PinPointe FootLaser
Family Foot Care is pleased to announce that we are now a proud certified provider of PinPointe, a leader in podiatric light based therapy and creators of the PinPointe FootLaser intended for use for the temporary increase of clear nails in patients with onychomycosis, or nail fungus. PinPointe FootLaser is the first & currently the only laser to receive clearance from the U.S. FDA to treat the symptoms of patients suffering from onychomycosis, and Family Foot Care is the only practice in Whatcom & Skagit Counties to offer this clinically proven treatment.
Fungal infection is estimated to affect more than 10% of the U.S. population, or 35 million Americans. The PinPointe FootLaser is designed specifically to meet the needs of the podiatric community. PinPointe FootLaser typically requires only a 30 minute treatment performed in the comfort & privacy of our office. Nail fungus, Onychomycosis, is an embarrassing chronic condition that impacts a person's quality of life and can lead to other health problems for patients with diabetes, poor ciculation or immune disorders. The treatment of nail infection is difficult because the infection is under & inside of the nail, which makes it hard for other treatments to reach & destroy the fungal organisms. treatments such as medicated liquids/creams or oral medications may be associated with side effects or serious drug interactions. Home remedies such as bleach, vinegar, Vicks Vapor Rub, mouthwash or household cleaners to resolve the problem are often tried but ultimately fail to resolve it. After a single treatment, between 78-88% of patients experienced an increase in clear nails at 6 and 12 months, and 81% of all patients sustained improvements at 12 months. If you would like to more about our exciting new treatment for toenail fungus or would like to make an appointment, please call us at (360) 738-9797.
With all its running, twisting, turning, and jumping, basketball is one of the hardest games on feet. Different movements put all the areas of the foot at risk. That is why proper conditioning, stretching, and well-fitted shoes are critical to a healthy enjoyment of the sport.
Ankle sprain is a particularly common injury in basketball. But the repeated shock and pressures on the foot can also lead to inflammations, including Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and sesamoiditis.
Basketball Shoes
Foot and ankle stability, shock absorption, and traction are the most important qualities for basketball shoes. If you are susceptible to ankle injuries, consider a high-top or three-quarter shoe that provides added support to key foot structures during play. Look for shoes that offer the following:
- A wide toe box with plenty of room for your toes to move around. Not enough room can lead to blisters, corns, and calluses.
- Lightweight, breathable material for uppers; generally, leather is recommended.
- Dense, abrasion-resistant soles that are low to the ground for better traction and support.
- A well-cushioned midsole for a shock-absorbing layer. An EVA or EVA-compressed layer is lightweight but not as durable or stable. A polyurethane layer has greater stability, but it is often heavier, too.
- Bend in the forefoot of the shoe, which is at the ball of the foot near the toes. Be sure there is less bend in the arch where you need the added support to keep the foot stable.
- A firm heel counter that fits snugly.
- Laces as the form of closure give you the ability to adjust for the support you need throughout the foot.
When buying basketball shoes, be sure to take the socks you plan to wear with them to ensure a proper fit. Have your feet measured standing up and fit the shoes to your larger foot. Walk around, turn, twist, and jump in each pair on a hard surface to see how your foot feels during each of these movements. Most importantly, make your choice based on comfort.