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Cycling and Your Foot and Ankle Health

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Did you know that May is National Cycling Month? Before you get out there on your bike, we at Carrollton Foot Center want to inform you of the upsides and downsides of cycling. In this article, we’ll stroll through the surprising relationship between your feet and this low-impact exercise, including the potential injuries you can sustain that most beginner cyclists don’t know about.

How Cycling Can Benefit Your Feet

One of the primary benefits of cycling for the lower extremities is improved circulation. The rhythmic pedaling action helps to pump blood through the muscles of your legs and feet. This can be advantageous for diabetics, people with ankle swelling, or those who spend long hours standing.

Since the circular motion of pedaling encourages a fluid movement in the ankle, cycling can also contribute to an increased range of motion in the ankle joint. While not as extensive as the range of motion during walking or running, this movement can be beneficial for overall joint health.

Many people think cycling is just for the thighs and glutes, however, cycling can indirectly strengthen the muscles surrounding the ankles and feet as they work to stabilize your position on the pedals.

Negative Impacts of Cycling on Your Feet

Despite its low-impact nature, cycling can negatively affect the feet and ankles if proper precautions aren’t taken. The repetitive motion of pedaling (while generally smooth) can lead to overuse injuries if training intensity or duration is increased too quickly.

Do you have neurological issues? While cycling can improve circulation, beware of certain pressure points from the pedals and tight-fitting cycling shoes. Both can compress nerves and blood vessels in the feet, which may not be a good match for these sensitive areas.

For everyone involved, improperly fitted cleats or an incorrect bike setup can also force the feet and ankles into unnatural positions and cause strain.

Common Foot and Ankle Injuries in Cycling

If you’re a cyclist, you should also look out for these common conditions:

  • Metatarsalgia: Pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot due to pressure on the metatarsals.
  • Achilles tendonitis: Inflammation of the Achilles tendon, often linked to improper saddle height or cleat position.
  • Plantar fasciitis: Heel pain that can be aggravated by excessive pedaling or improper foot support within the shoe.
  • Sesamoiditis: Inflammation of the small bones under the big toe joint, potentially caused by increased pressure during the pedal stroke.

Cycling and Your Feet

So, what’s the verdict? It depends on your lifestyle and preexisting foot and ankle health status. However, for non-sensitive people who take the proper steps to cycle safely, this is still a relatively low-impact exercise compared to running.

Consult with Board-certified podiatrist Dr. Naghmeh Lilly Khavari, a knowledgeable professional who is dedicated to her patients in Denton, Dallas, and Collins Counties. Dr. Khavari treats a wide range of conditions, from ingrown toenails to foot and ankle injuries. Call Carrollton Foot Center’s office (located in Carrollton, Texas) at (469)-998-3668 to schedule your first appointment today!

Peripheral Artery Disease and Peripheral Neuropathy: What’s the Difference?

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As we approach the peripheries of 2024, it’s only appropriate to discuss peripheral artery disease (PAD) and peripheral neuropathy, two distinct conditions that affect the feet in the form of pain, numbness, and weakness.

However, both conditions stem from different underlying causes and require distinct approaches to management. Today, we at Carrollton Foot Center will explain them in detail.

Peripheral Artery Disease

PAD is a circulatory condition that reduces blood flow to the feet. This causes pain, cramping, and numbness- especially during activity.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a significant health concern, affecting an estimated 8.5 million Americans, particularly those over 60. Smoking is a major risk factor for developing PAD, along with other conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.

And it’s best not to ignore PAD: if untreated, it can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and even amputation.

Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy involves damage to the peripheral nerves, which transmit signals between the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. This damage can lead to similar symptoms of symptoms, including burning sensations, shooting pains, and muscle weakness in the extremities.

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive Kidney Diseases, up to 50% of people with diabetes have peripheral neuropathy. This means that diabetes is a significant risk factor, but autoimmune diseases, infections, vitamin deficiencies, and exposure to toxins are all potential culprits.

Comparing and Contrasting PAD and Peripheral Neuropathy

While both conditions can cause similar symptoms, there are key distinctions:

  • Underlying cause: PAD stems from narrowed arteries and reduced blood flow, while peripheral neuropathy results from nerve damage.
  • Diagnosis: PAD is often diagnosed with imaging tests like an ankle-brachial index, while peripheral neuropathy may involve nerve conduction studies or biopsies.
  • Treatment: PAD treatment focuses on improving blood flow with lifestyle changes, medications, or procedures like angioplasty. Conversely, with peripheral neuropathy, we aim to manage the underlying cause and alleviate symptoms with medications, physical therapy, and alternative therapies.

Consult with Board-certified podiatrist Dr. Naghmeh Lilly Khavari, an esteemed professional who is dedicated to her patients in Denton, Dallas, and Collins Counties. Dr. Khavari treats a wide range of conditions, from ingrown toenails to foot and ankle injuries. Call Carrollton Foot Center’s office (located in Carrollton, Texas) at (469)-998-3668 to schedule your first appointment today!

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!

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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