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Research Suggests that Diabetic Feet Related to Heel Pad Stiffness
A group of researchers from Staffordshire University have conducted a study in which they discovered that the frequency of active foot ulcers can in part be attributed to “a significantly lower heel pad stiffness,” compared to patients who did not have ulcers. The study observed 39 diabetic patients who suffered from neuropathy, loss of feeling from nerve damage. The new research results may help assist in preventative diabetic foot care. Those who have diabetes and whose foot problems are left untreated can develop life-threatening complications.
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.
Jed Lowrie Undergoes Surgery for Foot Ailments
Jed Lowrie suffered from both ligament damage in his foot as well as a large bunion for over a month. Following the diagnosis, Lowrie underwent a season-ending surgery in August and is out on recovery. Lowrie is expected to be ready by next spring as he recovers for 3 months. Lowrie found that his foot injury affected his performance. “Even when I was off it for 10 days, the swelling and inflammation wasn’t going down. I knew there was something else going on besides the bunion. I thought I could play through it, but it’s such a complex area,” he said.
If you require surgical consultation, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will treat your foot and ankle needs.
When is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases where less invasive procedures have been unsuccessful. Conditions that often require surgery are listed below:
- Removing foot deformities like bone spurs and bunions
- Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
- Reconstruction for injuries caused by accidents or malformations
Types of Surgeries
The type of surgery you receive depends on the nature of the problem. Possible surgeries include the following:
- Bunionectomy for painful bunions
- Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
- Nerve removal for painful nerve endings
Benefits of Surgery
Surgery can provide more complete pain relief than other options and may allow you to finally resume full activity. Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
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.
Reduce Pain and Stress with Foot Exercises
Poorly fitting shoes, such as high heels or just worn-out shoes in general, can lead to pain or discomfort in our feet. Pain and discomfort can also be caused by continuous stress on our feet, usually caused by strenuous exercise. To help alleviate these symptoms, there are 5 exercises you can do: tennis ball roll, calf stretch, flexed-feet wall stretch, towel foot stretch, and downward dog pose.
Exercising the feet and ankles regularly is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any foot or ankle concerns, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Exercise for Your Feet
Exercise for your feet can help you to gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important and often we forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate not to have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure its good health in the long run.
Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rise, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, also flexing the toes and involving the shins may help too. It is best to speak with your doctor regarding how to do these fitness steps and how often is right for you. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different and it varies from individual to individual to determine what should be done for you to maintain strength in your feet.
Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.
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.
Certain Foods May Help Alleviate Athlete’s Foot Symptoms
Athlete’s foot is classified as a fungal infection, leading to symptoms of inflammation, redness, and irritation. Although there are prescription topical creams for treating fungal infections, certain foods can also help alleviate symptoms. Garlic, cayenne pepper, yogurt, cranberries, and high fiber foods all can help treat infection. Opt for foods high in fiber, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and zinc.
For more information about how to treat and prevent Athlete’s foot, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
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 care needs.
Toenail Fungus Can Lead to Other Problems if Left Untreated
Toenail fungus not only becomes more common as we age, but it can lead to other potential foot problems. “People who have toenail fungus are more likely to get skin infections between their toes,” according to Dr. John Swartzberg, of the UC Berkeley Wellness Letter. Preventing toenail fungus involves proper foot hygiene and keeping the feet dry. Treating toenail fungus includes topical medication, prescribed drugs, and laser.
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 can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
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 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 Proper Fitting Shoes
When you are about to exercise, you shouldn't wear old, worn-out shoes. A vast majority of foot issues develop as a result of wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. The most important things to look for when shoe shopping are proper fit and proper support. Shoes that have proper support will stabilize your feet and help prevent fatigue. You should also look for shoes that have cushioning. Investing in a good pair of shoes is important for your feet’s health because it will prevent injuries in the future.
Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatmentcontact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
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 our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Avoid Getting Plantar Warts
Summer is here and you may be tempted to walk around barefoot. The risk of getting plantar warts drastically increases when you choose to not wear shoes. You should wear properly fitting shoes in the summertime and all year-round in order to prevent injuries and problems such as plantar warts.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
About Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.
While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.
Symptoms
- Legions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
- Hard or thick callused spots
- Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
- Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing
Treatment
- Freezing
- Electric tool removal
- Laser Treatment
- Topical Creams (prescription only)
- Over-the-counter medications
To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, will help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.
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.
