Albert Pujols Deals with Plantar Fasciitis
Albert Pujols was slowed for weeks by what he found to be plantar fasciitis in his right foot in early September, the same condition that had affected his left foot. Plantar fasciitis had ended Pujols’s 2013 season in July. Pujols is confident that he’ll “have plenty of time to take care of myself in the off-season.” Currently, Pujols is “doing whatever it takes to help this club win as many games as we can,” determined to keep playing.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your 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?
· Excessive running
· Non-supportive shoes
· Overpronation
· Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
How Can It Be Treated?
· Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
· Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
· Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
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 Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Dealing with Arthritis in the Feet
Arthritis occurs when the protective cartilage of joints begins to wear away. The condition can be very uncomfortable, and it can make those who have it want to avoid physical activity. Fortunately, there are certain exercises that can help alleviate the pain that arthritis causes in its victims. Aerobics, strength-training, and tai chi are all methods that have been proven to ease arthritic pain
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment,contact one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves inflammation of different joints in your body, such as in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. On top of this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.
In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.
Alleviating Arthritic Pain
- Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
- Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
- Massages can help to temporarily alleviate pain.
It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Walking Can Provide Social and Health Benefits
Introducing walking into your daily routine not only offers various health benefits, but social benefits too, according to Valerie Cook of the City Slickers. She encourages residents of Montreal to take up to 25km walks. The City Slickers group walks around the town on approximately six total 25 km walks at an average pace of 6km/hour. “I felt good about the level of fitness I was at [because of the walks], and it was fun to be outside and walking.” said Cook.
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 Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Exercise for Your Feet
Exercise for your feet can help you to gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important and often we forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate not to have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure its good health in the long run.
Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rise, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, also flexing the toes and involving the shins may help too. It is best to speak with your doctor regarding how to do these fitness steps and how often is right for you. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different and it varies from individual to individual to determine what should be done for you to maintain strength in your feet.
Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
How To Prevent Blisters
Blisters are a fairly common foot condition that can be easily prevented with a few simple steps. The first step is to ensure the feet are always kept clean in order to prevent any germs or bacteria from penetrating the skin. Wearing the right pair of socks can also help support the feet and reduce friction, which can create blisters. Applying band-aids to any already existing blisters can help reduce excess heat or additional friction that can exacerbate the blister.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet arecontact one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.
What are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
How do Blisters Form?
Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.
Prevention & Treatment
It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.
If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Wear Proper Fitting Sneakers for Exercise
When you are about to exercise, you shouldn't wear old, worn-out shoes. A vast majority of foot issues develop as a result of wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. The most important things to look for when shoe shopping are proper fit and proper support. Shoes that have proper support will stabilize your feet and help prevent fatigue. You should also look for shoes that have cushioning. Investing in a good pair of shoes is important for your feet’s health because it will prevent injuries in the future.
Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Proper Shoe Fitting
A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:
- Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
- Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
- Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
- Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity
Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes is vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Ankle Sprains Require Treatment
Approximately 28,000 people sprain their ankle in the United States each day. About 55% of those people who sprain their ankle never go to a doctor to seek treatment for their injury. Consequently, a lot of these untreated ankle sprains will recur in the future because they haven’t been properly treated. Ankle sprains tend to be most common among active people, but they can also be caused by walking on uneven surfaces or tripping on a flight of stairs. It is very important to not ignore an ankle sprain, because it could be a much more serious injury than you expect.
Ankle sprains are common, but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
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?
- Mild to moderate bruising
- Limited mobility
- Swelling
- Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)
Preventing a Sprain
- Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
- Stretching before exercises and sports
- Knowing your limits can aid in prevention
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 offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Treatments for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis is usually diagnosed from the presence of other clinical symptoms. These symptoms may include: joint erosion, joint space narrowing, or periarticular osteopenia. There are different treatment options available for different levels of rheumatoid arthritis. Mild and moderate levels of RA can be treated with anti-inflammatories and disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. Patients with severe cases of the disease are treated with anti-tumor necrosis factor inhibitors, which are also known as anti-TNFs.
Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctorscan provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.
Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet
Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.
Symptoms
- Swelling & pain in the feet
- Stiffness in the feet
- Pain on the ball or sole of feet
- Joint shift and deformation
Diagnosis
Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more on Rheumatoid Arthritis
Hyperhidrosis and Your Feet
Hyperhidrosis is the medical term for excessive sweating. Although hyperhidrosis only affects 3% of the global population, it is still viewed as a serious health condition. People who suffer from the condition are often self-conscious, anxious and depressed. Hyperhidrosis usually affects the hands, feet, and forehead of people who have it. Those with hyperhidrosis know that there is a strong body odor that is caused by the condition. It is important to wash every day and shave under your arms. Bacteria and moisture can easily become trapped in hair so it is recommended that you shave it off.
If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis anklescontact one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctorswill treat your foot and ankle needs.
