Golfer Erik Compton Ends Season for a Series of Issues Including Gout
Golfer Erik Compton had to end his season early withdrawing from the Barclays after eight holes due to a series of issues. While the thirty-five-year-old has been suffering from a respiratory infection he has recently withdrew from the Wyndham Championship because of his battle with gout. Compton has had two heart transplants in his lifetime which makes it necessary for him to take a series of medication, one of which leads to gout. He states, “It’s been a tough season on my body...I need to get healthy and be ready to play in the fall.”
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you have any concerns regarding gout, consult with one of our podiatrists from Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
What is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Waynesburg, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Tips to Keep Healthy Blood Circulation While in the Office
Observer Style has come up with a list of things office workers can do to better their blood circulation and overall productivity at work. Long eight hour shifts can cause many problems for the body, especially if you do not get up often throughout the day. It is best to get up at least every 45 minutes to improve blood circulation, even if it is just to get up and walk to the bathroom. Getting in your cardio or daily exercising during lunch can also break up the long periods of work. Not only will this improve circulation, but it will boost your metabolism and reduce the slowness of that two o’clock feeling. Other activities include eating healthier snacks, meditating, practicing proper posture, as well as keeping your work area clean.
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 Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our podiatrists will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Poor Circulation in the Feet
Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is 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. It usually restricts 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:
-muscle pain -numbness in legs
-cramps -skin discoloration
-weakness -slower nail & hair growth
-stiffness -erectile dysfunction
Those who have diabetes and or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, or 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 doctor as they will help try and fit a regime that suits you. A doctor will also prescribe you medication which will help for PAD.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Waynesburg, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Shockwave Therapy Helpful in Treating Plantar Fasciitis
While plantar fasciitis is a common overuse injury in the foot, it has been known to go away with the help of remedies such as shockwave therapy. Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common overuse injuries of the lower extremities. While pain from overuse injuries can be relieved with pain-killing drugs, other methods, such as shockwave therapy are also successful. Other supplemental aids, such as orthotics, can be helpful as well.
Shockwave therapy is a treatment commonly used to treat various injuries and conditions, particularly plantar fasciitis in the feet. To learn more, consult with one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will provide you with quality foot and ankle information and treatment.
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is a new treatment option designed to treat bone conditions such as tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and others. Shockwave therapy uses high intensity sound waves that are directed to the affected tissues of the body with pinpoint accuracy. The effects are very beneficial, leading to a production of collagen fibers, eliminating inflammation.
Who Benefits from Shockwave?
Shockwave is recommended for patients suffering from heel pain and associated problems. Heel pain is a common condition which can be caused by obesity, overexertion, and spending a substantial amount of time on hard floors with your feet exposed and unsupported.
Fast and Easy
The therapy is actually a simple process that can leave patients feeling better the very next day. Shockwave therapy is not as dramatic as it sounds. It enables more blood flow to effected areas, attacking the source of the problem so treatment lasts for a long time.
Treatment & Recovery Time
Shockwave treatment will enable your feet to recover quickly. This is especially important since surgery is not required. It is cost effective and does not require the use of anesthesia. This treatment is a better option to surgery, since it is proven safe.
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 and ankle needs.
Different Methods of Healing Cracked Heels are Different for Each Individual
Stephanie Chon of Bustle recalls her experience on making her cracked heels smooth again for the summer. While using a pumice stone to smooth out the rougher areas on the bottom of her heels worked great for Chon, certain methods will work differently on everyone. Additionally, rubbing Vaseline into dried heels can consistently keep the foot moisturized which is best completed after showering or when the feet are wet. Although there are many do-it-yourself remedies out there, it is always best to consult with a doctor first if your feet are extremely cracked for the best heel hydrating method for your foot needs.
Cracked heels can become painful if left untreated. To learn more, consult with Dr. Paula F. Raugellis of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
The Truth about Cracked Heels
Cracked Heels
Cracked heels are unappealing, and make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Not only may they look bad, but they can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.
How do you get them?
Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.
Promote Healing
Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief, or who suffer from chronic dry feet.
Wear Socks – wearing socks with medicated creams, helps lock in moisture so it can stay on longer.
Moisturizers – applying it both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.
Pumice Stones – these remove dead skin, and then you can massage cream onto your foot. This way the cream will be absorbed. The skin needs to be exfoliated; therefore the outer layer dead skin needs removal.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Waynesburg, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies for your foot and ankle needs.
