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Balance exercises can play a vital role in maintaining stability and preventing falls, especially as people age. Poor balance often stems from weakened muscles in the feet, ankles, and toes, which are key areas for maintaining a steady gait. Declining strength can make daily activities like walking or standing more challenging, which increases the risk of falls. Regular balance exercises that target these areas, like heel raises or toe taps, can enhance muscle coordination and foot control. These exercises not only strengthen the lower body but also improve proprioception, or the body’s awareness of its position in space. A podiatrist can evaluate your feet and ankles for issues that may contribute to balance problems, such as deformities, joint instability, or conditions like arthritis. This foot doctor also can recommend specific strategies to improve foot and ankle strength and reduce your risk of falls. If you are exhibiting balance problems, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam that may help to avoid falling.

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 one of our podiatrists from Summerlin Foot & Ankle. Our doctors 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 Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain often stems from two conditions, which are heel spurs and plantar fasciitis. A heel spur is a bony growth that forms on the underside of the heel bone, often as a result of long-term pressure or inflammation. This growth can cause sharp pain, especially during walking or standing. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel to the toes. It typically causes pain in the heel and arch, particularly in the morning or after long periods of rest. While both conditions can cause heel pain, they differ in their underlying causes and treatment approaches. Proper diagnosis and targeted treatment can help manage pain and improve mobility for people suffering from either condition. If you are experiencing heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and treat it accordingly.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Summerlin Foot & Ankle. 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 contact our office located in Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Blisters on the feet occur when fluid accumulates between layers of skin, often as a response to friction or pressure. Repeated rubbing from poorly fitting shoes or intense activity can irritate the skin, leading to the formation of these protective fluid-filled sacs. Blisters on the feet may also arise from burns, extreme cold, or medical conditions like eczema or diabetic neuropathy. Depending on the cause, blisters can be painfu, making walking difficult. It is not recommended to pop blisters yourself as this may lead to infection, which may require medical attention. A podiatrist can safely assess and treat foot blisters, especially those that are recurring or linked to underlying health issues. This foot doctor can drain the blister under sterile conditions, recommend footwear modifications, and address infections as needed. Professional care also reduces the risk of complications, such as worsening pain or more serious infections. If you have a problematic foot blister, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for safe treatment.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Summerlin Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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