Hyperhidrosis of the Feet
Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.
Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.
Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.
In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.
A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about hyperhidrosis of the feet.
Flip-Flops can cause Heel Pain
It is no secret that flip-flops are not the best choice of footwear for your feet. Flip-flops often cause a great deal of heel pain for those that wear them for an extended period of time. Teens are a group that usually doesn’t suffer from foot problems such as heel pain. However, as flip-flops and sandals have increased in popularity, more teenagers have been suffering from feet issues. If you choose to wear sandals, it is recommended that you select a pair that has strong soles and good arch support. Although sandals with thicker soles may not be stylish, is it important to wear them in order to avoid getting plantar fasciitis.
Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or anklescontact one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctorswill assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
Flip-Flops and Feet
When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops. Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off, perfect for any summer beach goer. However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.
How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?
- Ankle problems
- Hip problems
- Lower back problems
- Pain in the balls of the feet
- Problems with foot arches
- Changes in the way you walk
Are there injuries associated with flip-flops?
Yes. Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections. Common injuries and ailments include:
- Sprained ankles
- Blisters
- Infections
- Cuts and Scrapes
I like wearing flip-flops, are there safe alternatives?
When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and are made of high quality materials that will support for your feet. These flip-flops will cost more, but will also last longer as a result.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Flip-Flops and Your Feet
New Surgical Procedure Treats Foot Arthritis
There is a new surgical procedure that has been designed to help people who suffer from foot arthritis. Millions of arthritis sufferers in America now have a new option to consider when looking for ways to treat their condition. The goal of the procedure is to replace damaged cartilage in the joint of the big toe. The procedure also aims to relieve pain inflicted by arthritis and improve mobility. Patients who have the procedure done begin walking on their feet much sooner than those who opt for regular foot surgery.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact our one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctorscan provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves inflammation of different joints in your body, such as in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. On top of this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.
In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.
Alleviating Arthritic Pain
- Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
- Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
- Massages can help to temporarily alleviate pain.
It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about arthritic foot care.
More...
Olympic Gymnast Admits to Having Bunions
Olympic rhythmic gymnast, Kiana Eide, recently admitted to having bunions. Rhythmic gymnastics is hard on the body, especially the feet. Eide claims that the sport can make a young person have “feet like a grandma.” Eide claims that she’s always had bunions, and that they are the least of her worries.
Bunion surgery usually occurs after non-surgical methods have proved to be ineffective. If your feet are hurting, contact our one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc.Our doctorswill assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
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 by 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 cause bunions to form
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?
- Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
- Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
- Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
- Orthotics or foot inserts
- Surgery
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Poisonous Plant Causes Blisters
A poisonous plant has recently been found to cause blisters in those who come in contact with it. The plant is called wild parsnip and it is spreading across the Midwest. The plant has a yellow-green head and typically flowers between May and July. Even after the blisters have healed, it may cause a scar on those that have come in contact with it.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact our one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.
What are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
How do Blisters Form?
Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.
Prevention & Treatment
It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about blisters on the feet
Treating Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that causes pain along the bottom of the foot. It occurs due to the inflammation of the thick band of connective tissue that runs from the heel to the toes on the bottom of the foot. Plantar fasciitis can usually be treated at home with simple remedies. One of these treatments includes calf stretching. Calf stretching is a popular treatment because it helps improve flexibility. Another treatment is ice therapy to reduce pain and inflammation. Over the counter nonsteroidal medications may also help in alleviating the pain that plantar fasciitis causes.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact our one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc.. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
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?
· Excessive running
· Non-supportive shoes
· Overpronation
· Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
How Can It Be Treated?
· Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
· Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
· Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
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 Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Plantar Fasciitis
Treating Toenail Fungus
It is important to recognize toenail fungus in its early stages to prevent it from developing into an infection. It is also important to be aware of the signs of toenail fungus so that you know to get rid of it. Nails that are darker, or more yellow than usual could have a fungus. You should also watch out for nails that have a strong odor or are painful enough to make walking difficult.
While toenail fungus is troublesome to eradicate, it is not impossible. For more information about treatment, contact our one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors will attend to your foot and ankle needs.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a problem which affects many people and is hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating toenail fungus.
Antibiotics & Treatments
Lamisil – is the most commonly effective treatment for toenail fungus. It is available as an antibiotic Terbinafine tablet and cream. Terbinafine is a chemical component which kills fungal growth on the body. Applying regular doses will gradually kill the fungal growth. It is important to keep the area clean and air free.
Talcum powder – applying powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well
Alternative Treatments
There are always surgical procedures that are available for toenail fungus. Some people would like immediate quick removal of toenail fungus. Surgeons will be able to cut through and remove the growth using laser surgery. It is important not to try and remove it yourself. Once removed, your old shoes will need to be replaced to avoid reinfection.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Toenail Fungus