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Skin Problems

Woman treating her dry skin with moisturizer

Dry skin is a condition that affects millions of people of all ages. It occurs when the skin does not have enough hydration or natural oils. There are many reasons for developing dry skin, such as age, environmental factors, and genetic predisposition. People with a history of skin diseases like eczema and psoriasis are also more likely to develop dry skin at some point in life.

Most people with dry skin are aware of the condition, but there are certain signs and symptoms to look out for:

  • Dry, cracked or chapped lips
  • Areas of the skin that crack and sometimes bleed when provoked
  • Rough or scaly texture
  • Ashy skin, especially in people with dark skin

 

Did you know?

Some people with dry skin have a condition known as dermatitis, which is an inflammation of the skin. Dermatitis is characterized by extremely dry skin that may also be itchy or reddened. It is important to seek treatment for dermatitis as soon as possible to prevent it from worsening. Early diagnosis makes treatment easier and often much shorter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I be treated for dry skin?

You may need to seek professional treatment for your dry skin if you suffer from dry or cracked skin that has not responded to over the counter moisturizers and other treatments. Your dermatologist may be able to offer you treatment options that will alleviate your symptoms and help your skin recover to a smooth, moisturized, and glowing appearance.

What should I expect during dry skin treatments?

Your dermatologist will recommend a moisturizer for everyday use. If your skin is very dry, you may also be prescribed a topical ointment designed to relieve itching and redness.

Is there anything I can do to facilitate the treatment process and improve my outcome?

Although a dry skin is sometimes a factor beyond your control, there are certain steps you can take to avoid agitating the condition. For example, it is important to drink plenty of water and avoid contact with chemicals known to dry the skin, such as chlorine. You should also minimize your exposure to water as frequent submersion can cause the skin to dry out.

Wound Care

wound care

Wounds require special care and attention to ensure a complication-free healing process. If you are wounded – perhaps due to an accident or medical procedure – you need the care of medical professionals trained and experienced in wound treatment and management. A wound care provider will clean your wound and change its dressings, and oversee the healing process from start to finish. This includes monitoring your wound for symptoms or changes that could indicate infection or other healing impediments.

Did you know…

that more than 6 million people in the U.S. suffer from chronic wounds? There are many factors that can affect wound healing. In addition to infection, some patients may experience slowed rates of wound healing if they suffer from diabetes or otherwise have poor blood flow to the site of the wound. Even some medications – such as anticoagulation agents – can delay the healing process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need  wound care?

You may need professional would care if a doctor has referred you to a wound specialist or you otherwise have a wound or sore that has been slow to heal. Most skin wounds should improve significantly within a month and heal completely within two months. Contact a wound care doctor if you have a slowly progressing wound or a wound that is worsening or showing signs of infection.

What should I expect during wound care?

If you have a wound, your doctor will remove any dead or infected tissues and design a customized treatment plan that addresses the underlying complications preventing your would from healing. This process may take several weeks or months and may require periodic evaluation and adjustments to treatment.

Will I need to follow any special care instructions during or after wound care?

Yes. You will be instructed on how to care for your wound at home, including the proper way to change the dressings on your wound and also protect it from injury.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes is a disease that affects multiple areas of the body – including the feet. Foot care should be an important part of every diabetic’s plan for preventing complications of high blood sugar. Approximately 70 percent of people with diabetes develop circulatory problems and peripheral nerve damage. Together, these conditions can lead to wounds that do not heal, resulting in infection and in some cases, the need for amputation. In fact, diabetic nerve damage (peripheral neuropathy) is a leading cause of foot and leg amputation in the United States.

Did you know…

that approximately 20 million people in the U.S. live with peripheral neuropathy? This condition is identified by nerve damage in the limbs and extremities, which may cause tingling or loss of feeling in the toes and feet. A person with diabetes needs a lifetime of diabetic foot care to identify potential complications and treat them before they result in permanent tissue damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can benefit from diabetic foot care?

Diabetic foot care is for anyone who has been diagnosed with diabetes, regardless of whether he or she has also been diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy. According The Diabetes Association, all diabetics need an annual foot exam. Those with peripheral neuropathy or other foot problems should undergo foot exams on a more frequent basis.

What type of diabetic foot care should I expect from my podiatrist?

