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Options for Treating Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus, commonly known as onychomycosis, is a fungal infection that can spread from one toenail to
another, as well as to the skin on the feet and other parts of the body. The fungus can easily be spread from
one person to another through contact with infected items such as socks and nail clippers. Practicing good
hygiene is the key to preventing the spread of toenail fungus. Thankfully, there are several options available for
treating toenail fungus, but first, you need to determine what stage of the infection you are facing.

Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus can progress through different stages of severity from early to severe. This is what the
progression looks like:

1. Early Stage: In this stage, the fungus may begin to infect the nail and cause discoloration, but the
infection is not yet completely visible to the naked eye.
2. Mild Stage: The fungus begins to subtly discolor the nail, appearing white or yellow. The nail may
become thicker and harder.
3. Moderate Stage: The fungus has spread further, and the nail becomes brittle and crumbly. The
infection may cause the nail to separate from the nail bed.
4. Severe Stage: The toenail fungus has spread throughout the entire nail and causes the nail to become
misshapen, thickened, and discolored. At this stage, the infected nails may also become painful and
cause difficulty in walking. The fungus may also have encroached upon the skin of the foot and bottom
of the ankle.
It’s important to note that not all cases of toenail fungus will progress through all of these stages. In some
patients, the infection remains mild or moderate, while in others it may progress quickly to become severe. It’s
also important to see a specialist as soon as possible if you suspect you have toenail fungus to avoid it from
progressing to the severe stage and causing more damage to your nails.

Treatment Options
The type of treatment recommended for toenail fungus can include topical antifungal medications, oral
antifungal medications, and the actual removal of the affected nail. The type of treatment recommended will
depend on the severity of the infection and your overall health. Topical medications are applied directly to the
affected nail, while oral medications are taken by mouth. In some cases, a combination of both topical and oral
treatments may be suggested. If the infection is severe, or if it’s not responding to over-the-counter treatments,
it’s best to seek a specialist for professional advice and a treatment plan. A proper diagnosis is important to
determine the correct treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs.

The medications used to treat toenail fungus orally, include terbinafine hydrochloride, itraconazole, and
fluconazole. Topical medications may include amorolfine and ciclopirox. There are anecdotal home remedies
such as using tea tree oil, and OTC creams and sprays. What’s most important is to realize that healing toenail
fungus is a process. It can take several months to a year depending on the severity of the infection. It is very
important to adhere to a course of treatment until the infection is gone.

At North Texas Foot and Ankle, we know the reality of living with toenail fungus. It can be painful and embarrassing and if left untreated, can affect your overall health. If you suspect your nail(s) are in the early stage and are unsure of how to proceed, please call us at 214-574-9255 to schedule an appointment. Successful treatment of toenail fungal infections is possible with early diagnosis and the appropriate treatment
plan.

Tips for Protecting Your Feet and Ankles in the Winter

We’ve all got that one friend who insists that it’s OK to wear flip-flops and shorts year-round. Truth be told, it’s
really not a good decision for maintaining feet and ankle health. The wellbeing of your feet and ankles in the
winter is often forgotten, often resulting in injuries and illness. We suggest the following tips for protecting your
feet and ankles in winter.

Keep your feet clean and dry.
As recommended throughout the year, keeping your feet clean and dry is especially important in the winter
season. It prevents the growth of odor-causing bacteria and fungal infections. Use gentle soap and avoid using
super-hot water as this can cause your skin to become dry. It may seem silly, but make sure your feet are
completely dry everywhere before putting on socks and shoes.

Change footwear as soon as you come indoors.
This is especially true if your shoes/boots and hosiery have had water seep in. It’s very important to let those
shoes/boots thoroughly dry before attempting to wear them again. Get the wet socks off, and wash your feet,
drying them thoroughly. This will remove any bacteria that has started to grow.

