If you need a more accessible version of this website, click this button on the right.Switch to Accessible Site

Blog

Blog

Tuesday, 26 March 2024 00:00

Podiatry Treats Foot Conditions

In the realm of foot health, a diverse array of conditions present, necessitating the expertise of a skilled podiatrist. Among these conditions is plantar fasciitis, a common ailment characterized by inflammation of the tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes, resulting in heel pain and discomfort. Bunions, another prevalent issue, manifest as bony bumps at the base of the big toe, often causing pain and difficulty with footwear. Hammertoes, a noticeable condition where toes become bent in abnormal positions, are also frequently addressed by podiatrists. Additionally, ingrown toenails, which occur when the edges of nails grow into the surrounding skin, are common foot disorders that podiatrists treat. Moreover, athletes frequently seek podiatric care for conditions such as Achilles tendonitis, an inflammation of the Achilles tendon, and stress fractures, which are tiny cracks in bones often caused by repetitive impact. From routine foot care to complex surgical interventions, podiatrists play a critical role in ensuring the health and mobility of their patients' feet and ankles. If you have any foot condition, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and offer a comprehensive treatment plan.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors 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 Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about What is a Podiatrist?
Tuesday, 19 March 2024 00:00

Causes and Symptoms of Cracked Heels

Cracked heels occur when the skin around the heels becomes dry, thickened, and fissured. This condition is often caused by a lack of moisture, leading to the skin's inability to retain hydration and elasticity. While anyone can develop cracked heels, some individuals are at a higher risk. Those who frequently expose their feet to harsh conditions, such as prolonged standing, walking barefoot, or wearing open-back shoes, are more susceptible. Additionally, factors like obesity, diabetes, and aging can contribute to the development of cracked heels. Symptoms of cracked heels include dryness, flakiness, redness, itching, and the formation of deep cracks or fissures. These fissures can be painful and may bleed in severe cases. It is essential to address cracked heels promptly to prevent complications such as infections. If you have developed cracked heels, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide the appropriate treatment methods.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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

Read more about Solutions for Cracked Heels

In the bustling environments of retail and hospitality, where long hours and constant movement are the norm, foot protection is essential for ensuring comfort, safety, and overall well-being. Retail and hospitality workers often spend extended periods on their feet, navigating various surfaces and environments throughout their shifts. Investing in appropriate footwear is vital to mitigate the risk of foot-related injuries and discomfort. Decide on shoes with slip-resistant soles to prevent slips and falls, particularly in areas prone to spills or moisture. Additionally, choose footwear with ample cushioning and arch support to reduce fatigue and alleviate strain on the feet and lower limbs. Consider the demands of the job when selecting footwear, opting for choices that provide adequate protection and durability without sacrificing comfort. Regularly inspect and maintain footwear to ensure its effectiveness in providing protection and support. If you have questions about what type of shoes to purchase for your workday that can provide adequate protection, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

 

 

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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

Read more about How to Handle a Long Work Day on Your Feet
Tuesday, 05 March 2024 00:00

Foot Pain Causes Among Ballet Dancers

Ballet, renowned for its grace and elegance, demands immense physical strength and flexibility, placing unique stresses on the feet of dancers. Foot pain is a common and often debilitating issue among ballet dancers, stemming from various factors. One primary cause is the repetitive strain endured during training and performances. The intricate footwork, including pointe work and jumps, can lead to overuse injuries such as stress fractures, tendonitis, and ligament strains. The demanding nature of ballet necessitates wearing tightly-fitted shoes, which can exacerbate foot discomfort and deformities like bunions and hammertoes over time. Poor technique or improper alignment during movements can also contribute to foot pain and injury. Additionally, anatomical factors such as foot structure and muscle imbalances play a significant role in predisposing dancers to foot problems. If you enjoy ballet dancing and are experiencing foot pain, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer you successful treatment methods in addition to effective prevention tips.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Read more about Foot Pain

Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.

