Blog - Foot Doctor, Chambersburg and McConnellsburg, PA
Monday, 24 August 2015 22:28
Diabetic Patients Should Check Their Own Feet Twice a Day
Robert P. Thompson, executive director of non-profit Institute of Preventative Foot Health recently spoke at the American Association of Diabetics Ecuador Annual Meeting 2015 where he stressed the importance of diabetic foot checkups. Thompson stated that medical professionals should do routine checkups on diabetic feet every visit and patients suffering from diabetes should keep an eye on their own feet twice a day. Regular foot checks are a major component of diabetes management where reducing the odds of neuropathy, inability to feel pain, slow wound healing, infection, ulcers, and amputation are reduced.
If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Steven Schwartz of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will diagnose and treat your foot and ankle needs.
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 our offices in Chambersburg and Mcconnellsburg, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Published in Blog
Monday, 17 August 2015 00:00
Dallas Cowboys Temporarily Lose Lance Dunbar Due to Ankle Sprain
Lance Dunbar has suffered a sprained ankle after participating in training with the Dallas Cowboys early this month. The running back has since been placed in a walking boot while x-rays are not showing extreme damage. While Dunbar will miss the next couple of practices it is still unclear when his ankle will be completely ready for training again. In the meantime Dallas Cowboys will use running backs Joseph Randle, Lache Seastrunk, and Gus Johnson in Dunbar’s place.
Ankle sprains are common, but need immediate attention. If you have any concerns about your potential ankle sprain contact Dr. Steven Schwartz of Pennsylvania. Our doctors will treat 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 offices located in Chambersburg and Mcconnellsburg, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Published in Blog
Monday, 10 August 2015 00:00
Adolescent Bunion Surgeries Becoming Better and More Common
Each year nearly 30% of adolescents suffer from bunions where non-operative forms of management such as modifications in footwear or orthotics are incapable of preventing bunion growth, making surgery much more common. According to research published in the Journal of Children’s Orthopaedics, these surgeries have seen improvements over the years when it comes to the outcomes. In a series of studies, the average age of these surgeries was 14.5 years old, while females had males ten to one for adolescent hallux valgus surgery. Accordingly 90% of surgical outcomes were excellent while the overall complication rate was 22% and recurrence rate was 8%.
Bunion surgery usually occurs after non-surgical methods have proved to be ineffective. If you have any concerns contact Dr. Steven Schwartz of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
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 concerns 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.
Published in Blog
Monday, 03 August 2015 00:00
Orthotics Company Sols Changing the Market
In the past, the New York-based orthotics manufacturer, Sols, launched a mobile app that helped produce custom 3D-printed insoles. With a network of 500 medical professionals, the company was able to cater to a wide medical market. This fall Sols is looking for a more direct-to-consumer approach with a new feature called photogrammetry, in which a customer takes six photos of their feet to create a virtual model of the foot from which an insole can be created. The insole is ultimately 3D-printed at the company’s facility in Austin, Texas and completed in New York. The entire process reportedly takes only six to eight business days and can be used to create insoles for various kinds of footwear.
Orthotics can help provide support and prevent injury to your feet. If you have any questions contact Dr. Steven Schwartz of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
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 over arched 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 issue, 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 more severe heel pain.
If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist on 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 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.
Published in Blog
Monday, 27 July 2015 00:00
Study Finds Genetic Variants are Can Predict Progression of Arthritis
According to a study conducted by researchers of the Arthritis Research UK Centre for Genetics and Genomics, genetic variants are capable of predicting the progression of the disease. Included in the study were 4,000 rheumatoid arthritis patients where hand and feet erosions indicated a higher or lower risk of the severity of the disease. The strongest indicator of a high risk included the amino acid valine at position 11 of the HLA-DRB1 gene. The gene was also found to be studying in finding treatment responses. Although experts have suspected the results of the study for quite some time, the confirmation will help physicians make the proper advanced in treating arthritis.
Arthritis is a painful condition and arthritic foot care is necessary to avoid further complications. If you have any concerns contact Dr. Steven Schwartz, DPM of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves inflammation of different joints in your body, such as in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. On top of this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.
In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.
Alleviating Arthritic Pain
- Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
- Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
- Massages can help to temporarily alleviate pain.
It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.
