Walking may be thought to be one of the best foot exercises that can be performed.  A full range of motion occurs when the foot strikes the ground and the toes lift up. The many benefits of walking and practicing resistance exercises are known to enhance mood and overall health, in addition to improving circulation.  Incorporating gentle foot stretches in your daily routine will not only build flexibility, but also promote strength.  This can help avoid any potential injuries. A stretching exercise that benefits the ankles can be done while sitting down. This consists of rotating the ankle a few times, then changing direction. Additionally, it is beneficial to stretch the bottom of the foot. This can be accomplished by keeping the heel raised while the toes lie flat against the ground as you step back and gently stretch your right foot, then repeat on the opposite foot. A consultation with a podiatrist may be considered for additional knowledge about foot stretches

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Kellvan Cheng, DPM from Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Carrollton, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

It’s common to wear shoes that are fashionable, but it is much more important to choose shoes that fit properly. Since feet are the foundation of the body, wearing shoes that fit correctly is essential in maintaining proper foot health. An accurate measurement is obtained by trying the shoes on in the afternoon when the foot is the biggest and wearing socks that will actually be worn with the shoes. It’s important to try both shoes on, because the feet generally vary slightly in size. It’s also wise to examine the soles of the shoes to make sure there's adequate protection and cushioning. The correct shoes will feel comfortable and fit perfectly from the start, so it’s unnecessary to break them in. Before a decision is made to purchase the shoes, make sure you walk around in them for a few minutes to ensure a proper fit.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Kellvan Cheng, DPM from Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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

Flat feet is a condition that often refers to the arch appearing flat while walking or standing. It’s a natural condition commonly seen in infants and young children, and it will often correct itself as the foot becomes stronger. Occasional pain is associated with flat feet and is usually noticed while walking or running. The entire foot may feel pain and discomfort, or it may be in a specific area. It’s important to note if your child is experiencing these symptoms, as the condition may affect the structure of the growing foot. It’s possible that this condition may stem from underlying causes including certain forms of muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, or a predisposed inherited disorder. If the child is heavy in weight, obesity may be a contributing factor due to the additional weight placed on the feet. The condition typically does not require treatment unless the pain is affecting daily activities. If you think your child may have flat feet or is experiencing pain, please consider a consultation with a podiatrist.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Kellvan Cheng, DPM from Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

An abnormality in which a bony bump forms on the big toe of your foot can be referred to as a bunion. The bone in your big toe is typically deformed and generally causes pain and discomfort. Choosing shoes with enough room in the toe area may prevent bunions from worsening, allowing the toes to feel less restricted. Wide shoes with a low heel are often recommended. Ways to ease the pain a bunion produces can include putting ice on it for a few minutes and placing a soft pad in your shoe. This can help decrease or completely remove friction that frequently occurs as the bunion rubs against the shoe. If daily activities are being affected by the pain a bunion causes, see a podiatrist for treatment.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Kellvan Cheng, DPM of Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

Experiencing leg and foot pain during pregnancy is a common ailment most women suffer from, especially during the second and third trimester. Swollen feet, also referred to as edema, is often caused by excess blood and fluids accumulating in the tissues. Additionally, an increase in estrogen and other hormones may cause flat feet, causing the heels and arches to become sore. The excess weight acquired during pregnancy is also a factor, causing the ankles and feet to increase in size, possibly causing pain while walking. One preventative measure that may help a flat-footed condition is purchasing shoes with adequate arch support. Drinking plenty of water could help to flush out excess sodium, thereby reduce swelling in the feet.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Kellvan Cheng, DPM from Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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