Your podiatrist will evaluate your foot circulation and sensitivity during each exam. You will also be checked for changes to your skin or any wounds on your feet. If you are experiencing discomfort caused by peripheral neuropathy, your podiatrist may be able to prescribe medication to reduce tingling, burning, or pins-and-needles sensations in your feet.

Can my podiatrist help me prevent diabetic foot complications?

Patient education and prevention are the foundations of our practice. Our team can provide you with helpful tips to reduce the risk of foot complications, such as keeping your feet clean and trimming your toenails straight across. We may also prescribe special shoes to protect your feet from developing sores

Foot and Ankle Fractures

The feet and ankles play a primary role in the support and mobility of a person’s body. Injuries to the feet or ankles can be debilitating and dramatically affect one’s ability to perform otherwise simple day-to-day tasks. At our podiatry office, we help our patients through the entire rehabilitative process. Our goal is to pinpoint the source of foot and ankle traumas, such as fractures and sprains, and see them through to recovery.

Did you know…

that more than 25 percent of the total bones in your entire body are located in your feet and ankles? There are also 33 joints and more than 100 connective tissues in each foot. These bones, joints and ligaments help facilitate movement, allowing the foot to move and contort as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the signs of a foot or ankle trauma?

Pain and swelling are the most obvious signs of a foot or ankle trauma. If you have fractured your foot, it is likely that you will experience some pain and swelling, as well as some bruising. Depending on the extent of the fracture and where it is located, you may be able to walk or limp, though doing so may worsen the pain. If you break your ankle, the pain will be sudden and severe, preventing you from putting any weight on the affected ankle. You may also notice a visible dislocation or deformity, as well as some swelling and bruising.

How will a podiatrist treat a foot or ankle injury?

Treatment for a podiatry injury depends on the type and extent of the injury. The first step is always to rest the injury and apply ice while keeping it elevated until you can see a doctor. Some foot and ankle injuries require surgery, whereas others may only require a cast or compression. All foot and ankle injuries require a period of rest, during which time a patient must refrain from applying pressure to the affected foot or engaging in strenuous activity, such as exercise or sports. Rehabilitation may be necessary for injuries that have caused a tightening or inflammation of the muscles and ligaments.

How can I prevent a foot or ankle trauma?

It is impossible to prevent all foot and ankle traumas, but there are preventative measures you can take to avoid an injury. Start by wearing supportive and well-fitting shoes on a daily basis. Many people wear supportive shoes when exercising, but change into dangerous pumps or flip flops for daily wear. It is just as possible to sustain a broken foot after tripping in high heels as it is to during a workout. Stretching and proper training are also important for preventing foot and ankle injuries. Talk to your podiatrist before starting a new workout regimen or activity – especially if you have been inactive for a while. An exam can reveal whether your feet are healthy enough for activity.

Injuries

An athlete’s feet are under a lot of stress, making them especially susceptible to injury. When athletes push their bodies to perform, they put pressure on the feet. From training to competing, people who actively participate in athletic activity are constantly putting themselves at risk for injury. At our podiatry office, we aim to treat sports foot injuries as quickly and efficiently as possible, helping athletes to recover and return to their usual activities in as little time as possible.

Did you know…

that the feet must sustain up to 20 times a person’s body weight during certain sports activities? Perhaps that is why approximately 25 percent of all sports-related injuries involve either the foot or ankle. Nearly all sports and activities increase the risk of foot and ankle injuries, including:

  • Basketball
  • Baseball
  • Dance
  • Cheerleading
  • Soccer
  • Track and field races
  • Weight lifting
  • Wrestling

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the most common foot injuries found in athletes?

Athletes can injure any part of their feet though certain types of injuries are more prevalent than others. Examples include:

  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Achilles tendonitis
  • Sprains
  • Strains
  • Overuse injuries

How do I know if I have a foot injury?

Some sports-related foot injuries are obvious and occur suddenly. Others may develop gradually over time, progressively affecting your ability to train or compete comfortable and effectively. Signs of a sports-related foot injury include pain and swelling, as well as problems with mobility. If you notice any of these symptoms or have difficulty applying pressure to your foot or ankle, contact our podiatry office for an examination.

What types of treatments are available to sports foot injuries?