Moisturize.
Keeping the skin on your feet and ankles moisturized is an important part of keeping them healthy and
preventing cracks and bleeding from happening during the cold and dry winter months. Apply a good
moisturizer to legs and feet to keep them supple and itch-free.

Prevent ingrown toenails.
Many people forget to trim their toenails during the winter season because they aren’t wearing flip-flops or
sandals. Improperly trimmed or untrimmed toenails are at a great risk of becoming ingrown and increase the
potential for infection.

Consider wicking socks.
If your feet always feel damp or look dimpled or puckered after taking off your socks, you should consider
purchasing socks that wick moisture away from the foot.

Expose your feet.
Just like the rest of your body, your feet need time to rest and heal. Leave them uncovered for a few hours a
day while you’re watching TV or relaxing at home. Never walk barefoot at home. We suggest you slip on a pair
of comfy slippers to protect the soles of your feet from injury. If you are planning to go outside, even just to get
the mail, make sure you’re wearing footwear that will protect you.

Appropriate footwear is key.
Not only should you consider the health of your foot and ankle skin, but their bones and joints as well. The
shoes and boots you wear should be able to handle the weather you’ll be facing. Make sure that boots have
good traction to prevent falls and that they fit well to prevent slips and falls that can result in broken bones.

Don’t delay seeking medical attention.
If your feet are showing symptoms of cracking, bleeding or peeling that don’t resolve with use of OTC
medications or creams, it’s time to see a foot care specialist. If your feet are bruised, swollen, or discolored,
flaking or bleeding, seek attention as soon as possible.

The winter months can be brutal, but with proper care your feet and ankles can remain healthy and injury free.
The doctors and staff at North Texas Foot & Ankle are here to help you keep them that way. If your feet or
ankles are showing symptoms resulting from the harshness of winter, call today at 214-574-9255 to begin yourpath back to healthy feet and ankles. Telemedicine appointments are also available

Common Winter Foot Injuries and How to Avoid Them

The holiday season is upon us. Along with all the festivities, the unpredictability of inclement weather is also
ushered in. The arrival of the winter season typically brings plummeting temperatures, snow and ice which can
cause common winter foot injuries and most are actually avoidable. North Texas Foot & Ankle wants you to
avoid winter foot and ankle injuries to keep you enjoying the festivities and outdoor fun the winter season
brings.

Chilblains
Also referred to by its medical name, Pernio, chilblains are what happen when the small capillaries in toes
spasm when exposed to long periods of cold temperatures. These spasms cause redness, itching, pain and
blisters. Ignoring chilblains and remaining in the cold can cause the blisters to rupture, risking infection.
Chilblains can be avoided by wearing thick, substantial socks and weatherproofed, close-toed boots or sturdy
shoes.

Frostbite
Frostbite occurs when skin is left unprotected to the wind, cold, snow or icy rain. Symptoms of frostbite include
the skin being cold to the touch and a pins and needles or prickling sensation in the affected area. This is
followed by numbness of the skin, finger, toes, etc. Skin color becomes unusual looking in color and texture,
appearing to be red, white, purplish, brown, bluish-white, gray-yellow or ashen and can look waxy or hard.
Patients also report that their muscles feel stiff and the joints of the toes and fingers are stiff, even
non-functional.

Frostbite can be prevented by wearing weather-appropriate, protective clothing. Many are unaware of their
symptoms until they are pointed out by someone else. Caught in its initial stages, frostbite can be treated by
gentle rewarming in warm water, however there is a great risk of permanent damage to skin, muscle and
bones based on the severity of the exposure. Seek medical care as soon as possible if you suspect you have
frostbite.

Cracked, Dry Heels
For many, the cold weather always results in cracked, dry skin. Women tend to moisturize their feet and heels
year-round, so they are less susceptible to this occurring during winter months. Dry, cracked heels are easily
prevented by daily moisturizing of the feet with a good quality, concentrated cream. Failure to treat cracked
heels can result in deep splits, called fissures, that can bleed and are easily infected. Ask your foot care
specialist what they recommend for keeping heels and feet moisturized and supple.

