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Risk factors for heel spurs
Heel spurs are one of several conditions that can cause heel pain in the feet. A heel spur is an outgrowth of the heel bone that is pointed. Heel spurs can develop at the back of the heel, under the heel, or beneath the sole of the foot. The growths themselves are a result of calcium deposits that develop over a few months. Risk factors for the condition include walking gait abnormalities, running or jogging, poorly fitted shoes lacking support, being overweight, old age, diabetes, standing for long periods of time, frequent short bursts of physical activity, and having either flat feet or high arches.
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 Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein 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 our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL.. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Read more about Heel SpursAbout plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain that podiatrists see in their patients. Plantar fasciitis involves the irritation or inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is a thick band of tissue located on the bottom of the foot that supports the arch and connects the heel to the toes. Irritation and inflammation typically occurs after overusing or overstretching the fascia, creating symptoms of pain. Wearing shoes that are not appropriate for the physical activities you engage in can also cause plantar fasciitis. Preventing plantar fasciitis involves properly stretching the feet and wearing shoes that suit the specific activities you may be performing that day.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Excessive running
- Non-supportive shoes
- Overpronation
- Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
How Can It Be Treated?
- Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
- Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
- Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL.. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Plantar FasciitisRecovering from a Broken Ankle
Recovery from a broken ankle depends on the type of break, its location, complexity, and its specific treatment. Depending on the case, rest and protection may be all you need. In severe cases, surgery and prolonged rehabilitation could be required. Common symptoms people experience after breaking an ankle include pain, tenderness, swelling and bruising. Many of these symptoms can be managed by following PRICE: protection, rest, ice, compression and elevation. Some over-the-counter medication can help ease lighter pain. The severity of the break will also determine how soon your podiatrist will allow your feet to bear weight and how soon he or she will encourage you to gradually resume activity.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.
When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
- Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
- Swelling around the area
- Bruising of the area
- Area appears to be deformed
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL.. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about All About Broken AnklesMorton’s Neuroma Painful, but Treatable
For those who may feel numbness or tightness in the toes during physical activity, you may have Morton’s neuroma, a disorder of the nerve tissue. The condition occurs when the nerves between the toes becomes pinched, leading to symptoms of pain or numbness. Potential factors that can contribute to Morton’s neuroma includes tight-fitting shoes. When shopping for shoes make sure to shop toward the end of the day as our feet tend to swell later on in the day.
Morton’s neuroma can be a difficult condition to contend with. If you are experiencing symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein 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 third and fourth toe and the ball of the foot, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible to this condition. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones. Women are more likely than men to have an occurrence of this foot condition.
What Increases the Chances of having Morton’s Neuroma?
-Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot area.
-Jogging, running and any sports that involve constant impact to the foot area.
-Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformity may put you at a higher risk for developing Morton’s neuroma.
If you suspect that you may have this condition, you should visit your podiatrist. A podiatrist will first conduct a thorough physical examination to check for palpable masses between the bones of the foot.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Ingrown Toenails: Causes and Preventions
Ingrown toenails can occur when too much pressure is exerted on the toenails, typically on the big toenail. Ingrown toenails, if left untreated, are painful and can potentially lead to infection. Understanding your daily routine is vital to prevention. If you exercise often or wear high heels, take heed of your shoes. Improperly-fitting shoes and socks can both contribute to the development of ingrown toenails. Make sure to take proper care of your toenails, keeping your cuticles intact and cutting your toenails straight across.
Ingrown toenails can be an easy fix if treated properly. If you are suffering from an ingrown toenail, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.
Causes
- Bacterial infections
- Improper nail cutting such cutting it too short or not straight across
- Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
- Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
- Genetic predisposition
Prevention
Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Toenail Fungus Remedies
As with all toenail fungus infections, symptoms can include thickening and yellowing of the nails. Toenail fungus thrives on dead tissues, dead skin cells, and keratin in our nails. Infections occur when our toenails are subjected to a moist environment, such as sweaty shoes. Toenail fungus often starts in the toenails first, and if left untreated, can spread to your fingernails as well. Treatment involves antifungal drugs and laser therapy. If you have a case of toenail fungus, make sure to maintain proper hygiene of your feet and make sure to dry them properly after washing.
While toenail fungus is troublesome to eradicate, it is not impossible. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a problem which affects many people and is hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating toenail fungus.
Antibiotics & Treatments
Lamisil – is the most commonly effective treatment for toenail fungus. It is available as an antibiotic Terbinafine tablet and cream. Terbinafine is a chemical component which kills fungal growth on the body. Applying regular doses will gradually kill the fungal growth. It is important to keep the area clean and air free.
Talcum powder – applying powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well
Alternative Treatments
There are always surgical procedures that are available for toenail fungus. Some people would like immediate quick removal of toenail fungus. Surgeons will be able to cut through and remove the growth using laser surgery. It is important not to try and remove it yourself. Once removed, your old shoes will need to be replaced to avoid reinfection.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Tips For Training to Run a Marathon
When training for your first marathon, it’s important to take the right steps to prepare properly. Giving yourself enough time to train is vital to building up your stamina as well as decreasing the risk of injury. Gradually increase how much you run each time; the “rule of thumb is to increase it by no more than 10 percent each week,” states okinawa.stripes.com. Chart a training plan to record your steps, ensure that you have proper rest after running, invest in properly-fitting running shoes, wear breathable fabric, make sure to hydrate continuously, and know your limits so you do not push your body and feet too hard.
