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Dr. Karr is one of the top 2 podiatry surgeons to complete 100 lapiplasty procedures.

July 2020

Obesity is an increasingly prevalent problem worldwide that can lead to a variety of health complications. One such complication is increased foot and ankle pain. A recent study of individuals with severe obesity found that 68.7% suffer from foot and ankle pain. Swelling of the lower limbs, degree of obesity, and percentage of total body fat were strongly associated with pain in the feet and ankles. Researchers found that the greater the individual’s body mass, the more force was exerted on the lower limbs, leading to an increased risk of lower limb injuries and pain. If you are experiencing foot and ankle pain, it is recommended that you consult with a podiatrist.

Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Grand Blanc Family Footcare. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.

Problems & Complications

Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.

Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.

Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot. 

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

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Wednesday, 22 July 2020 00:00

Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked

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.

Monday, 20 July 2020 00:00

Common Foot Conditions Among Children

In order to prevent any foot conditions from worsening, it’s important that you monitor your child’s walking pattern, and promptly seek professional help if the child is complaining about any foot pain. Some foot-related issues can be common among pediatric-aged patients. These issues can include pediatric flatfoot, Sever’s disease, ingrown toenails, and plantar warts. Pediatric flatfoot often doesn’t cause any symptoms; however, it can create an awkward walking or running pattern for the child. Ingrown toenails can be prevented by avoiding putting your child in shoes or socks that are too tight, as well as making sure that their toenails are trimmed properly. The nails should always be trimmed straight across and not too short. For more information on how to properly take care of your child’s feet, please consult with a podiatrist.

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 Grand Blanc Family Footcare. 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 our office located in Grand Blanc, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about What to Do to Keep Your Child’s Feet Healthy
Monday, 06 July 2020 00:00

What is a Heel Spur?

There are patients that develop a bony growth on their heel, and this may be referred to as a heel spur. A common symptom that is generally associated with this ailment can include pain and discomfort after arising in the morning. Research has indicated it can form in patients who have plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of the plantar fascia. Mild relief may be felt when the affected foot is taped, as this may help to provide extra support. Additionally, it can help to rest the foot as often as possible, and to lose existing weight in obese patients. In severe cases, a heel spur can be surgically removed. If you have heel pain that may indicate a heel spur, it is strongly advised that you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Grand Blanc Family Footcare. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Grand Blanc, MI . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Read more about How to Treat Heel Spurs
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