In the realm of footwear, the quest for the perfect fit begins with precision in measurement, and the venerable Brannock device stands as an iconic ally in this pursuit. It has been known to accurately measure foot size, which is vital to buying shoes that fit correctly. Wearing shoes that are either too snug or excessively loose can result in discomfort as well as various foot issues. Prolonged use of ill-fitting shoes can contribute to the development of toe deformities, corns, and calluses. Plus, with age, your feet undergo slight alterations in both length and width. Therefore, it becomes necessary to regularly measure your feet, especially if your once-comfortable shoes are now causing foot problems. Developed in the early 20th century, the Brannock device provides a comprehensive assessment of your foot’s dimensions. Start by placing the heel snugly against the back of the device and spreading the toes naturally along its width. This is how accurate foot measurements are taken. If you are having trouble determining your shoe size, or are experiencing foot pain caused by your shoes, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Thick toenails are a prevalent issue among the older adults, often signifying underlying health problems that require intervention. Prompt attention is important, as delayed treatment can result in excessively brittle nails. Various factors contribute to the development of thick toenails. Fungal nail infections, which affect nearly 10 percent of the U.S. population, are a leading cause. Dermatophytes, candida, or non-dermatophytic molds often trigger these infections. Nail injuries, poor foot hygiene, and compromised immune systems can make the situation worse. Nail psoriasis, a common skin condition, presents another potential cause of thick toenails. Distinctive symptoms include pitting, ridging, and abnormal contours. Additionally, diabetes, toe injuries, yellow nail syndrome, and the natural aging process can contribute to the thickening of toenails. Treatment options include prescribed antifungal medications, both oral and topical, and, in severe cases, surgical or chemical nail removal. Recognizing the diverse causes of thick toenails enables individuals to seek appropriate podiatric care. For help with thickened toenails, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and a discussion of treatment options. 

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis, a prevalent foot ailment, reveals itself as a condition marked by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes. Characterized by stabbing pain, particularly during the initial steps after awakening or prolonged periods of inactivity, plantar fasciitis often affects the heel and sole. The condition typically results from overuse, where repetitive stress on the plantar fascia leads to microtears and inflammation. While commonly associated with athletes, plantar fasciitis can affect individuals from various walks of life, particularly those with jobs that require prolonged standing. Having tight calf muscles or flat feet and wearing inadequate footwear may contribute to increased vulnerability. Recognizing plantar fasciitis's early signs, such as localized pain and stiffness, enables timely intervention. If you have heel pain, it may be indicative of plantar fasciitis. If this applies to you, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat this condition.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Taking an average of 8,000 steps a day, it is essential to give your feet the care they deserve. Podiatrists emphasize the importance of foot health, offering useful advice. One key recommendation is to refrain from walking barefoot in public showers, as they are hotspots for athlete's foot-causing fungus. Wearing protective footwear such as flip-flops or water shoes is advised. Extra attention should be paid to drying the feet, particularly between toes. The condition of your feet can be indicative of overall health. For instance, changes like the disappearance of toe hair or alterations in skin texture may signal peripheral arterial disease, or PAD, which can suggest broader cardiovascular issues. Dry skin and non-healing ulcers could point to undiagnosed diabetes. Choosing the right footwear is critical. Pointy pumps, for example, can lead to bunions and other painful conditions. Shoes with a wide toe box and heels under two inches are recommended. Additionally, the length of your toes matters. If your second toe is longer than your first, it can lead to various foot problems, including bunions and back issues. This condition, known as Morton's toe, requires wearing appropriate footwear to mitigate problems. Toenail fungus is another common issue, often indicated by discolored or brittle nails. Keeping the feet dry and changing sweaty socks frequently may help to avoid fungus. If you would like to obtain additional information about good foot care,it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide you with useful advice.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

• Physical therapy
• Drugs
• Orthotic inserts or soles
• Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A diabetic foot exam is a comprehensive evaluation essential for managing diabetes and preventing foot-related complications. During this examination, podiatrists visually inspect the feet for any cuts, sores, blisters, or signs of infection. They also check for changes in skin color, swelling, and redness. Another critical aspect of the exam involves assessing sensation in the feet. Podiatrists use tools like a monofilament or tuning fork to test for diabetic neuropathy, a condition that can reduce sensitivity in the feet. To evaluate blood flow, pulses in the feet are checked to identify any circulation problems that may slow down wound healing. Additionally, podiatrists look for foot deformities, such as bunions or hammertoes, which can increase the risk of pressure sores. An examination of the patient’s shoes will be done to ensure proper fit and support. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist for such exams, as well as to get vital education on how to take care of your feet to preserve their health.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.