Blog - Foot Doctor, Chambersburg and McConnellsburg, PA
Monday, 07 September 2015 00:00
School Athletes and Parents Should Lookout for Athlete’s Foot This School Year
As the school year comes back into swing and athletes start practicing for their fall games, the occurrence of athlete’s foot may arise in some players. Health professionals say athlete’s wearing cleats are the most often at risk for athlete’s foot. While the condition can show signs of life in a variety of different forms such as redness, itching, and burning, an unpleasant smell can also be a sure sign. If the rash like symptoms continue to thrive for more than two weeks after attempting anti-fungal sprays and creams, it is best to see a doctor for treatment.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you are concerned about your athlete’s foot contact Dr. Steven Schwartz of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will 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. Speaking to your podiatrist will give you 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 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, 31 August 2015 00:00
Yoga Stretches Helpful in Relieving Plantar Fasciitis Pain
Michele Fife of WOTV 4 has come up with a few a few yoga tips to help reduce pain caused by plantar fasciitis. No matter what physical activity you are partaking in, Fife suggests massaging the soles of the feet beforehand to reduce pain, especially after just waking up when heel pain tends to be the strongest. Then, sitting in virasana with the knees bent with the heels parallel to the hips to stretch and relax the fascia bands in the foot. Additionally you can place the balls of one foot against a wall and frame the rest of the body in a lunge position to stretch the arching part of the foot.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, visit Dr. Steven Schwartz of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can treat your heel pain as well as any other foot or ankle condition.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of a 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 contact our offices in Chambersburg and Mcconnellsburg, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
Published in Blog
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
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