Choosing the right pair of high heels involves more than just style, it is about finding a fit that complements your unique foot shape. For flat feet, look for heels with built-in arch support or cushioning to provide stability and prevent discomfort. High arches benefit from heels with a lower height and extra cushioning to alleviate pressure on the instep. If you have narrow feet, opt for pointy-toed heels that offer a snug fit and elongate the appearance of the foot. Conversely, individuals with wider feet may find comfort in rounded or peep-toe styles that provide ample room in the toe box. Additionally, those with bunions or other foot irregularities may prefer heels with soft, stretchy materials or adjustable straps to accommodate any protrusions or sensitivities. Wearing heels can negatively affect the feet, and it is beneficial to choose the right shape and style for your feet. If you have developed foot conditions from wearing heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment, and guide you on choosing the right pair for you.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Arthur Segall, Jr., DPM from Segall Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Plantation, FL Ft. Lauderdale, F . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Edema in the legs and feet is a common condition characterized by swelling. The swelling is caused by excess fluid trapped in bodily tissues. Many factors can contribute to such swelling, like standing or sitting for long periods, which hinders proper blood flow. It also may stem from serious underlying health issues, including heart disease, kidney problems, or liver disease. Other contributing factors to edema include pregnancy, obesity, and certain medications that may cause fluid retention. Symptoms of edema include swollen, puffy skin that may feel tight. When the skin is pressed, it may also produce a dimple. There are many treatment options for edema, and a podiatrist, or foot doctor, is a specialist that can provide a personalized treatment plan. If you are affected by swollen feet and legs, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist today for proper care. 

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Arthur Segall, Jr., DPM of Segall Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Plantation, FL Ft. Lauderdale, F . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Foot injuries are a common occurrence in fitness facilities, often the result of crush injuries from free weights, falls, or awkward landings during exercise classes. These injuries can range from minor sprains to more severe fractures, impacting one's ability to maintain an active lifestyle. Prevention techniques play a critical role in reducing the risk of foot injuries. Properly warming up and stretching before exercise sessions can enhance flexibility and prevent strains. Wearing appropriate footwear with adequate support and cushioning is essential to absorb shock and protect the feet from impact. Additionally, maintaining good form and technique during exercises can help minimize the risk of falls and accidents. If you have sustained a foot injury while working out at a fitness center, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment. This will help with a speedy recovery and encourage you to return safely to your fitness routine.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Arthur Segall, Jr., DPM of Segall Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Plantation, FL Ft. Lauderdale, F . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Friction blisters on the feet can transform a pleasant stroll into a painful ordeal. These irritating nuisances arise from repeated rubbing against the skin, causing it to blister and fill with fluid. Typically occurring on pressure points or where shoes constantly rub, symptoms can include discomfort, swelling, and sometimes even pain. The duration varies. While some resolve within a few days, others can linger for weeks, hindering mobility and comfort. Treating friction blisters involves cleaning the area with mild soap and water, then applying a bandage to protect the skin and promote healing. However, for persistent or severe cases, it is suggested that you seek guidance from a podiatrist who can offer tailored solutions to address your specific situation.

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 Arthur Segall, Jr., DPM of Segall Foot and Ankle. Our doctor 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 offices located in Plantation, FL Ft. Lauderdale, F . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Broken toes, though often perceived as minor injuries, can cause significant discomfort and inconvenience. Common causes include trauma from stubbing or dropping heavy objects on the toes, as well as sports-related injuries and accidents. Symptoms of a broken toe typically include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot. In severe cases, the toe may appear misaligned or visibly deformed. Unlike more complex fractures, diagnosing a broken toe may not always require imaging tests. However, seeking medical attention from a podiatrist is advisable to confirm the diagnosis and rule out any complications. Treatment for broken toes typically involves rest, elevation, and immobilization to promote healing and alleviate pain. In some instances, a podiatrist may recommend buddy taping or wearing a splint or walking boot to stabilize the toe during recovery. Having a broken toe can negatively impact daily activities. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you seek advice about proper treatment from a podiatrist as quickly as possible to avoid potential complications in healing.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Arthur Segall, Jr., DPM from Segall Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Plantation, FL Ft. Lauderdale, F . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.