Athletes Foot
Patients tend to associate the development of athlete’s foot with hot, steamy shower rooms at the gym. The
fungi of athlete’s foot thrive in winter for the same reasons. Wearing heavy socks and warm boots cause the
feet to sweat, making them the perfect location for growth. The risk of developing athlete’s foot in the winter is
reduced if you remember to remove footwear and socks immediately upon return to the house. Follow through
with a thorough washing of the feet, drying well (especially between the toes), moisturizing and putting on
clean, dry socks. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can spread to other areas of your body, so wearing socks in
the home year-round is important to keep it contained.

Injuries From Falls
Foot and ankle injuries increase dramatically during the winter season. Exposure to icy and slippery conditions
is a threat to health and safety. Uneven terrain, depth perception, and footwear traction all play important roles
in keeping strains, sprains, and fractures from happening. To avoid these types of injuries we encourage
patients to take care in selecting footwear that can handle the weather conditions they are faced with. Make
sure that boots and shoes are well-made, close-toed, waterproof, and provide solid traction to help you safely
navigate icy, snowy conditions.

North Texas Foot & Ankle is here to diagnose and treat these and other weather-related conditions and
injuries. Our focus is to restore foot and ankle health to get you back to doing what you love. If you suspect that
you are suffering from any symptoms, call us today at 214-574-9255.

How the HYPERBLUE Plus Nail Laser Treats Toe Fungus

Did you spend another summer keeping your toes hidden from the world? Did you skip trips to the beach and decline invitations to the pool? Have your toenails become so discolored and brittle that you are embarrassed to have anyone see them? North Texas Foot and Ankle is pleased to inform you that we offer HYPERBLUE Plus Nail Laser treatments, specifically designed to help return your fungal nails to healthy, beautiful nails.

Understanding the Fungus
Toenail fungus, known as onychomycosis, is one of the most difficult conditions to eradicate from the body. Most people aren’t aware that they have fungal toenails until the symptoms have changed the look and feel of the nail. Nails become discolored, thick and brittle. Left untreated, the nails may loosen from the nail bed and begin to crumble and emit odor. In severe cases the nail separates completely from the toe. Fungus can grow under the nail bed and spread to the rest of the nails, even to the finger nails. Some forms of nail fungus can be transmitted to others through direct contact or by coming in contact with surfaces where others with fungal infections have been.

Patients who have compromised immune systems, diabetes, or circulatory problems are at higher risk for fungal nails, as are those who suffer with excessive sweating and those with athlete’s foot. It is important for all patients to seek diagnosis and begin treatments to eradicate the fungus before more serious conditions arise.

Aggressive forms of fungus do not respond to oral medications or topical treatments. Some treatments result in unpleasant side effects such as stomach upset and skin irritation. The nails may even look improved for a short period of time, but the fungus is not eradicated, and ugly symptoms return. It’s a frustrating cycle for those affected.

HYPERBLUE Plus Laser Nail Treatments 
HYPERBLUE Plus is an FDA approved treatment for targeting and resolving fungal nails. The specific wavelength used during treatment penetrates through the nail surface and into the nail plate and bed eradicating the fungus in these and surrounding areas. The laser light beam does not impact surrounding healthy tissue.

The protocol for treatment is application of the HYPERBLUE Plus during 3-sessions in a 2-month period. The length of each session is dependent on the number of toes being treated and the stage of infection. The only side effect that some patients report is experiencing a mild feeling of warmth during application of the HYPERBLUE Plus. There is no pain or discomfort associated with the treatment. Once the treatments are completed, a preventive sessions or adjunct treatment may be suggested to thwart aggressive fungal return.

