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Items filtered by date: September 2017

Monday, 25 September 2017 00:00

What Do Podiatrists Do?

Podiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in the foot and ankle. Officially known as a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM), podiatrists have the knowledge and ability to diagnose and treat any foot ailment. This includes minor ones such as toenail fungus, cracked heels, and heel pain, to more major problems such as an Achilles tendon rupture or a broken foot. They can also provide items such as custom-made orthotics to help give your feet proper support and keep them aligned. For those with diabetes, it is highly recommended to see a podiatrist. Diabetics generally have reduced blood flow and neuropathy in the foot, which in their worst cases can lead to infected ulcers and an increased risk of amputation. If you are experiencing any pain or have any foot abnormalities, it is important to see a podiatrist.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to 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 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 our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Monday, 18 September 2017 00:00

Eagles’ Cornerback Sustains Ankle Injury

Cornerback Ronald Darby of the Philadelphia Eagles recently suffered an ankle injury during the Redskins vs Eagles game. It is unfortunate for Darby that the injury occurred during the first game of the season. Though he is expected to be out for around four to six weeks, he will not need to undergo surgery. Fortunately, Darby’s injury didn’t seem to slow down the Eagles; they won 30 to 17 over the Washington Redskins.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, 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.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Plantar Fasciosis
  • Achilles Tendinitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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.

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Monday, 11 September 2017 00:00

How to Lessen the Effects of Gout

Gout, a type of arthritis, can be very painful for those who suffer from it. It’s caused when uric acid crystals build up in the joint, creating inflammation and pain. Gout, often occurring in the feet, generally comes and goes; there are ways, however, to mitigate its effects. Certain foods, such as processed meats, canned fish, foods with high fructose corn syrup, and foods containing high levels of purine should be avoided. Alcohol can increase the likelihood of gout, with as little as two beers a day increasing the risk significantly. Obesity is linked as well; losing weight, exercising, hydrating with plenty of water, and eating healthy foods can decrease the likelihood of a gout attack. If you are experiencing pain and inflammation in the foot, see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment. Gout can be painful, but it can be avoided.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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.

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Tuesday, 05 September 2017 00:00

Should You Wear High Heels if Pregnant?

While high heels are considered to be fashionable by a number of people, they present a number of health issues to women’s feet. High heels can exacerbate conditions like bunions and lead to hammertoes, foot pain, and more. They can also be difficult to walk in and potentially cause women to fall. That said, should women wear high heels while pregnant? The additional weight of the baby can throw off a woman’s balance when walking in high heels. While the womb is well protected with thick walls and fluid that acts as a cushion, a fall can happen anywhere and can be very serious. The later a woman is in pregnancy, the more likely a fall has the potential to put a woman into labor. It is advised to avoid high heels during the later stages of pregnancy and to take caution during early pregnancy. It’s also good to consult a podiatrist whether high heels are right for you if you’re pregnant.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

  • Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
  • Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
  • Wear shoes with good arch support
  • Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
  • Elevate feet if you experience swelling
  • Massage your feet
  • Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to 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.

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