Blog - Foot Doctor, Chambersburg and McConnellsburg, PA
Monday, 19 September 2016 11:50
Foot Care for Diabetics
It is important for people with diabetes to take extremely good care of their feet. Scientific research has been done to figure out why diabetics tend to have foot problems. Researchers have found that neuropathy, or nerve damage, can prevent an individual from being able to sense pain in their feet. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent foot-related diabetic complications from happening. Having good control of your blood sugar will protect viral nerve function. A lot of problems can also be prevented by simply having a healthy lifestyle, and getting routine check-ups.
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 Dr. Steven Schwartz from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. Diabetes can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, including 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
- Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
- Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
- Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels because 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 one of our offices located in Chambersburg and Mcconnellsburg, PA for the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Monday, 12 September 2016 22:23
Traditional Shoes for Women are also Bad for Feet
Women are starting to choose shoes that they can easily walk in. Shoe brands that are known for making comfortable shoes are starting to upgrade their designs in order to make their shoes fashionable as well. Some podiatrists are also working to create shoes that are not only comfortable, but fashionable too. Dr. Joan Oloff is a Californian podiatrist who is bothered by the fact that traditional women’s shoes are bad for the feet. She has worked to minimize the angle of the foot inside the shoe.
High heels have a history for causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Steven Schwartz from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because their style and societal appeal. Despite this, they can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
What parts my body will be affected by high heels?
- Ankle Joints
- Achilles Tendon – may shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
- Balls of the Feet
- Knees – heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
- Back – they decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain. Also, the vertebrae of the lower back may compress.
What kinds of foot problems can develop from wearing high heels?
- Corns
- Calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Morton’s Neuroma
- Plantar Fasciitis
How can I still wear high heels and maintain foot health?
If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems. Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising. If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work. Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Chambersburg and Mcconnellsburg, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
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Monday, 05 September 2016 10:21
Derwin James Undergoes Foot Surgery
Florida State defensive back Derwin James recently underwent surgery for a minor fracture in his foot. Although there isn’t an exact timetable for his return, he has stated that he plans to be back in time for the season opener on September 5th. James was ranked the nation’s #1 safety coming out of highschool, and number #6 overall in the 2015 class.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to fix a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. Steven Schwartz from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to help with the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary are:
- Removing foot deformities like bone spurs and bunions
- Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
- Cosmetic reconstruction
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:
- Bunionectomy for painful bunions
- Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
- Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage
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 Chambersburg and Mcconnellsburg, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Published in Blog
Monday, 29 August 2016 19:32
How to Get Rid of Bunions
Hallux valgus, which is more commonly known as a bunion, is a deformity of the joint at the base of the big toe. Most people who have bunions develop them from wearing uncomfortable shoes for a long period of time. Women are more likely to have bunions compared to men because they often wear high heels. Bunions are not a life threatening condition; however they can negatively impact one’s quality of life. There are a few non-surgical options for those wishing to treat their bunions. Physiotherapy and the use of devices such as bunion splints and toe spacers can work to alleviate bunion pain; however they may not be effective in the long run.
Bunion surgery usually occurs after non-surgical methods have proved to be ineffective. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Steven Schwartz from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will assess your injury and provide you with quality treatment.
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 by 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 cause bunions to form
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 Chambersburg and Mcconnellsburg, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about bunions.
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Tuesday, 23 August 2016 00:38
Beach Running May be Beneficial
Experts say that beach running can be a heart-pumping and challenging workout. However, little preparation prior to running on the beach can make one more susceptible to foot injuries. Beach running is something that needs to be eased into. One cannot simply run several miles on the beach without prior experience doing so. Researchers have found that running on soft sand can actually put more strain on the muscles and joints compared to harder sand. This is because softer sand causes the muscles to work extra hard in order to stabilize the leg.
Runners can still be prone to running injuries even with proper precautions. If you are suffering from a running injury, contact Dr. Steven Schwartz from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.
What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.
Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber, this will help you gain better flexibility.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Chambersburg and Mcconnellsburg, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about How to Prevent Running Injuries
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Monday, 15 August 2016 18:14
Hyperhidrosis and Your Feet
Hyperhidrosis is the medical term for excessive sweating. Although hyperhidrosis only affects 3% of the global population, it is still viewed as a serious health condition. People who suffer from the condition are often self-conscious, anxious and depressed. Hyperhidrosis usually affects the hands, feet, and forehead of people who have it. Those with hyperhidrosis know that there is a strong body odor that is caused by the condition. It is important to wash every day and shave under your arms. Bacteria and moisture can easily become trapped in hair so it is recommended that you shave it off.
If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact Dr. Steven Schwartz from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Hyperhidrosis of the Feet
Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.
Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.
Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.
In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.
A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Chambersburg and Mcconnellsburg, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about hyperhidrosis of the feet.
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Monday, 08 August 2016 18:42
All About Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot can be very problematic for people who suffer from it. It is an itchy and painful fungal infection, but there are preventative measures you can take to avoid getting it. In order to protect your feet from athlete’s foot, you should use soap and water to wash your feet daily. When you finish washing your feet, it is important to dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes. Furthermore, you should always wear sandals in public locker rooms and restrooms in order to protect your feet from fungus. Lastly, you should try to wear shoes that are lightweight and breathable in order to maintain healthy feet.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Dr. Steven Schwartz from Pennsylvania. Our doctorwill treat your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
- Hydrate your feet by using lotion
- Exfoliate
- Buff off nails
- Use of anti-fungal products
- Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop
Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of athlete’s foot, as well as helping you figure out which treatment options are best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office in Chambersburg and Mcconnellsburg, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about athlete’s foot.
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Monday, 01 August 2016 11:33
Your Heel Pain Could Be Plantar Fasciitis
Heel pain is usually the result of a condition called plantar fasciitis. This condition occurs when the band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes, becomes inflamed. People with flat feet, or high arches in their feet are more likely to develop plantar fasciitis. You should always take preventive measures in order to avoid getting heel pain in the future. These measures include: wearing properly fitted shoes, occasionally stretching your feet, and using orthotic inserts.
Anyone can wind up suffering from heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Steven Schwartz from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your 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 thing of the past.
With the advancements in technology and greater knowledge of how muscles and joints work, physical therapists can turn things around dramatically.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Chambersburg and Mcconnellsburg, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Published in Blog
Monday, 25 July 2016 19:04
Take Care of Your Feet in the Summer
You should give your feet as much care and attention as you do your face. There are a few tips that you can use to maintain healthy feet. One tip is to trim your nails short to avoid having dirt trapped under your nails. When trimming, you should always cut straight across instead of in a rounded shape. Another tip for healthy foot care is to wash your feet with a medicated soap and apply a foot cream immediately after. Drinking water and eating fruits and vegetables can also have a positive impact on the appearance of your feet.
Every day foot care is very important, especially for those that are lacking the proper foot care resources. For more information about everyday foot care, contact Dr. Steven Schwartz from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
Every Day 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. After all, 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 example.
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.
Also, 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 Chambersburg and Mcconnellsburg, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Everyday Foot Care
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Tuesday, 19 July 2016 14:15
Jack Butland Breaks Ankle
England’s Jack Butland broke his ankle during a game he played against Germany in March. Unfortunately for Butland, the injury put an end to his season. He is hoping to get the green light to resume training sometime in the near future.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Steven Schwartz from Pennsylvania. Our doctorcan provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.
When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
- Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
- Swelling around the area
- Bruising of the area
- Area appears to be deformed
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office in Chambersburg and Mcconnellsburg, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about broken ankles.
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