Blog - Foot Doctor, Chambersburg and McConnellsburg, PA
Monday, 01 February 2016 11:18
Peyton Manning May Need Surgery for Foot Condition
Peyton Manning has recently caused a stir in the football world due to his plantar fasciitis. The star has been suffering from a partial torn in the tendon, causing fans and experts to question his ability to serve as a backup quarterback. Accordingly, many think he should either move on from playing and coach instead in addition to finally having surgery on the foot, a typical last resort for the condition.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to fix a foot ailment. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Steven Schwartz of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
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 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, 25 January 2016 15:08
Facts About Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease caused by the continual thinning of cartilage, and once the damage is caused, it becomes permanent. Osteoarthritis is a debilitating issue that affects about 1 in 5 adults who are 45 years or older. It’s important for patients to treat symptoms of osteoarthritis before the condition progresses. Treatment options involve physiotherapy to strengthen the muscles, surgery to replace joints, and wearing proper footwear to help alleviate pain. It’s important for patients to see their podiatrists as soon as they think something is wrong, so that they can receive proper treatment and delay the progression of symptoms.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Steven Schwartz of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Arthritic Foot Care
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 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, 18 January 2016 03:37
Facts About Flat Feet
Flat feet refers to a condition in which the arches of the feet have collapsed, causing nearly the entire sole of the foot to come into contact with the floor. A suspected 30 percent of the population has an arch that fails to fully develop in either or both feet. To manage flat feet, a podiatrist may prescribe shoe inserts or custom orthotics to support the fallen arch and ease any pain felt. In other cases, physical therapy may be suggested.
Most arches will develop in children after a certain age. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Steven Schwartz of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle 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 technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Published in Blog
Monday, 11 January 2016 10:01
Arizona Wildcats Kaleb Tarczewski Out for Foot Injury
Kaleb Tarczewski, senior center for the Arizona Wildcats, has sustained a foot injury and will be out for four to six weeks. The injury is described as a stress reaction and strained muscle. Sophomore Dusan Ristic will be replacing Tarczewski. Tarczewski averages about 57.7 percent shooting and 8.6 points and 7.2 rebounds a game per five games. The Arizona Wildcats won the game against Santa Clara of the Wooden Legacy tournament.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries need proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Steven Schwartz of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle 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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Published in Blog
Monday, 04 January 2016 04:43
Orthopedic Surgeon Invents Flip-Flops to Treat Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is felt by about one in ten people, says Dr. Meredith Warner, an orthopedic surgeon located in Baton Rouge. Dr. Warner suggests seeking treatment before the muscle in the heel, called the plantar fascia, starts degenerating. To accommodate the different feet of her many patients who have plantar fasciitis, Dr. Warner created the Healing Sole, a customized flip-flop that helps with treating plantar fasciitis. The Healing Sole is designed to accommodate patients’ feet.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Steven Schwartz of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
· Excessive running
· Non-supportive shoes
· Overpronation
· Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
How Can It Be Treated?
· Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
· Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
· Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
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, 28 December 2015 02:29
Foot Exercises to Increase Marathon Stamina
According to Yahoo! Health, there are some simple exercises you can do for your feet that can help increase your 5k marathon time, and just your overall foot health as well. There is the ladder exercise, in which you mimic climbing a ladder. The jump rope is the next movement you can perform without an actual jump rope but which can help increase your agility. Mini hurdles are another suggested workout which can also help with your balance and stamina.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet contact Dr. Steven Schwartz of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle 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 tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Published in Blog
Monday, 21 December 2015 00:47
Diabetic Foot Care in Americans
About over 29 million Americans are living with diabetes in America, according to research from the CDC. Diabetes not only affects your body’s blood sugar and insulin levels, but also affects the circulation of your feet. People who have diabetes need to pay attention to neuropathy, the loss of sensation, in their feet. Diabetes can also result in overall poor body circulation and a weakened immune system. It’s important for feet to be treated and checked often if you have diabetes.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Steven Schwartz of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will 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 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, 14 December 2015 00:00
Study Says Achilles Injuries Often Go Overlooked
Next time you go to the doctor, make sure to get your injury checked out thoroughly. The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association says that Achilles tendon injuries are often overlooked by doctors during first examinations, but require constant treatment in order to heal properly. It’s important for patients to get their Achilles tendon injuries checked and treated immediately. The Achilles tendon is essential for movement and is the largest tendon of our bodies. Surgery should be the last option to consider unless patients are young athletes who plan to return to physical activity.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, 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, 07 December 2015 00:00
Stanford University Loses Marcus Allen due to Stress Fractures
Stanford University’s basketball team is set you lose Marcus Allen due to a stress fracture in his right foot. The team was already starting to thin out, making Allen a key player to their success. This gives coach Johnny Dawkins no choice, but to put all of his faith in his front court players. “We want to make sure Marcus is fully healthy before returning to the court,” coach Dawkins stated before admitting he will certainly be missed.
Activities, where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Steven Schwartz of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.
Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
The Stress Fractures occur on the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use. Then the feet and ankles lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection the bones receive the full impact of each step. The stress on the feet causes cracks to form in the bones, thus called stress fractures.
What are Stress Fractures?
Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:
-runners
-people affected with Osteoporosis
-play tennis or basketball
-gymnastics
-high impact workouts
Symptoms
Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures, and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves in high impact will aggravate pain.
For more information about Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle, follow the link below.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Chambersburg and Mcconnellsburg, PA. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Published in Blog
Monday, 30 November 2015 00:00
New Shorts Monitor Biomechanics of Runners
Good news for runners looking to avoid serious injury! Lumo, a company that creates fitness attire, has come out with the new Lumo Run, a pair of shorts that has the ability to monitor your biomechanics as you run. The best part about the news is that while this technology has been made available before, Lumo has figured out a way to make it affordable to everyone, ensuring that all future runners know the intricacies of their biomechanics as they run.
Runners can still be prone to running injuries even with proper precautions. If you are suffering from a running injury see Dr. Steven Schwartz of Pennsylvania. Our doctorwill provide you with quality treatment and assist you with all of your foot and ankle concerns.
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 technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Published in Blog
Steven Schwartz - Default