Sports foot injury treatment depends on how the injury is affecting the bones, joints and soft tissues. In many cases, treatments are non-invasive. This may include immobilization or the use of foot orthotics. Some people may benefit from anti-inflammatory treatments and in rare cases, surgical intervention.It is important that you facilitate recovery by allowing plenty of time for your injury to heal. Returning to sports too soon may worsen foot traumas, leading to an even longer treatment and recovery process.

Heel Spurs

Coming Soon!

Neuromas

Coming Soon!

Corns and Callouses

Coming Soon!

Athlete’s Foot

An athlete’s feet are under a lot of stress, making them especially susceptible to injury. When athletes push their bodies to perform, they put pressure on the feet. From training to competing, people who actively participate in athletic activity are constantly putting themselves at risk for injury. At our podiatry office, we aim to treat sports foot injuries as quickly and efficiently as possible, helping athletes to recover and return to their usual activities in as little time as possible.

Did you know…

that the feet must sustain up to 20 times a person’s body weight during certain sports activities? Perhaps that is why approximately 25 percent of all sports-related injuries involve either the foot or ankle. Nearly all sports and activities increase the risk of foot and ankle injuries, including:

  • Basketball
  • Baseball
  • Dance
  • Cheerleading
  • Soccer
  • Track and field races
  • Weight lifting
  • Wrestling

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the most common foot injuries found in athletes?

Athletes can injure any part of their feet though certain types of injuries are more prevalent than others. Examples include:

  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Achilles tendonitis
  • Sprains
  • Strains
  • Overuse injuries

How do I know if I have a foot injury?

Some sports-related foot injuries are obvious and occur suddenly. Others may develop gradually over time, progressively affecting your ability to train or compete comfortable and effectively. Signs of a sports-related foot injury include pain and swelling, as well as problems with mobility. If you notice any of these symptoms or have difficulty applying pressure to your foot or ankle, contact our podiatry office for an examination.

What types of treatments are available to sports foot injuries?

Sports foot injury treatment depends on how the injury is affecting the bones, joints and soft tissues. In many cases, treatments are non-invasive. This may include immobilization or the use of foot orthotics. Some people may benefit from anti-inflammatory treatments and in rare cases, surgical intervention.It is important that you facilitate recovery by allowing plenty of time for your injury to heal. Returning to sports too soon may worsen foot traumas, leading to an even longer treatment and recovery process.

Ankle sprains and instability

The ankles are complicated joints comprised of several different bones, tendons and ligaments. Together, these components facilitate movement and bear the weight of the entire body. However, ankles are also prone to conditions that cause pain and discomfort. In many cases, ankle pain goes away on its own – especially when it is the result of a minor injury. But sometimes medical intervention is necessary to relieve discomfort and restore mobility.

Did you know…

Did you know that sprains are the most common cause of ankle pain? In fact, ankle sprains are responsible for more than four out of five ankle injuries. This usually occurs when the foot rolls inward, forcing the ankle to twist toward the ground. Many people experience pain, swelling and bruising caused by tears or inflammation in the underlying ligaments. However, many ankle sprains begin to improve within one to two weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of conditions cause ankle pain?

Ankle pain may be caused by one of many different conditions. Examples include arthritis, sprains, gout, bone spurs, tendonitis, and fractures. Ankle pain may also be caused by a condition known as ‘flatfeet’, in which the feet are missing arches.

When should I see a podiatrist about ankle pain?

You should see a podiatrist for any ankle pain that is severe or correlated with swelling. It is also important to schedule an appointment with your doctor if ankle pain persists for several weeks despite home treatment. For more information about ankle pain and when to seek treatment, contact our office today.

What types of treatments are available to treat ankle pain?

Treatment for ankle pain depends on the cause of symptoms. A foot examination and diagnostic imaging can reveal underlying injuries and conditions responsible for your discomfort. Depending on your diagnosis, treatment may include physical therapy, rest, compression, or the use of foot orthotics. In some cases, patients may require surgery or other treatments to find relief from ankle pain.

Poor Circulation

Coming Soon!

Metatarsalgia

Coming Soon!

Infections

Coming Soon!

Arthritic Foot and Ankle Issues

Arthritis is a common, yet painful disease that causes joint inflammation in the body. Though it can affect any joint, many people have arthritis of the foot and ankle, where tiny joints are responsible for supporting the body’s weight and absorbing shock. Arthritis causes the joints to swell and become inflamed, leading to severe pain. Often, a person with advanced stages of arthritis will experience sensations of bone rubbing on bone as the cartilage deteriorates and results in bone spurs.

