Arthritis is an inflammatory disease that attacks the joints and can cause pain, stiffness, swelling, and bone deformities. There is no known cure for arthritis, but there are many ways of treating the symptoms that allow patients to lead active lives. Because the feet contain 33 joints each, arthritis can negatively impact your daily life, even simply the ability to walk. The main types of arthritis that cause foot problems are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, and gout. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that erodes the cartilage between the bones of the joint. This causes very painful inflammation and is most common among people 50 and older. It is known as wear and tear disease. Rheumatoid arthritis is a crippling disease where the immune system attacks the body’s cartilage, resulting in deformities. Post-traumatic arthritis can develop after sustaining an injury to the foot or ankle. Gout, which frequently attacks the big toe, is caused by having abnormal amounts of uric acid in the system. To find out more about how arthritis may be causing your foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

  • Swelling
  • Pain
  • Stiffness
  • Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

  • Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
  • Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
  • Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
  • Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
  • Age – Risk increases with age
  • Gender –Most types are more common in women
  • Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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.

Read more about How to Care for Your Arthritic Foot
Tuesday, 28 March 2023 00:00

Facts About Hammertoes

A hammertoe is a deformity that usually develops on the second or third toe. It is caused by an imbalance between the muscles and tendons in the toe joint. This results in the middle joint rising up to form a peak. In and of itself, a hammertoe is not generally painful. The problem of pain arises when wearing shoes that may cause the raised knuckle of the toe to rub against the top of a shoe. Wearing shoes that do not fit properly along with genetics are the main contributors in the formation of a hammertoe. Shoes with a narrow toe box can force the toes into a flexed position. And the higher the heel, the more the toes are subject to increased pressure. After a while, the toes can no longer extend and they become rigid. This can result in painful corns or calluses. Besides changing your footwear, many patients with hammertoe deformities use orthotics to counteract the toe joint imbalance. In severe cases, surgery may be needed to correct the problem. It is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an exam and suggested treatment options.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Barbara Davis of Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

  • Painful and/or difficult toe movement
  • Swelling
  • Joint stiffness
  • Calluses/Corns
  • Physical deformity

Risk Factors

  • Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
  • Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
  • Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
  • Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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.

Read more about What Are Hammertoes?

The growth plate in the heel can grow faster than the surrounding muscles and tendons in children and young teenagers. This can indicate a condition called Sever’s disease, which may cause severe heel pain. It occurs in people in this age bracket who frequently participate in sporting activities, and additional symptoms can include walking on tiptoes or limping. Relief may be found when the activity that caused the condition is temporarily stopped, and the affected foot is elevated. Some patients find that performing specific stretches can be helpful in reducing pain and discomfort. These can include placing a rolled towel under the ball of the foot while sitting down, and pulling the towel forward until a gentle stretch is felt. If your child is active and has heel pain, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat Sever’s disease.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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 injuries.

Read more about Sever's Disease
Tuesday, 14 March 2023 00:00

Prevent Running Injuries

There are many positive things that running can provide. People who enjoy running find it is simple and inexpensive, and the endorphins that are produced can have an energetic effect. Preventing running injuries is important, especially to avoid gaps in your running routine. Running can be demanding on the body yet rewarding to the mind, and having a strong body may help to avoid painful running injuries. It is beneficial to warm up and cool down before running, in addition to gradually increasing speed and mileage. Performing exercises that target the glutes may help to strengthen the legs, and these can include squats and lunges. The feet land on the ground with an excessive amount of force, so it is important to choose shoes that fit your feet and running style correctly. If you have questions about how to prevent running injuries, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can help you with effective prevention methods.

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Barbara Davis of Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

  • Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
  • Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
  • “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
  • Cross-Training is Crucial
  • Wear Proper Running Shoes
  • Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury

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.

