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Why Do Blisters Develop?
Those who enjoy being active in the outdoors can understand the frustration that comes with developing blisters on the feet. Whether it is hiking, or partaking in an outdoor run or walk, blisters can make staying active very uncomfortable and often painful. They can be caused by increases in temperature which make the feet sweat excessively. Blisters can also form due to swelling of the feet, which in turn may cause chafing against footwear. This excess friction can cause the skin to protect itself, thus creating a blister. Mild relief may be found when comfortable shoes and quality socks are worn, cushioning the feet with insoles, and taping over areas of the feet that are more prone to developing blisters. If you would like more information on how to treat and prevent blisters, please consult with a podiatrist for professional care.
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 our office located in Scottsdale, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about BlistersFoot Injuries May Occur From Falling
Many elderly people are interested in techniques on how to prevent falling. It is a common occurrence among patients who are sixty-five years and older, and this can increase the amount of foot injuries that can happen.There are methods that can be implemented that can limit the number of falling episodes. The home can be made safer by removing worn rugs that may encourage slipping. Additionally, it is suggested that routine examinations are maintained, and this can help to modify existing medications. It is beneficial to have bright lighting in the living environment, and removing clutter may eliminate falling. Many patients find it helpful to install grab bars in the toilet and shower area. Research has shown this is an effective method in maintaining appropriate stability that can help to prevent falling. If you would like additional information about the type of foot injuries that can occur as a result of falling, please consult with a podiatrist.
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 our office located in Scottsdale, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Falls PreventionWounds 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.
Why Is It Beneficial to Warm up Before Running?
Running injuries can wreak havoc on the life of a runner. Common ailments can include shin splints, torn tendons, and heel pain. The majority of injuries may be prevented when the appropriate time is taken to properly warm up and cool down before and after completing a run. Heel pain can be indicative of plantar fasciitis, and wearing shoes that fit properly may help to ease the pain and discomfort that is often associated with this condition. Stress fractures can gradually develop from frequently participating in running and jumping activities. They can occur in the foot, and may develop as a result of overusing specific muscles. Effective prevention techniques may consist of slowly increasing the distance and speed of your run, and it is also beneficial to wear supportive shoes. Please consult with a podiatrist about how running injuries can impact the feet, and additional methods on how to prevent them.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM of Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.
What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.
Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Scottsdale, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about How to Prevent Running InjuriesDo You Have Flat Feet?
Flat feet occur when the arches in your foot have not fully developed, and the entire sole of your foot touches the floor when standing up. Flat feet can be caused by a variety of different things that include obesity, aging, or the simple lack of development during childhood. While this condition is very common, most people do not experience any symptoms. However, if you begin experiencing random foot pains, you should check with your doctor to see if you have flat feet. If you do have flat feet that cause you pain, a podiatrist can provide a variety of solutions that may include physical therapy, exercises and custom orthotics.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Are Flat Feet?
Flatfoot is 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. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches 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.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Scottsdale, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Flat FeetWhat Causes a Hammertoe?
When the joints of the toes are affected, it's likely that one may develop a hammertoe. Hammertoes are often recognized by their hammer-like appearance, as this condition causes the affected toe to bend downward. The second, third, fourth, and fifth toes are most commonly affected by this condition. It’s possible for a person to develop what is referred to as a flexible hammertoe. This means that even though a hammertoe is present, the toe can still be moved at the joint. Rigid hammertoes, on the other hand, do not allow for such movement. Hammertoes can develop for a variety of reasons. Common causes may include injury to the affected toe, improperly fitted footwear, and arthritis. In order to treat this condition, it's recommended that you seek the care of your podiatrist.
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM of Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.
Symptoms
- Painful and/or difficult toe movement
- Swelling
- Joint stiffness
- Calluses/Corns
- Physical deformity
Risk Factors
- Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
- Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
- Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
- Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe
Treatment
If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Scottsdale, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about HammertoeFoot Pain May Come From Being Overweight
Patients who are overweight may have an increased risk of experiencing ankle and foot pain. This may be a result of the excess body weight the feet must bear as everyday activities are completed. The natural pad in the heel area may become thin, and this may lead to heel pain which can be indicative of plantar fasciitis or heel spurs. People who are obese may have difficulty in performing daily exercise routines, which may contribute to the inability to lose weight. Pain may be experienced in the joints, ligaments, and muscles of the feet, and a sedentary lifestyle may be preferred. Research has indicated that foot pain may be controlled by maintaining a healthy weight, and this can be accomplished by eating healthy foods, and starting an exercise regime. If you have questions about how excess weight can affect the feet, please consult with a podiatrist.
Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, 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.
Obesity and Your Feet
Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.
Problems & Complications
Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.
Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.
Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Scottsdale, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about How Obesity Affects Your FeetPossible Causes of Gout
The joints of the big toe are generally impacted by the medical condition that is referred to as gout. Common symptoms can include swelling, severe pain and discomfort in the big toe and surrounding area, and it may be difficult to walk. Patients who have this ailment often describe the pain as feeling like crystals protruding between the joints. This happens as a result of excess uric acid in the bloodstream, and can be caused by a variety of reasons. These can include genetic factors, obesity, and high blood pressure. Additionally, it may come from eating foods that are high in purine levels, which may often consist of red meat, shellfish, and sugary drinks. If you have this painful condition, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage it.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.
Symptoms
- Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
- Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
- Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
- Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility
Risk Factors
- Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
- Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
- Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
- Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
- Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
- Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout
Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.
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 GoutIt's Time for Beautiful Feet
You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your 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 CallusesMore...
What 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!
Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
