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Podiatrist - Cromwell
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Cromwell, CT 06416

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By Feet First Foot Care Specialists, LLC
August 08, 2022
Category: Flat Feet

Summertime’s still fresh in the air and when the sun’s out, a walk to the beach is a favorite vacation activity. For some of us, walking for extended periods might be uncomfortable, but for others, it can be painful. At Feet First Foot Care Specialists, we want our patients well-informed about any existing conditions they have, or continuous foot or ankle pain they may be experiencing. Patients suffering from flat feet may not experience any pain at all, but prolonged strain can affect the knees and hips. Flat feet could also alter the alignment of your legs and cause further muscle pain. 

Causes

Flat feet are when the arches under your feet aren’t visible when you stand up. This is normal in infants whose arches develop later in childhood, but some adults retain flat feet. This can also happen due to years of wear and tear, where the tendons supporting the arch and running along the inside of your ankle fall over time, or if you have a family member that passed down the gene. There are several risks that could also contribute to the condition, which include:

Symptoms

One of the most common symptoms would be foot pain in the heel or arch where strained muscles and ligaments are affected. Other symptoms include:

  • Pain when walking or changes in your stance
  • Leg cramps
  • Stiffness in the calves, hip, or lower back

Treatment

Treatment isn’t a necessity if the condition isn’t causing significant problems, but there are several ways to ease the discomfort. Surgery is rarely needed to treat flat feet and most people don’t find the need to treat it at all, but for those who seek treatment, here are some options:

When to Call a Podiatrist

If you’re having trouble balancing, experiencing pain while walking or feel like your feet are stiff, it’s always best to consult a podiatrist. Our board-certified podiatrist Dr. Adam Mucinskas is specially trained to diagnose and determine what the next best course of action would be. To schedule an appointment at our Middlesex County office call (860)-632-5499 or visit our website for more information.

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By Feet First Foot Care Specialists, LLC
August 03, 2022

From walking to running to driving, our lower extremities brace under a lot of pressure daily. Stretching the feet and ankles provide relief that reaches both physically and mentally. Some of the associated benefits of stretching include improved circulation, improved cardiovascular health, and even a boost in your overall mood. 

Your Feet in Motion

Stretching helps to keep our muscles and tendons flexible and healthy. Stretching also increases blood flow through the body. Having tense muscles and proceeding to complete a workout can have serious adverse effects on your health and can also lead to an increase in injuries. One of the most effective ways to get exercise is to walk. Walking is great for your feet and ankles because it provides a full range of motion by activating all the muscles in your foot. To gain the most from walking, it is important to listen to your feet. Shoes that don’t provide enough support, forgetting to stretch, and improper gait can lead to foot injuries.

Things To Keep in Mind

  • Relax and take your time when stretching.
  • Try to hold stretches for 30 seconds without moving.
  • If it hurts, stop! Pain means that you are pushing your muscles too far.
  • Take time for yourself each day. Whether this means taking a walk, stretching for 10 minutes in a quiet room, or having a five-minute meditation session.

How To Maintain a Routine

This may arguably be the most difficult part. Maintaining a routine can sound like such a drag. But maintaining a daily self-care routine doesn’t have to be. Check out this article from Healthline with 19 toe stretches to improve flexibility and mobility. Once you get in a routine of stretching your lower extremities, you will see increased strength and mobility!

When To Ask for Assistance

If you have any questions or concerns pertaining to your feet and ankles, or would simply like advice– contact our Cromwell, Connecticut office at (860)-632-5499 to schedule an appointment or visit our website for more information. Our board-certified podiatrist Dr. Adam Mucinskas provides exceptional care to treat a wide-range of conditions.

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By Feet First Foot Care Specialists, LLC
July 25, 2022

At Feet First Foot Care Specialists, we want to encourage our patients to live the happiest and healthiest lives they can. Part of that is by providing the best support and the most informative facts for our patients. It’s summertime and for many of us, flip-flops are the footwear favorite. But did you know by making a few positive changes to your summer footwear could vastly change your podiatric health? 

Flip-Flops and Your Feet

While flip-flops may be the most effortless choice on a hot sunny day, they do not provide nearly the right amount of protection and support that your feet need. Excessive pressure can cause the heels and arches of the feet to swell. Due to the limited amount of protection that flip-flops provide, several adverse effects include blisters, foot fungus, strained tendons, plantar fasciitis, and more.

When Is the Right Time to Wear Flip-Flops?

While there are many adverse effects of wearing flip-flops regularly, wearing them for a brief time may have outweighed the benefits. Wearing flip-flops in locker rooms protect your feet from fungus and bacteria that may be living on the floor. Wearing flip-flops for a short time protect the feet from athlete’s foot and plantar warts. Overall, choose a time to wear flip-flops when you are doing low strenuous activities like walking to the mailbox or going to the pool. Avoid wearing flip-flops on long walks or while running errands.

