September 2025

Fall-proofing your home is an important step in preventing injuries, especially foot and ankle problems. Begin by checking the front steps for cracks or uneven surfaces, and ensure good lighting around the front door for safe entry. Installing grab bars near the door provides extra stability. Additionally,  use rubber-backed rugs to avoid slipping and always clean spills immediately to reduce hazards indoors. Falls can lead to sprains, fractures, or long-term foot pain. A podiatrist can evaluate injuries, provide treatment, and recommend supportive footwear or orthotics. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury from falling, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on additional fall prevention tips. 

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with John Mccain, DPM from Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists, PA. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Stuart and Jupiter, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The calf muscles are located at the back of each of your lower legs. They are connected to the heel bone by the Achilles tendon. Stretching and strengthening your calves may help prevent injuries to this area like muscle strains and Achilles tendonitis. One way that you can stretch your calves is by kneeling on a pad of cushion with one knee bent at a 90 degree angle, while your other leg is positioned in front of you, planted firmly on the floor and bent at a 90 degree angle. Put your weight on your front foot and lean forward, keeping your front heel on the ground. Then return to the starting position. Repeat 10 times on each leg. You should feel a stretch in the back of your lower legs. For more information about exercises for your lower limbs please consult with a podiatrist. 

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with John Mccain, DPM from Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists, PA. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Stuart and Jupiter, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

High heels should fit securely and comfortably to support proper foot alignment and prevent pain. When heels are too big, the foot slips forward, causing blisters and instability. If they are too small, they can pinch the toes and create corns or bunions. Shoes that are too narrow may lead to nerve compression or hammertoes, while heels that are too wide fail to provide support, increasing the risk of falls. Poorly fitted high heels can contribute to chronic pain and long-term foot conditions over time. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing problems caused by ill-fitting footwear and offer effective treatment solutions. If you have developed foot pain from wearing high-heeled shoes that do not fit correctly, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions. 

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact John Mccain, DPM from Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists, PA. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Stuart and Jupiter, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Living with diabetes requires careful attention to the health of the feet and ankles. Small cuts or blisters can progress into more serious wounds because circulation may be reduced and sensation often diminished. One type of wound seen in diabetic patients is a neuropathic ulcer, which develops when pressure and friction go unnoticed due to nerve damage. Ischemic ulcers may also appear when poor blood flow prevents proper healing. Infections are another concern, beginning as minor sores and quickly advancing without timely care. Even something as simple as a shoe rubbing against the skin can create an opening that lingers. Recognizing changes early is essential, yet many patients overlook small issues until they worsen. Professional evaluation offers the best chance for recovery. If you notice any wounds on your feet or ankles it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat foot wounds.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with John Mccain, DPM from Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists, PA. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Stuart and Jupiter, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel pain is a common complaint among seniors and can be caused by plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and arthritis. Plantar fasciitis often results in sharp pain in the heel, especially in the morning, caused by inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot. Heel spurs are bony growths that can cause stabbing pain with walking or standing. Arthritis in the heel joint may lead to aching, stiffness, and swelling, making daily activities uncomfortable. The heel may look swollen or feel warm and tender to the touch. A podiatrist can help diagnose the specific cause through a physical exam and imaging, such as X-rays or ultrasound. Treatment options include stretching exercises, supportive footwear, or anti-inflammatory medications. In some cases, more advanced treatments may be necessary. For proper diagnosis, effective relief, and a plan to improve your mobility, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact John Mccain, DPM of Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists, PA. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Stuart and Jupiter, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.