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It's Time for Beautiful Feet
Possible Causes of Corns
Corns are small, thick, and hardened layers of skin that can grow inward on the bottom of the feet. Additionally, corns can form between the toes, and can cause general pain and discomfort. These typically occur as a result of wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, and can appear on the pressure points of the foot. Mild relief may be felt when there is a protective pad worn over the corn. Corns that are bigger, which alter the style of walking, may need to be removed by a podiatrist, who can also recommend wearing orthotics to help to prevent corns from developing in the future.
Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM of Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.
Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:
- Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
- Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
- Wearing only shoes that offer support
Treating Corns
Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Peoria, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Corns and CallusesWhat is a Common Source of Heel Pain?
One common cause of heel pain is a foot condition known as a heel spur. With this condition, it’s common to notice redness and swelling around the affected heel. A heel spur is defined as a bone growth found in the heel, and it’s typically diagnosed by having an x-ray performed. The pain felt with this condition is usually noticed when one is walking, running, jogging, or partaking in other physical activities. To help ease the discomfort of this condition, it may be beneficial to rest the affected foot and to apply a cold compress on the heel. If you’re experiencing extreme pain in your heel, it’s important to get a professional diagnosis. It’s suggested that you speak with a podiatrist to help advise you on a proper treatment plan.
Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.
Heels Spurs
Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.
Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.
Pain
The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.
Treatments
There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.
If you have any questions feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Peoria, AZ . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Read more about How to Treat Heel SpursRheumatoid Arthritis and the Feet
If you are experiencing severe pain and joint deformity, you may be showing symptoms indicative of rheumatoid arthritis. This form of arthritis causes the body to attack its own joint tissue. This may result in inflammation as well as progressive joint damage. The effects of rheumatoid arthritis are typically most present in the toes, however this condition may also cause flat feet, resulting in fallen arches. Heel pain, nerve damage, and skin rashes are also other conditions that may arise due to rheumatoid arthritis. If you are afflicted with this ailment, it is highly recommended that you are under the care of a podiatrist as the most advanced treatment options are available now.
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 Richard P. Jacoby, DPM of Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
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 and 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 one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Peoria, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Rheumatoid Arthritis in the FeetPossible Causes of Bunions
A common sign that you may have developed a bunion is by a bump that gradually forms on the side of the big toe. Additionally, it may appear red, swollen, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. The reasons that a bunion may form can consist of wearing shoes that do not have ample room for the toes to move freely in, or from medical conditions such as arthritis, nerve damage, or due to flat feet. Additionally, genetics may also play a significant role in the development of a bunion, and research has indicated the chances may increase as the aging process occurs. Many patients that have bunions wear custom made orthotics, as this may help relieve a portion of the pressure while wearing shoes. In severe cases, if it becomes difficult to walk, surgery may be a necessary option that can permanently remove the bunion. If you feel you have developed a bunion, it is suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can help choose the best treatment option that is correct for you.
If you are suffering from bunions, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM of Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Bunion?
A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.
Why Do Bunions Form?
Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary
Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions
How Are Bunions Diagnosed?
Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.
How Are Bunions Treated?
- 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 Scottsdale and Peoria, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about What Are Bunions?Heel Pain Can Be Treated!
What Symptoms are Indicative of Morton’s Neuroma?
One common cause of Morton’s neuroma includes wearing footwear that is too tight for your feet. This condition may occur when a nerve between the toes becomes pinched and inflamed, often causing a numbing or tingling feeling in the affected foot. Some patients have also expressed it felt as if they were walking with a pebble in their shoe, as well as a burning felt in the forefoot. Along with ill fitting footwear, certain foot deformities may also be a factor in the development of Morton’s neuroma. Some conditions that increase your risk of developing a neuroma may include hammertoes and bunions. To help alleviate some of the discomfort associated with this condition, patients have found using insoles and custom orthotics to be quite helpful. If you believe you have developed Morton’s neuroma and would like more information on how to treat this condition, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist.
Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM of Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor 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?