Tuesday, 27 February 2024 00:00

Facts About Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Feet

Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is an autoimmune disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, causing chronic inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the joints. When it comes to RA, the feet are often overlooked despite being commonly affected. In fact, up to 90 percent of individuals with RA will experience symptoms in their feet and ankles at some point. This condition can lead to deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, and claw toes, as well as the formation of painful nodules called rheumatoid nodules. Additionally, RA can erode the cartilage and bone within the joints, resulting in severe pain and difficulty walking. Foot pain and deformities can significantly impair mobility and diminish quality of life for individuals with RA. Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment are essential for managing symptoms and preventing irreversible damage to the joints. If your feet are showing signs of rheumatoid arthritis, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can provide you with effective relief measures.

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 one of our podiatrists of Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors 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 Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Feet
Tuesday, 20 February 2024 00:00

Risk Factors for Sprained Ankles

Understanding the risk factors for ankle sprains and strains is important to avoid injury. Poor athletic conditioning, characterized by a lack of regular ankle strengthening exercises, increases susceptibility to ankle sprains during strenuous activities. Muscle and ligament fatigue, especially when pushing through exhaustion towards the end of vigorous activities, further heightens the risk. Skipping warm-up sessions before physical activity leaves muscles and ligaments tight, while decreasing flexibility and increasing vulnerability to injury. Excess weight places additional stress on the joints, amplifying the likelihood of sprains during movements like walking, running, or jumping. Gender and age also play significant roles, with females over 30 and males aged 15 to 24 showing higher susceptibility to ankle sprains. Wearing high heels in uneven terrain, and wearing low-topped shoes during sports like basketball, further increases the risk of injury. Through proper conditioning, warm-up routines, weight management, and appropriate footwear selection, the risk of ankle sprains decreases. For personalized guidance and strategies for minimizing ankle sprain risk, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

  • Pain at the sight of the tear
  • Bruising/Swelling
  • Ankle area is tender to touch
  • In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
  • Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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

Read more about Ankle Sprains
Tuesday, 13 February 2024 00:00

Common Symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful condition that affects the ball of the foot, specifically the area between the third and fourth toes. This condition involves the thickening of the tissue surrounding a nerve leading to the toes, usually caused by irritation or compression. The hallmark symptom of Morton's neuroma is a sharp, burning pain or the sensation of a small, pebble-like object under the ball of the foot. As the condition progresses, individuals may experience numbness, tingling, or a feeling of swelling in the toes. The pain tends to worsen with activities like walking or wearing tight shoes, as these activities compress the affected nerve. Morton's neuroma is often more prevalent in women and individuals who frequently wear high heels or engage in activities that put repetitive pressure on the forefoot. Morton’s neuroma is treated by a podiatrist. If you are experiencing symptoms of this condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with this type of doctor who can accurately diagnose and treat Morton’s neuroma.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors 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 Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Morton's Neuroma
Tuesday, 06 February 2024 00:00

Bunion Formation

Bunions are bony protrusions at the base of the big toe, and manifest gradually due to a combination of genetic predisposition and external factors. Inherited structural foot issues, such as flat feet or low arches, contribute to the vulnerability of developing bunions. The gradual shifting of the metatarsophalangeal joint creates misalignment, causing the big toe to lean towards the other toes. Wearing ill-fitting footwear, particularly shoes with narrow toe boxes, exacerbates this condition by squeezing the toes together. High heels further elevate the risk, tilting the body weight forward and putting added pressure on the joint. Over time, these repeated stresses lead to the development of bony growths. Additionally, inflammatory conditions such as arthritis can accelerate bunion formation. Many bunions are unsightly and uncomfortable. If you have developed a bunion, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the best treatment method is for you, which may include surgery for permanent removal.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors 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 Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about What Are Bunions?
Friday, 02 February 2024 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.

Page 1 of 31
Connect with us