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Hitting the Pavement Without the Pain: How Runners Can Conquer Heel Pain

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Carrolton Foot Center is all in favor of regular running! It’s an incredibly beneficial form of exercise that delivers consistent benefits, boosting both physical and mental well-being. However, there’s no such thing as a free lunch, and running is no exception.

Heel pain and Achilles tendonitis are among the common costs runners must confront, and like any podiatric problem, they create serious stumbling blocks when left untreated. The blog below should help you stay fit, flexible, and focused on your goals.

Preventing Heel Pain with a Strong Foundation

You can keep heel pain from starting with some of these preventative measures.

  • Supportive Shoes: Invest in well-fitting running shoes with proper arch support and cushioning specifically designed for your running style. Replace them every 300-500 miles to maintain optimal shock absorption.
  • Stretch It Out: Regularly performing calf stretches and foot mobilizations helps maintain flexibility and range of motion, reducing stress on the heel.
  • Gradual Progression: Don’t jump into high mileage or intense training too quickly. Gradually increase distance and intensity to allow your body to adapt and strengthen.
  • Cross-Training: Mix up your routine with low-impact activities like swimming or cycling to provide recovery periods for your heels.

Managing Heel Pain: When Prevention Isn’t Enough

Sometimes, you’ll need to handle pain that’s already present, and RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) isn’t always enough.

  • Custom Orthotics: Podiatrists can create custom orthotic inserts that address your specific biomechanical imbalances, providing targeted support and pressure relief to prevent conditions like plantar fasciitis and overpronation.
  • Pain Relief Options: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort.

Treating Persistent Heel Pain: Advanced Strategies

If pain persists despite conservative measures, your podiatrist may recommend:

  • Leneva® Fat Pad Injections: These injections replenish lost cushioning in the heel pad, promoting pain relief and tissue healing, which is particularly helpful for plantar fasciitis.

Board-certified podiatrist Dr. Naghmeh Lilly Khavari is committed to helping patients in Carrollton, TX. With advanced treatment methods, she offers assistance with everything from ingrown toenails to sophisticated surgical solutions. Contact Carrollton Foot Center’s office at 469-998-3668 to schedule an appointment today!

How Certain Foods Affect Arthritis Symptoms

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We all know how closely related our diets are to our physical and mental health, but one connection that’s frequently overlooked is the relationship between our food choices and our foot health. In honor of National Nutrition Month, Dr. Khavari of Carrollton Foot Center, PLLC, wants to bring our feet into the equation, exploring a very common foot condition that is greatly affected by what’s on our plates – arthritis.

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is the swelling of one or more joints, and with 33 joints in the foot, there’s plenty of room for arthritis to develop. Arthritis in the feet can manifest in various forms, all of which result in joint discomfort and limited mobility.

The Impact of Poor Nutrition:

Inflammatory Foods

Consuming a diet rich in inflammatory foods can cause inflammation in the body. Processed foods, sugary snacks, and excessive red meat intake are known to trigger inflammation, intensifying arthritis symptoms in the feet.

Lack of Antioxidants

Antioxidants play a crucial role in neutralizing free radicals, which can contribute to joint damage. A deficiency in antioxidants found in fruits, vegetables, and nuts may leave the joints vulnerable to oxidative stress, worsening arthritis symptoms. Anti-inflammatory foods, such as fatty fish, leafy greens, berries, and nuts, can help reduce inflammation and alleviate arthritis symptoms in the feet.

Omega-6 Fatty Acids Imbalance

An imbalance between omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids can promote inflammation. Diets high in processed oils and fried foods, which are abundant in omega-6 fatty acids, need to be balanced out with omega-3 to maintain joint health. Incorporating sources of omega-3, such as flaxseeds, chia seeds, and fatty fish, while minimizing the consumption of processed oils and fried foods is key!

Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies

Inadequate intake of essential vitamins and minerals can contribute to weakened bones and joints. This deficiency may lead to an increased risk of arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis in the feet. Make sure to incorporate enough vitamin D, calcium, and antioxidants into your diet to support joint health.

Making informed dietary choices is essential in alleviating arthritis pain and discomfort. Board-certified podiatrist Dr. Khavari in Carrollton, TX, is committed to helping her clients prioritize their foot health so they can feel their best. Contact our office at 469-998-3668 to schedule an appointment!

Two New Ways to Treat Toenail Fungus

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Nail fungus, or onychomycosis, isn’t just unsightly – it can be painful and persistent, too. While traditional treatments can work, they often involve months of topical medications or oral antifungals. And frankly, they also tend to produce mixed results and potential side effects.

