Posts for: October, 2019
While the appearance of blisters may be embarrassing, the pain accompanying them is often much worse and more of a concern for people who have them. Although blisters are a common foot problem experienced by many, have you ever wondered what the cause of those pesky blisters could be? Or, better yet, how they can be treated?
Blisters appear on a swollen part of the foot and consist of fluid, typically clear, though, depending on the blister, the fluid may also have blood. Blisters are usually caused by repeated friction or rubbing on a specific part of your foot. Here are some examples of things that can produce that constant friction:
The type of footwear and how properly your shoes fit
Your skin type and foot type (high, low or medium arch)
The moisture found around your feet
Heavy objects you may be carrying around, like a bag pack
While blisters are rarely filled with pus, pus can form if the blister is infected. In that case, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible. If you have any of the following symptoms, it’s preferable to talk to your doctor:
- Foot Pain
While the symptoms may seem common, any persistent pain needs medical attention. Individuals with diabetes need to be especially careful. If left untreated, the blister may turn into an ulcer, leaving you susceptible to an amputation.
Preventive Care Treatments:
There are several precautions you can take to prevent blisters. Here are a few preventative care options:
1. Make sure to wear proper fitting shoes
2. Wear moisture-wicking socks
3. Cushioned insoles are a good idea
4. Double-socks will provide extra cushion
5. Wear orthotics recommended by your podiatrist
6. Use antiperspirants, powders, and lubricants to reduce moisture and friction.
The key to healthy feet is preventative care and referring to your foot doctor whenever you have questions or concerns.
How orthotics from your podiatrists in Fairfax, VA, can help you
If your feet hurt on a day-to-day basis, you owe it to yourself to learn more about orthotics and what they can do for you. Here at Oakton Foot and Ankle Center in Fairfax, VA, your foot doctors, Dr. Steven Vetter and Dr. Jugal Dharia, offer a full range of footcare services, including orthotics, to help you and your feet. Read on to learn more!
What orthotics can do for you
Whether you stand all day, walk for extended periods of time, or play foot-stressing sports, your feet sure can take a beating on a day-to-day basis. Additionally, aging, weight gain, diabetes, and other issues can also increase the pressure felt by your feet. Fortunately, orthotics support and cushion your feet, providing them with the TLC they need to get you through your day.
Custom-fit orthotics aren’t just the cookie-cutter inserts you purchase in the grocery store—they are handcrafted just for you in order to provide the individual support you and your feet need. Consider:
- Rigid orthotics if you are having joint or tendon problems; rigid orthotics help relieve the strain on tendons and joints, giving strong support to your feet, legs, and lower back. Rigid orthotics are made of hard plastic and provide great support.
- Soft orthotics if need help with balance and stress relief for your feet; soft orthotics are an excellent choice if you are diabetic, have arthritis, or are suffering foot pain from bone deformities.
- Semi-rigid orthotics if you are playing sports, jogging, or walking regularly need added support; semi-rigid orthotics are made of a combination of soft and rigid materials, so you get the benefit of both.
Interested? Give us a call
To learn more about the different types of orthotics and what they can do for you, call Dr. Steven Vetter and Dr. Jugal Dharia of Oakton Foot and Ankle Center in Fairfax, VA, by dialing (703) 352-8888 today!