Did you know…

there are more than 100 types of arthritis? Many of them can affect the joints of the foot and ankle, causing pain and stiffness. According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 52 million adults – 1 in 5 – have been diagnosed with some form of arthritis in the U.S. Of them, many suffer from debilitating foot and ankle pain that makes even the simplest everyday tasks like walking or exercising much more complicated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes foot and ankle arthritis?

A person can develop foot and ankle arthritis as a result of many different causes or ‘triggers’. For example, osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease in which the cartilage surrounding a joint slowly wears down. Injuries can also cause the disease to develop, resulting in posttraumatic arthritis. Another type of arthritis – rheumatoid arthritis – is an autoimmune condition that causes the body’s immune system to attack the tissues of the joint. Though the disease is not believed to run in families, certain people – particularly those who are obese – are at a heightened risk of developing it.

What are the symptoms of foot and ankle arthritis?

A person with foot and ankle arthritis will have varying degrees of symptoms depending on how advanced the disease is. However, this condition typically causes stiffness and pain when walking or standing, as well as tenderness when pressure is applied to the joints. The joint may also swell or become warm to the touch, and in many cases it is worse in the mornings or when participating in vigorous activity.

How will a podiatrist treat foot and ankle arthritis?

There are many different ways of treating foot and ankle arthritis. Though there is no cure, the focus is often on symptom management and slowing the progression of the disease. At our office, we emphasize a non-surgical and minimally invasive approach, which may include lifestyle modifications, orthotics and the use of advanced and alternative therapies. For more information about foot and ankle arthritis treatment, contact our office to schedule a consultation.

Puncture Wounds and Foreign Bodies of the Foot

Coming Soon!

Lower Extremity Swelling and Edema

Coming Soon!

Chronic Foot Wounds

Coming Soon!

Diabetic Foot Ulcerations

Coming Soon!

Warts

Warts are growths caused by viruses beneath the skin. They can appear anywhere on the body – including the feet. When warts appear on the soles of the feet, they are known as ‘plantar warts’, which are hard and may even grow inward due to pressure on the heels and balls of the feet. Though foot warts are not a serious health threat, they are often a source of discomfort and embarrassment.

Did you know…

that plantar warts are caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)? Despite there being more than 100 strains of HPV, foot warts are only caused by a few of them. The virus is usually contracted by walking on contaminated surfaces, where the virus comes in contact with tiny breaks in the skin. You can avoid getting foot warts by wearing shoes when walking in gym locker rooms or near swimming pools.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the symptoms of foot warts?

Many people mistake foot warts for calluses. Those that grow on the bottom of the feet may be hard, grainy and flat. Warts that grow on other areas of the feet, such as the toes, are typically soft and raised. In many people, foot warts cause pain and soreness when standing or walking. Anyone can develop foot warts though they are most likely to affect children, teenagers, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

When should I see a podiatrist for foot warts?

You may need to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist if you have warts that are painful or that have not responded to home treatments. Always contact your doctor if you are unsure if a lesion is a wart or if the lesion begins to change appearance.

What types of treatments are available for warts?

Your podiatrist can remove foot warts using one of the several techniques available. You may be prescribed salicylic acid to help peel away layers of the wart. Often, salicylic acid is used in conjunction with cryotherapy, during which your podiatrist will apply liquid nitrogen that freezes the wart. In cases where salicylic acid and cryotherapy are ineffective, your podiatrist may recommend the use of other chemical acids, laser treatments or immune therapy.

Hammertoes and Other Digital Deformities

Hammertoe is a foot condition in which one or more toes is abnormally bent. These foot deformities occur as a result of injury or long-term wear of poorly fit shoes. Though anyone can develop hammertoe, it is especially common in women who have a second toe that is longer than the big toe. Over time, hammertoe may cause discomfort, pain, corns and calluses, not to mention permanent stiffening of the tendon in the affected toe.

Did you know…

that hammertoe may be prevented by wearing properly fitting footwear? It is important to choose shoes that are roomy near the toes allowing, at least, a half-inch of space between the shoe and the tip of the longest toe. Keep in mind that the risk of developing hammertoe increases with age, so selecting properly fitted footwear is even more important over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the symptoms of hammertoe?

