Sesamoiditis is an inflammation of the sesamoid bones, which are two small bones located beneath the big toe joint. These bones help in the movement and support of the toe, bearing a significant amount of pressure during walking, running, and other activities. The condition typically occurs due to overuse or repetitive stress on the feet. High-impact activities, improper footwear, or abnormal foot mechanics can contribute to the development of sesamoiditis. Common symptoms include pain and swelling around the base of the big toe, especially when putting pressure on the affected area. The pain may worsen during physical activity or after long periods of standing or walking. People with sesamoiditis may also experience difficulty bending the toe or walking comfortably. If you have pain in this area of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact one of our podiatrists of Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors 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
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 Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
A bunion, also known as hallux valgus, is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe. It occurs when the big toe moves toward the second toe, causing the joint to protrude and become misaligned. This misalignment can lead to pain, swelling, and redness around the affected area, making it difficult to wear certain shoes. Bunion formation is often gradual, and the condition can worsen over time without treatment. There are several risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing a bunion, including a family history of the condition, wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, and certain foot deformities. Additionally, women are more prone to bunions than men, likely due to the frequent wearing of high heels. Bunions can also develop as a result of arthritis or other medical conditions that affect the joints. If left untreated, bunions can cause difficulty walking and further joint damage.If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and offer effective treatment solutions for bunions.
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?
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.
As individuals age, several changes occur in the feet that can lead to discomfort and mobility issues. One common change is dry skin, which becomes more prominent as the skin loses moisture and elasticity with age. This can lead to cracking and irritation. Another effect is the shortening of the Achilles tendon, which can cause tightness in the back of the ankle and difficulty walking or climbing stairs. Aging can also contribute to the development of flat feet, as the arches may collapse over time, leading to pain and instability. Hammertoe, a condition where the toes become bent at an abnormal angle, often develops due to muscle imbalances and changes in foot structure. Additionally, toenails may become thicker, more brittle, or discolored as blood circulation decreases and overall foot health declines. If you are elderly and have developed any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and offer you an effective foot care routine.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, 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.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
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.
You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.
Diabetic foot ulcers, or DFUs, are open sores that often develop in the ball of the foot, heel, or tips of the toes. Diabetic foot ulcers result from nerve damage and poor circulation caused by prolonged high blood sugar levels, which impair sensation and slow healing. Without proper care, DFUs can lead to serious infections, gangrene, or limb loss. The Wagner classification system is commonly used to assess the severity of DFUs. It includes six grades: Grade 0 indicates no open lesions but a high-risk foot. Grade 1 refers to superficial ulcers. Grade 2 involves deeper ulcers that extend to ligaments or muscles. Grade 3 signifies ulcers with bone involvement or abscess. Grade 4 describes localized gangrene of the forefoot. Grade 5 represents extensive gangrene of the entire foot. These stages help a podiatrist determine the best course of treatment, including wound care and infection management, to prevent further complications. If you have developed a foot ulcer related to diabetes, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for regular exams and necessary treatment.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, 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.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
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.
A heel spur is a bony growth that develops on the underside of the heel bone, often caused by calcium deposits. This condition typically results from repetitive stress or strain on the foot, leading to inflammation and the formation of the spur. The most common symptom of a heel spur is sharp pain at the heel, especially during the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest. This pain is usually felt at the front of the heel and may radiate to the arch. Common causes of heel spurs include prolonged pressure from wearing improper footwear, obesity, or conditions such as plantar fasciitis. Diagnosis of a heel spur is typically done through a physical examination and confirmed with imaging tests such as X-rays. These tests help visualize the bony growth and rule out other potential causes of heel pain. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat heel spurs.
Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.
Heels Spurs
Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.
Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.
Pain
The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.
Treatments
There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Johnstown, PA . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Ankle pain, often caused by injury, instability, or arthritis, can significantly increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis in the knee. When the ankle joint is compromised, it disrupts the natural biomechanics of walking leading to altered gait patterns. This imbalance shifts excessive stress to the knee joint as it compensates for the weakened ankle, accelerating cartilage wear and tear. Over time, the increased joint load contributes to inflammation, pain, and the progressive breakdown of knee cartilage, a hallmark of osteoarthritis. Addressing ankle pain early is essential to prevent this chain reaction. Podiatric treatments such as strengthening exercises, orthotics, or bracing can restore ankle stability and proper alignment. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist to have an exam and obtain treatment to prevent long-term complications, such as knee arthritis.
Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle 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.
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:
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 Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Foot drop, also known as drop foot, is a condition where lifting the front part of the foot becomes difficult, causing it to drag while walking. It results from weakness or paralysis of the muscles that lift the foot, often due to nerve damage, muscle disorders, or brain and spinal cord conditions like stroke or multiple sclerosis. Common causes include peroneal nerve injury, herniated discs, diabetes, or neurological disorders. Anyone can develop foot drop, but it is more likely in those with conditions affecting the nerves or muscles. Symptoms include dragging the toes, difficulty walking, and a steppage gait, where the knee lifts higher than usual. Diagnosis involves a physical exam, imaging like an MRI scan, and nerve conduction studies. Treatments may include braces, targeted exercises, or surgery in severe cases. If you have this uncomfortable condition, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer a personalized approach to manage foot drop effectively.
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:
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.
Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek professional help and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. Common causes include improper nail trimming, tight footwear, or trauma. When conservative measures fail, a podiatrist may recommend nail removal techniques to resolve the issue. One type of ingrown toenail surgery involves partial nail avulsion, where the affected edge of the toenail is carefully removed while preserving the healthy nail plate. To prevent recurrence, a lateral matricectomy may be performed, which involves removing or destroying the nail-forming tissue on the side of the nail to stop regrowth of the problematic section. Electrocautery, a method that uses heat from an electrical current, is often used during this process to precisely target and destroy the nail matrix. In cases of significant infection or tissue overgrowth, the surrounding granulation tissue may also be removed to restore the toe’s natural shape. If you have a painful or infected ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment options.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:
What Types of Surgery Are There?
The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:
Benefits of Surgery
Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.
Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
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.