Treating The Adverse Effects of Flip-Flops

The first step in treating the adverse effects of flip-flops is to swap them out for another pair of breathable shoes that provide the right support for your feet. Placing an ice pack on the affected area may relieve some pain and swelling. Lightly stretching the area or alternatively using a tennis ball to roll out the affected area may provide relief. If you or anyone you know have persistent pain, it is best to contact a podiatrist for further assistance.

The Best Alternatives to Flip-Flops

Sandals usually provide more support to the arches of the feet than flip-flops due. Custom orthotic sandals are a great option. As you search for a better footwear option, consider:

  1. Adding additional straps for more coverage and support.
  2. They are the right size and fit well.
  3. They provide enough support.

When To Call a Podiatrist

If you or anyone you know suffers from persistent pain in the feet, ankle, and arches, it is always best to contact a podiatrist. A podiatrist will be able to examine the affected areas and determine the best course of treatment. To schedule an appointment at our Cromwell, Connecticut office with board-certified podiatrist Dr. Adam Mucinskas,call (860)-632-5499 or visit our website.

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By Feet First Foot Care Specialists, LLC
July 18, 2022

Poor circulation in the lower extremities is often caused by underlying diseases such as peripheral artery disease (PAD), and a linked condition called atherosclerosis. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. When the blood vessels and arteries begin to narrow, they stiffen up due to a build-up of plaque, which links to atherosclerosis. Both of these conditions cause a decrease in the amount of blood that can flow to your lower extremities. Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. 

Causes

Lack of oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

  • Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness  
  • Numbness or cramping in the legs
  • Skin discoloration
  • Slower nail & hair growth
  • Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes, smoke, or are over the age of 50 are at higher risk for developing symptoms of poor circulation in the lower extremities. If you are experiencing any symptoms of poor circulation in your feet, ankles, or lower legs, make an appointment with board-certified podiatrist Dr. Adam Mucinskas for an examination.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

  • Numbness
  • Tingling
  • Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
  • Pain
  • Muscle Cramps

Treatment

You can try to improve the circulation in your feet and legs by:

  • Exercise. Regular movement can increase the blood and oxygen your muscles receive.
  • Cutting your salt intake. This will reduce fluid retention (which restricts circulation).
  • Eating foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids help prevent blood platelets from clumping together
  • Try to alternate positions throughout the day. Sitting or standing for too long can also cause poor circulation in your feet and ankles.
  • Avoid wearing high heels. Shoes that do not provide the right support can also interrupt blood flow to the feet and toes.
  • See your podiatrist. A podiatrist can examine and evaluate your feet and ankles to find the cause of your pain. They will also assist you in finding a daily regime that works well for you and your condition. To make an appointment at our Middlesex County office, please call (860)-632-5499 or visit our website for more information.
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By Feet First Foot Care Specialists, LLC
July 12, 2022
Tags: skin cancer   sunscreen   spf   UV safety   UV rays   UV Damage   flip-flops   crocs  

July is UV Safety Awareness Month, and rightfully so! Summer is finally here, which means the outdoors is beckoning, and we are all taking advantage of what nature has to offer. It is especially important this time of the year to lather up on SPF. But did you know your feet are just as vulnerable to harmful UV rays as the rest of your body? At Feet First Foot Care Specialists, we want our patients informed so they can make the best decisions regarding their health. Below you will find facts on UV safety and tips on protecting your feet all summer long! 

The Danger of UV Rays

UV rays, also known as ultraviolet radiation, come mainly from the sun. In most places, the UV rays are the strongest between 10 am and 4 pm. These rays can cause premature aging of the skin causing the skin to wrinkle and have a leathery appearance. Overexposure to UV rays can cause an array of serious health issues, such as skin cancer, melanoma, immune suppression, and heat exhaustion. For more information, check out the EPA’s website for more potential health effects of UV radiation. 

How To Reduce UV Damage to Your Skin

  1. Use Sunscreen. Wearing sunscreen is important year-round. Even in the winter, harmful UV rays can cause health effects. Most Dermatologists recommend using at least 30 SPF sunscreen, which blocks about 97% of harmful UV Rays.
  2. Avoid Peak Sun-Times. Harmful UV Rays are the least intense in the morning and early evening. If you are out at peak sun times, try to find activities you can do in the shade.
  3. Wear The Right Footwear. Sandals and flip-flops are easy to slip on, but they leave your feet exposed to the elements. Crocs are a useful shoe that protects while also allowing your feet to breathe.
  4. Cover Your Skin. One way to add further protection to your skin is to cover your skin. Choose breathable fabrics that keep you cool. Alternatively, use a beach umbrella, a pop-up tent, or the help of a big tree for extra shade protection.
  5. Drink Plenty of Water. Drinking plenty of water during the day is important! Staying hydrated, especially in the summer sun will help to replenish your body of any lost water due to sweating. The U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine determined that an adequate daily fluid intake is: About 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids a day for men. About 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) of fluids a day for women.

In case of a foot emergency, call your podiatrist. Board-certified podiatrist Dr. Adam Mucinskas is specially trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. To schedule an appointment at our Middlesex County office call (860)-632-5499 or visit our website for more information.

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162 West St Ste K
Cromwell, CT 06416