Podiatry is a field that’s friendly to innovation, however. That’s why the expert team at Carrollton Foot Center is proud to employ two innovative tools when treating toenail fungus: The Lunula Laser and KeryFlex nails. Used in tandem, these dynamic new treatments are revolutionizing the way our DPM approaches onychomycosis. Read on to learn how!

Shining a Light

  • The Lunula Laser utilizes painless, low-level laser therapy.
  • Its unique dual-wavelength approach targets the fungus directly while stimulating the nail bed to promote healthier growth.
  • This non-invasive treatment requires no downtime and boasts a high success rate, making it a patient-friendly option.

Adding Strength and Beauty

  • KeryFlex nails are flexible, resin-based prosthetics that seamlessly adhere to the damaged nail.
  • They offer immediate cosmetic improvement, hiding discoloration and restoring a natural appearance.
  • Their benefits go beyond aesthetics: KeryFlex nails create a protective barrier, preventing further fungal invasion and promoting healthy nail growth underneath.

The Synergistic Duo

Combining Lunula Laser’s fungus-fighting power with KeryFlex’s protective shield creates a powerful one-two punch against onychomycosis. The laser tackles the infection at its source, while the KeryFlex nail provides a favorable environment for healthy nail growth, preventing reinfection.

Compared to traditional methods, this duo offers several advantages in the fight against fungus:

  • Painless and non-invasive: No needles, harsh chemicals, or uncomfortable side effects.
  • Faster results: Visible improvement in weeks, compared to months with traditional treatments.
  • Higher success rates: Studies show high efficacy with both Lunula Laser and KeryFlex, often exceeding oral antifungals.
  • Improved patient experience: Comfortable, convenient, and cosmetically appealing.

Are you still struggling with fungal toenails? Our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Naghmeh Lilly Khavari, is here to help. She treats various conditions such as bunions, corns, calluses, diabetic foot conditions, ingrown toenails, plantar fasciitis, and more. Our team provides superior service to patients in Denton, Dallas, and Collins counties. Contact our office at (469) 998-3668 for your foot and ankle solutions! Our office is at 4221 Medical Parkway, STE 450, in Carrollton, TX.

Custom Orthotics Cater to Feet of All Ages

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Sometimes, we all need a little extra support to function. And when it comes to your feet, that’s especially true! Tired arches and aching heels don’t usually mend themselves, and leaving problems untreated can lead to further complications. This holds true for both our youngest patients and the senior citizens that we treat at Carrollton Foot Center.

In many cases, conservative interventions can make all the difference. That’s where custom orthotics come in, offering personalized solutions for both children and adults. Take a look at the information below to find out what these sole savers can do for you!

Growing Strong: Orthotics for Developing Feet

  • Children’s feet are constantly growing and evolving, and sometimes, that growth can lead to misalignments like flat feet or high arches.
  • Custom orthotics, crafted to mold perfectly to a child’s unique foot shape, can promote proper development, guiding growing bones into correct alignment while reducing the risk of long-term problems like hip and knee pain.
  • Early intervention with orthotics can address issues like heel pain and ingrown toenails, improving a child’s overall comfort and participation in activities.
  • By providing stability and support, orthotics can improve balance, coordination, and endurance, giving young athletes a boost in their chosen sports.

Stepping Ahead: Orthotics for Adult Feet

  • Whether it’s plantar fasciitis, arthritis, or simply tired feet, orthotics can redistribute pressure and provide cushioning, leading to pain relief and improved mobility.
  • Orthotics can address problems like foot pronation or supination, preventing further damage and improving overall posture and gait.
  • For individuals with diabetes or neurological issues, orthotics can play a crucial role in preventing foot ulcers and promoting wound healing.

Customized for You

  • Unlike the one-size-fits-all approach of over-the-counter inserts, custom orthotics are made specifically for each individual’s foot.
  • The precise fit minimizes pressure points, providing targeted support exactly where it’s needed.
  • High-quality materials ensure your orthotics withstand the demands of daily life.
  • With proper care, custom orthotics can offer years of improved foot health and comfort.

Wondering if orthotics are right for you? Come ask board-certified podiatrist Dr. Naghmeh Lilly Khavari! Committed to helping all her clients in Carrollton, TX, she offers a wide variety of treatments, from ingrown toenails to advanced surgical solutions. Contact Carrollton Foot Center’s office at 469-998-3668 to schedule an appointment today!

