Senior citizens are particularly at risk of experiencing complications in their foot health. This is due to several reasons, most of which involve the diminishing health and resilience of the feet among senior citizens. One of the most important parts of caring for the feet as a senior includes choosing to listen to the feet when they are trying to tell you that something is wrong. Often, if the feet are feeling painful, it is always the more cautious option to not ignore signs of pain. If you are a senior citizen, it can be important to remind yourself that having painful feet or sore feet is not an inevitable part of growing older. If you think that your feet are trying to tell you that something is not right, take this seriously and do not ignore any signs. If you are experiencing foot pain as a senior citizen, contact a podiatrist today. By meeting with a podiatrist, you can help draw up a plan to address any pain in the feet.
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.
Lawn bowling can be fun and provide competition in a friendly community of like-minded people. As with many sports, one can sustain foot and ankle injuries in lawn bowling. Common foot and ankle injuries from this activity include falls resulting in fractures, especially to the ankle. It is important to warm up properly, stretch, and do balance and strength training exercises before beginning any physical activity. Maintain proper form and technique during play. Also, it is imperative to let injuries heal properly before getting back to play, as this will help prevent worsening of the original injury, re-injury, strains, and sprains. See a podiatrist if your feet or ankles have been injured during lawn bowling. This foot and ankle care professional can evaluate the problem and provide treatment that will get you back into the sport you derive so much enjoyment from as soon as possible.
Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, 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.
Common Injuries
The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.
Treatment
Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
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.
The foot condition that is known as Sever’s disease can affect children and young teenagers who participate in running and jumping activities. It is considered to be an ailment that comes from overuse in and around the growth plate in the heel. The child may complain of having heel pain, and can have difficulty in walking. A podiatrist can perform a proper diagnosis, which consists of having a physical examination done, in addition to learning about the child's choice of activities. The child will eventually outgrow Sever’s disease, and until then, mild relief can be found when the activity that caused this condition is temporarily stopped. Patients may also find that it helps to elevate the affected foot as often as possible, and it may be beneficial to wear a heel pad in the shoe. It is strongly suggested that your child sees a podiatrist at the first sign of heel pain, so a proper diagnosis can be performed, and the correct treatment can promptly begin.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors 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 Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
The purpose of wearing orthotics is to relieve foot pain which may happen from having an abnormal foot structure, or if a foot condition has occurred. The average adult walks approximately 5000 steps per day, and foot pain can make this uncomfortable and difficult to accomplish. The three groups of orthotics are soft, rigid, and semi-rigid. A podiatrist can determine which type is right for you based on your foot condition. Flexible materials are used to design soft orthotics which can help to reduce pressure and absorb shock as walking and running are done. A more durable orthotic is referred to as a rigid orthotic and is made of plastic or graphite materials. This type of device can provide stability to the lower body. The most common orthotics are known as semi-rigid and are designed with a combination of both soft and rigid materials. If you would like additional information about how wearing orthotics can minimize specific foot conditions, please consult with a podiatrist who can determine if this is the correct choice for you.
If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, 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 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 Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
Everyday foot care practice is simple to follow. The benefits outweigh the amount of time it takes to have healthy feet, and many unwanted foot conditions may be avoided. It can begin by washing and drying the feet thoroughly, followed by applying a good moisturizer on them. Properly trimming the toenails may prevent an ingrown toenail from developing, which often requires expert medical attention. One of the most important things you can do for your feet is to wear shoes and socks that are comfortable. This may be helpful in preventing corns, bunions, and hammertoe from developing. Many people enjoy practicing foot exercises and stretches, and strong feet may help to prevent falling episodes. Depending on the specific foot condition, research has shown that pain may be relieved by having regular foot massages performed, and may invoke a feeling of well-being throughout the body. If you would like more information about how to practice everyday foot care tips, please consult with a podiatrist.
Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, 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.
Everyday Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.
It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
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.
Although many cases of cracked heels are not necessarily severe and painful, the condition can nonetheless be an annoyance and potentially uncomfortable. The condition is defined as a lack of moisture on the back of the heels that causes the skin to crack and fissure. There are many ways in which cracked heels might be prevented. Socks might play an important role in achieving this end. For example, to prevent the heels from becoming dry, an individual could generously apply moisturizer to the feet at night before bed and put on a pair of socks. The socks can essentially lock in the moisturizer and help improve the extent to which the moisturizer is absorbed by the feet. If you are worried about cracked heels and want to learn more preventative methods, contact a podiatrist today. This foot specialist can help you address any problems you might have.
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.
An inflamed nerve found between the third and fourth toes is indicative of Morton’s neuroma. It is a benign condition, despite it causing severe pain and discomfort. This condition is often caused by wearing shoes that do not have enough room for the toes to move freely in. Women who frequently wear high heels may be afflicted with Morton’s neuroma and medical attention is often sought for pain relief. The pain comes from an irritated nerve that gradually becomes compressed, which can affect the entire foot. There may be existing medical conditions that lead to the development of Morton's neuroma. These can consist of bunions, hammertoes, or arch abnormalities. Additionally, participating in running and jumping sporting activities may put pressure on the ball of the foot, resulting in this type of neuroma. If you have pain in this area of your foot, please schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can effectively 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?
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.
The way the foot meets the ground differs in walking and running. Generally, the heel touches the ground first and the weight then rolls onto the ball of the foot and toes during walking. In fact, studies show that walking onto the ball of the foot takes about 50 percent more energy and walking on the toes takes about 80 percent more energy. Heel-first walking is considered to be the most economical way to move. However, this economy of movement does not necessarily transfer to running, some believe. Studies have shown that it is more efficient to land on the toes or ball of the foot while running, rather than on the heel first. In fact, the fastest runners in the animal kingdom – horses, gazelles, deer, and dogs – all land on their toes first. Many elite human runners, both sprinters and distance, do not land on their heels first. That said, many experts agree that your natural strike pattern, toe first or heel first, should remain constant, as it is less efficient to try to convert from one to the other. For more information on the effects of walking or running on your feet, please consult a podiatrist.
If you have any 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.
Biomechanics in Podiatry
Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.
A History of Biomechanics
Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.
Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.
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.
Most people misunderstand the seriousness of an ingrown toenail unless they experience one. Ingrown toenails frequently affect the big toe and result from the nail growing into the skin, instead of over it. Pain and discomfort are often the beginning signs that an ingrown toenail has developed. When left untreated, it may become infected, bleed, and there may be discharge or pus. An ingrown toenail can be caused by trimming the toenails incorrectly, wearing shoes that are too tight, and genetic reasons. Occasionally, the toe will feel better when soaked in warm water and a cotton swab can be used to gently push the skin away from the nail. This is a temporary fix for mild relief. A permanent solution can be found at a podiatrist's office. People who have recurring ingrown toenails often seek the expertise of this type of doctor, who can effectively treat it. An infected ingrown toenail may qualify for surgery, and it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist to determine the best course of treatment for you.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, 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.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.
Causes
Prevention
Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.
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.