The doctors and staff at North Florida Foot and Ankle are proud to be able to offer HYPERBLUE Plus Laser Nail Treatments to our patients. Schedule your appointment now and start looking forward to enjoying spring and summer outdoors with healthy, beautiful feet.

Why Bunion Correctors are Bad

Bunions are one of the most common foot ailments that humans can suffer from. A bunion occurs when the first long bone of the forefoot shifts, causing the big toe to shift towards the remaining toes. This results in the bony bump that seemingly grows on the joint at the base of your big toe. In actuality, the joint is what starts to protrude and that bony bump is called a bunion. Wearing tight, ill-fitting shoes typically received the credit for a bunion forming in the past, however arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, a foot deformity or the actual shape of your foot may result in development of these painful and misshapen bumps. There are some indications that bunions may also be hereditary. Not all bunions require medical treatment but if you are experiencing pain in the bump or foot, limited mobility of the foot, a change in the bump appearance or size, or struggle to find shoes that fit appropriately, it’s time to consider a visit to North Texas Foot and Ankle for diagnosis and discussion of treatment options. Diagnosis of bunions is determined by x-ray and clinical exam. 

Bunion correctors are designed to slip over the big toe with a spacer that separates the big toe from rubbing against the neighboring one. They don’t fit well into shoes, and are typically worn overnight. The goal of their design is to realign the joint over time to its proper position. Regardless of their claims to cure a bunion, all they can accomplish is a temporary reduction in symptoms and may or may not slow down the progression of the bunion growth. To date, there are none designed to permanently straighten the alignment of the joint and foot.

Bunions can cause skin irritation, redness, and corns on the other toes as they are being pushed into one another by the big toe joint. There are many products on the market that claim to correct bunions but the truth is that no external correction device can re-align the toe joint. That said, there are prudent courses of action that can be recommended by your doctor prior to making the decision to have corrective surgery:

►Proper shoes that support your foot structure and match your activities may help provide relief from bunion    pain. You may have to modify your activities to keep pain to a minimum.
► Additional padding in the shoe, or over the joint may also reduce pain temporarily. 
► Depending on the size of the bunion, your physician may prescribe customized orthotics to help relieve pressure on the joint which can temporarily reduce pain. 
► Your doctor might prescribe medications to provide a short-term reduction in inflammation of the joint and surrounding area, once again temporarily reducing pain.
► Joint injections are typically not successful in bunion treatment.

Don’t self-diagnose, or purchase over-the-counter devices if you suspect you have a bunion. Ill-fitting or poorly made bunion correctors may result in further injury to your foot. At North Texas Foot and Ankle diagnosis and relief is just a call away. Call us today at 214-574-9255 and let us help you get back to enjoying life pain-free.

How to Trim Your Toenails

Trimming your toenails may seem like a fairly simple chore to accomplish. Your parents did it for you from the time you were an infant until you were able to take over the task.  Many people however, don’t know the correct way to trim toenails to help keep their feet healthy and looking their best. They often put off caring for their toenails and foot care for as long as possible. Poor foot-care, incorrect tools, and improper cutting of the nails can cause injury and illness. Some people are unable to reach their toes due to a medical condition or obesity and are embarrassed to ask for help. There is no shame in seeking help from a loved one or a professional when it comes to taking care of your health. Great footcare can be received by a pedicurist who is specially trained and licensed to provide a proper toenail cut and appropriate care for the entire foot. Keep in mind that medical insurance doesn’t cover the cost of pedicures. Also keep in mind diabetics are at a higher risk for developing foot issues if they receive a poor pedicure.

How to trim your toenails

Appropriate tools
Nail clippers provide the best control and cleanest cuts for toenails. There are many types available on the market and it may take a while until you find the set that is comfortable and effective. Manicure scissors are also an appropriate choice for use on healthy nails. It’s highly recommended that you own separate clippers for use on feet and hands. Be sure to thoroughly clean nail clippers prior to, and after use. This will reduce the risk of cross-contamination of fungus or other illnesses between toenails and fingernails.

