing and walking, and may be chosen for diabetic patients. Orthotics made of both of these types of materials are referred to as semi-rigid. They can be used to treat patients who have arthritic or flat feet. If you have a foot condition that requires orthotics to be worn for maximum improvement, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine what the best type is for you and can create a custom orthotic to meet your foot's specific needs.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Dr. Gary Cesar from Michigan Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Lansing and Mt. Pleasant, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Falling can be serious among older individuals. It can lead to debilitating injuries, many of which can affect the feet. It is helpful to discuss existing medications while having routine physical examinations and staying current with eye exams. The latter can be beneficial in updating eyeglass prescriptions. There are effective fall prevention techniques that can be put into place that may reduce the number of falls. These can include engaging in a regular exercise routine like yoga or tai chi and both can improve balance. The body can become stronger when low-impact cardiovascular exercise is frequently practiced, which may help strengthen the legs. Additionally, simple changes made in the household may significantly contribute to limiting falling episodes. These can consist of improving lighting, removing worn rugs, and installing grab bars in the shower and toilet area. If you would like more information about how falling can affect the feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with the correct information.

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. Gary Cesar from Michigan Foot and Ankle Center. 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 offices located in Lansing and Mt. Pleasant, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot pain is common and if not controlled, can become chronic and interfere with one’s quality of life. Because foot pain has many potential causes, diagnostic tests like X-rays or MRIs are often necessary to pinpoint what is going on. Common reasons for foot pain may include arthritis, Morton’s neuroma, and plantar fasciitis. Arthritis will present itself with joint pain, swelling, and sometimes deformity. It often shows itself in the big toe or ankle. Morton’s neuroma involves the swelling of a nerve, and one might feel pain in the midsole of the foot that can radiate between the toes. Plantar fasciitis is when the plantar fascia, the band of connective tissue running from the heel of the foot to the toes, becomes inflamed or sustains micro-tears and causes pain in the heel and arch of the foot. If you have pain in your feet and you do not find relief with cessation from the activity that caused it, or if the pain gets worse, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist. A podiatrist can perform radiologic tests to diagnose the problem and provide treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Gary Cesar from Michigan Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

There are various types of warts. A plantar wart can be found on the bottom of the foot, and it grows inward due to the weight the feet endure. It is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can produce severe pain and discomfort. It is considered to be contagious and is found in warm and moist environments. These can include shower room floors, public swimming pools, and surrounding areas. The virus enters the body through small cracks in the sole, so it is advised to wear appropriate shoes while visiting these areas. This type of wart can be medically treated by applying salicylic acid, but it can be painful. If your plantar wart is interfering with daily activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide you with the proper treatment and relief.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Gary Cesar from Michigan Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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