Running injuries, even with proper precautions, can still occur in many runners. If you are suffering from a running injury, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein 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 Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Diabetes Means Risk of Foot Amputations and Other Complications
Diabetes is known as a disease that can affect the legs and feet, requiring proper care. According to Diabetes UK, “diabetes leads to 140 lower limb amputations” every week, if left untreated. The disease is known for reducing blood supply to the feet, potentially leading to a loss of feeling, also known as peripheral neuropathy. It’s important to manage your feet as a diabetic patient, taking care to control blood glucose levels, cholesterol and blood pressure. Staying active can also help toward preventing diabetic foot complications. Symptoms of diabetic foot complications can include difficulty walking, difficulty wearing shoes, tingling sensations, swollenness, sores or blisters, change in skin color, hot or cold feelings, calluses, cramps and the loss of hair.
Diabetics must pay special attention to their feet to help prevent any complications. If you believe you are having problems with your diabetic feet, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. Diabetes can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, including the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
- Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
- Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
- Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels because blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Seth Jones sustains Broken Foot
Blue Jackets defenseman Seth Jones had been playing into overtime with a broken foot injury in the game against the St. Louis Blues. He had noticed blood leaking through the laces after he and Blues forward Patrik Berglund collided. Jones had to be examined by team doctors after the game. It was determined that he had a hairline fracture, which sidelined him for the next three weeks, or 10 games. Jones had kept playing, finishing with 26 minutes and two shifts during overtime.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will treat your foot and ankle needs.
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 (foot)
- 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 Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Foot Care for Basketball Players is Important
Caring for your feet is essential toward overall injury and foot condition prevention, especially if you’re an avid athlete. According to podiatric physicians who offer tips for basketball players, proper equipment, training and preparation are vital toward maintaining foot health. Basketball players are especially prone to acute and chronic injury, so strengthening the muscles is important. Wearing and continually replacing shoes that offer shock absorption and ankle support can also contribute toward a decreased risk of injury.
Regardless of season or weather, everyday foot care should be practiced year round. For more information about everyday foot care, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Everyday Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. After all, without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks. It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before, for example.
For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops.
Also, wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
More...
Understanding Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot can be characterized as a contagious fungal infection of the feet that can be spread in public areas such as gym locker rooms, pools and spas. Avoid going barefoot in these places, as the chance of infection becomes higher. If you do contract athlete’s foot, you may experience itchy and cracking skin. The U.S. National Library of Medicine recommends the following tips for treating athlete’s foot. Proper hygiene is important toward long-term prevention, so always remember to dry your feet when leaving a wet area such as a swimming pool or shower. Protect your feet by wearing shoes with breathable material and change your socks every day. Sprinkling antifungal powder as a precaution can also help toward long-term prevention.
For more information about how to treat and prevent Athlete’s foot, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein 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. Speaking to your podiatrist will give you a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as helping you figure out which treatment options are best for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Understanding Toenail Fungus
Fungal infections are often commonly associated with our fingernails, but they are also known to affect our toenails. If left untreated, toenail fungus can lead to more serious problems such as the impact of blood circulation in the feet. Symptoms of toenail fungus involve pain, discomfort and an impacted ability to wear shoes. Toenails may be discolored, yellow and feel brittle. Proper hygiene is vital to preventing and combating toenail fungus. As the condition is contagious, caused by a species of fungus called trichophyton, it’s important to avoid walking barefoot in public areas. Treatment options include topical creams, oral medications or surgery.
While toenail fungus is troublesome to eradicate, it is not impossible. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a problem which affects many people and is hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating toenail fungus.
Antibiotics & Treatments
Lamisil – is the most commonly effective treatment for toenail fungus. It is available as an antibiotic Terbinafine tablet and cream. Terbinafine is a chemical component which kills fungal growth on the body. Applying regular doses will gradually kill the fungal growth. It is important to keep the area clean and air free.
Talcum powder – applying powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well
Alternative Treatments
There are always surgical procedures that are available for toenail fungus. Some people would like immediate quick removal of toenail fungus. Surgeons will be able to cut through and remove the growth using laser surgery. It is important not to try and remove it yourself. Once removed, your old shoes will need to be replaced to avoid reinfection.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Understanding Arthritis
Arthritis occurs as swelling and inflammation of the body’s joints, leading to symptoms such as rashes, itchiness, fever, weight loss, and trouble breathing, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Disease. Arthritis results when the body’s immune system begins mistakenly attacking healthy cells, particularly in the joints. The different forms of arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, fibromyalgia and gout.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will treat your foot and ankle needs.
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 one of our offices located in Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
The Importance of Properly-Fitting Shoes
Taking care of your feet involves wearing the right shoes when exercising. Walking shoes are stiffer, while running shoes are more flexible because they provide more cushioning for handling more impact. Shoes should be switched alternatively according to each respective physical activity. Make sure to have your feet measured by a professional, as comfortable shoes should accommodate your feet’s specific size and shape. Wear socks and visit the store near the end of the day. There should be space between the big toe and the end of the toe box of the shoe. Poorly-fitting shoes can lead to an array of problems, such as blisters, ankle problems, and more.
Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Proper Shoe Fitting
A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:
- Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
- Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
- Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
- Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity
Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes is vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.