New York Jets Lose Antonio Allen Due to Torn Achilles tendon
Antonio Allen of the New York Jets has torn his right Achilles tendon during training camp, making him ineligible to play during the upcoming season. The injury occurred as Allen was coming out of his stance during a practice run and needed to be helped off the field. Although the team initially did not know how long the injury would keep the safety off of the roster, it seems as though everyone fully understands that Allen will be out for the rest of the season.
Achilles tendon injuries and problems need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns contact one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can cause severe difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What are the symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
- Inflammation
- Dull to Severe Pain
- Increased blood flow to the tendon
- Thickening of the tendon
Rupture Symptoms
- Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
- Total immobility
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
- Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
- Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Women and Men Suffer from Arthritis and Other Bone and Muscle Problems in Different Ways
According to a study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, men and women react and suffer from bone and muscle injuries such as arthritis in completely different ways. The study finds that women are more likely to have bone injuries as a result of arthritis while men will suffer blows to the tendons. Even though there has been a recent increase in Achilles tendon injuries in women, they are most likely occurring from forces such as running. For both sexes, wearing sensible shoes is the best bet in avoiding injuries of any kind; however, women are twice as likely to sustain some type of lower extremity injury due to high heels.
The feet are often common sites for arthritis to occur in the body. If you are struggling with arthritis in your feet or ankles, call one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors can examine your lower extremities to help alleviate your joint pain.
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, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all of your foot ankle injuries.
The Best Running Shoe is Different for Each Individual Depending on their Foot Type
The “best shoe” when it comes to running shoes may not necessarily be the best running shoe for everyone. When purchasing new running shoes, it may be best to shop at specialty running stores where employees are trained to find the right shoe for each customer. Running stores will typically measure your feet, gait, and type of running to determine if you are a neutral runner or a runner that needs stability. Each runner has pronation in their feet, the inward roll of the foot as it hits the ground in the running cycle. Different shoes are created to help those that over pronate or under pronate while running.
The right running shoe is essentially different for every person. If you have any concerns feel free to contact one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Choosing the Right Running Shoes for Your Foot Type
Running is a physical activity although fun, can put a lot of stress on the joints, bones and ligaments of the body. Injury and stress on the foot can be an important factor on which kind of shoe you’re wearing. Running shoes should be worn based on your foot type. It is important to find out what fits you based on cushioning, stability and motion.
Determining your type
Speak with a shoe specialist or retail professional to see what your foot type is. They will be able to identify and measure your arch type, stride and gait.
Running Mechanics
When you are running or walking in your shoes, every step determines how your foot is landing. Pronation is the natural rolling of your ankle from outside to inside during foot strike.
Pronation is a correct form of walking or running. It helps absorb shock and store energy from your lower extremities. Neutral runners who pronate correctly do not need specific shoes, since they have stability and control.
Over-pronators
Those who run with excessive ankle rolling. Over-pronators tend to have ankles that angle inward, flat feet, and or bowed legs. This can cause a series of injuries: of the knees, ankles and Achilles tendons.
Under-pronation
Under-pronation is less common than over-pronation. This usually happens to those who have inflexible feet and high arches. Even though there is less rotational stress on the ankles and knees, it prevents any kind of shock absorptions. Under-pronation needs shoes with increase in cushion and flexibility.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Study: Working on your Feet for Long Periods of Time Can Have Negative Effects
According to a study conducted by the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society, standing for long periods of time while at work can have negative impacts on your lower extremities. The study included 14 men and 12 women ages 18-30 and 50-65 years old. All participants performed low intensity tasks, such as using a computer, while standing. The results showed that for much longer than 30 minutes after the work day had ended, significant fatigue to the back, legs, feet and ankles persisted. Overall having a balance between standing and sitting at work can be beneficial for both workers and employers.
While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Working on Your Feet
Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.
Positive Changes
Negative heeled shoe – choosing this shoe places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.
Go barefoot – our feet were not designed to be enclosed for hours, or all day. Try allowing yourself to expose your feet to air.
Eliminate Pain
Foot Exercises – performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and stretches is beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.
Achilles tendon – stretching the foot out flat on the floor, will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen.
With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.
Keep your feet healthy and your body will thank you for it.
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 and ankle needs.