Making the cut
Always cut the nail straight across. Don’t curve it in the shape of your toe, and don’t cut from each side of the toe to shape it into a point. Be sure to cut just slightly below the tips of the toes. Never cut at the same line where the cuticle ends as this can increase the risk of developing a painful ingrown nail.

Filing
Often overlooked, taking the time to file your freshly-cut toenails with an emery board is an important facet of foot care. Smoothing out the rough nail tips will prevent the nail from ripping or snagging on hosiery or shoes. Be careful to designate a file for your feet, and a separate one for your hands.

Timing
How often you cut your toenails is based on how fast your nails grow. Avoid cutting them too short to provide more time to elapse between cutting. You run the risk of damaging the underlying skin and increasing the odds of developing an ingrown nail.

Everyone’s toenails are unique and the thickness and growth rate will influence the decisions you make when cutting them. If you have naturally thick nails or fungal nails have caused them to become thick and brittle, you may consider soaking your feet in warm water for anywhere from 10-30 minutes to make the nails more receptive to cutting. Be sure to sterilize your implements after cutting. If you suspect you have a fungal infection, schedule an appointment to see a doctor as soon as possible.

At North Texas Foot and Ankle our specialists can assess your foot and nail health and provide routine care as needed. Toenail health is an important part of your overall health. Don’t ignore caring for your feet. Call us today to schedule an appointment at 214-574-9255 or use our convenient online form. Put your feet in our hands.

When You Need to Worry About Ankle Instability

From the time we take our first small steps, we are dependent on our ankles to provide us with the stability needed to keep walking. There’s an enormous amount of pressure placed on the ankles that we never give a second thought. That is, until we roll, strain, or break an ankle. 

Chronic Ankle Instability
An ankle injury happens whenever the ankle is rolled or twisted out of its normal position, resulting in pain and swelling. Injuries can result from anything from an unforeseen mis-step, to falling and rotating the ankle to the point of muscle strain, tendon tear, or bone break. Left medically untreated, or if the ankle doesn’t heal completely, the injury makes the ankle more susceptible to additional episodes of rolling or twisting. Symptoms lasting longer than 3 months can be an indication of chronic ankle instability.

Diagnosis 
Patients who have injured their ankle increase the risk of further damage as the ankle weakens with age or from additional injury. Patients report constant swelling, weakness, tenderness or pain, and feel unstable when standing, as if the ankle won’t support them. Folks experiencing these symptoms should see a foot and ankle specialist as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment, especially if these symptoms have persisted for 3 months or more. The specialist will take into account the patient’s symptoms, X-rays and a physical examination of the ankle to determine the extent of the damage and propose a treatment plan. 

Note: Patients who cannot put any weight on the ankle after sustaining a sudden injury should seek immediate medical attention for possible fracture.

Treatment 
There are four treatment plans available to patients suffering from chronic ankle instability. Depending on the severity of the diagnosis, one or more of these may be implemented to improve the patient’s mobility:

Medications: If persistent swelling is present, a foot and ankle specialist will typically suggest nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) available as over-the-counter medications. If OTCs are unsuccessful in alleviating symptoms, slightly stronger medications may be prescribed.

Physical Therapy: Muscles supporting the ankle need to be retrained and strengthened to regain ankle stability. Physical therapy provides exercises that will improve the range of motion and help restore balance. Other treatments, such as ice, heat, etc. may also be implemented to reduce pain and swelling.

Bracing: Ankle bracing is a viable treatment for some patients. The brace is designed to keep the ankle in the correct position so that it doesn’t roll or turn out. Braces are proven to be an effective device providing the necessary support and working towards the prevention of further sprains.

Surgery: If the severity of the ankle instability doesn’t improve via other recommended measures, or if the degree of instability is considered critical, the foot and ankle specialist will suggest surgery. The type of surgery recommended will be based on the severity of the instability and whether the patient has a sedentary or active lifestyle.

