Times of the Islands Summer 2016

shape up
Footprints in the sand
By Dr. Rodney A. Kander, Consulting Podiatrist
As you walk or run along the beautiful beaches of the
Turks & Caicos Islands, you leave behind an indelible
you, a footprint in the sand. You may not even realize
that this footprint, to the trained eye, reveals the architecture
or structure of each individual’s foot type.
Before the waves wash ashore, does the footprint
show a flat foot (pes planus), a high arch (pes cavus), a
bunion deformity (enlargement by the great toe), hammertoe
(crooked toe deformity), or a long second toe
(morton’s foot)? In the case of the latter, I have had
patients boldly exclaim, “This is a sign of intelligence!”
Scientifically speaking, this has been an unproven theory,
but what is fact is that the foot is comprised of 26
bones, 33 joints and over 100 ligaments, muscles and
tendons. With this much concentration in one area of
the body, it is no wonder so many people repeat over
and over again, “Oh my aching feet.”
In addition to foot anatomy, there are also systemic
diseases that can affect foot health. Diabetes and neuropathy
(loss of feeling) often go hand in hand, or in
this case, step by step. A diabetic can simply walk barefoot
on the beach and not realize that he or she has
stepped on a seashell due to loss of sensation. The broken
shell can penetrate the bottom of the foot causing
a sore. If unnoticed, this can lead to a diabetic ulcer.
Even exposing the feet to the hot sun can cause a burn
that diabetics can’t feel.
The best cure for many foot complaints is prevention.
Daily observation of the feet both top and bottom
— using a mirror if necessary — can identify problems.
Any concerns should be addressed to a professional
immediately. Proper stretching before and after a walk
or run on the beach is a must. This is critical to help
avoid common concerns such as plantar fasciitis, shin
splints and stress fractures. If not going barefoot, then
wear a lightweight supportive pair of shoes. Consult a
physician prior to this exercise to address any systemic
concerns.
So many people enjoy the beautiful beaches and
cays of the Turks & Caicos Islands, but here is the “key”
to fully enjoy the experience.
Protect the vital foundation of
the human body: your feet.
It’s good for the sole (soul)! a
Dr. Kander has practiced podiatry for 35 years. He lives
in Virginia with his wife and potcake dog “Turk.” He
considers the TCI his second home, where he loves to
leave his own footprints in the sand.
Dr. Kander is a Podiatric Consultant having
provided general podiatric foot care, diabetic foot
management, evaluation and treatment of pediatric
deformities, orthotics, sports medicine, and has
performed laser surgery, as well as the latest advancements
in foot and ankle surgery.
EXPERIENCE TOTAL
TRANSFORMATION
REVIVE AND RESTORE WITH RESULTS-ORIENTED SPA THERAPIES
facials | massage | nails | waxing | thai stretch
FIND YOUR CORE IN OUR AWARD-WINNING FITNESS CLASSES
Core Fusion | barre | barre+cardio | yoga
Yoga | power | flow | chill
Visit exhalespa.com to begin your journey.
Grace Bay Beach, Providenciales, Turks + Caicos
649.941.7555 | exhalespa.com | gansevoorttc.com
Times of the Islands Summer 2016 71