Plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain, is caused by inflammation of the tissue in the bottom of the foot along the arch. Plantar fasciitis can actually be helped or worsened by yoga. Improper yoga form, which can cause the foot to become misaligned from a neutral position, can worsen already existing pain from plantar fasciitis. Meanwhile, stretching the foot and using proper form may help ease pain from plantar fasciitis. If you do plan to do yoga, it is important to keep the feet and knees aligned so that they do not pronate or supinate excessively when exercising. Pronation and supination is when the feet roll inwards or outwards. Orthotics may also help with pain and give your feet the support and cushioning they need. It is recommended to see a podiatrist if you are experiencing heel pain that does not go away. Furthermore, podiatrists will be able to analyze your gait and diagnose any pronation in your feet.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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 Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
How Can It Be Treated?
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
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.
Elderly Americans are at an increased risk of falling than younger Americans. Falls are a leading cause of injury among the elderly, therefore it is important for older persons to know how to prevent them in the first place. Staying active through exercising is an excellent way to stay flexible, mobile, and strong. There are exercise groups all over the country that help older people stay in shape. Make sure to clear any debris from the floor that can make tripping more likely. Lighting is another important aspect in preventing falls in the home. Installing night lights that turn on automatically in and near the restroom can help prevent falls during late-night bathroom trips. Going to routine check-ups with a doctor is advised as well, and it is important to ask if any prescribed medications can cause drowsiness or lightheadedness. Finally, have one’s eyes and hearing checked regularly to help maintain alertness. Falls pose a unique risk to older citizens, and knowing how to prevent them can make all the difference.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious 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.
Runners often face a number of common injuries that can range from generally mild to serious. Here are several common injuries and what you can do to treat and prevent them. Achilles tendonitis is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon and can range in severity. If you feel pain in the back of your foot, it is advised to stop running and to rest while applying ice to the area; this will combat inflammation. Seeing a podiatrist for tendonitis is recommended, especially if you are in pain. Stress fractures are tiny hairline fractures that occur in the bone, and they often stem from overuse. Making sure not to push yourself too hard during sports or exercise is a good way to help prevent them. Be sure to see a podiatrist if you are experiencing pain in your foot and suspect it is a stress fracture. An ankle sprain is another common running injury and often occurs from landing improperly. While one could rest and use ice to treat a mild case of tendonitis or a stress fracture, it is highly recommended to see a podiatrist for an ankle sprain.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. 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
Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.
What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.
Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.
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.
Researchers in the UK are testing a new device, still in clinical trial, that could detect ”hotspots," or areas where an ulcer is likely to occur. The device is about the size of a camera and could potentially prevent diabetic foot ulcers by allowing podiatrists to apply care to a potential hotspot. Right before the skin breaks down, it tends to heat up, which is what the device detects. An ulcer is an open wound, which is generally not a problem for most healthy people. However, an ulcer on the foot of a diabetic can be serious due to poor blood circulation; this affects many diabetics. Due to reduced blood flow, even the smallest of ulcers can potentially not heal and can become infected. This can lead to amputation if the infection is severe enough. Due to the fact that the device is still in-trial, it may not appear in podiatrists’ offices in the US for some time. Regardless, diabetics should practice daily foot care and see a podiatrist regularly for check-ups.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, 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.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
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.
Dez Bryant, wide receiver of the Dallas Cowboys, has recently sustained an ankle sprain during the Cowboys and Kansas City Chiefs game. Bryant has said that the ankle sprain is just sore and slightly-bruised, and that he will be back out on the field soon. The Cowboys were able to defeat the Chiefs 28 to 17. Bryant has previously sustained foot injuries, including a broken foot back in 2015.
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.
Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the foot. While generally not a serious condition, it can be bothersome and is contagious. As a parent, making sure your children maintain proper foot care is an important step in preventing ailments like athlete’s foot. Here are some steps that you should teach your children to help prevent athlete’s foot. Make sure that they wear flip-flops or sandals in public bathrooms and around pools. When they are drying their feet, make sure they dry in between their toes, as athlete’s foot often occurs in this area. Keep your house and their play areas clean. Teach them to not share some items like towels or shoes, as these items may be contaminated already. Finally, check their feet for any symptoms of athlete’s foot such as redness, itchiness, or scaly skin.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are 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 and ankle needs.
The overstretching and tearing of the ligaments around the ankle joint may often result in an ankle sprain. When the ankle suddenly moves out of its normal range of motion, the ligaments endure additional stress which may lead to a tear. This can be a common occurrence in sporting activities, but can also happen in everyday movements such as stepping off a curb. High-heel wearers also need to be careful, as tripping may be common due to unstable shoes. Immediate pain accompanied by tenderness is often felt because of the damage done to the ligaments. Swelling and bruising around the ankle is typical and may cause the ankle to feel unstable, resulting in difficulty walking. An MRI or X-ray is sometimes necessary in determining the severity of the sprain and in ruling out a possible fracture. Typically, elevating the foot and wearing ankle supports or braces may aid in reducing swelling, making the foot feel more comfortable. Please consult with a podiatrist immediately if you think you might have an ankle sprain.
Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, 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.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.
What Are the Symptoms?
Preventing a Sprain
Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.
If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.
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.
If you experience pain in between the toes or in the bottom of your feet, there's a chance that you may have Morton’s neuroma. The condition is a result of the irritation or thickening of a plantar digital nerve located between the toes. It typically starts with a tingling sensation, then may gradually worsen until it becomes a sharp, shooting pain. The foot may feel numb, and some people also experience pain while walking. Morton’s neuroma may also cause damage to the nerves in the foot. Causes include wearing ill-fitting shoes and athletic activities, like running. Both of these put pressure on the foot which can lead to Morton’s neuroma. Flare-ups can be frequent and may occur over a period of weeks before going away again. Treatment can include simple lifestyle changes such as wearing comfortable shoes and reducing high-impact activities. Only a podiatrist can provide a proper diagnosis however, so be sure to contact yours if you experience pain in the feet.
Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.
What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?
Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.
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 stress fracture typically occurs in the bottom of the leg or foot, due to repeated pressure incurred on the legs. Several types of athletes may suffer from this condition, although it’s common among long distance runners. Most of the symptoms include general achiness, pain in the affected area, tenderness, and swelling. There are a few different ways to diagnosis a stress fracture, including having an x-ray or bone scan performed. Treatment options include rest, and for severe pain, a plaster cast may be used. When the desired sport is resumed after healing, the legs should be stretched completely to avoid re-injury. If you think you may have a stress fracture in your foot or ankle, please consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment options.
Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use. The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.
What Are Stress Fractures?
Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:
Symptoms
Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate 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 and ankle needs.
Cold feet and hands, in addition to swelling and cramping, may often be symptoms of poor circulation. Many times it can be a sign of other health issues, such as high blood pressure and diabetes. Red or blue toes, tingling in the feet, and unexpected hair loss on the legs may all point to circulation issues. Veins can be damaged, which can then restrict or even stop blood flow and possibly lead to blood clots in the leg. Typically, unhealthy behaviors are contributing factors, and learning to manage them is a good starting point in controlling poor circulation. These may include smoking cigarettes, lack of exercise, or having high cholesterol and blood pressure. Occasionally, using leg massagers may help to stimulate circulation which improves blood flow. Additionally, wearing support hosiery and proper footwear may help your feet to feel better by improving circulation.
Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Poor Circulation in the Feet
Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.
Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.
Causes
Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:
Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.
As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication.
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.
