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July 2019

Wednesday, 31 July 2019 00:00

Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked

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.

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Monday, 29 July 2019 00:00

Diabetes and Wound Care

Research has indicated there are millions of people worldwide who have diabetes. Many of these patients will develop wounds on the feet, which may lead to foot ulcers. It is important to treat these wounds promptly, as this may prevent serious foot conditions from developing. Wound healing may be accelerated when the damaged tissue is removed, and this can be accomplished from a variety of methods. When the correct dressing is applied, the wound can heal and drain properly. Many patients find it necessary to keep pressure off the foot, and this can be accomplished by wearing a boot or a removable cast walker. If you would like additional information on how to care for foot wounds, it is strongly suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist.

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

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Monday, 22 July 2019 00:00

Types of Heel Pain

Many people experience heel pain, which can originate for several reasons. Achilles tendinitis occurs when the pain is felt behind the heel, and it may also be noticed on the outer or inner part of the heel. The most common type of heel pain is caused by a condition that is known as plantar fasciitis, and if it is not promptly treated, it can cause pain that can be disabling. Some patients experience heel bursitis, and this kind of pain is felt inside the heel. Sever's disease may be common among teenage athletes, and this affects the growth plates of the heel bone. If you have any type of heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat heel conditions.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, 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.

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 Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Research has indicated that falling is a common occurrence among seniors in the United States. Many elderly people may avoid participating in certain activities as a result of a fear of falling. There are measures that can be implemented which may reduce the risk of falling. These can include removing any clutter from the main living areas in the home, improving lighting conditions, and removing any loose carpeting. Additionally, it is generally beneficial to install grab bars in the shower and toilet area, as this can be helpful in preventing falling. It is important to wear shoes that fit correctly to aid in preventing unnecessary tripping. Many elderly people can reduce the risk of falling when walkers are used and slowing down is beneficial while performing daily activities. If you would like additional information about how to prevent falling, it is suggested to speak with a podiatrist.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

  • Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
  • Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
  • Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
  • Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
  • Utilizing a walker or cane
  • Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
  • Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious 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.

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Poor circulation is a common ailment among a variety of people. Existing medical conditions that include diabetes, atherosclerosis, and Raynaud’s disease may be a cause of this condition. Additionally, people who are overweight or frequently smoke may find poor circulation has developed. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this ailment may include tingling and a loss of sensation in the feet, coldness in the extremities, and the feet may appear swollen. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, a proper diagnosis is typically performed before starting a treatment regime. This generally consists of a blood sugar test being administered for diabetes, and an ultrasound or cat scan may be necessary to determine if there are existing blood clots. It is suggested to consult with a podiatrist if you think your feet are affected by poor circulation.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

  • Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
  • Numbness or cramping in the legs 
  • Skin discoloration
  • Slower nail & hair growth
  • Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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.

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The location of the sesamoid bones is inside a tendon in the foot. The two bones are next to each other under the big toe joint in the bottom of the foot. They help to raise and move the big toe and can push off the ground while running. They take the strain off the foot while walking and running by absorbing the weight of the foot. If these bones should become inflamed, a condition that is referred to as sesamoiditis develops. It happens as a result of pressure that is exerted on the sesamoid bones and is a common condition among runners. There may be existing circumstances that lead to this ailment, including having high arches, or feet that have minimal cushioning on the sole of the foot. The symptoms that are common with sesamoiditis will typically include achiness in the ball of the foot, and a severe, throbbing sensation. If you feel you have sesamoiditis, it is advised to consult with a podiatrist, so proper treatment can begin.

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

  • 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 Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Published in Blog
Monday, 01 July 2019 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.

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