North Texas Foot and Ankle wants to keep you on your feet! If you have sustained an ankle injury, don’t self-diagnose. Timely diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent further damage from occurring and to prevent chronic ankle instability. Call us now at 214-574-9255 to begin healing.

How Non-Invasive EPAT® Can Promote Healing

Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Therapy is advanced, FDA-approved, non-invasive, treatment for those suffering from musculoskeletal pain virtually anywhere in the body. What is this advanced technology, and is it worth investigating? North Texas Foot and Ankle is confident that it can be life-changing for those suffering from foot and ankle pain.

How does it work?
EPAT® technology harnesses the gentle power of acoustic waves (sometimes referred to as EPAT® Shock Wave Therapy), targeting them on the source of the injury and pain. The strength of the acoustic waves is moderated based on the location and depth of the origin site. When the waves are pulsed to the targeted area, they stimulate blood flow, increasing circulation and accelerating the healing process. North Texas Foot and Ankle specialists perform the procedure, and treatment sessions typically last 5–10 minutes.

Who benefits from EPAT®?
Patients who are diagnosed with issues such as ligament injuries, muscle pain, foot pain, tendon injuries – including the Achilles heel, plantar fasciitis, neuromas, stress fractures, or delayed bone healing from fractures – are all excellent candidates for the healing powers of EPAT®. Those suffering from injuries that worsen with movement, who experience weakness, fatigue, interrupted sleep, muscle twitching, and cramping can all reap the benefits of EPAT®.

Is the treatment painful?
This non-invasive, non-surgical treatment is tolerated well by most patients, requiring no anesthesia. The treatment strength will vary based on the source of the pain. Some patients report mild discomfort and the sensation of pulsation for the duration of each treatment. Our patients also report that the discomfort resolves immediately upon completion of the procedure. Our physicians apply a smooth coupling gel to the skin which enhances the transmission of the acoustic waves, similar to that of an ultrasound gel. Please note that EPAT® is performed without the additional cost of ultrasound guidance.

Downtime
Patients can resume regular, weight-bearing activity immediately after a treatment session. We caution patients to ease into more demanding exercise and activities over four weeks to reduce the risk of further injury and to provide enough time to promote healing. Patient’s don’t need to stay off their feet (non-weight bearing). That factor is an advantage over invasive surgical procedures.

Is EPAT® Effective?
CuraMedix, the manufacturer of EPAT®, reports that 80% of the patients in clinical studies experienced significantly reduced or no pain at all. The feedback from patients at North Texas Foot and Ankle is equally impressive. The advanced technology used in EPAT® is helping patients return to daily activities without anesthesia, surgical procedures, or extended downtime. We’d say that’s a highly effective and appropriate treatment for many patients.

Contact us at 214-574-9255 to schedule an appointment to see if EPAT® is right for you. Get back into your everyday life quickly and more importantly, live pain-free!

How Foot Care Changes as We Age

Despite our best efforts, there is no way to escape the aging process. Most people anticipate a few more aches and pains, additional wrinkles, thinning or receding hairlines, and probably putting on a few extra pounds. With society’s focus on the population keeping up a youthful appearance and keeping fit and trim, people watch what they eat, participate in daily or weekly exercise programs, use a skincare regimen and have annual physical exams. However, most people never consider their feet as they look to their future aging.

Why are Feet So Important?
Feet do much more than keep us upright and moving. They are often where the first signs of serious health issues become visible. Circulatory problems, nerve issues (neuropathy), diabetes, gout, and arthritis are some of the illnesses that are experienced in the feet. The sensation of pins and needles, changes in skin color (skin that is blue or mottled), and temperature changes (feet that feel cold or hot all the time) are all symptoms of more complicated illnesses that require immediate medical attention. As the body ages, we must take preventative measures to care for our feet.

