There are many types of foot injuries common among athletes such as plantar fasciitis, overpronation, strains, turf toe, heel spurs, and stress fractures of the foot. Plantar fasciitis is when the thick ligament in the base of the foot becomes swollen, and causes pain. Overpronation is excessive movement of the foot during gait. Pronation would be normal movement of the gait, but when movements become excessive, it leads to a variety of areas becoming painful due to the overpronation. The most common complaint is a burning sensation or inflammation under the arch of the foot, often called strain or arch pain. Heel spurs are growths of the bone in the heel where soft tissues and tendons connect. Turf toe comes from upward bending of the big toe outside of the normal range of motion. It most commonly occurs in athletes that play on artificial surfaces because a shoe grips the surface and forces and athletes weight forward causing the upward bending of the large toe. This causes damage by stretching the ligaments under the toe. Stress fractures could be caused by overuse due to muscle fatigue in the foot, preventing the muscles and ligaments from absorbing the shock and trauma.

Many athletes continue to play with mild foot injuries. You should remember to properly stretch  before any activities, focusing on their calves to prevent injuries and reduce reoccurring pain. It is also common to wear braces to protect the areas that commonly become overstretched and use shoe inserts such as heel pads. It is important to remember to wear proper footwear and replace shoes when needed.
There are many kinds of treatments required to keep the injury from becoming serious. Most commonly an athlete should immediately ice the injury to take down swelling and inflammation. Applying a compression bandage and resting will also reduce pain and stress on the foot. Rest could include using crutches to keep weight off of the injury to allow proper healing for instance. For plantar fasciitis, make sure calves are properly stretched and refrain from hills or speed work. One should try wearing an arch strap to add support. Those with heel spurs should also try arch straps to reduce strain and ice often. The best remedy would be heel pads. Aside from that, one would need a podiatrist or orthopedic specialist. It may require surgery. Those who are suffering from overpronation or turf toe should invest in a quality shoe to reduce motion. There are special insert and braces for the big toe, as well as shoes with firm soles to prevent bending. Stress fractures usually require rest, so an athlete may participate in lower impact activities to allow rest and healing. Most importantly, one should seek medical advice if pain does not go away or recurs frequently.

 

Unfortunately for Colin Kaepernick, a foot injury has landed him a place on the 49ers’ injury report. Although he has been injured since last year, Kaepernick would continue to play. Kaepernick said his injury was just a hangnail and nothing serious. Now Kaepernick says and knows otherwise—a chipped bone on his forefoot and a ruptured capsule in the ball of his foot confirmed.

The injuries, sustained during a Week Two game against the Seahawks, slowed him down for most of the rest of the season. “It was something that was always there,” Kaepernick said. “Never spoke about it, never said anything about it because you’re a football player; you play through pain … If it’s something you can play through, that’s what you do.”

Playing sports with foot or ankle injuries can sometimes be safe, but it shouldn’t be done without a doctor’s approval. If you are injured, see one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors can treat your foot and ankle needs.

Playing Sports With Foot Injuries

Many types of foot injuries affect athletes over the course of their athletic career. Despite their setbacks, many of these athletes will continue to play with mild foot injuries and attempt to ‘push’ through the pain. In order to be able to prevent injuries, it’s important to stretch before any activity, wear proper footwear and replace shoes as needed. Some of the foot injuries athletes are at risk for include:

• Turf toe- upward bending of the big toe outside normal range of motion


• Stress Fractures


• Overpronation- excessive foot movement during gait


• Plantar Fasciitis- swollen ligament in the foot’s base


• Strains

There are many types of treatments that are necessary to keep the injury from becoming more serious. Ice is often used to reduce swelling and inflammation while applying a compression bandage can help reduce pain and stress on the foot. For more serious injuries it is recommended to consult with a podiatrist or orthopedic specialist as fractures and other serious conditions may require 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.