Read more about How to Prevent Running Injuries
Sunday, 12 March 2023 00:00

It's Time for Beautiful Feet

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

Tuesday, 07 March 2023 00:00

Heel Pain Caused by Overuse

Among the numerous causes of heel pain, plantar fasciitis is at the top of the list. This common complaint is the result of overuse that inflames the band of tissue that runs beneath the foot. Wearing shoes that offer ample support and proper cushioning is a good way of preventing plantar fasciitis. Adding low-impact sports, such as swimming, is also recommended to give the plantar fascia a rest between high-impact activities. Another type of heel pain caused by overuse is Achilles tendonitis. This occurs when the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel, becomes inflamed. In the most severe cases, the tendon can be ruptured, for which immediate medical attention is required. Noninsertional Achilles tendonitis involves small tears in the fibers of the middle part of the tendon. Insertional Achilles tendonitis affects the lower part of the tendon, where it attaches to the heel bone. Stretching the calf muscles and warming up before embarking on an exercise activity or sport can help to prevent this injury. If your heel pain is severe or is inhibiting your ability to carry out daily activities, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Barbara Davis of Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

  • Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
  • Wearing non-supportive shoes
  • Weight change           
  • Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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.

Read more about Heel Pain
Tuesday, 28 February 2023 00:00

Morton’s Neuroma Symptoms

Morton’s neuroma is one particular kind of affliction of the foot that negatively impacts the health of one’s feet. Specifically, Morton’s neuroma develops when the tissue surrounding a nerve in the toes of the feet becomes thickened. As a result, pain may ensue. In fact, the primary symptom that is associated with this condition is actually pain and feelings of discomfort. Interestingly, the pain associated with this condition is not always consistent in duration. For example, sometimes the pain from Morton’s Neuroma may be intermittent. This specific kind of pain is sometimes described as comparable to standing on a marble. As a consequence of the pain, the toes might even begin to feel tingly or numb. If you are someone that has Morton’s neuroma and wants to address the pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for treatment and assistance. 

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Barbara Davis of Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

  • Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
  • Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
  • Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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.

Read more about What is Morton's Neuroma?
Tuesday, 21 February 2023 00:00

Relief for Cracked Heels

Cracked heels are a common foot condition that can cause embarrassment from being unsightly. They can happen from excess pressure that is put on the heels, which can occur from standing on hard surfaces for most of the day. Additionally, wearing shoes that have an open back can cause the skin to become dry, possibly leading to getting cracked heels. There may be specific medical conditions that can contribute to developing cracked heels. These can include eczema, psoriasis, and fungal infections. Many people can have this condition from vitamin deficiencies, which can affect skin health. Relief tactics can begin with washing and drying the feet, followed by applying a good moisturizer on them. Many people have found it to be successful to increase their water intake, which can help the skin from becoming dry. If you have cracked heels, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you the correct treatment remedies, which may include prescribed medicine.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

  • Invest in a good foot cream
  • Try Using Petroleum Jelly
  • Ease up on Soaps
  • Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

  • Moisturize After Showering
  • Skip a Shower
  • Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
  • Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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.

Read more about Solutions for Cracked Heels
Tuesday, 14 February 2023 00:00

Why Won’t My Foot Wound Heal?

Chronic foot wounds can leave one open to infection, pain, and other problems. Foot ulcers that are slow to heal can be a complication of diabetes. These can become quite serious and put one at risk for amputation if not dealt with immediately. When a diabetic suffers from peripheral arterial disease or PAD, it can interfere with feeling normal sensations, including pain that might be felt on the feet. Practicing daily foot care, with careful examinations of the feet, help in finding such wounds and caring for them. When foot wounds are inflamed, white cells gather in the wound. These cells fight off infection and recruit other immune cells to promote tissue healing. If this process does not go as planned, healing is slow or stuck in this phase. Research has shown that sometimes the white cell process goes awry in diabetics and healing is delayed. More research needs to be done on why this is so. In the meanwhile, it is important for diabetics to be under the care of a podiatrist to treat such wounds and prevent them from causing serious problems.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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.

Read more about Wound Care
Friday, 10 February 2023 00:00

Heel Pain Can Be Treated!

Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.

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