Stretching

The Benefits of Stretching Your Feet

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Our feet do so much for us, but unfortunately, they’re often overlooked when it comes to physical health and self-care. Taking care of your feet, ankles, and toes can go such a long way. One of the best ways you can do so is by stretching your feet daily. Not only will it help with injury prevention, but it can ease any foot pain you experience and appropriately prepare you for your next workout. Let’s take a closer look!

Keep Your Feet Healthy

The average person walks 150,000 miles in their lifetime. At that rate, your feet are likely to go through some wear and tear as you age. Injuries happen, whether you take precautions or not, especially if you’re athletic. Stretching can not only help you avoid certain overuse injuries but reduce the possibility of developing conditions like plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. It also helps improve…

  • Blood circulation in your legs. This can go a long way if you have diabetes!
  • Posture
  • Muscle strength
  • Balance
  • Foot pain due to conditions like arthritis, flat foot, and heel pain

Tips and Tricks

As with anything, there’s a right and a wrong way to stretch your feet. To ensure you stay safe during your exercise and get the maximum amount of benefits, keep these tips in mind:

  • If your feet start to hurt, stop your exercise immediately
  • Focus on sore spots.
  • Start slow and easy.
  • Take your time! There’s no rush.
  • Make sure you’re stretching for at least 30 seconds at a time.
  • Repeat on both feet.

Board-certified podiatrist Dr. Naghmeh Lilly Khavari is committed to helping her clients in Carrollton, TX. She offers a wide variety of treatments from ingrown toenails to advanced surgical solutions. Contact Carrollton Foot Center’s office at 469-998-3668 to schedule an appointment today!

Run Safely This Fall

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The weather is cooling down and many of us are ready to hit the trails or track to enjoy the crisp air during our run. Running is a great way to move our bodies. But accidents do happen, particularly to those who aren’t taking precautions. Injuries are common to runners. For those lacing up their sneakers this month, here are some important things to keep in mind when it comes to safety.

Stretch Effectively

Before partaking in any form of exercise, it’s important to warm up your body and strengthen your muscles and tendons. Take some time out of your routine to stretch your entire body, paying close attention to your legs, ankles, and feet. Not stretching before or after a run is the easiest way to create an injury. For more information on which stretches are best for you, reach out to your podiatrist for some tips and tricks.

Ease Into It

For a lot of people, working out is about pushing your body to its limit and testing your strength. However, it’s important to not push yourself too far. Listen to your body and stop when you feel you need to. Always ease into your run. Start slow and steady and gradually build up your speed. Your feet will thank you.

Be On the Lookout

One of the most common ways to injure yourself is to not be aware of your surroundings and bump into something. This is especially true for those who run outside on trails. Watch out for rocks, twigs, wet leaves, animals, people, or anything else that you might come across on your run.

Support Your Feet

One of the best ways you can prevent an injury is to wear the right kind of footwear. There are plenty of sneakers on the market, making it easy to find the best one for you. The perfect pair will provide support, comfort, flexibility, and breathability. New shoes should also feel great during the first try-on. Never buy sneakers with the intention of “breaking them in,” as this can lead to pain and possible injury.

Board-certified podiatrist Dr. Naghmeh Lilly Khavari is committed to helping her clients in Carrollton, TX. She offers a wide variety of treatments from ingrown toenails to advanced surgical solutions. Contact Carrollton Foot Center’s office at 469-998-3668 to schedule an appointment today!

Foot Pain and Your Golf Game

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August is National Golf Month, so we are making sure you are all set for your next swing. Whether you enjoy golfing as a hobby or competing with other professionals, we know you are dependent on your feet. As you travel from one hole to the next, foot pain is not a part of the plans. There are common foot conditions that can affect your game, but we’re here to make sure you stay steps ahead.

Dr. Naghmeh Lilly Khavari of the Carrollton Foot Center works with a variety of athletes, from basketball players to golfers. Regardless of the sport, support, and shoe style matter. She helps athletes make the best decisions for their feet. The results can help them with the game, too.

Here are three things to do before your next golf game:

Trim your toenails

Long toenails in your golf shoes can cause discomfort and an ingrown toenail. Trim your toenails properly to limit how much they rub against the inside of your shoes. An ingrown toenail occurs when the toenail begins to grow into the side of your skin. If it pierces the skin, there is a risk of infection.

Address foot pain

If you have foot pain, it will seem like the longest walk from one hole to the next. Addressing foot pain now will allow you to perform your best. Simple solutions include getting evaluated for custom orthotics, increasing your shoe size, or allowing your feet to rest. Common foot problems include plantar fasciitis, ingrown toenails, and Achilles tendonitis.