Foot Care for Seniors
In younger days, foot care is the farthest thing on most people’s minds. Applying an occasional moisturizer and wearing supportive footwear was probably the extent of any effort put into our feet if we did that much. As we age, we must rev up our foot care routine to help avoid injury, keep them healthy and keep us ambulatory. A mature approach to foot care should include the following steps:

• Inspect feet regularly. Check for nail health, coloration, calluses, cuts, or bruises.
• Wear shoes that are supportive and comfortable. Proper alignment of the feet impacts their health. Be sure pressure is evenly distributed over the foot to avoid the development of calluses or bruises.
• Avoid sitting for long periods, and try to not cross your legs. This promotes better circulation and good blood flow, which promotes healthy tissue.
• Take time to put your feet up. Whether sitting or lying down, move your feet and ankles periodically to keep circulation at peak performance.
• If you spend a lot of time on your feet, doctors recommend that you wear a support hose. These are designed to keep circulation optimal.
• Indulge in a foot massage or soak in a warm foot bath.
• Ensure your feet are dry after exposure to moisture to prevent foot fungus from developing. Left unchecked, the fungus can wreak havoc on your feet and body.
• Quit smoking, as smoking negatively impacts circulation throughout the body.
• Eat healthily and exercise regularly to maintain healthy body weight.

The staff at North Texas Foot and Ankle support your podiatric needs, including regular foot examinations. Call us today at 214-574-9255 to schedule an appointment. Let us help keep you on your feet!

How to Stay Active Even If You Have a Foot or Ankle Injury

Bummer! You have a foot injury. However, this doesn’t mean the end of all your physical activity! In fact, you can stay active even if you have a serious injury, such as a broken ankle.

Always talk to your podiatrist about your plans so they can help you mitigate any potential risks. Don’t feel as though your injury will sideline you completely for the next several weeks or months.

Here’s what you can do:

  • Swim

You don’t have to put any pressure on your feet or ankles when you swim. It’s also one of the best types of cardio. And it’s great for your whole body. You’ll also feel less strain on your whole body. That means you’ll likely work out longer.

  • What If You Have a Broken Ankle?

A broken ankle does not have to mean the end of all your activity. You can do all types of upper body workouts. Many of these also give you a cardio blast.

Battle ropes, an upper-body ergometer, chest presses, seated T-raises, and many more can be done without the use of one of your feet.

  • Focus on Your Abs

Though you may not be able to walk, you can still get yourself the 6-pack of your dreams! Dumbbell crunches, modified v-sits, Russian twists, bicycle crunches, and many more can all be done even if you can’t use one of your feet.

Some of these exercises will require you to move your feet a little, so make sure you use caution while performing them.

  • Time to Exercise Your Mind?

You don’t necessarily have to keep working your body. Now might be the time to give your mind a workout. Every choice you make begins in your mind anyway, so it might as well be in tip-top shape, right?

Meditation reduces your stress, gives you insight into challenging situations, reduces negative emotions, increases your patience with others, and helps you make more effective decisions. After practicing meditation for a while, it’s almost shocking the difference it makes in your life!

It’s important to remember that meditation doesn’t make a magical difference after just a single session. Rather, its effects accumulate over time as you practice and improve, just like physical exercise.

  • Improve Your Exercise Form

You might not be able to exercise now. But when you can in a few weeks, you want to make sure that you do every move in exactly the right way so you get the maximum benefit and minimize your injury risk.

For example, many people do squats incorrectly. When you move to a near-seated position, you should be able to look down and see your toes. If you can’t, your knees are too far forward. When you do the bench press, your elbows should nearly touch your rib cage the entire time. Letting them flare out puts you at a high risk of injury.

While suddenly not being able to do what you used to may come as a shock, it does not have to be the end of the world. With these tips, you can keep your mind and body busy so you stay in top form. Need help recovering from a foot or ankle injury? Reach out to North Texas Foot & Ankle here.