Hammertoe is easily identified by the abnormal bend it causes in one or more toes. The bent is found in the middle joint and usually affects the toe closest to the big toe. The symptoms are very similar to mallet toe, which instead causes an abnormal bend in the joint closest to the nailed. A Hammertoe may cause skin irritation, corns and calluses, as well as chronic pain.

When should I see a podiatrist about the condition?

Schedule an appointment with a podiatrist if hammertoe is making you uncomfortable or affecting your ability to walk. It is important to seek treatment while the toe is still flexible and more easily treated. Left untreated, hammertoe may progress to a permanent condition that requires more extensive treatment.

What types of treatments are available to people with hammertoe?

Treatment for hammertoe may include the use of foot orthotics, as well as physical therapy exercises that strengthen and elongate the affected toe. When conservative treatment measures are ineffective, patients may require surgical intervention to treat hammertoe.

Bunions

Bunions are bone deformations that form on the foot where it joins the big toe. They develop over time, gradually getting bigger and sticking out from the rest of the foot. Bunions are caused by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors, with many people predisposed to developing them due to a weakened foot structure. Others get bunions because of chronic stress on the big toe or a chronic condition like arthritis.

Did you know…

that wearing the right shoes can help prevent bunions and prevent existing ones from worsening? Shoes should never crowd the toes and should support the natural shape of your feet. It is also wise to purchase shoes with a wide toe area, allowing plenty of space between the toes and the end of the shoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the symptoms of a bunion?

Bunions are easily identified by the large, protruding bump they cause at the base of the big toe. Usually, the big toe begins to angle away from the body, potentially leading to redness, soreness and swelling. The skin may also become thickened and develop calluses.

Should I see a podiatrist about my bunions?

Many people live with bunions for years without any problems. However, they may lead to complications, such as ‘hammertoe’ or ‘bursitis’ if left untreated. Schedule an appointment to meet with a podiatrist if your bunions are worsening, causing chronic toe or foot pain, or if they are limiting your mobility. You may also wish to consult with a podiatrist about bunion treatment if your bunions are a source of embarrassment or affecting your ability to find shoes that fit.

What types of bunion treatments are available?

Not everyone who has bunions requires treatment. However, your podiatrist may recommend addressing the symptoms of bunions by first changing shoes or using foot orthotics that support the big toe in a ‘normal’ position. Steroid injections or over-the-counter medications may also be used to reduce inflammation and temporarily manage pain. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve pain and restore the toe’s natural position.

Fungal Toenails

Coming Soon!

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are nails that have grown into the soft skin that surrounds the nail bed. In many cases, it is the corner of the nail that curves downward into the skin. However, the entire side of the nail may grow into the skin as well. Many ingrown toenails can be resolved at home by frequently soaking the foot in warm water. However, some ingrown nails do not resolve with home remedies and instead require medical attention.

Did you know…

that ingrown toenails are a very common condition? In fact, 1 in 20 people get one every year. Both genders are susceptible to ingrown toenails, but women are most likely to develop the condition – often due to the strain placed on feet from narrow, pointed, high-heeled shoes. In most cases, it is the big toe affected by an ingrown nail.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need ingrown toenail treatment?

You may need to visit an urgent care center if you have severe pain or swelling around one of your toenails. The toe may also be reddened and tender near the ingrown nail. It is important to seek medical attention for an ingrown toenail to ensure that it does not become infected.

How will my doctor treat my ingrown toenail?

If your toenail is only slightly ingrown, your doctor may lift the nail, separating it from the skin using a splint. Standard treatment for a severely ingrown toenail involves removing the portion of the toenail that has grown into the skin. Your toe will first be numbed, and sterilized surgical scissors will be used to carefully cut along the nail. The doctor will then dress and bandage the toe, sending you home with topical ointments and instructions for post-treatment care and follow-up. Your toenail should re-grow within a few weeks.

Is there anything I can do to prevent ingrown toenails in the future?

Yes. When trimming your toenails, cut them straight across instead of rounding them. You should also check your shoes to ensure there is plenty of room for your toes. Cramped toe space raises your risk of ingrown toenails.

Heel Pain/Plantar Fasciitis

The heel is the largest bone in the foot and responsible for bearing the weight of the entire body. Many people develop heel pain at some point in their lives, whether on the underside or back of the heel. In most cases, heel pain is not a symptom of a serious underlying health condition. However, it can affect a person’s quality of life, including the ability to stand, walk or exercise without discomfort.