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The term bunion refers to an enlargement of the base joint of the toe, the connection to the foot. This enlargement may be formed of swollen tissue or a bony growth, and is caused by the shifting of the bones in the big toe inward, toward the other toes of the foot. The area around the base of the big toe may become inflamed, red, and painful.

Genetic factors are important in the formation of bunions – people who get bunions are usually genetically predisposed to this bone displacement, and may cause its onset by wearing improperly fitting shoes, or by running or walking in a way that causes stress to the feet. Another common cause for bunions is wearing high heeled shoes. The weight of the body in these shoes pushes the toes into an unnatural position, possibly causing bone displacement.

A podiatrist who specializes in foot structure and bio-mechanics will be able to quickly diagnose bunions. Bunions must be distinguished from gout or arthritic conditions, so blood tests may be necessary. The podiatrist may order a radiological exam to provide an image of the bone structure. If the x-ray demonstrates an enlargement of the joint near the base of the toe and a shifting toward the smaller toes, this is indicative of a bunion.

Wearing wider shoes can remove the pressure on the bunion and reduce pain. High heeled shoes should be eliminated for a period of time as this type of shoe generally pushes the big toe outward toward the smaller toes. This may be enough to eliminate the pain associated with bunions; however, if pain persists, anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed. Severe pain may require an injection of steroids near the bunion. Orthotics for shoes may be prescribed which, by altering the pressure on the foot, can be helpful in reducing pain. These do not correct the problem, but by eliminating the pain, they can provide relief.

For cases that do not respond to these methods of treatment, surgery can be done to reposition the toe. A surgeon may do this by taking out a section of bone, or may rearrange the ligaments and tendons in the toe to help keep it properly aligned. It may be necessary even after surgery to wear more comfortable shoes that do not put undue pressure on the toe as the big toe can easily move back to its orientation toward the smaller toes.

In response to a concern over increasing bunion pain and shoes that hurt, Mayo Clinic reports that while surgery is an option to consider for bunion pain, it is not the only treatment available for the condition. One of the first steps one should take to relieve bunion pain is to change footwear and wear shoes with a wide toe box and soft leather uppers, which will relieve pressure on bunions.  Stretching out shoes can also aid in decreasing irritation and make them feel more comfortable. Acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen are pain-relieving medications one can take that may help control bunion pain, as well as cortisone injections.

To avoid extended pain, consider bunion treatment as soon as possible. For more information about bunion treatments, consult with one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality care.

What is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or boney growth enlargement, 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 to become inflamed and often painful.

Why do Bunions Form?

• Genetics – susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary, particularly among Caucasians


• Stress on the feet – poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that place undue stress on feet, such as heels and stilettos, can cause bunions to form

How are Bunions Diagnosed?

Podiatrists knowledgeable in anatomy and foot structure can be able to diagnose bunions through the following two methods:

• Blood Tests – to help rule out other conditions while finding underlying causes to bunions, especially from disease


• Radiological Exam- X-rays can show whether there are any joint enlargements near the toe’s base, which can indicate a bunion

For more information about Bunions, follow the link below.

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.

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Many individuals believe that nature is sufficient in curing nearly anything. According to writers at the Outdoor Life, those suffering from corns on the feet can treat the thickened skin in natural ways. On one instance, those with corns can submerge their feet in a will tree bark and water solution for thirty minutes to soften the skin in the area.

Acorns can be especially helpful in removing ingrown toenails. Grind the acorns up, soak them in water, and then dunk your feet in for a surprisingly effective treatment. For blisters or lesions, apply crushed plantains or yarrow to the afflicted area and cover the wound with a bandage.

Although nature has many surprising aids and tips, it cannot resolve everything. If you have a corn or any other podiatric concern, contact Dr. Paula F. Raugellis of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Dr. Raugellis will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What are they? And how do you get rid of them?

Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:
- Well-fitting socks
- Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
- Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treating corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Salicylic acid can help in getting rid of these corns because it dissolves keratin, which is the protein that makes up a good majority of corns. Podiatrists recommend that people with diabetes not use salicylic acid but should consult with their podiatrist regarding the treatment of corns.

For more information about Corns on the Feet, follow the link below.

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 care needs

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At any given period of time, around fifteen to twenty-five percent of people have Athlete’s foot or tinea pedis. Athlete’s foot, a fungal infection of the foot, can easily be prevented by regularly changing your socks. Many people choose to wear sandals to help avoid an Athlete’s foot infection. During the colder winter months, however, wearing sandals may be difficult.

Another benefit of habitually changing your socks is the prevention of troublesome foot odor. Changing into a clean pair of socks at least once a day can help prevent unpleasant smells, according to the U.K.’s National Health Service. When compared to fabrics such as cotton, synthetic materials such as polyester are more likely to house odor- and fungus-causing bacteria and should therefore be avoided.

Foot conditions caused by fungal infections, such as Athlete’s foot, mostly form due to improper hygiene. For more information about how to prevent Athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

If you suffer from itching, burning, dry, and flaking feet, this may be a sign of athlete's foot. Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be extremely contagious, and it often infects shower floors, gyms, socks and shoes, and anywhere else feet may come in contact with. It is commonly found in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
- Hydrate your feet by using lotion
- Exfoliate
- Buff off nails
- Use of anti-fungal product
- Examine feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts are present.

What is Tinea?
- Athlete’s foot is often caused by the same fungus that causes ringworm (tinea).
- Tinea can invade other parts of the body as well, if the proper thriving conditions for it are met.
- Tinea thrives in mostly dark, warm and moist environments.
- Although many people never experience athlete’s foot, around 70% of the population may suffer from tinea at some point.

For more information about Athlete’s Foot, follow the link below.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Waynesburg, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Everyday foot care is a practice that should be maintained year-round, regardless of the season. There is no denying, however, that the unpredictable wet weather of fall and winter makes it a season where extra care should be taken. Prolonged exposure to moisture and water can create bacterial growth on the feet. Washing and scrubbing cracked feet can help remove dead cells, and the space between toes should be cleaned regularly. Toenails should be kept trimmed to prevent dirt from accumulating and makes cleaning the nails much easier. The feet should always be kept dry and clean, and it is important to wear waterproof shoes if possible when out in the rain or snow.

Everyday foot care is necessary all year round, regardless of weather. To learn more about daily foot care practices and how to maintain optimal foot health, consult with podiatrists Dr. Paula Raugellis and Dr. C. Michael Irvin of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors can answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Every Day Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. After all, without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks. It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before, for example.

For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops.

Also, wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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 injuries.

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University of Calgary scientists want to build the perfect running shoe through studying the effects of comfort and its effect on the rates of injury. Even though the idea of the perfect running shoe has circulated for years, modern schools of thought claim that shoe design has no effect on the rate in which running injuries occur.

Advocates of the ‘comfort theory’ suggest that people should just go with the pair of running footwear that feels best for them. The scientific team still wants willing participants for their study, hoping to learn more through research.

For help with selecting an appropriate shoe size, consult with podiatrists Dr. Paula Raugellis and Dr. C. Michael Irvin of Greene Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Getting the Right Shoe Size
Sometimes it may be difficult finding the right shoe size especially because shoe sizes tend to vary depending on the brand and company you are looking for. A size 6 for one brand may be a size 7 in another. Although many people know their exact shoe size, it can range within 2 sizes depending on where they shop.

So it is important not to always go for a size 7 just because you think you might be a size 7 universally. It is best to try on the shoe and walk around for a bit to see how it fits and how it feels. Comfort is essential and the fitting has to be well otherwise it can lead to blisters, bruises at the back of the ankle and it can also hurt your toes if the shoe is too tight for example.
People walk a lot, so it is important for you to find what is comfortable when it is possible.
For more information about Getting the Right Shoe Size, follow the link below.

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.

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