Foot Care Guidelines for Work

Maintaining foot health at work is essential for overall well-being and safety. Whether enduring long hours on your feet or navigating potential hazards, prioritizing proper foot care can prevent injuries and discomfort. Work-related foot injuries primarily stem from punctures, crushing, sprains, and falls, underscoring the importance of foot safety measures. Neglecting foot care not only heightens injury risks but also contributes to common issues like calluses, ingrown toenails, and fatigue, all of which impairs work performance. Identifying workplace hazards such as prolonged standing, unsuitable flooring and wearing ill-fitted footwear is important for injury prevention. Addressing these concerns through job and workplace design adjustments, including rotation, ergonomic flooring, and protective footwear is essential. Additionally, cultivating good foot care habits like daily washing, toenail trimming, and wearing appropriate socks and footwear is key. Incorporating exercises to alleviate strain during prolonged standing can help. Investing in foot care not only safeguards against injuries but also enhances productivity. If you spend long hours of your work day on your feet, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for related foot pain, injuries, or conditions. 

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Duryea and Bangor, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about How to Handle a Long Work Day on Your Feet

Suggested Foot Care For Diabetic Patients

Diabetes can pose significant risks to foot health due to potential nerve and blood vessel damage. Reduced sensation in the feet increases the likelihood of injuries, which may lead to serious complications like foot ulcers, often requiring hospitalization. It is important  for anyone with diabetes to prioritize foot care to prevent such issues. Daily foot inspections are vital, checking for dry skin, blisters, sores, bruises, and any abnormalities. Regular washing with mild soap, careful drying, and moisturizing are also essential steps. Proper toenail trimming techniques help to prevent ingrown nails and other complications, with assistance from a podiatrist recommended for thick or discolored nails that may be infected. Corns and calluses should also be managed by a podiatrist, ensuring safe removal. Wearing well-fitting shoes and clean, dry socks are recommended at all times to prevent injuries. Any foot issues should be promptly reported to a podiatrist, rather than attempting self-treatment. It is suggested that diabetic patients seek assistance from a podiatrist for regular evaluations and necessary foot care.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

  • Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
  • Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
  • Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Read more about Diabetic Foot Care

Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?

If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!

How Ankle Sprains May Affect Foot Stability and Strength

An ankle sprain, a common injury, occurs when the ligaments surrounding the ankle stretch or tear due to sudden twisting or rolling movements. While seemingly minor, neglecting proper treatment can lead to complications, notably ankle instability and diminished strength. An unstable ankle, characterized by a recurring feeling of giving way, poses risks of further injury and compromises mobility. This instability arises from weakened ligaments, which struggle to effectively support the ankle's weight-bearing function. Additionally, reduced ankle strength follows, as the muscles surrounding the ankle weaken from disuse during the recovery phase. Over time, this weakness can affect balance and movement, increasing the likelihood of future injuries. Consequently, comprehensive treatment that addresses both ligament healing and muscle strengthening is vital to restore stability and strength, ensuring optimal ankle function and minimizing the risk of recurrent sprains. If you have sprained your ankle, it is strongly suggested that you seek prompt attention from a podiatrist who can help you begin the healing process.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

  • Mild to moderate bruising
  • Limited mobility
  • Swelling
  • Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Duryea and Bangor, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Ankle Sprains

Managing Heel Pain

Heel pain, a common foot ailment, can significantly impact mobility and daily activities. Typically located on the underside or back of the heel, it can stem from various causes, including plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, heel spurs, or stress fractures. One prevalent reason for morning discomfort is the tightening of the plantar fascia ligament during sleep, leading to a sharp pain upon first steps. However, not all heel pains are alike. Pain can manifest in different areas such as the bottom, sides, or back of the heel, each indicating distinct issues. Ignoring persistent discomfort may exacerbate the condition and hinder natural healing processes. Fortunately, several remedies exist, including rest, stretching exercises, proper footwear, and custom orthotics. If you have persistent heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

  • Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
  • Wearing non-supportive shoes
  • Weight change           
  • Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

Read more about Heel Pain

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