Items filtered by date: November 2019

Wednesday, 27 November 2019 00:00

Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?

If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!

Published in Blog
Monday, 25 November 2019 00:00

Signs You May Need Orthotics

Orthotics are special, custom-made foot or heel inserts that are normally prescribed by a podiatrist to help treat foot, leg, or back issues. You may need orthotics if you are experiencing foot deformities, need assistance in the overall function of the foot, are seeking support for your ankle, or you are trying to reduce the risk of other foot related injuries. Orthotics help to treat a number of issues concerning the feet such as arthritis, bunions, hammertoes, flat feet, heel spurs, and plantar fasciitis. If you have any of these conditions or are experiencing foot pain, we recommend you seek the assistance of a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis, and to see if orthotics are the best treatment option for your discomfort.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Published in Blog
Wednesday, 20 November 2019 00:00

Impacts of Rheumatoid Arthritis on the Feet

Rheumatoid Arthritis, or RA for short, may develop when your immune system attacks your joint lining tissue, causing painful inflammation and stiffness. To help detect if this condition is affecting you, note the following symptoms: pain or stiffness in the toe joints, aching or soreness in the feet after regular activity such as walking or standing for long periods of time, and swelling in your toe joints or ankles. To help relieve these symptoms, it is advised to wear open-toed shoes, get regular sleep, quit smoking, reduce stress, and keep your joints warm. It is important to note that symptoms don’t always show up right away, which is why it is recommended that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and advised recovery regime.

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 Dr. Barbara Davis of Gilbert Podiatry. 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 our office located in Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Published in Blog
Tuesday, 12 November 2019 00:00

What is Sesamoiditis?

The definition of the sesamoid bone is explained as bones that are linked to surrounding muscles by tendons. The medical condition that is known as sesamoiditis can occur if the tendons in the foot become inflamed, and may be seen in dancers and athletes. The most common symptom that typically accompanies this ailment often includes pain that is under the ball of the foot. Additionally, it may be painful to move the big toe, and walking may become difficult. This condition can be caused by wearing shoes that do not fit properly, or from participating in activities that consist of basketball and ballet. It is helpful to have a proper diagnosis performed, which typically consists of having an X-ray taken. When sesamoiditis is confirmed, it is beneficial to stop the activity that caused this condition. If you feel you have this ailment, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can recommend orthotics that may help you to find relief.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Dr. Barbara Davis of Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

  • Sudden increase in activity
  • Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
  • Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Published in Blog
Monday, 04 November 2019 00:00

Cuboid Syndrome and Pain

The portion of the foot that is typically affected by cuboid syndrome is the outside edge, under the ankle. This syndrome can occur as a result of one of the cuboid bones becoming dislocated from an ankle sprain, or from any repetitive stress the foot endures. Patients who have flat feet may be susceptible to cuboid syndrome due to the absence of an arch, which in turn, may put pressure on the cuboid bones. Moderate relief may be found when the affected foot is taped. Taping may also offer additional ankle support. It may be helpful to perform specific exercises if you have this condition. Exercises can be beneficial in increasing overall balance, and strengthen the muscles and tendons surrounding the joint. If you feel you have this condition, please schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can offer you proper treatment options.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

  • Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
  • Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
  • Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

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