Editor’s note: Dr. Kayla Emter, podiatrist/foot & ankle surgeon at Jamestown Regional Medical Center, shares tips on how to prevent foot fungus and plantar warts. As a student, Dr. Emter struggled with painful bunions, which required surgery. Form that experience, she wanted a career in the medical field so she could educate and help others. Today, Dr. Emter is qualified through the American Board of Foot & Ankle Surgeons, American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons and the American Podiatric Medical Association.
With warm weather approaching, we can expect sandals, swimsuits and spray tans.
Many people think of weight loss and improving health as bikini season beckons.
However, foot problems are often overlooked and can be a reason people drop out of their exercise regime.
Exercise and healthy eating can benefit your feet. Weight loss reduces the stress on the feet, which reduces chances of bony, tendinous and ligamentous injuries. Similarly, exercise, as simple as a daily walking routine, can also improve blood flow to the legs and feet. Furthermore, avoiding foods that can cause inflammation, such as sugar and fried foods, can reduce general achiness of joints, including those outside of the feet.
These solutions can keep you active and on your feet this summer:
- Athletic shoes. Shoes should be replaced every six months or after 300 to 500 miles of use. When using a worn out shoe, foot alignment can change increasing the chance of injury and heel pain. Though purchasing new shoes can be expensive, preventing a doctors’ visit can pay off in the long run.
- Stress fractures. Avoid repeating the same activities day after day. Repetitive activity can result in stress fractures. For instance, if you enjoy running, avoid the use of a treadmill (what we like to call a “dread” mill) daily. Many stress fractures arise from repetitive motion and lack of shock absorption.
- Proper-fitting shoe gear. Nearly 80 percent of people wear the wrong size shoe, creating many foot-related issues. Amongst those issues are blisters, calluses and nail problems. Measure your foot prior to purchasing a shoe to prevent further complications.
- Fungus. Let’s face it, everyone’s feet sweat while working out. Unfortunately, fungus likes to harbor in dark, moist environments, also known as your shoes and socks. Anyone can develop athlete’s foot infection, but your sweaty sneakers are a prime spot to harbor fungus. Athlete’s foot infection can be itchy and cause cracking between the toes. A simple solution is to wash socks after every use and spray Lysol in your tennis shoes following your work out activities. See your podiatrist if you think you may have athlete’s foot infection or consistently suffer from sweaty feet.
- Warts. Plantar warts are a form of a virus that easily transmits through a crack in the skin. People often go barefoot in gym locker rooms or showers, making it the perfect breeding ground for infections. Plantar warts can be painful, especially when they overlie a pressure point on the foot. Wearing shoes in the locker room/shower can prevent this complication. If you think you may have a plantar wart, see your Podiatrist for treatment options.
- Schedule a free screening. Sometimes, a pain in the foot simply needs ice and rest. Other times, the pain needs more complex medical attention. Schedule a free screening with Jamestown Regional Medical Center’s Rehabilitation team to see what is right for you. The team can assess what is going on and explain treatment options. Free screenings are usually available within three to four business days.
Know that studies show: care is better close to home. Jamestown area residents need not travel for specialty services. If you or someone you love needs relief, schedule direct with the JRMC Clinic at (701) 952-4878. Schedule a free injury screening at (701) 952-4800.
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