If you have any concerns contact our offices located in Chambersburg and Mcconnellsburg, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Published in Blog
Monday, 20 July 2015 00:00
July is National Wart Awareness Month
According to the National Verruca Foundation (NVF), July is Wart Awareness Month since the summer months are when plantar warts are most likely to occur. All month long there has been community organizations have been working to create awareness of the existence of warts and how to prevent them. Many healthcare professionals recommend wearing flip flops when attending public showers, rest rooms, or pool decks to reduce the chances of contracting plantar warts.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you have any concerns with plantar warts on your feet contact Dr. Steven Schwartz, DPM of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
About Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.
While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.
Symptoms
- Legions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
- Hard or thick callused spots
- Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
- Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing
- Freezing
- Electric tool removal
- Laser Treatment
- Topical Creams (prescription only)
- Over-the-counter medications
Treatment
To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, will help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.
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.
Published in Blog
Monday, 13 July 2015 00:00
Some Children prone to Pediatric Flat Feet
Babies have many bones in their feet that need to close and grow to become a proper joint later in life. Many of these bones make up the arch that usually starts out as flexible flat feet. For 80-90% of children, those flat feet will eventually turn into arches, but for the rest pediatric flat feet occurs. Children with pediatric flat feet may experience pain, tenderness, cramping in the feet and legs and should seek treatment especially if they have difficulty walking. Treatment for flat feet includes activity modifications, such as cutting down on sports, orthotic inserts, physical therapy, and surgery.
Certain sports and physical activities may become difficult for children with flat feet. If you suspect that your child has the condition, speak to Dr. Steven Schwartz of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will answer any of your foot and ankle related questions and attend to all of your podiatric needs.
What are Flat Feet?
Flat feet are a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. Standing about 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arch never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – if you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms:
Pain around the heel or arch area
Trouble standing on the tip toe.
Swelling around the inside of the ankle.
Flat look to one or both feet.
Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment:
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
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 treatments for your foot and ankle needs.
Published in Blog
Monday, 06 July 2015 00:00
Brisbane Broncos Lose Josh McGuire to Achilles Tendon Injury
Brisbane Broncos have lost key player, Josh McGuire, to an Achilles tendon injury as he was seen on the ground, punching the ground during a game against the Newcastle Knights. Although Achilles tendon injuries can be career threatening, McGuire felt optimistic due to the recoveries of teammates Justin Hodges and Darius Boyd. “I can’t turn back time now, it’s about just getting ready to rehab and get the operation underway,” McGuire stated.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns contact Dr. Steven Schwartz of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can cause severe difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What are the symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
- Inflammation
- Dull to Severe Pain
- Increased blood flow to the tendon
- Thickening of the tendon
Rupture Symptoms
- Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
- Total immobility
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
- Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
- Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses
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.
Published in Blog
Monday, 29 June 2015 22:11
Veteran Left Stranded With Broken Foot After Hospital Employees Refused to Help
Veteran and retired truck driver Donald Siefken drove to Seatlle VA hospital with a broken foot and needed help getting inside. Accordingly, a hospital employee answered the veterans call and told him to call 911 when he was just a few feet away from the hospital entrance and hung up. Since then Seattle VA hospital has since issued an apology to Siefken stating, “We have determined that we did not do the right thing to ensure the veteran had assistance into the emergency room.”
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment to prevent exacerbation. If you are seeking treatment for a broken foot, visit Dr. Steven Schwartz of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will assess your injury and provide you with quality treatment.
Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury.
Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:
- Bruising
- Pain
- Redness
- Swelling
- Blue (foot)
- Numbness
- Cold
- Misshapen
- Cuts
- Deformities
Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.
Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.
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.
Published in Blog
Monday, 22 June 2015 00:00
Salon Visits can help ease Cracked Heels
According to Suzanne Edmonds of SunMedia, it is best to take good care of your foot health on both the outside and on the inside. Sometimes a trip to the salon for a pedicure is an integral part of maintaining that foot health, especially when it comes to cracked heels. Pedicures involve soaking the foot in warm soapy water in a bowl that is sanitized to avoid bacteria infecting the foot. After the soak, the hardened skin on the heels should be a little softened and easy to file down. The final step of the pedicure is a layer of moisturizer that can also be applied regularly at home to prevent heels from cracking again and simultaneously reducing any calluses that may have formed.
Cracked heels can become painful if left untreated. To learn more, consult with Dr. Steven Schwarts of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
The Truth about Cracked Heels
Cracked Heels
Cracked heels are unappealing, and make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Not only may they look bad, but they 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 so it can stay on longer.
Moisturizers – applying it both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.
Pumice Stones – these remove dead skin, and then you can massage cream onto your foot. This way the cream will be absorbed. The skin needs to be exfoliated; therefore the outer layer dead skin needs removal.
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 for your foot and ankle needs.
Published in Blog
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