- 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 one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Peoria, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Morton's NeuromaThe Importance of Proper Senior Foot Care
As the aging process occurs, the skin on the feet may become thin and lose cushioning. The feet may also be more susceptible to the development of uncomfortable foot conditions, which may include blisters and corns. Additionally, ingrown toenails may be a common ailment among seniors, as this can be a result of poor visibility while trimming the toenails. The feet may generally feel better when shoes and socks that are worn fit correctly, and it is beneficial to avoid wearing high heels. It may also be helpful to choose shoes that have Velcro fasteners, as opposed to laces that can be easily tripped on if they become untied. Many elderly patients choose to be under the care of a podiatrist, who can monitor any existing foot conditions.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
- Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
- Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
- Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
- Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
- Shoes that don’t fit properly
- Pressure sores
- Loss of circulation in legs & feet
- Edema & swelling of feet and ankles
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Peoria, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Elderly Foot CareHow to Help Maintain the Health of Your Child’s Feet
When a child is born, the bones in their feet are comprised of soft cartilage. Research has indicated that it is beneficial for a child to walk barefoot while indoors, as this may help the feet to become stronger. This can happen when the toes grasp the floor, and this generally benefits the entire foot. When your child walks outdoors, it is important to properly measure their feet, as this can help to best determine the correct shoe size. When the first shoes are purchased, it is suggested that they are made of a lightweight and breathable material, in addition to having non-slip soles. Children’s feet grow rapidly, and it is wise to have them measured approximately every six weeks. Many babies are born with flat feet, and the arches will gradually develop as the feet become stronger. If this fails to occur, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose any foot condition your child may have.
The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM of Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
- Make sure their shoes fit properly
- Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
- Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
- Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
- Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
- Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
- Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
- Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Peoria, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about How to Care for Your Child's FeetWhat Are the Common Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot?
A fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet is referred to as athlete’s foot. It is considered to be contagious, and this type of fungus lives and thrives in warm and moist environments. These can include public pools, shower room floors, and surrounding areas. Methods can be implemented which may help to prevent athlete’s foot from developing. It is helpful to wear appropriate shoes while in these areas, and to refrain from sharing shoes, socks, and towels. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this ailment often include severe itching between the toes and on the soles of the feet, redness, and in severe cases, blisters may form. Applying an anti-fungal powder may provide moderate relief for your discomfort. If you are experiencing recurring bouts of athlete’s foot, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you find proper treatment techniques.
Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.
What Is Athlete’s Foot?
Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.
Prevention
The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:
- Thoroughly washing and drying feet
- Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
- Using shower shoes in public showers
- Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
- Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot
Symptoms
Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:
- Redness
- Burning
- Itching
- Scaly and peeling skin
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Peoria, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about How to Deal with Athlete's Foot
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What Causes Corns?
Patients who have experienced corns on their toes are often aware of the pain and discomfort they may cause. A corn is defined as a portion of skin that has thickened as a result of excess friction. This can happen when shoes that are worn do not fit correctly. Common places for a corn to develop can be on the inside or top of the toes, in addition to the bottom of the feet. Some patients find moderate relief when the foot is soaked in warm water, followed by using a pumice stone to gently remove the corn. For severe or stubborn corns, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can guide you toward the correct treatment options.
If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM of Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor 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
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Peoria, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Corns: What Are They, and How Do You Get Rid of ThemPossible Causes of Blisters
Anyone who has had a blister develop on their foot is familiar with the discomfort and inconvenience that it may cause. It generally happens as a result of excessive friction that may be caused by wearing shoes and socks that do not fit correctly. The appearance is that of a small bubble that is filled with fluid. This is the body’s natural way of protecting the affected area as the damaged skin heals. The blister will typically drain on its own, and it may help to cover it with an elastic bandage as daily activities are pursued. There are methods that can be taken which can help prevent blisters from forming. These can include wearing shoes that fit correctly and sprinkling powder inside the shoe, which may help to absorb excess sweat. If you have developed a blister, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can advise you on how to prevent a blister from becoming infected.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM of Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
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 Scottsdale and Peoria, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Blisters on the FeetPromptly Treating Wounds on the Feet
Many diabetic patients are aware of the importance of promptly treating existing foot wounds. There may be serious complications if foot wounds are not treated, which may cause pain and discomfort. Some of the wounds on the feet that can be dangerous to the health of a diabetic patient can include cuts, blisters, or severely dry skin that may result in cracked heels. There are noticeable signs an infection may have developed. These can consist of extreme pain, swelling, and pus may appear surrounding the affected area. Additionally, some patients may experience a high temperature, swollen glands, or a general feeling of being unwell. If you have wounds on your feet, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can treat existing wounds.
Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Wound Care?
Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic.
What Is the Importance of Wound Care?
While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.
How to Care for Wounds
The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Peoria, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Wound Care