Key Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms to Look Out for
Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition that tends to affect women more than it does men. Many people associate rheumatoid arthritis with its classic symptoms of joint pain and joint stiffness. Aside from these signs, however, there are another nine symptoms to be aware of: fatigue, slow healing, numbness, foot issues, eye trouble, joint ache, stiffness, locked joints, and nodules. Foot issues can include the development of pain in the heel, which is due to swelling tissue.
Rheumatoid Arthritis and joint pain can become very painful and debilitating if left untreated. For more information about Rheumatoid Arthritis and its symptoms, consult with one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
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.
For more information about rheumatoid arthritis please follow the link below.
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 care needs.
Corn Prevention Can be as simple as Wearing Proper Fitting Shoes
Corns, hardened layers of skin formed through pressure or friction on the feet, are known to be unsightly and painful. Without the proper treatment, abnormalities in the gait of the foot can arise. Experts suggest wearing proper fitting shoes, toe splints, or orthotics to reduce any pressure that may cause corns. Diabetics especially need to pay attention to this condition as diabetic feet are more susceptible to complications.
Corns can be a huge nuisance for the feet. If you have any foot or ankle concerns contact Dr. Paula F. Raugellis and Dr. C. Michael Irvin of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors will attend to 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.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
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Podiatry Team Appears on Shark Tank for Innovative Orthotics
Podiatrists, Rachel Ferguson and Marie Ann Lewis, pitched to investors on the popular television show Shark Tank for their premium orthotics company known as Synxsole. The pitch resulted in a three way bidding bar when they scored Talent2 founder Andrew Banks. The duo created the company when they would attempt to fit their patients with orthotic inserts, but they were too big to wear with most shoes. “The real potential is we all want happy feet,” stated Banks.
Orthotics can be helpful in reducing pain for many foot problems. If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What are Orthotics?
Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain, but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.
Over-the-Counter Inserts
Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct over arched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.
Prescription Orthotics
If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you, or if you have a more severe foot issue, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and more severe heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses, and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.
If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist on the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain free.
Barbie Dolls to be made with Flat Feet for a More Realistic Look
Barbie has recently reintroduced their doll brand with some of the dolls bearing flat feet. The changes occurred after a few online sources lashed out at the brand for setting impossible body standards for young children. CNN stated about the new dolls, “The latest line of diverse Barbies may find fans among a growing number of parents who want dolls to reflect the broad ethnic diversity of women and a wide range of possibilities for girls futures.”
Flat feet can be problematic for some individuals. You have any concerns about flat feet; speak to one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will attend to all of your podiatric needs.
What are Flat Feet?
Flat feet are a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. Standing about 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arch never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – if you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms:
Pain around the heel or arch area
Trouble standing on the tip toe.
Swelling around the inside of the ankle.
Flat look to one or both feet.
Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment:
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
For more information about Flat Feet, follow the link below.
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 and ankle needs.
Read more about Flat Feet
Weak Feet and Ankles are More Susceptible to Morton’s Neuroma
More often than not people think that foot conditions develop as a result of overworking the feet. What many people do not realize, however, is that foot pain is usually a result of a mechanical problem.Weak feet or ankles lack in stability and are often the cause of many problems that have to do with movement. They also contribute to the development of ailments such as Morton’s neuroma, a painful nerve condition in the ball of the foot. The feet stabilize the base of the body and are therefore crucial in determining which muscles will be emphasized as the body moves.
Morton’s Neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma contact podiatrist Dr. Paula F. Raugellis of Greene Podiatry Associates. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
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?
- Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
- Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
- Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities
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 Waynesburg, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and treatments to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Teacher Runs Boston Marathon with Stress Fracture
Kate Gabey, health teacher at Lincoln-Way North, recently completed the Boston Marathon with a stress fracture. The physical education teacher and avid runner continued her training for the marathon as she normally would when she started to feel extensive pain in her foot. “I ended up going in to see a doctor and found out it was a stress fracture,” Gabey stated. Ultimately the teacher was able to run the marathon with the stress fracture and was greeted at the finish line by Lincoln-Way North colleagues such as Brooke Vesely.
Many marathon runners are susceptible to receiving stress fractures because of the intense training they may undergo. If you would like treatment for a stress fracture, contact one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.
Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
The Stress Fractures occur on the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use. Then the feet and ankles 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. The stress on the feet causes cracks to form in the bones, thus called 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:
-runners
-people affected with Osteoporosis
-play tennis or basketball
-gymnastics
-high impact workouts
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 in high impact will aggravate pain.
For more information about Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle, follow the link below.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.