Blog - Foot Doctor, Chambersburg and McConnellsburg, PA
Monday, 09 May 2016 12:47
Find the Right Shoes to Avoid the Risk of Running Injuries
According to Paul Williams, owner of Peninsula Runners, those who plan on running should opt for shoes with cushioning. “I think when you have more protection you can run harder and faster, reducing injuries such as shin splints, Achilles tendinitis and knee pain,” he says. It’s important to have properly fitting shoes to treat foot conditions like plantar fasciitis. There are also shoe accessories such as speed laces, compression socks, and foam rollers, all of which can help improve running activity.
The right running shoe is essentially different for every person. If you have any concerns see Dr. Steven Schwartz from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
Choosing the Right Running Shoes for Your Foot Type
Running is a physical activity although fun, can put a lot of stress on the joints, bones and ligaments of the body. Injury and stress on the foot can be an important factor on which kind of shoe you’re wearing. Running shoes should be worn based on your foot type. It is important to find out what fits you based on cushioning, stability and motion.
Determining your type
Speak with a shoe specialist or retail professional to see what your foot type is. They will be able to identify and measure your arch type, stride and gait.
Running Mechanics
When you are running or walking in your shoes, every step determines how your foot is landing. Pronation is the natural rolling of your ankle from outside to inside during foot strike.
Pronation is a correct form of walking or running. It helps absorb shock and store energy from your lower extremities. Neutral runners who pronate correctly do not need specific shoes, since they have stability and control.
Over-pronators
Those who run with excessive ankle rolling. Over-pronators tend to have ankles that angle inward, flat feet, and or bowed legs. This can cause a series of injuries: of the knees, ankles and Achilles tendons.
Under-pronation
Under-pronation is less common than over-pronation. This usually happens to those who have inflexible feet and high arches. Even though there is less rotational stress on the ankles and knees, it prevents any kind of shock absorptions. Under-pronation needs shoes with increase in cushion and flexibility.
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.
Published in Blog
Monday, 02 May 2016 13:39
3 Exercises for Maintaining Foot Health
Feet are the foundations of our bodies, helping to absorb shock as we do physical activity. Strengthening and exercising your feet are important for foot health, especially since we walk all the time. 3 exercises that you can do to train your feet are 30 second calf raises, walking barefoot on your toes, and squat jumping while barefoot.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, see Dr. Steven Schwartz from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
Exercise for Your Feet
Exercise for your feet can help you to gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important and often we forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate not to have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure its good health in the long run.
Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rise, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, also flexing the toes and involving the shins may help too. It is best to speak with your doctor regarding how to do these fitness steps and how often is right for you. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different and it varies from individual to individual to determine what should be done for you to maintain strength in your feet.
Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.
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.
Published in Blog
Monday, 25 April 2016 14:29
Exercise Often to Combat Sitting for Long Hours
Being active is important for maintaining overall long-term health, especially if you work long hours sitting. According to mytoba.ca, “80 to 95 percent of adults don’t actually get the two and a half hours of moderate aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week recommended by the government.” Getting up and moving on your feet is important in combating long-term problems such as blood clots, obesity, diabetes, and other diseases.
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, see Dr. Steven Schwartz from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
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 offices located in Chambersburg and Mcconnellsburg, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Published in Blog
Monday, 18 April 2016 22:29
Unusual Symptoms May be Signs of Diabetes
There are many different symptoms of diabetes, one unusual symptom being that your face shape changes. According to a report by the Internet Journal of Endocrinology, “the right side of the face gets longer, the eyebrow droops, the skin area of the eyes folds downwards, and the face becomes compressed towards the centre.” It’s important to be able to recognize symptoms of diabetes and to treat them immediately. Diabetes can lead to poor blood circulation, especially in the heart, brain, and legs, nerve damage, or neuropathy. See your doctor often to receive the proper medication and prescription to manage your diabetes.
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 see Dr. Steven Schwartz from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your feet in addition to other podiatric-related 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 located in Chambersburg and Mcconnellsburg, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Published in Blog
Monday, 11 April 2016 12:01
Beno Udrih Recovering from Surgery on Broken Foot Injury
Miami Heat guard BenoUdrih is unable to play the rest of the season due to a foot injury. He suffered the injury in the game against the Indiana Pacers and had to undergo season-ending surgery late February. Following the stint, Udrih was sent in to have an MRI. Udrih’s inability to play is another blow to the Heat team, after Tyler Johnson also had to have surgery and Chris Bosh is currently out.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries need proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. If you have any concerns, see Dr. Steven Schwartz from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
Sport Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Plantar Fasciosis
- Achilles Tendinitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
Sports-related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
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.
