Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.
Bunions are uncomfortable bony bumps that can develop on the side of the feet. Typically, bunions form on the outside of the foot near the big toe. However, smaller bunions may also develop on the outside of the foot near the pinky toe. When an individual ages, they may become increasingly susceptible to foot conditions, such as bunions. Many senior adults who have bunions often wonder whether bunion surgery is a suitable option for them. The answer is slightly complicated and dependent on each individual patient. It is important to note that an older individual can undergo a surgery to address their bunions. However, it is equally important to note that several age-related conditions may make bunion surgery less feasible. For example, diabetes, obesity, and weak bone health may increase the risks associated with surgery for bunions. If you are a senior living with bunions and would like to inquire about possible surgical procedures, it is recommended that you consult a podiatrist today.
If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Bunion?
A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.
Why Do Bunions Form?
Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary
Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions
How Are Bunions Diagnosed?
Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.
How Are Bunions Treated?
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
The arches of the feet play an important role in everyone’s daily life, as they help you walk by keeping the foot flexible. The arches of the feet also support your weight when you stand, walk, run, or jump. Stretching exercises specifically targeting the arches can keep them strong and healthy. They can increase blood flow, improve flexibility, relieve pain, improve balance, and reduce the chances of injury. Among the stretches thought to be useful for the arches are the seated foot stretch and the stair stretch. First, sit in a chair with the affected foot crossed over the opposite leg. Pull the toes toward the ankle and hold for 10 seconds. Repeat two or three times and switch legs. Second, stand on a step with the heel hanging over the edge. Be sure to hold onto a rail or banister. Lower the heel gently until you feel a slight stretch in the arch and calf. Hold for 15 seconds and release. Repeat two to four times and switch legs. If you experience arch pain more often and for longer periods, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and further information on stretches that can help.
Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Stretching the Feet
Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.
It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
If you are currently suffering from some kind of affliction of the foot, seeing a podiatrist might be a good way to receive medical attention for what is impairing your health. There are several reasons why podiatrists are highly qualified medical professionals. First, podiatrists must pass a series of exams. They must also obtain official certification from the American Board of Podiatric Medicine. Before beginning their practice, a podiatrist must also undergo a rigorous education in podiatric medical school. A podiatrist also gains valuable experience by working in a residency. Podiatrists are trusted medical professionals, and it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with one today to address any issues you might be having with your feet.
If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Podiatrist?
Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.
Podiatric Treatment
A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:
A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Almost everyone has felt some type of foot pain in their life, especially if they are physically active. However, foot pain also may be caused by genetics, diet, obesity, and infections. The most common causes of foot pain include bunions, hammertoes, and corns. Gout, flat feet, and plantar warts are other painful foot conditions. In addition, athlete’s foot, toenail fungus, and ingrown toenails are common foot pain complaints. Many of these conditions can be resolved by taking better care of the feet on a daily basis, as well as wearing shoes that fit the feet properly. Gout, however, is an inflammatory condition that results from having an excess of uric acid in the body. Omitting foods high in purines can help to prevent it. Infections are often transmitted in pool or gym locker rooms, with protective footwear they can be avoided. Caring for the toenails by cutting them properly may diminish the chances of an ingrown toenail. If you are experiencing foot pain that impedes your daily activities, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for help.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Painful deformities, such as hammertoes, can be treated. Stop living with foot pain, and have beautiful feet again!
Running is a popular way to exercise, but if care is not taken, it can cause several injuries to the feet and ankles. Most common among them are plantar fasciitis, ankle sprains, stress fractures, and Achilles tendon tears. Experts recommend these procedures to help prevent injuries from running. First, warm up before you start by walking or light jogging and then performing stretches, such as lunges and knee raises. Next, be certain you have the proper footwear, both for your feet and for the type of running you are doing. A properly fitting shoe, with ample cushioning and arch support, is essential to warding off injury. Be sure to increase the time, distance, and intensity of your runs gradually. A rule of thumb is not to increase distance or intensity by more than 10 percent per week. If you begin to feel pain when running, it is wise to pay attention to it. Running through the pain can make the injury worse. Finally, stretch and give your feet and ankles a chance to rest after running. If you sustain a running injury that persists or worsens, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.
All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.
More Tips for Preventing Injury
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
A hammertoe is when there is a deformity of the middle joint of a toe and the toe bends up or down abnormally, resembling a hammer. Hammertoe typically happens to the second, third, or fourth toes, but can also occur on the pinky toe. This condition happens from an imbalance in muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the middle joint of the toe. It can be caused by wearing shoes that do not have enough room in the toe box, foot type and structure, or injury to the foot. A hammertoe can become painful, making it difficult to walk, and it may be hard to find shoes to comfortably accommodate the abnormality. Depending on the severity of the hammertoe, stretching and strengthening exercises can help straighten the toe and minimize discomfort. Such exercises include towel toe curls, where one sits in a chair with their feet flat on a towel placed on the floor. One then can curl their toes and try to scrunch up the towel followed by extending the toes to push the scrunched towel forward. It is suggested that this be done 10 times and three times a day. Another exercise is sitting on the edge of a chair or a bed, placing the affected leg on the opposite knee, and bending the toes toward the body and then away from the body. Each position should be held for 30 to 40 seconds, and three to five sets should be done three times a day. If you are having a problem with hammertoe, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide additional exercises and assess the proper treatment for you.
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.
Symptoms
Risk Factors
Treatment
If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
It is beneficial for parents to pay attention to their children’s feet as they are growing. The majority of babies are born with flat feet, and the arch generally develops during their teenage years. If this fails to occur, orthotics may be needed that may help to strengthen the foot. A foot care routine can begin with washing the child’s feet, and ensuring the area between the toes is thoroughly dried. This can be followed by trimming the toenails properly, which is typically done once per week. The feet can become stronger when babies crawl barefoot while indoors, as a result of the toes gripping the floor. When it is time to walk outside, it is beneficial for the first shoes to be made with a sturdy sole and flexible materials. The feet have several thousand sweat glands, and while sweating is normal, there may be an offensive odor. It is suggested to discuss this with a podiatrist, in addition to any information you would like to know about children’s foot health.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.
Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.
Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.
Be watchful for any pain or injury.
Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Slamming and smashing our feet into the pavement as we skateboard can take its toll on the ankles and feet. The most frequent foot and ankle problems skateboarders encounter are heel bruises, flat feet, and ankle rolls. If you skateboard and want to continue doing this for some time, it is important to take care of your feet. Wash, dry, and moisturize them daily. Wear properly fitting skate shoes and only wear them for skating. When the feet are sore, take a break, rest, and even soak the feet. Skate shoes do not provide the best support in terms of padding and arch support. Extra support in the heel of skate shoes may help prevent heel bruises. A looser-fitting shoe and gel inserts might help with foot pain caused by flat feet. If you are into skateboarding and are experiencing foot problems, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment options.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:
Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
