Many new parents often ask podiatrists how frequently they should be buying their children new shoes. The answer to this question is closely related to the speed at which a child’s feet are supposed to grow. It is important to note that the first three years of a baby’s life witness the fastest growth of their feet. Due to this quick rate of growth, a parent might purchase a new, slightly larger pair of shoes for their baby every three to four weeks. However, the frequency with which new shoes are purchased will slowly decrease as the child ages. Importantly, once a child reaches the age of fourteen, it is generally thought that their feet will more or less stop growing. At this point, a parent need not continue purchasing larger shoes. If you are a parent and seek advice on taking care of your children’s feet, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist for an appointment.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Integrative Foot & Ankle Centers of Washington. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.
Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.
Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.
Be watchful for any pain or injury.
Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Kirkland, Everett, and Renton, WA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
A reddened, painful, and swollen big toe can be the result of a type of arthritis called gout. This uncomfortable condition is caused by an overabundance of uric acid in the body. If not properly eliminated through the kidneys, uric acid can collect in the joints, where it crystallizes. The result is pain that flares up suddenly and stays active for up to a week or more. Risk factors for developing gout include age, diet, obesity, and genetics. Gout cannot be cured, but it can be treated by a foot doctor who is a specialist in dealing with this condition. Treatment options include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication, changes in diet, and certain lifestyle modifications. One of the best methods of preventing gout flare-ups is reducing the amount of purines in the foods that are eaten. Seafood, red meat, shellfish, and drinks sweetened with large amounts of sugar fall into this category. Reducing the amount of alcoholic beverages and caffeine also helps, along with increasing exercise, drinking more water, and losing weight. For professional help in managing gout attacks, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.
Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.
Symptoms
Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility
Risk Factors
Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout
Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Kirkland, Everett, and Renton, WA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Flip flops are one of the most popular summer shoes available. They are simply made and are constructed of a flat sole which is connected to a Y-shaped strap that slides between the big and second toes. Their increased popularity is a result of easy wearing, and they are available in different colors. Flip flops date back as early as 4,000 years ago, and have been made from various materials as the generations evolved. They became associated with beach living in the 1960s and are worn by people from all walks of life. Additionally, they are affordable and are generally made from inexpensive materials. They are typically lightweight, comfortable, and easy to slip on and off. In addition to allowing the feet to breathe, flip flops may provide an overall relaxed feeling in the body. If you would like to know about the benefits of wearing flip-flops, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you are seeking.
Flip-flops have managed to become a summer essential for a lot of people. While the shoes may be stylish and easy to slip on and off, they can be dangerous to those who wear them too often. These shoes might protect you from fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, but they can also give you foot pain and sprained ankles if you trip while wearing them.
When Are They Okay to Wear?
Flip-flops should only be worn for very short periods of time. They can help protect your feet in places that are crawling with fungi, such as gym locker rooms. Athlete’s foot and plantar warts are two common fungi that flip-flops may help protect your feet against.
Why Are They Bad for My Feet?
These shoes do not offer any arch support, so they are not ideal for everyday use. They also do not provide shock absorption or heel cushioning which can be problematic for your feet. Additionally, you may suffer from glass cuts, puncture wounds, and stubbed toes since they offer little protection for your feet.
More Reasons Why They Are Bad for Your Feet
They Slow You Down
May Cause Blisters and Calluses
Expose Your Feet to Bacteria
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Kirkland, Everett, and Renton, WA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.
