Blog
Pediatric Foot Pain is Not Normal: MD Podiatrist
Medical experts are reminding everyone that foot and ankle pain is not normal and should be addressed. “Your feet shouldn’t hurt,” says Dan Michaels, DPM a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon and a Fellow Member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS). “Foot and ankle surgeons are specially trained to diagnose and…
MD Podiatrist Discusses Consequences of Common Bunion
According to Dan Michaels, DPM, “Sufferers of hallux valgus may first experience pain on the side of the second toe, not even technically part of the bunion. But the big toe is, indeed, bigger and can exert significant force on the neighboring digit. Repetitive pressure has many effects on skin, and many are not good,…
Foot Pain Indicates Need for Foot Exam: MD Podiatrist
When our feet fail us, who’s really at fault? Whether for work or play, our feet are getting us there, and we might owe them a little more respect. “There’s usually two of them and all of your weight is focused on both of them,” said Dan Michaels, DPM. “Throughout the day they do take…
MD Podiatrist Discusses Easy Indicators of Ill-Fitting Shoes
Easy indicators of ill-fitting shoes include: blisters and calluses, toe issues, arch pain, numbness, tingling, and overall sore feet. To combat this, the first step is to chat with a podiatrist to learn about your individual foot needs. “Each shoe provides varying levels of support and stability, so it’s important to pick the right one…
MD Podiatrist Dispels Myths About Plantar Fasciitis
According to Dan Michaels, DPM, “Anyone suffering from plantar fasciitis is going to look for answers, a solution to this sometimes crippling discomfort. A common mistake made by those dealing with the pain of plantar fasciitis is to assume greater cushioning is the answer. Many afflicted individuals will seek out the softest soled shoe possible….
MD Podiatrist Lists Common Causes of Yellowing Feet
Why are the bottoms of your feet yellow? There are many possible causes of yellowing feet. Here are the most common according to Dan Michaels, DPM, board-certified podiatrist. 1. Calluses and corns 2. Plantar warts 3. Anemia 4. Jaundice 5. Raynaud’s syndrome 6. High doses of turmeric 7.Carotenemia 8. Diabetes. Because there’s a plethora of possible…
Running a Marathon: Preparation and Recovering Right
Running a marathon is a remarkable achievement that requires months of dedicated training. Failure to prepare or rushed recoveries, however, can end up souring the experience for runners of all levels. At the Reconstructive Foot and Ankle Institute, we understand the crucial role that proper foot care plays in ensuring a successful race. In this…
Myth vs. Fact: 3 Common Foot Pain Misconceptions Debunked
Foot pain is a common complaint at the Reconstructive Foot and Ankle Institute, but many patients still have misconceptions about causes and treatment. In the blog below, Dr. Daniel Michaels takes the time to thoroughly debunk three common myths about foot pain and what to do about it. We hope his words of wisdom help…
Foot Health for All Ages: A Podiatrist’s Perspective
As we age, our bodies undergo various changes, and our feet are no exception. While it can be tempting to dismiss those changes as par for the course, understanding them (and addressing any associated concerns) is actually essential for maintaining optimal foot health. Since September marks Healthy Aging Awareness Month, the team at the Reconstructive…
Do’s and Don’ts of Shoe Shopping: A Podiatrist’s Guide
Choosing the right shoes can make a world of difference in your comfort and overall foot health. Unfortunately, picking the wrong pair will lead you closer to podiatric problems with every step. Below, you’ll find some essential do’s and don’ts to keep in mind, courtesy of Dr. Daniel Michaels and the team at Reconstructive Foot…
Diabetes, Depression, and Diligent Foot Care
Reconstructive Foot and Ankle Institute has proven experience in managing the complications of diabetes. Unfortunately, that experience has taught us that some aspects of the condition are overlooked or neglected. For this blog post, Dr. Michaels will discuss the depression and lifestyle changes that accompany diabetes in detail. Read on to learn more about how…
Understanding Bunion Pain
A bunion, or hallux valgus, is a painful foot deformity that affects millions of people. While often associated with the enlarged joint at the base of the big toe, the consequences of this condition extend far beyond the obvious. And without proper care, symptoms tend to go from bad to worse. Reconstructive Foot and Ankle…
From Bunions and Hammertoes to Flat Feet and More: Which Problems Should You Watch For?
According to Dan Michaels, DPM, “Prevention begets correction.” Reconstructive Foot and Ankle Institute has always encouraged early intervention; after all, we understand that catering to biomechanics from an early age can help limit foot and ankle conditions later in life. Problems range in severity and treatment methods must adapt to a patient’s unique structure, so…
MD Podiatrist Explains Warning Signs of Hidden Health Issues
Our bodies are complex systems, and sometimes crucial health problems can manifest in seemingly unrelated ways. At the Reconstructive Foot & Ankle Institute, we’re often tasked with detecting these hidden issues. Today, Dr. Dan Michaels, DPM, highlights two podiatric red flags you shouldn’t ignore: reduced blood flow and pitting edema. Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) and…
Crocs Are Okay (Sometimes): MD Podiatrist Covers What to Look for in a Good Sneaker
Choosing the right shoes can be more challenging than it seems, particularly with all the dubious trends and sketchy terminology surrounding the subject. Fortunately, Reconstructive Foot and Ankle Institute has plenty of experience recommending the perfect footwear (and steering patients away from poor choices!) In the blog below, we’ll cover some basic principles and help…
My Toenails Are White! Should I Worry?
The human toenail, though seemingly simple, is a fascinating structure. Made primarily of keratin, the same protein found in hair, it protects the underlying toes. Unlike hair, however, toenails are composed of dead cells, which is why trimming them is painless. And according to Dr. Dan Michaels, DPM, healthy toenails also typically grow at a…
Walking, Running, and Summer Tips for Healthy Feet
Dan Michaels, DPM, knows that the summer months bring a lot of foot and ankle problems with them. Whether it’s barefoot running, sunburned skin, or something else, we know that fun outdoors often comes at a podiatric cost! Reconstructive Foot and Ankle Institute is here to help with some patient education. Keep reading to learn…
Thwart Plantar Warts with A Podiatrist’s Assist
At Reconstructive Foot and Ankle Institute, we want our patients to know that there are effective, long-term solutions available for Plantar warts.
Bunions: Taking Control of Your Foot Health
Your big toe supports much of your body’s weight, working hard each time you push your foot off the ground. That’s why bunions, bony bumps that tend to form near the joint at your big toe’s base, are so painful and restricting. Untreated, they inflict aches, irritate the skin, cause swelling, and limit your choice…
Footing the Bill: How a Podiatrist Can Help Manage Foot and Ankle Arthritis
May’s Arthritis Awareness Month isn’t over yet, so we want to spread the word however we can. Arthritis, a broad group of conditions causing inflammation and pain in the joints, can affect any part of the body, including your feet and ankles. These weight-bearing joints are susceptible to wear and tear over time, making foot…