Published in Blog
Monday, 04 April 2016 11:31
Managing Your Morton’s Neuroma
Morton’s neuroma can be one potential cause of forefoot pain, a condition of the feet in which the metatarsal bones rub together. This can lead to numbness, pain, inflammation, and tingling sensations. Those who have morton’s neuroma will experience their interdigital nerve becoming irritated and swollen. The swelling is a response to protect the bones from rubbing further together. Ill-fitting shoes with small widths can cause morton’s neuroma. See a podiatrist to properly diagnose and treat your condition.
Morton’s Neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma see Dr. Steven Schwartz from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
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?
- -Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
- -Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
- -Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities
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 offices located in Chambersburg and Mcconnellsburg, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Published in Blog
Monday, 28 March 2016 16:43
Women More Likely to Develop Bunions
Many women are susceptible to the deformity of the metatarsophalangeal joint, known as a bunion. If not hereditary, many women experience this condition after repeatedly stuffing their feet into shoes with narrow toe boxes. When the first toe begins to turn inward because of the deformity of the join, the other toes will suffer as well. Those in professions where you are often on your feet, such as teachers, nurses, or ballerinas, can experience the onset of bunions more often than those who are not on their feet as much.
Bunion surgery usually occurs after non-surgical methods have proved to be ineffective. If you have any concerns, see Dr. Steven Schwartz from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your feet in addition to other podiatric-related 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 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.
Published in Blog
Monday, 21 March 2016 16:34
Cowboys Dez Bryant Has Surgery for Broken Foot
Cowboys wide receiver, Dez Bryant, initially thought he would be able to play through his broken foot, but time told him that would not be the case. Bryant has since had to go through a second bone graft surgery to fix a bone spur. He stated, “I knew what was at stake. I thought I could potentially perform at a high level despite dealing with this foot. It turned out very unfortunate.”
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. To learn more, see Dr. Steven Schwartz from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
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 and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Published in Blog
Monday, 14 March 2016 15:41
Characteristics of Rheumatoid Arthritis
The condition known as rheumatoid arthritis is characterized as an autoimmune disease which is chronic and joints in the feet and hands often flare up. This occurs because the body’s immune system is attacking its own healthy cells. Treating and diagnosing your rheumatoid arthritis is a crucial first step in slowing the progression of symptoms. If you experience symptoms such as stiffness and pain anywhere in the joints of your body or irritated eyes, loss of appetite, fatigue, and more, make sure to see a podiatrist. Patients who do not treat their rheumatoid arthritis symptoms can find their symptoms progressing into a terminal illness that can lead to physical disability.
Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, see Dr. Steven Schwartz from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.
Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet
Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.
Symptoms
- Swelling & pain in the feet
- Stiffness in the feet
- Pain on the ball or sole of feet
- Joint shift and deformation
Diagnosis
Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.
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.
Published in Blog
Monday, 07 March 2016 14:28
Treating Your Toenail Fungus Properly
Toenail fungus can become unsightly if not treated properly. Fungal infections that grow on the toenails are characterized as dark or yellow colorations on brittle nails. Toenail fungus may affect adults more commonly as they age, but can be treated with easy remedies at home. Antifungal cream that can be bought over-the-counter should be applied to the afflicted area. Continue treatment as necessary, and trim white spots on your toenails while thinning with a nail file to allow the medicine to absorb properly.
While toenail fungus is troublesome to eradicate, doing so is not impossible. If you have any concerns with your feet see Dr. Steven Schwartz from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a problem which affects many people and is hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating toenail fungus.
Antibiotics & Treatments
Lamisil – is the most commonly effective treatment for toenail fungus. It is available as an antibiotic Terbinafine tablet and cream. Terbinafine is a chemical component which kills fungal growth on the body. Applying regular doses will gradually kill the fungal growth. It is important to keep the area clean and air free.
Talcum powder – applying powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well
Alternative Treatments
There are always surgical procedures that are available for toenail fungus. Some people would like immediate quick removal of toenail fungus. Surgeons will be able to cut through and remove the growth using laser surgery. It is important not to try and remove it yourself. Once removed, your old shoes will need to be replaced to avoid reinfection.
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.
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