Choose Custom Orthotics for Comfort

If you're looking for a little extra support for your feet, you may be tempted to try the inserts you find in the shoe department of your local store. While these may provide some comfort, they can end up feeling awkward because they're not made especially for your feet. For the ultimate in comfort, consider custom orthotics. These can be a little costly but the cost is well worth it. Sandy, Utah podiatrist Dr. Elizabeth Auger recommends orthotics for patients who suffer from pain and gait alignment issues.

Types of Orthotics
There are two main types of orthotics:

Functional: These orthotics are used to fix pain caused by an abnormal gait. They are also useful for tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, bursitis and shin splints. They are made of graphite or plastic.

Accommodative: These are softer than functional orthotics. They offer extra support and cushioning. Accommodative orthotics work well for uncomfortable foot conditions such as calluses and diabetic foot ulcers.

Benefits

• Custom orthotics have been proven to reduce heel pain and improve mobility. They can even help align your foot bones. They are useful for a variety of foot conditions.
• Orthotics are molded to fit your individual foot, so their fit is guaranteed. They can last for many years with proper care.

Walk More Comfortably
Prescription orthotics are created for only one person - you. if you're suffering from pain or gait issues, ask your podiatrist about how orthotics can help you find relief. To order your custom foot orthotics, call Sandy, Utah podiatrist Dr. Elizabeth Auger at (801) 619-2170.
www.slcpodiatrist.com

Plantar Fasciitis

Heel pain can often be caused by stress fractures, a nerve irritation, cysts, tendonitis and most often plantar fasciitis. This is a condition that affects the flat tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot connecting the heel bone with the toes. This tissue is called the plantar fascia. When you have strained this part of the body, the plantar fascia can swell and become weak. There are treatments that can assist in relieving this condition. Contacting a qualified podiatrist like Dr. Elizabeth E. Auger, DPM at her locations in West Jordan, UT, Salt Lake City, UT, and Sandy, UT can set you on your way to walking comfortably again.

Reasons and Treatments for Plantar Fasciitis

There are several reasons that a person could experience plantar fasciitis including overuse of the foot. Individuals that stand for long periods of time, especially those that are overweight, could put too much pressure on the plantar fascia causing it to become weak and less supportive. The treatment for such a problem might include ice and medications to reduce the swelling and exercises and stretches to stretch the area. Patients will also need to make sure they are wearing supportive, well-fitting shoes. Orthotics may be beneficial for patients who need specific support. In some more severe cases, surgery may be an option for correcting the problem. Specifically-designed footwear can also be worn in an effort to make proper adjustments and reduce the pressure to the area.

Putting off treatment can result in more pain and a longer recovery time. If you are experiencing pain in your heel and the arch of your foot, it is important to have it evaluated. Call us today at 801-619-2170 for an appointment with Dr. Elizabeth E. Auger, DPM. Dr. Auger has locations in West Jordan, UT, Salt Lake City, UT, and Sandy, UT. 

http://www.slcpodiatrist.com/

Bunions: Causes and Treatments

Bunions can cause discomfort, pain, and they can even change the way you walk. Unfortunately, bunions are common conditions. Fortunately, Dr. Elizabeth E. Auger, DPM is able to diagnose and treat bunions here in her West Jordan, UT, Salt Lake City, UT, and Sandy, UT locations.

A bunion is a bone formation usually located on the inside of the foot by the big toe’s first joint. It is possible to develop a bunion on the other side of the foot by the little toe’s first joint (called a tailor’s bunion). The formation is an abnormal bump that is red, sore, and inflamed. They can develop large enough to cause major pain. When being irritated, they can also become swollen and patients may experience a burning sensation. A bunion may also stiffen the joint.

Bunions are commonly caused by wearing inappropriate shoes. Shoes that do not allow enough room for the toes and high heels are often the culprits. When the toe joint is continually being pushed inward, that is when the joint begins to deform. Along with ill-fitting shoes, other factors in the formation of bunions include injuries, arthritis, and inheritance of a certain foot type.

There are several conservative treatments for slowing down the formation of a bunion and relieving the pain it causes. Wearing more supportive shoes will be the first step. Choose shoes that allow space for all of the toes. In addition, do not wear shoes with a tall heel or even switch to no heels at all if your foot is still being bothered. In addition to well-fitting shoes, orthotic insoles or custom orthotic insoles can help. Dr. Auger can help you choose the right orthotic for your unique condition. Padding and splinting inside of the shoe can also help move the toe joint back into place. Anti-inflammatories and ice are good for relieving pain and swelling.

If you are showing signs of a bunion, be sure to schedule an appointment with Dr. Elizabeth E. Auger, DPM so she can diagnose you, help you determine the factors of formation, and treat you. To schedule at Dr. Auger’s West Jordan, UT location, Salt Lake City, UT location, or Sandy, UT location, call us at (801) 619-2170. For more information, visit our website,www.slcpodiatrist.com.