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Items filtered by date: May 2019

Tuesday, 28 May 2019 00:00

Ankle Fractures and Sprains

Many people will suffer from ankle pain at some point in their lives. There are different reasons why this type of pain occurs, and these may include fracturing or spraining your ankle. An eversion ankle sprain is considered to be uncommon, and affects the ligaments on the inside of the ankle. This happens when the ankle rolls inward. If the ligament or tendon tears and a piece of bone is intertwined, it is referred to as an avulsion fracture. If the cartilage that protects the ends of the bones becomes damaged, this is known as a osteochondral fracture. If you have sprained or broken your ankle, it is advised to consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat ankle pain.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

  • Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
  • Ankle sprains
  • Broken ankles
  • Achilles tendinitis
  • Achilles tendon rupture
  • Stress fractures
  • Bursitis
  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome
  • Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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.

 

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Monday, 20 May 2019 00:00

Possible Causes of Bunions

A bony protrusion on the side of the big toe is referred to as a bunion. It occurs as a result of a misaligned joint in the big toe and will cause the toe to point out. It typically develops gradually and can be caused by wearing shoes that do not fit properly. These types of shoes include high heels, which may provide inadequate room for the toes to move freely in. Additional reasons why bunions develop include medical conditions such as arthritis, flat feet, or bone deformities. Symptoms of this condition consist of swelling, tenderness, and the affected area may feel stiff. Mild relief may be found while wearing wider shoes, and this may help to reduce friction between the bunion and the shoe. If you have a bunion, please consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnosis and treat this condition.

If you are suffering from bunions, 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.

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 our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Monday, 13 May 2019 00:00

Exercise and Obesity

Research has indicated 1 billion people in the world are obese.This may play a significant role in causing uncomfortable foot conditions.This is a result of the added weight the feet must endure while completing daily activities. Obese patients may find difficulty in finding shoes that fit correctly, and this leads to foot pain. Additionally, performing regular exercise is helpful in losing extra weight. People who are overweight will find it beneficial to start an exercise routine slowly, and gradually increase the frequency. Walking is considered to be an excellent form of exercise, in addition to cycling, swimming, or weight lifting. If you would like more information about how obesity affects the feet, please consult a podiatrist who can provide you with the proper information.

The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, 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.

Obesity and Your Feet

People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.

Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity

  • When the body is overweight, it tries to compensate by changing the way that it moves. An obese person may lean forward and put extra weight on the wrong part of the foot. This puts unnecessary stress on the feet.
  • Obese people are also more likely to develop type II diabetes which is a condition that causes a lot of foot problems. People with diabetes often don’t feel the cuts and sores that they may have on their feet, which can lead to more complicated and severe issues.
  • Plantar fasciitis is another foot condition that can be caused by obesity. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes pain and stiffness while walking and climbing stairs.

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.

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Research has indicated that flip flops may be damaging to your feet, and may negatively affect the overall health of the body. There are several foot conditions that can develop from wearing this type of shoe. These include heel pain which may lead to heel spurs or plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, bruises and blisters. While flip flops are being worn, the arch of the foot lacks support, and this can cause pain in the heel and middle of the foot. Additionally, the toes will typically become strained from attempting to keep the shoe on the foot. Tripping and falling incidents may increase, which can be a result of lack of support.  If you would like additional information about the way flip flops affect the feet, please speak to a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have.

Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

Flip-flops have managed to become a summer essential for a lot of people. While the shoes may be stylish and easy to slip on and off, they can be dangerous to those who wear them too often. These shoes might protect you from fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, but they can also give you foot pain and sprained ankles if you trip while wearing them.

When Are They Okay to Wear?

Flip-flops should only be worn for very short periods of time. They can help protect your feet in places that are crawling with fungi, such as gym locker rooms. Athlete’s foot and plantar warts are two common fungi that flip-flops may help protect your feet against.

Why Are They Bad for My Feet?

These shoes do not offer any arch support, so they are not ideal for everyday use. They also do not provide shock absorption or heel cushioning which can be problematic for your feet. Additionally, you may suffer from glass cuts, puncture wounds, and stubbed toes since they offer little protection for your feet.

More Reasons Why They Are Bad for Your Feet

  • They Slow You Down
  • May Cause Blisters and Calluses
  • Expose Your Feet to Bacteria

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.

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