Category: foot care guidelines

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Everyday Tips for Healthy Feet

Your feet are an essential aspect of your overall health, and with spring here people are increasing their activities. Now is the perfect time to take a moment and look at some simple tips to help keep your feet healthy and happy.

A lot of us take the health of our feet for granted until something goes wrong. Unfortunately, by the time a foot condition is detected, it can require extensive treatment. That’s why it’s important to avoid foot problems in the first place through preventive care instead of waiting to treat them after they develop. Here are some general foot care tips:

  • WASH YOUR FEET REGULARLY – wash your feet every day in warm soapy water. You may not want to soak them for long periods as this might take away your skin’s natural oils.
  • KEEP YOUR FEET DRY – dry your feet carefully after washing them. Make sure you get between the toes. Dampness is the perfect environment for bacteria to grow and this may cause a fungal infection like athlete’s foot to occur.
  • MOISTURIZE – if you have dry skin you need to apply moisturizing cream all over the foot but remember to leave the area between your toes dry.
  • CUT YOUR TOENAILS – trim your toenails frequently using appropriate nail clippers. Always cut straight across and never down the corners or at an angle. This can result in ingrown toenails which can be painful and may lead to an infection.
  • CHANGE SOCKS DAILY – this will help prevent foot odor. Sweaty feet can attract bacteria that produce odor. Try to wear socks made of wool or cotton. These enable your feet to breathe and help them in temperature regulation.
  • AVOID FLIP-FLOPS – flip-flops don’t support your feet. They may cause arch and heel pain to develop if you wear them for too long.

If you have any issues with foot health and mobility, contact Step by Step Family Foot Care in Parsippany, New Jersey. Our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Debra B. Manheim, offers treatment for foot and ankle disorders, biomechanical analysis, and functional orthotic fabrication. For more information and answers to your questions, and to schedule an appointment, contact us at (973) 917-3785.

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Holiday Gifts for the Feet

foot gifts

If you still have some last-minute holiday gift shopping to do, foot pampering is the way to go. The team at Step By Step Family Foot Care has you covered with some great suggestions.

  • At-home spa kit—The perfect gift for someone special who needs a bit of pampering. A trip to the salon or spa may sound like a dream come true, but given the pandemic, it’s likely not practical. Instead, recreate a spa-like experience at home by putting together a set of amenities that will make your experience truly special. Be sure to include scented lotions, moisturizer or cream, multi-color nail polish, toenail clippers, toe separators, nail file, cuticle remover, and a pumice stone for callus removal.
  • Foot massager—Nothing says thanks like a soothing foot massage after a long, exhausting day at work. A wide variety of massage products are available for the feet. Invest in a good foot massager that can help you relax, improve circulation throughout the body, and reduce aches, pains, and stress in your feet.
  • Insulated water bottle—Water has a lot to do with the body and feet. The body functions best when adequately hydrated. Drinking the right amount of water can help flush out harmful toxins from the body, improve blood flow to the extremities, reduce the severity of gout flare-ups, promote healthy glowing skin/toenails, and prevent foot cramps. Doctors recommend that you drink 8 to 10 glasses of water a day.

If you need more gift ideas or have concerns about your foot health, contact Step By Step Family Foot Care. Our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Debra B. Manheim, can help you with any foot or ankle pain or deformity you are experiencing. Call us at (973) 917-3785 to schedule a convenient appointment or visit our office in Parsippany, NJ. Step By Step Family Foot Care is well-equipped with state-of-the-art technologies and diagnostic tools to handle all your podiatric needs. For more information on podiatry related topics and the many services we offer, you can browse through our podiatric services and blog website sections.

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6 Steps to Fabulous Summer Feet

Many outdoor activities such as family picnics, barbecues, visiting local beaches and other summer hangouts have come to a standstill throughout the country because of the Covid-19 pandemic. This summer is, undoubtedly, going to look different.

You can still enjoy the outdoors while social distancing. However, it is of utmost importance that people with high-risk conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, and circulation problems take specific measures to stay safe. Today Dr. Debra B. Manheim of Step By Step Family Foot Care recommends the following 6 steps to fabulous summer feet that will keep your feet safe, healthy, and looking their best even during the coronavirus outbreak.

  1. Avoid walking barefoot. Never go outdoors without shoes in the summer because of the increased risk of infection or injury to the feet.
  2. Wear activity-specific shoes. If you are going to pick an activity this summer like running or golf, be sure to wear appropriate footwear. The type of shoes you wear can help your feet stay healthy and safe. Wear flip-flops if you are out on the beach but avoid walking in them for prolonged periods as they lack cushioning and support.
  3. Keep shoes and socks dry. Podiatrists recommend that you switch your shoes periodically throughout the week. This helps your shoe air out properly between wearing, reduces moisture and bacteria buildup, and helps prevent foot odor. Change and wash your socks regularly.
  4. Use sunscreen. Don’t forget your feet when applying sunscreen. SPF helps guard against skin cancer and premature aging of the skin on your feet.
  5. Let your feet breathe. Open-toe shoes such as sandals are a good choice, but they may lack support. Wear shoes that offer plenty of support and are made of breathable materials to provide ventilation. This will help keep your feet healthy, dry, and sweat-free.
  6. Stay hydrated. As temperatures climb in the summer, make sure that your body is well hydrated. Drinking plenty of water will also help reduce swelling in the feet.

Your podiatrist is the best resource for any foot and ankle problem. Dr. Debra B. Manheim is here to help get your summer started on the right foot. Call us at (973) 917-3785 or visit our office in Parsippany, NJ.

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Five Ways to Keep Your Feet Happy During This Holiday Season

happy holiday feet
As holiday happiness reaches its peak, be sure not to neglect your feet. Keep them safe so that you can enjoy your holidays to the fullest.

We at Step by Step Family Foot Care advise our patients to take it easy and take ample rest breaks in between all the hustle and bustle. Walking from one corner to the other at shopping malls, running errands, standing in long lines, going up and down endless stairs, are all factors that can result in foot pain or ankle sprains.

Here are five ways to ensure the safety of your feet:
  1. Wear comfortable shoes: If you have a busy day lined up, it is best to put on a pair of comfy shoes that provide heel and arch support to your feet. Avoid wearing heels for long durations, as that will surely result in sore feet.
  2. Use orthotic inserts: Customized orthotic inserts are the greatest gifts that you can give to your feet. With extra support, stability, and balance, you can cruise swiftly through all the crowded places.
  3. Watch where you are stepping: Winter season makes paths slippery. Therefore, it is crucial to watch out for places that are wet or pose a threat of slipping. Carelessness can cost you a sprained ankle, a damaged tendon or worse – a fracture!
  4. Keep your feet clean and dry: Closed shoes, thick socks, and heated places are sure to make your feet sweaty, exposing them to the risk of fungal and bacterial infections. Wash your feet daily and keep them dry. Switch shoes and keep extra pairs of socks so that you can change frequently. Foot powder is also quite useful.
  5. Don’t burden your feet: With the abundance of sugary treats and holiday feasts, one is very likely to gain extra pounds. Watch your weight as it can damage your tendons and result in excruciating foot pain.

If you have any concerns related to your feet, contact our office in Parsippany, NJ by calling (973) 917-3785 to schedule a convenient appointment. Our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Debra B. Manheim will examine your foot and ankle condition and recommend the best course of action for their health and safety. For more information on foot problems and foot health, you can browse through our patient education library.