Dealing with Bunions
American women own approximately 17 pairs of shoes on average. However, they tend to only wear the same three or four pairs regularly. Heels usually don’t fall into the category of “everyday shoes” that women like to wear because they are uncomfortable. Wearing uncomfortable shoes such as heels can cause bunions because they shift your feet into an unnatural position.
Bunion surgery usually occurs after non-surgical methods have proved to be ineffective. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
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 by 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 cause bunions to form
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 Saint Petersburg, FL..We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about bunions.
Drury Breaks Foot Shortly Before Olympics
U.S. trampoline athlete Charlotte Drury recently broke her foot during training. She was expected to attend the upcoming Rio Olympic Games, but the injury has put an end to her hopes of competing. Drury originally thought she simply bruised her foot during practice, but an MRI revealed a fracture in her right foot. Drury was the frontrunner for women trampolinists and was considered a shoo-in for the Olympic Games. Although she is disappointed that she will not be able to compete in Rio, she is determined to continue playing the sport she loves once she recovers.
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 can provide the care you need to keep your 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 (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 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 Broken Feet
Certain Foot Problems can hint toward Systemic Issues
The feet, being the base of the body, may have a larger effect on the entire body than people expect. Certain foot conditions may in fact be a sign of systemic disease in other parts of the body. Spoon-shaped or concaved toenails, otherwise known as koilonychias, are mainly associated with nutritional deficiencies but can also be a sign of genetic disorders, circulatory problems, autoimmune diseases, and musculoskeletal conditions. Toenails that are various colors or textures can also suggest other systemic problems.
When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.
Systemic Diseases of the Feet
Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable. Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.
Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.
Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.
Diabetes of the Feet
Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.
Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet.
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 Systemic Diseases of the Feet
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Golfer Ian Poulter deals with Arthritis
Professional golfer Ian Poulter has had an arthritic joint in his foot for over two years, and it has kept him from maximizing his golf performance. This arthritic joint has caused him to fall down in rankings and has kept him away from golf for four months. Unfortunately for Poulter, his arthritis has worsened and has made him unable to continue taking cortisone shots to alleviate the pain. Continuous usage of cortisone shots can cause bone thinning and stress fractures.
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 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 inflammation of different joints in your body, such as in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. On top of this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.
In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.
Alleviating Arthritic Pain
- Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
- Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
- Massages can help to temporarily alleviate pain.
It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Avoid Running Injuries with Proper Before-and-After Routines
Dr. Eric Tan, assistant professor of Clinical Medicine from USC, recently answered some questions from runners regarding injury prevention. While many people understand the basic principle that stretching before and after a run is key in preventing injuries, Dr. Tan believes that there is more one can do. Maintaining and improving one’s flexibility with daily stretching, warming up, and cooling down before and after runs will help keep the body limber. Including days of rest, keeping hydrated, and eating a healthy diet are also very important.
Running injuries, even with proper precautions, can still occur in many runners. If you are suffering from a running injury, consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will provide you with the foot- and ankle information you seek.
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.
Hyperhidrosis Happens Across the Globe
If you’re sweating excessively, especially during random times of the day not caused by exercise or heat, you may have hyperhidrosis. Hyperhidrosis is known as a chronic condition that has no known cure. “Nearly three per cent of people around the world deal with [hyperhidrosis], which is marked by excessively sweaty palms, face and feet.” Seeing your doctor is the best option for considering treatment options, which may include prescription antiperspirants or surgery.
If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will provide you with the foot- and ankle information you seek.
Hyperhidrosis of the Feet
Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.
Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.
Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.
In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.
A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment 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.
Ill-fitting Footwear Can Cause a Variety of Problems
Finding properly-fitting shoes is fundamental in ensuring that your feet do not develop any long-term foot conditions in the future. Shoes that are tight-fitting, such as high heels, can progress the development of bunions or even Morton’s neuroma. Avoid shoes that have pointed ends, as they squeeze the toes together and can aggravate our bunions. Look for shoes that have sufficient arch support if you have flat arches or flat feet, or opt for buying over-the-counter insoles or custom orthotics. If possible, avoid shoes that have elevation or heels. The types of shoes we wear can determine our body’s gait and how our feet develop long term. Ill-fitting shoes can shift our bodies into an unnatural state and put pressure on our backs and legs.
Proper fitting shoes are essential to one’s overall health. If you are having foot and ankle problems,consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will provide you with the foot- and ankle information you seek.
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 properly 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, improperly 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
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.