When choosing cheerleading shoes, athletes often face the decision between high-top and low-top styles. High-top cheer shoes provide additional ankle support, offering stability and reducing the risk of injuries during stunts or jumps. The extra coverage helps protect the ankle by limiting excessive movement, which can be beneficial for cheerleaders who frequently perform high-intensity routines. However, the added support can feel restrictive for some, potentially limiting flexibility. On the other hand, low-top cheer shoes are lighter and more flexible, allowing for greater freedom of movement. This can be ideal for athletes who prioritize agility and need to move quickly during routines. However, the lack of ankle support may increase the risk of twisting or rolling the ankle, especially during complex stunts. Both types of shoes have their benefits, and the choice ultimately depends on the athlete’s needs for support versus flexibility. If you or your child has sustained a foot injury while cheerleading, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot and ankle conditions. 

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Gerald Erskine, DPM from Seneca Family Footcare. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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

Preventing falls in the shower is essential to protect your feet and ankles from injury. Start by ensuring the shower floor is slip-resistant. Use non-slip mats or adhesive strips to improve traction. Installing grab bars inside and outside the shower provides extra stability, especially when entering or exiting. A sturdy shower chair can be helpful for those with balance concerns or limited mobility. Use a handheld showerhead to reduce movement and maintain control while washing. Keep soap and toiletries within easy reach to avoid overextending or bending awkwardly. Good lighting in the bathroom also helps prevent missteps. Regularly inspect the shower area for hazards, such as loose tiles or leaking water. Wearing shower-safe, non-slip footwear adds another layer of safety. If you experience a fall or suspect a foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you promptly see a podiatrist for evaluation and care.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Gerald Erskine, DPM from Seneca Family Footcare. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. This condition is most commonly seen in the big toe and is often the result of wearing improper footwear, poor nail trimming, or injury. Symptoms of an ingrown toenail include redness, tenderness surrounding the nail, and in some cases, the presence of pus if an infection develops. Conservative treatment for an ingrown toenail typically includes soaking the foot in warm water and wearing comfortable shoes. If the condition does not improve or the nail becomes infected, more advanced treatments may be necessary. Surgical management may involve partial or complete removal of the affected toenail to prevent recurrence. If you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you promptly visit a podiatrist who can determine what the best treatment is for you.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Gerald Erskine, DPM of Seneca Family Footcare. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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

A foot stress fracture is a small crack in one of the bones of the foot, typically caused by repetitive stress or overuse. These fractures are common in athletes or individuals who engage in high-impact activities such as running or jumping. The repetitive force placed on the bones can gradually lead to tiny fractures, often in the metatarsals. Overtraining, wearing poor footwear, and sudden increases in physical activity are common causes. Symptoms of a stress fracture include localized pain, swelling, and tenderness that worsens with activity. Rest is the primary treatment for a foot stress fracture, along with avoiding activities that place stress on the foot. Additionally, elevating the foot can also aid in recovery. In more severe cases, a walking boot or crutches may be necessary to immobilize the foot and allow healing. If you think you have a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer a proper diagnosis and treatment. 

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Gerald Erskine, DPM from Seneca Family Footcare. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

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

Running can lead to a variety of foot injuries, with some of the most common being plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, toenail damage, and peroneal tendonitis. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the tissue on the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed, often causing heel pain, especially in the morning. Metatarsalgia refers to pain in the ball of the foot, typically from excessive pressure or improper footwear. Toenail damage, such as bruising or loss, can result from tight shoes or repeated trauma during long runs. Peroneal tendonitis affects the tendons along the outside of the ankle and foot, leading to pain and swelling. To relieve these injuries, runners can benefit from rest, proper footwear, and targeted stretching exercises, in addition to gradually increasing mileage to allow the body time to heal. If you have sustained foot or ankle injuries from running, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer effective relief tips, and guide on additional injury prevention methods. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Gerald Erskine, DPM from Seneca Family Footcare. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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