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People who enjoy foot massages may experience pain relief and bliss while having an overall relaxing experience. Massages and reflexology are a form of foot therapy and bring different results. When reflexology is performed, the energy channels are stimulated that are connected to various organs and bones. This type of therapy may help reduce stress and increase energy. During a foot massage direct pressure is applied to the soft tissues in the foot and surrounding areas which may be beneficial in loosening constricting muscles. If you would like more information about the benefits of foot massages and reflexology, please confer with a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have.

Foot therapy is often necessary for those recovering from either foot deformities or foot injuries. If you have concerns regarding therapy, consult with Dr. Randy Garr from Bigfoot Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Most Common Injuries

People who are active or athletes are prone to a variety of injuries. Therefore, it is often important to take part in physical therapy in order to quickly get back on the right track. 

What to Do When Injured

Physical Therapy – This specialized treatment will focus on the affected area, speeding up recovery and the overall healing process. It is a proven method that has helped millions of people return from any injury.

During physical therapy you will undergo regimented training to get back into full form. Training is often very difficult, especially at first when the foot feels weak. Physical therapy often involves:

Basic stretching and twisting exercises – getting the feet’s mobility and flexibility up.

Massaging – the therapist will massage the injured area in order to activate the muscles and relax them.

Strengthening Exercises – this allows the muscles in the affected area to regain their full strength, a vital step towards full recovery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Provo, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Sesamoiditis is a particular kind of foot affliction in which the two small sesamoid bones located in the ball of the feet become inflamed and aggravated. Sometimes, individuals living with sesamoiditis may experience some kind of pain due to their condition. If the individual is prone to engage in activity that puts a significant amount of pressure on the balls of the feet, then pain from sesamoiditis is even more likely. Patients with sesamoiditis will often wonder how they can mitigate the pain caused by the condition. One potential option is to wear sesamoiditis insoles that are like pads for the feet. Some of these foot pads wrap around and support the ball of the foot. These insoles are useful because they can absorb shock in such a way that lessens the pain caused by sesamoiditis. Additionally, these pads can be helpful because they sometimes fit comfortably in the shoes one wears. If you have sesamoiditis, contact a podiatrist today to discuss the possibility of foot pads.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Dr. Randy Garr of Bigfoot Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Provo, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Blisters are certain areas of the skin that can be covered by a bubble-like substance, filled with some kind of bodily fluid. Blisters can often cause an individual a considerable amount of discomfort. Blisters are also generally unsightly. It is important to note that children can develop blisters on their feet for many different reasons. Notably, blisters can result from hand, foot, and mouth disease. As a result of this disease, children typically develop spots on their feet and hands. These spots can then lead to blisters. Parents should be aware of the fact that the fluid in the blisters, if spread, can also transmit the disease. Therefore, if your child has hand, foot, and mouth disease, you should be especially mindful of any blisters that may develop. Contact a podiatrist today if you have concerns about this disease.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Randy Garr of Bigfoot Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often 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.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Provo, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Peripheral artery disease, PAD, is a circulatory condition that affects the lower limbs and feet, among other extremities. It is the result of a buildup of fat and plaque in the artery walls that restricts blood flow. Signs that you may have peripheral artery disease include pain, numbness, and a feeling of coldness. In addition, if you have PAD, you may notice that minor wounds on the ankle or foot take an unusually long time to heal. You may be more at risk of having PAD if you are a diabetic, have high blood pressure or high cholesterol, and if you are a smoker. If left untreated, PAD can cause serious health problems, including gangrene and, in extreme cases, the loss of a limb. A podiatrist can examine your feet and ankles to determine if peripheral artery disease is the cause of your symptoms. Tests may include checking the pulse in the feet, as well as taking CT or ultrasound scans. For more information about peripheral artery disease in the feet, please contact a podiatrist.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Dr. Randy Garr from Bigfoot Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Provo, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.