The health of your body starts with the health of your feet

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Ignoring the everyday care of your feet could lead to a myriad of ailments, from ingrown toenails to bacterial infections caused by fissures in the skin or athlete’s foot.

By Patricia Nugent

Just like a tree is only as healthy as its root system, people’s overall wellness is connected to the health of their feet.

“Routine foot care is a vital service I offer,” says Dr. Danielle L. Shaper, who founded Finesse Footcare in Lyndhurst in 2019. “Ignoring the everyday care of your feet could lead to a myriad of ailments, from ingrown toenails to bacterial infections caused by fissures in the skin or athlete’s foot. Diabetics are at greater risk as they can develop sores due to poor blood flow, but not feel them because of neuropathy, which numbs the nerves of the feet.”

Especially with the colder weather, which can break down the skin, issues such as calluses can occur, too.

One service Dr. Shaper offers to keep her patients healthy is custom orthotics, inserts worn inside the shoe or boot to control abnormal biomechanics of the foot, restore alignment and function, reduce pain and address issues like flat arches or high arches.

“Imbalances of the foot can have a ripple effect, causing pain in the ankles, knees, hips, spine and shoulders,” she says. “Utilizing an iPad with a 3D camera, I am able to map the contours of the foot for the most precise fit. Anyone of any age can benefit from wearing orthotics.”

In addition to orthotics and routine foot care, Dr. Shaper can heal nearly any foot or ankle issue, from toenail fungus to ingrown toenails to bunions, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, corns, warts, calluses, sprained ankles, to diabetic issues, heel pain and spurs. If necessary, she can perform surgery, but always starts with the most conservative path.

“I offer a heightened level of focused, highly personalized foot care,” she says. “Since I own the practice, I get to enjoy spending as much time with patients as I like, and together we come up with a plan for care.”

Finesse Footcare is located at 5035 Mayfield Road in Lyndhurst. The practice accepts a wide variety of insurance plans and offers interest-free financing. Call 216-382-8070 or visit FinesseFootcare.com for more information.