Displaying items by tag: Healthy Lifestyle

At Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center we treat podiatric problems in Los Angeles County patients of all ages. In July, we recognize Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month. Nearly 300,000 children and teenagers suffer from Juvenile Arthritis (JA). Some forms are similar to the types of arthritis that adults suffer from, and some are unique to young people.

Many types of JA are autoimmune or autoinflammatory in nature, meaning that the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue with inflammatory chemicals. These can cause joint pain and inflammation, and skin disorders, and internal organ issues. If your child is experiencing joint pain in their feet or ankles, the first step is to make an appointment at our Long Beach office at (562) 420-9800 office so that our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria M. Foley and Dr. Constance Ornelas, can examine your child and determine if the discomfort is strictly podiatric or if arthritis or another disease may be the source. Once a diagnosis is determined, the foot doctor will advise you on treatment or refer you to a specialist in the area of concern. Just as with adults, healthy lifestyle choices can play a key role in managing JA and preventing its progression. Below are three to focus on:

Exercise—Although some types of movement may be painful for children and teens with joint disorders, regular exercise and physical activity is also one of the best weapons in the fight against arthritis. Depending on your child’s age, they may need help finding the activity that best suits their particular type of arthritis. Some good choices include swimming and aquatic classes (the buoyancy of the water naturally reduces pressure on the joints), biking and yoga. Expose your child to several different activities and as they mature, they will gravitate to those that best suit them.

Nutrition—Lower weight means less pressure on joints, especially those in the knees, ankles, and feet. Some foods are also known to decrease inflammation while others spark an inflammatory response. Make healthy eating a family habit and involve your children in choosing nutritious foods and then preparing and eating them together.

Mental Health—Growing up is hard enough without having a chronic disease. Make sure your child has a good support network, spends time with friends, and participates in activities that build confidence. Model positive coping skills for your child and seek professional help if necessary.

Each June we recognize Men’s Health Month and at Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center we think it’s a great opportunity to share with our Los Angeles County patients some tips for improving foot health for men.

One of the biggest differences in the way men and women approach health care, in general, is that women tend to be more proactive in taking care of health issues. Studies show that men are more likely to put off seeing a doctor until a problem is really bad. When it comes to your feet (and the rest of your body), detecting disorders in their earliest stages leads to quicker and more successful outcomes.

Here are some suggestions for keeping men’s feet healthier:

• Commit to basic foot care. No, it doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. It can be as simple as washing your feet daily with soap and water and always starting the day with clean socks and a dusting of foot powder to help keep feet dry. This will reduce the risk of fungal infections.
• Give your feet the once over weekly. Looking at your feet can help you spot changes that may indicate a developing problem. Did you know that your feet can help detect health concerns like high blood pressure and diabetes? Swelling, hair loss on your toes or feet, and discoloration of the skin are a few of the indicators that something bigger may be going on in your body. If you see anything unusual, contact our Long Beach office at (562) 420-9800 office promptly for an appointment so that our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria M. Foley and Dr. Constance Ornelas, can examine your feet and determine if there’s an issue.
• Buy good shoes. One of the biggest ways to keep your feet healthy is to wear good-quality shoes that fit properly. Get rid of shoes with worn-down soles, stretched-out heels, holes, or other signs of wear. Avoid shoes that are too tight in the toe box to help prevent ingrown toenails. Always wear athletic shoes designed for the sport or fitness activity you are doing.
• Protect feet on the job. If you are a construction worker or deal with harmful chemicals or toxic materials always wear protective footwear.
• Live a healthy lifestyle. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and getting enough sleep will all benefit your feet as well as the rest of your body.

If you have specific questions about a foot issue, don’t hesitate to contact us.