A lack of H2O affects just about every system and part of your body, and your plantar fascia is no different. “Dehydration can lead to diminishing the lubricant fluid around tendons and ligaments that prevent overuse injuries,” Dan Michaels, DPM says. This translates to potential micro-tearing and scarring of the plantar fascia, she says.  …

You might have heard that cutting a notch in the center of your toenail will temper the tendency for the nail to curve downward and dig into your skin. But does this method really minimize or heal ingrown toenails? The answer is an unequivocal “no”. “The nail grows from the base (cuticle area) forward, so…

According to podiatrist Dan Michaels, DPM, Crocs are great to wear after any kind of foot surgery or for diabetes sufferers in hot climates. This is down to their wide fit with a large toe box and ventilation that helps your feet breathe. Another benefit is that Crocs are lined with an antibacterial layer that…

  Many people deal with foot and ankle concerns by simply ignoring them, hoping the problem goes away. However, certain symptoms could be a sign of a serious condition, warn experts. “A foot and ankle surgeon has the right education and training to provide preventive care and early intervention, which remain essential, even in the…

COVID-19 is keeping podiatrist Dan Michaels, DPM on her toes. Dr. Michaels is seeing many patients with pandemic related foot issues. “A lot of people went from having a wide ranging area to walk, to mostly being in their houses, in their kitchens,”  Dr. Michaels said. “In Maryland, we have a lot of hardwood and…

Sweaty feet happen, but it’s important to have the proper footwear to help keep your lower body wetness from turning into an issue. After all, sweaty feet can lead to a host of problems, including blisters and foot odor. It’s understandable to want to do without that hassle. The best socks for sweaty feet can…

If the thought of wearing socks to bed makes you break out in a sweat, you wouldn’t be the first. Many hot sleepers find that their feet tend to overheat at night, making it difficult to get the shuteye they need. The good news? There’s a solution that one podiatrist confirms can really help keep…

Whether for work or leisure, if you spend long hours walking on hard surfaces, you know it takes a good pair of shoes to keep your feet comfy. And, the best shoes for walking on concrete “combine arch support and shock absorption for maximum comfort,” according to Dan Michaels, DPM. Additionally, Dr. Michaels suggests looking for…

Doctors can underestimate the importance of your feet and toes, too. “I’ve had patients go for a skin check, and they’re not even told to take off their socks and shoes,” says Dan Michaels, DPM.   Some people are born with concave or “spoon” nails. But a case that appears out of the blue warrants…

  Compression socks (or compression stockings) are socks of various length and tightness that are designed to gently squeeze legs a bit more than typical socks. “The key intention is to promote better blood circulation in the legs,” explains Dan Michaels, DPM. “It’s a very practical and common thing. But at the same time, it’s…