Did you know…

many conditions that cause heel pain can be avoided by wearing properly fitted shoes? Many people wear the wrong types and sizes of shoes, resulting in crowding and poor foot support. To get the right fit, shop at the end of the day rather than in the morning, and always try on shoes before buying to ensure you have plenty of toe room. Avoid high heels when possible, and look for shoes with an adjustable fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of conditions can cause heel pain?

Heel pain can be caused by many different conditions, some more common than others. Often, patients who visit a podiatrist for heel pain are suffering from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis. However, other conditions can also cause heel pain, including bone fractures, excessive pronation, gout, bursitis, fibromyalgia, arthritis and peripheral neuropathy.

When should I see a podiatrist about my heel pain?

You should see a podiatrist for heel pain that persists for several weeks despite efforts to rest, ice and to elevate your feet at home. You should also contact your doctor about heel pain that continues when you are not standing or pain that is severe and occurs with swelling.

What types of treatments are available for people with heel pain?

Your podiatrist will examine your foot and may use diagnostic imaging to determine the cause of your heel pain. Depending on your diagnosis, you may be instructed to rest the heel, wear different shoes, use foot orthotics, or undergo physical therapy. In some cases, patients require additional interventions, such as steroid injections or surgery.

Laser Therapy

coming soon…

The best shoes to buy for your feet this Christmas

I was watching a television the other day when a commercial for a department store caught my attention. In the commercial, a mom celebrates ask her kids open their Christmas presents, surprised at how their cool mom got them the exact pair of shoes that they wanted! While the commercial stood out to me as a parent, it also got me thinking about the hundreds of people that buy shoes as Christmas gifts.

As a podiatrist, I thought it might be helpful to share some tips if you’re considering buying yourself or a loved one a new pair of kicks for Christmas. Since you might be buying for a man, woman, kid, runner, I wanted to pull together some of the best resources from across the Internet. Here are the best shoes for whomever you might be buying for this Christmas:

  • Know someone suffering from Plantar Fasciitis or heel pain? Here are some great shoe ideas for them.

If you’re loved ones are looking forward to opening up a new pair of shoes this Christmas, I hope these links were helpful. We hope you have an awesome Holiday Season! Don’t forget to take care of your feet as you hit the malls and walk around looking at the lights this year!

What pair of shoes are you hoping to get this Christmas?

Are you suffering from shin splints and don’t know it?

Although a shin splint is commonly used to describe various pains between the ankle and the knee, it actually refers to a specific inflammatory condition of the tibia — a condition called medial tibial stress syndrome.

Causes

The most common causes of shin splints include excessive running, poor conditioning and over-pronation (flattening of the arch). The result is pain in the front or inside of the lower leg that usually gets worse with a sudden increase in distance or intensity of training. Shin splints are a common problem for many runners and athletes. Muscle weakness, non-supportive shoes and overtraining are also contributing factors.

Symptoms

Shin pain isn’t always indicative of a shin splint. Lower leg pain may actually signal a more serious problem, including a stress fracture, partial muscle tear and tendonitis, all of which require special treatment. Always seek the professional care of a podiatrist if:

  • Severe pain in your shin follows an injury
  • Your shin is hot and inflamed
  • Swelling in your shin increases
  • Shin pain persists during rest

 

Preventing Shin Splints

To prevent shin splints, warm up and stretch muscles before starting any work out activity and choose supportive footwear. Begin workouts gradually and avoid over-training. All of these methods will go a long way in helping to prevent many lower leg problems. Conservative treatment for most shin splint pain includes rest, ice, compression and elevation. Strengthening exercises, anti-inflammatory agents and custom foot orthotics may also be recommended to reduce symptoms.

Curing Shin Splints

Proper diagnosis of the cause of pain is necessary in order to administer the most appropriate treatment. If you suffer from shin pain, make an appointment to visit our office for an evaluation and proper treatment.

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Pain Treatment

Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain and it’s one of the most common foot or ankle issues we treat at University Foot & Ankle. Doctors in Nashville and Franklin are consistently referring patients to us who’ve been suffering from heel pain for a while, but haven’t ever taken the steps to fix it.

While most people think that runners are the only people susceptible to Plantar Fasciitis, we’ve seen it affect people from every demographic. It’ is common in middle-aged people and also occurs in younger people who are on their feet a lot, like athletes or soldiers.