Check your shoes

Your shoe style can make a significant difference with your support. While shopping for golf shoes, take your time. Shop at the end of the day, which is when your feet are at their largest. Ask the sales representative to use a Brannock Device to measure your feet. The device is the best tool for getting an accurate shoe size.

Giving your best on the golf course starts with feeling great from head to toe. We can help with the foot-and-ankle part of your swing. If you have concerns about foot pain and how it can affect your game, contact us today.

Our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Naghmeh Lilly Khavari, is here to help. She treats a variety of conditions such as bunions, corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, plantar fasciitis, and more. We also offer advanced surgical solutions. Our team provides excellent service to patients in Denton, Dallas, and Collins counties. Contact our office at (469) 998-3668 for your foot and ankle solutions. Our office is at 4221 Medical Parkway, STE 450, in Carrollton, TX.

Ready, Set, HIKE!

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Are you hoping to get out and about on the trails for a hike this summer season? If you haven’t already, start planning! Texas is fast approaching the time of year when hiking is best done very early in the morning or not at all due to the heat. There are several benefits to hiking when it comes to our health and wellbeing, however just like anything else, there are risks, too.

Hiking Risks & Benefits

Hiking can be an easy way to get yourself hurt. As an activity, hiking relies primarily on your feet and ankles to get you around the trails you’re exploring. Most instances of hiking related injuries happen to involve the person’s feet or ankles due to walking on rough, slippery, soft, or uneven terrain. When you’re out hiking, you are much more exposed to potentially harmful parts of nature: jagged sticks and rocks that can lead to cuts and scrapes, as well as poison ivy or insects that can cause intense itching, scratching, and potentially lead to infection.

If you ask us, the benefits outweigh the risks – especially when you take the time to prepare for these situations before going on a hike! There are plenty of ways we can prepare ahead of time to help make our next hiking trip even more safe and exciting:

  • Research your trails ahead of time. What terrains will you be walking on?
  • What’s the weather going to be like? Is it better to go early before it gets hot?
  • Have you purchased a first aid kit yet?
  • Will you have enough water, or access to refill your water containers?
  • Do you have a plan in case of emergency, like falling and hurting your ankle?
  • Are your shoes appropriate for your hike?

Sandals can be more comfortable and allow better airflow, but this leaves them vulnerable to insect bites, cuts and scrapes, and sunburn. We hope these questions you can ask yourself before a hike will help you be better prepared for your next adventure! Remember, any foot or ankle aches or pains that last longer than a day or two after your hike shouldn’t go ignored. Call us today at (469) 998-FOOT (3668) to set up an appointment with Dr. Lily Khavari at Carrollton Foot Center in Carrollton, Texas.  We proudly serve Denton, Dallas and Collin Counties.

 

Kick Off Spring with Kickball

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Every year on April 17th, people around the world observe National Kickball Day. Kickball, depending on which part of the world you’re in, can either be the same as soccer (or football, in European countries) or it could be that game we all played in gym class during grade school. Ironically, the term ‘kickball’ is actually a shortened version of its original name, ‘kick baseball.’ As a sport, kickball originated in the early 1900s in Cincinnati, Ohio. Regardless of what kickball means to you or how you choose to play it, this fun activity is a very foot-heavy sport that relies on the endurance and resilience of our feet and ankles. Even when we’re all grown up and out of grade school, kickball can be a fun past time between a group of adults.

If you’re looking to start a kickball meet up, more power to you! It’s important, however, to keep your feet and ankles in mind when getting back into such an active pastime. What are some ways you can keep your feet and ankles in mind when looking to start playing kickball again?

Supportive shoes

Making sure that you have an appropriate pair of shoes for the standing and running around required for kickball is so important! Take some time to remember what issues you have had in the past, like heels that start to ache after standing for some time, or toes that cramp up. Be sure to consider these factors when choosing a pair of shoes for kickball!

Stretching it out

Before and after you plan to be active, be sure to get those stretches in. Dr. Lilly Khavari is a great resource for foot-friendly stretching exercises to make sure you’re warmed up and ready for the competition ahead. Take it a step farther by preparing ahead of time – if your first kickball visit is in one month, start doing exercises and training your feet and ankles to be ready for activity again today! Checking up – by far, one of the most beneficial things you can do to make sure you’re ready to get active on the field again is to check up on your foot and ankle health at Carrollton Foot Center in Carrollton, Texas. Take care of yourself by being proactive – call us today at (469) 998-3668 to schedule an appointment!

Contact Us

We’d love to hear any question or concern you have.

4221 Medical Parkway
STE 450
Carrollton, TX

(469) 998-3668

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