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Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?
Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.
Elderly Shoe Shopping
As an individual progresses into their elderly years, it becomes increasingly important for them to take extra care of their feet. This is because the feet can become more susceptible to foot conditions with age. One important part of maintaining foot health is wearing shoes that fit properly. When an elderly individual goes shoe shopping, there are several things they may consider doing to select the best fitting shoe. For example, as an individual gets older, it can be more difficult to bend over and put on shoes. So a senior may consider shopping for shoes that are easy to put on and take off. Additionally, since older people may slip and fall, shopping for shoes which have grips can be beneficial. If you are a senior or are caring for one, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today for more information.
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 Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Lupus and Toe Pain
Although the toes are small parts of the body, they play a critical role in supporting the body. Also, toe pain can have big consequences and be an annoyance for patients. One potential source of toe pain is a condition known as lupus. Lupus is a condition that causes the immune system to attack its own tissues. Lupus patients might experience toe pain, swelling, or numbness. Importantly, this pain and these symptoms in the toes, do not necessarily go away when the patient is at rest. Therefore, even when sleeping, a lupus patient might experience this toe pain. If you are someone that is currently living with toe pain for any reason, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today. This foot specialist will be able to provide guidance and any treatment that may be necessary.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, 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 Causes Toe Pain?
Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.
Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Trauma
- Sports injury
- Wearing shoes that are too tight
- Arthritis
- Gout
- Corns and calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Blisters
- Ingrown toenails
- Sprains
- Fractures (broken bones)
- Dislocations
When to See a Podiatrist
- Severe pain
- Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
- Signs of infection
- Continued swelling
- Pain that prevents walking
Diagnosis
In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Foot Wound Care
One of the most serious types of wounds on the feet is a foot ulcer. Ulcers can be common among diabetic patients and prompt medical attention is often sought to help prevent an infection. Treatment can begin with removing dead tissue, which is referred to as debridement. This is followed by dressing the wound using sterile gauze pads and antibiotic cream if the wound is infected. Many people who are diabetic can develop neuropathy, the inability to feel existing cuts on the feet. If left unnoticed, a foot ulcer can easily develop and may require more extensive forms of treatment. These types of wounds often take several weeks or months to heal and the dressing may need to be changed daily. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can treat existing wounds and help you manage this condition.
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 Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Foot Pain and Shoe Types
It is important to note that foot pain is nothing to take lightly. Since humans use their feet every day for a wide range of activities, maintaining proper foot health and addressing any potential foot pain is critical. Occasionally, foot pain may result from wearing the wrong type of shoe for the specific activity that is being pursued. For example, many individuals who spend a lot of time walking are not wearing shoes that are well suited for this. When an individual engages in walking, it is beneficial the shoes have a significant amount of arch support. This means shoes such as flip flops or flats generally are not well suited to this activity. High heels also are ill-fitted to the activity of walking because this kind of shoe forces the weight of the body to the balls of the feet. Therefore, a patient can try to remember to choose shoes that match the activity they are engaging in. If you are someone struggling with foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for treatment and advice.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, 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.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Bunions
- Hammertoes
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Bone Spurs
- Corns
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Ingrown Toenails
- Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
- Flat Feet
- Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
- And more
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked
Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.
Broken Feet and Hockey
Broken feet are also known as fractured feet, and this condition can develop in an individual for many different reasons. Broken feet can occur as a result of various types of physical activities. For example, some people who play hockey may be at an increased risk of fracturing the bones in their feet. There are many reasons for this. Specifically, hockey pucks can hit players while they are on the ice. If the puck hits the foot and the foot is unprotected, this may cause bones in the feet to break or fracture. Taking a slapshot to the foot is certainly no joke, and the consequences for the feet may be severe. If you are someone that plays ice hockey and you are concerned about the possibility of fracturing your foot, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for more information.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, 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.
Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury.
Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:
- Bruising
- Pain
- Redness
- Swelling
- Blue in color
- Numbness
- Cold
- Misshapen
- Cuts
- Deformities
Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.
Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Teenagers and Sever's Disease
The medical condition that is referred to as Calcaneal Apophysitis is commonly known as Sever's disease. This disease occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes swollen, and typically affects teenagers who participate in sporting activities. As growing occurs, muscles and tendons can put strain and pressure on the heel, possibly causing swelling and tenderness. An initial step in beginning treatment of this condition is to look out for high arches or flat feet that may be present. This may affect the way walking is done, and can be important to know so proper treatment techniques can begin. Mild relief may be found when gentle exercises are frequently performed that can promote mobility. Additionally, it may be beneficial to wear orthotics, as this may aid in the treatment of Sever's disease. If your child is suffering from this condition, it is strongly advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnosis and treat this condition.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.
Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.
Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
Symptoms Of Athlete’s Foot
The symptoms that are typically associated with athlete’s foot are often obvious. They include itchy skin between the toes and the soles of the feet, and the skin may often appear red. Some patients also experience a burning or stinging sensation, and it is generally uncomfortable. This condition is caused by a fungus, and is considered to be contagious. This fungi lives and thrives in warm and moist environments which can include swimming pools, locker room floors, and surrounding areas. Prevention measures can be implemented when appropriate shoes are worn while in these places, and it is beneficial to avoid sharing shoes and towels. For mild cases of athlete’s foot, an over-the-counter spray may be used. If your athlete’s foot has become severe, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can prescribe medication which may be necessary in treating this condition.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
- Hydrate your feet by using lotion
- Exfoliate
- Buff off nails
- Use of anti-fungal products
- Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop
Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Promptly 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 Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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Helpful Ways to Prevent Falling
It’s quite common that as we age, we start to become a little less stable on our feet. Because of this, it may be beneficial to take certain actions in helping to prevent falling, as well as injuring the feet. The first step in this process would be making sure your home is safe and accessible. Part of this involves keeping your home clean and avoiding an excess of clutter, as this may help to lessen your chances of accidentally tripping on something. Similarly, you want to make sure you can see any obstacle that may be in your way. With that in mind, keeping your house well lit, especially around stairs, can be extremely useful. Speaking of stairs, if you don’t already, you should have hand railings installed for extra support. Another great tip for preventing falls is investing in furniture that will stay put. This can be done through the use of non-skid mats for bathroom or showers, as well as rugs paired with double-sided tape. For more helpful tips about falls prevention, we recommend you consult with a podiatrist for professional advice.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
- Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
- Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
- Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
- Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
- Utilizing a walker or cane
- Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
- Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
What Is a Podiatrist?
People that are interested in entering the medical field and treating foot and ankle disorders may want to consider a career in podiatry. A podiatrist uses the initials DPM, which is an abbreviation for Doctor of Podiatric Medicine. Schooling consists of attending a four year program after college, followed by three years of residency training. Foot conditions that are treated generally include hammertoe, bunions, and heel pain, which may be indicative of plantar fasciitis or a heel spur. Additionally, podiatrists are able to provide their patients with custom-made orthotics, treat diabetic patients, and perform different types of foot surgery. It is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist if you are interested in pursuing a career in podiatry.
If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to 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.
What Is a Podiatrist?
Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.
Podiatric Treatment
A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:
- Physical therapy
- Drugs
- Orthotic inserts or soles
- Surgery on lower extremity fractures
A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
What Can Cause Hammertoe?
The medical condition that is known as a hammertoe is considered to be a deformity of the second and third toes. It is considered to be one of the more painful foot conditions, and it may be more common among women. This may be a result of wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. The second toe may gradually bend at the joint in the direction to the third toe. Additionally, the shoe may consistently touch the top of the toe, possibly causing a corn to form. Mild relief may be found when custom made orthotics are worn. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to permanently straighten the toes. If you are afflicted with a hammertoe, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you find the correct treatment options.
Hammertoe
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.
Symptoms
- Pain in the affected toes
- Development of corns or calluses due to friction
- Inflammation
- Redness
- Contracture of the toes
Causes
Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible
Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur
Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe
Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe
Treatment
Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it
Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used
Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option
If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
How Different Types of Arthritis Can Affect the Feet
There are more than thirty joints in each foot. If you feel pain in your feet, it may be indicative of arthritis. There are different types of this condition that may gradually develop. The most common form of arthritis is referred to as osteoarthritis, and typically affects one joint. Rheumatoid arthritis can be the result of an autoimmune disease, and symptoms can be seen in the ankle and foot. Sudden and severe pain in the big toe may indicate gout, which can come from genetic factors, or from foods that are eaten. Psoriatic arthritis generally affects the toes, and can cause swelling. Additional symptoms can include bumps forming on the toes from rubbing together, and it may be difficult to move the toes. Some patients notice their toenails are affected, and the toes may curl. If you feel you have any type of arthritis in your feet, please schedule an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, 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.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to 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 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 Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