Symptoms

The most common complaint is pain and stiffness in the bottom of the heel. The heel pain may be dull or sharp. The bottom of the foot may also ache or burn.

The pain is usually worse:

  • In the morning when you take your first steps
  • After standing or sitting for a while
  • When climbing stairs
  • After intense activity

Treatment

There are a variety of methods for treating Plantar Fasciitis, but here are the most common treatments we recommend:

  • Rest is the simplest way to relieve plantar fasciitis pain and is recommended in correlation with any other treatment.
  • Physical therapy and exercises are good plantar fasciitis treatment. Stretching and other physical therapy measures may be used to provide relief.
  • Orthotics or inserts or custom made arch supportshelp to distribute the pressure on your feet more evenly.
  • Night splints are worn during sleep.
  • Anti-inflammatory or Pain medication is often recommended to treat plantar fasciitis. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen can reduce swelling and relieve pain.

If you’ve been experiencing heel pain and believe you might be suffering from Plantar Fasciitis, the best thing you can do is to schedule an appointment with a foot and ankle specialist. We’ve dealt with hundreds of Plantar Fasciitis cases and can help you take the steps to overcoming your heel pain.

How To: Save your feet during the Holidays

The holidays are here which means your days are full of working, running errands, shopping, wrapping presents, visiting family, and all of the other Holiday traditions. The madness of holiday shopping and traveling can add up to painful feet. Luckily, there are some very easy steps you can take to alleviate pain and reduce swelling.

Here are 5 things you can do to help save your feet from injury or pain during your crazy holiday schedule.

  1.  Massaging your feet increases circulation, relieves tension and rejuvenates skin. Use a frozen water bottle to both ice and massage your feet at the same time.
  2.  Point your toes for a quick and easy toe stretch. Then curl your toes and hold for 10 seconds.
  3.  Hold the heel of your foot in your hand and rotate your ankles to loosen the ankle joint and relax feet.
  4.  Wear appropriate shoes for your activity. If you know you will be walking around for a long period of time, do not wear high heels.
  5.  Elevating your legs will reduce the swelling in your feet. Make sure they are elevated above your heart

If you have chronic foot pain and swelling, come see us at University Foot & Ankle Centers.

We hope you and yours have a wonderful, pain free, holiday season!

2 Foot Conditions to watch for this winter

As the days grow shorter and colder weather moves in, the affects can be felt on every part of our body, including our feet. Hopefully you have found the right winter shoes and put your flip-flops and sandals away for the season.  Winter is here and this season has it’s own set of foot problems.  Here are two of the most common foot issues we see this time of year and how to check your feet for them:

Chilblains

Chilblains are a common cold weather foot problem.  Chilblains are small, red, itchy swellings on the skin. They are caused when the skin is exposed to cold weather for long periods of time. In the cold, the blood vessels in your toes get smaller in size. When your toes get warm again, the blood vessels go back to their normal size. If your toes get warm too fast, blood can leak out of the blood vessels and cause the redness, swelling, blistering, and pain associated with chilblains. Chilblains usually form on the smaller toes, but they can also develop on areas of the feet that carry more pressure.

The good news is that chilblains can be treated. There are lotions and creams that your podiatrist can prescribe to get rid of the redness and itchiness.  If not treated correctly, chilblains can become a bigger problem. If you do not take care of the problem, chilblains can lead to ulcers.

 

Raynaud’s disease

Raynaud’s disease affects small blood vessels, like the ones in toes. The blood vessels get smaller and this shrinkage causes less oxygen to reach the skin. A patient with Raynaud’s disease will see their toes turn colors. The toes will change color in the following order: white, blue, and then red. The color of the toes is based on temperature, how much blood is able to reach the skin, and how much oxygen is able to reach the skin.

At your next University Foot & Ankle Center appointment let your podiatrist know of any changes in your feet, especially color changes.  It is not common, but serious forms of Raynaud’s disease can lead to bigger problems.

Unfortunately, cold weather can be harder on the feet for people with conditions like poor circulation and diabetes. These conditions can make it harder for you to know when your feet are too cold. This is why it is important for you to bring your winter shoes with you to University Foot & Ankle Center when you have an appointment. Our podiatrists knows your feet and can let you know if your shoes have the right kind of support to keep your feet warm and dry.

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