Preventing falls within the home is essential for maintaining safety and well-being, especially for older adults. The feet can be injured during a fall, and it is beneficial to remove obstacles in the household. Each room presents unique hazards that require attention to minimize the risk of accidents. In the bathroom, installing grab bars and non-slip mats can prevent slips and falls on wet surfaces. In the kitchen, keeping floors clean and dry and storing frequently used items within easy reach can reduce the likelihood of accidents while cooking or reaching for items. It is important for the bedrooms to have adequate lighting, and removing clutter from pathways can prevent tripping hazards, particularly during nighttime visits to the bathroom. Living areas benefit from having secure rugs or carpeting and maintaining clear pathways to prevent tripping over furniture or cords. If you have foot pain from a fall that has happened, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can offer you appropriate treatment options, in addition to discussing fall prevention methods that can protect the feet.

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 one of our podiatrists from Geller Foot Clinic. Our doctors 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 our office located in Lathrup Village, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Sever's disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a heel condition affecting children and adolescents during periods of rapid growth. It occurs when the growth plate at the back of the heel bone becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress or tension from activities like running, jumping, or participating in sports. This condition is not a true disease, but is a temporary condition that typically resolves once the growth plate matures and fuses with the rest of the bone. Symptoms of Sever's disease include heel pain, especially during or after physical activity, limping, and discomfort when pressing on the heel. Factors contributing to its development include overuse or excessive strain on the heel bone, tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon, improper footwear, and biomechanical issues, such as flat feet or high arches. It is suggested that any active child that has heel pain be taken to a podiatrist who can expertly diagnose and treat Sever’s disease.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Geller Foot Clinic. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lathrup Village, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

A broken ankle can be a painful and debilitating injury, impacting mobility and daily activities. Understanding its causes and symptoms is vital for prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment. An ankle fracture commonly occurs due to a sudden twisting or rolling motion of the ankle, often during activities like sports or falls. The severity of the fracture can vary, ranging from a hairline crack to a complete break of the bone. Symptoms typically include intense pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected ankle. In some cases, there may be visible deformity or an audible snap or pop at the time of injury. Additionally, individuals may experience numbness or tingling in the foot or ankle area. Seeking medical attention promptly is vital to assess the extent of the injury and prevent complications. There are various treatment methods for a broken ankle. If you have endured this type of injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the best relief and treatment plan is for you.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Geller Foot Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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