AF&A Blog

With winter in full swing, you are sure to be getting out to the slopes if you haven’t already. You’re probably wondering what your feet have to do with zipping down the mountain on a pair of skis. Well, if your feet are positioned properly, not much. The problem comes in, as with many things, if you don’t have a good foundation. You can avoid a lot of problems by knowing your foot type and having the proper equipment.

A custom orthotic may be the ‘proper equipment’ for daily life. A visit to Dr. Thomajan at Austin Foot and Ankle Specialists will identify your foot type and fit you to the proper orthotic. By wearing orthoses, your feet will be given the proper support in the proper places. These small corrections will allow all the muscle in your feet and legs to function as they should, strong and avoiding injury. This is the same idea you should keep in mind when you’re out on the slopes.

Skiing can be lots of fun if you feet are in the proper position. Make sure that your ski boots fit snuggling and support your ankles. The joints of your body, especially those of your leg, are the most likely places for sports injuries to occur. Ill fitting equipment is a sure way to invite injuries. Proper support for you foot and ankle will lessen the chance of injury. In the case that something does go wrong, an assessment by your podiatrist soon after can decrease the chance of any complications or further injuries. Until next time, stay safe on the slopes!

While we all may not be professional athletes, those individuals need to take special care of their feet….and you do too! No matter how you stay physically active, whether it is golfing, running, or a daily walk, remember to keep you feet happy and healthy. Some basics to keep in mind, such as using the proper shoe for your activity, knowing your limits, and keeping your feet dry are all helpful in avoiding problems. However, here are a few common problems that may arise, some things you can do to prevent these things from affecting your daily activities, and when to visit your doctor.

1. “Athlete’s Feet” – is the something we have all been wary of when using the shower at the gym, but can affect anyone anywhere. The fungi and its friends that cause this uncomfortable condition are part of the world around us and can be acquired almost anywhere. By making sure you dry your feet thoroughly, before slipping on cotton socks, as well as keeping your shoes dry, are all first line defense to keep this problem from afflicting you. There are plenty of treatments available to fight this problem and it is important to see your podiatrist to prevent spread of an infection, especially when living with diabetes.

2. Heel Pain – there are a number of reasons this may become a problem for you. Surely, you find that by resting the area the pain subsides. Unfortunately, most of us are required to be on our feet through the day and this pain can come back time and time again becoming a real problem. A variety of inserts for your shoes and other non-invasive methods can be implemented by your podiatrist to help you function without pain. If the problem is due to foot structure or anatomical issue, the doctor can also discuss the appropriate options for this correction as well.

3. “Shin Splints”- are something many of us have experienced before. Often associated with overuse or a change in activity intensity, they are often relieved by rest. A modification of the offending activity will often prevent reoccurrence. A change in foot wear or the implementation of an orthoses many help to correct the problem. If the problem persists, you should make an appointment with your podiatrist who can make sure it is not a more serious problem and assist in finding solutions.

As we all prepare for the holiday season, our schedules begin to change and we may be spending a lot more time walking around. Just like an athlete in competition we may be asking more of our feet than we usually do. Assure yourself a happy and health holiday paying proper attention your soles and toes!