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Blog - Foot Doctor, Chambersburg and McConnellsburg, PA

Monday, 29 August 2016 19:32

How to Get Rid of Bunions

bunionHallux 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.

Tuesday, 23 August 2016 00:38

Beach Running May be Beneficial

running shoe9Experts 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

Monday, 15 August 2016 18:14

Hyperhidrosis and Your Feet

childrens feet 2Hyperhidrosis 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.

Monday, 08 August 2016 18:42

All About Athlete’s Foot

athletes foot8Athlete’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.

Monday, 01 August 2016 11:33

Your Heel Pain Could Be Plantar Fasciitis

heel pain01Heel 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.

Read more about Heel Pain

Monday, 25 July 2016 19:04

Take Care of Your Feet in the Summer

barefootYou 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

Tuesday, 19 July 2016 14:15

Jack Butland Breaks Ankle

foot and ankle injury 2England’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.

Tuesday, 12 July 2016 17:00

Blake Swihart Sprains Ankle

ankle sprain 2After colliding against the side wall in left field, Red Sox outfielder Blake Swihart suffered a left ankle sprain. The injury could cause him to miss the next several weeks of gameplay, and the Red Sox have limited replacement options for the left fielder. The timetable for his return is sometime in mid-July, and Rusney Castillo is expected to be his replacement until he rejoins the team.

Ankle sprains are common, but need immediate attention. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Steven Schwartz from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What are the Symptoms?

  • Mild to moderate bruising
  • Limited mobility
  • Swelling
  • Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits can aid in prevention

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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 ankle sprains. 

Monday, 04 July 2016 10:34

Why You Should Take Care of Your Feet

slower walking89-year-old Alan Church was found in Woodbury Care home in an appalling condition. Maggots were discovered inside his foot, and many of the creatures were breeding under his skin. The ongoing investigation by Thames Valley Police is looking into the possibility that Church was not the only patient being neglected by the home. Unfortunately, Church passed away in August of 2015, but the fight for justice by his relatives is far from finished. They believe his quality of life would have been much better if the staff at Woodbury Care did not neglect him.  

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Dr. Steven Schwartz from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your 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

Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet, and can hide many life threating medical conditions.

Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.

Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:

Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe

Shoes that don’t fit properly

Pressure sores

Loss of circulation in legs & feet

Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

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

Read more about Elderly and Feet

Monday, 27 June 2016 13:45

Jimmy Ryan unperturbed by Broken Toe

broken toe3Fleetwood’s Jimmy Ryan was reportedly been playing with a broken toe during the months of April and May, according to Fleetwood manager Steven Pressley. Ryan had missed practice and had not trained for up to 3 weeks, but had also not missed any games. “Jimmy has shown a great mentality. He has continued to get injections prior to games to get himself out there,” said Pressley.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Steven Schwartz from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • throbbing pain
  • swelling
  • bruising on the skin and toenail
  • the inability to move the toe
  • toe appears crooked or disfigured
  • tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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

Read more about a broken toe.

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