Blog - Foot Doctor, Chambersburg and McConnellsburg, PA
Monday, 26 October 2015 00:00
Golfer George Coetzee Breaks Ankle Surfing in Bali
South African world golfer George Coetzee broke his ankle while surfing in Bali earlier this month. The world No. 65 player had just finished at a tie for seventh place at the Whistling Straights PGA Championship and had taken some time off near Bali. Coetzee posted a photo of him in a cast captioned, “I just jumped off the board and it was shallower than I thought and I twisted around on it and it popped.” While the injury seems to be the result of a freak accident, Coetzee does see himself surfing again once he is healed stating. “There’s no point in playing golf if I’m not going to be able to do other things I enjoy.”
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Dr. Steven Schwartz of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
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 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, 19 October 2015 00:00
Everyday Foot Care Preparation for the Fall Season
While the summer months were great for keeping the feet free in open air, it is necessary to take the appropriate measures to prep feet and give them that everyday foot care for the fall season. Before shoving your feet into a pair of boots this season, make sure to rid of cracked heels and keep them moisturized. Make sure your nails are trimmed and clean; if they appear to be unnatural or you just don’t want to take care of that ingrown toenail, make sure to schedule an appointment with your podiatrist for the best care.
Every day foot care is important no matter what season we are in. For more information about everyday foot care, consult with Dr. Steven Schwartz of Pennsylvania. Our doctorwill provide you with the foot- and ankle information you seek.
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 and ankle injuries.
Published in Blog
Monday, 12 October 2015 00:00
Proper Form in Barefoot Running is Important in Preventing Injury
While barefoot running can do wonders for your body, maintaining proper form is essential in preventing injury during this high intensity activity. Since you are not wearing shoes during a barefoot run, the strain on the Achilles tendon and calves are more extreme and the impact can be nearly seven times harder on the foot if you strike with the heels. Transitioning into barefoot running too quickly can result in problems such as plantar fasciitis. This, along with studies suggesting that barefoot running can deform the heels, can all be prevented with proper form and other changes. Learning how to land mid-foot can help reduce the tension on the heels. In order to change your foot strike, try quieting the sound of your feet on the treadmill by straightening your posture and shortening your stride. For marathon runners, try to switch it up by landing forefoot as a training aid. It is important to avoid overdoing the practice for the sake of your foot health.
Barefoot running has its own share of benefits and disadvantages. To learn more about this trend, consider speaking to Dr. Steven Schwartz of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will explain the facts of barefoot running and help you decide if it’s a practice you’d like to take up.
Barefoot Running
The Impact of Barefoot Running
-Running without shoes changes the motion of your running, as most running is done by landing on the heel of the feet.
-Running barefoot requires a different way of running; the landing is done on the front part of the feet.
The Advantages of Barefoot Running
-When running and landing on the front feet, the impact on the feet and ankle is reduced, this can reduce stress injuries.
-It strengthens muscles in the feet and ankles and the lower legs.
-Balance of the body is improved and there is a greater sensory input from the feet to the rest of the body.
The Drawbacks of Barefoot Running
-No protection while running, makes it likely that runners will land on sharp objects and scrapes, bruises and cuts on the feet will result.
-Blisters may form.
-Possibility of plantar fascia problems.
-Risk of getting Achilles tendonitis.
So what can runners do to make barefoot running safe? It’s best to make a slow transition from running shoes to barefoot running. Once the feet begin to adjust, try walking, then jogging and gradually increasing the distance. Minimalist running shoes may also be an option.
If you have any questions, please 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, 05 October 2015 00:00
Tennessee Titans Chance Warmack Suffers from Ingrown Toenail Pain
Chance Warmack of the Tennessee Titans and his big toes are feeling better prepared for their next game since having an ingrown toenail removed. During a preseason game against the St. Louis Rams, Warmack played through the pain and immediately went to see the doctor the next day to remedy the situation. The doctor removed the ingrown nail from both big toes with Warmack describing it as “toe meat.” Since then the guard has started to take better care of his feet and toenails stating, “I just have to soak it and take care of it... When I am not practicing it hurts.”
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. To learn more, consult with Dr. Steven Schwartz of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.
Causes
- Bacterial infections
- Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
- Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
- Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
- Genetic predisposition
Prevention
Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right 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 and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Published in Blog
Monday, 28 September 2015 00:00
The Wide Variety of Running Shoes Today Allows Everyone to Find the Proper Fit
In the past couple of years, the running shoe market has skyrocketed with nearly thirty-five legitimate running shoe models currently for sale in the United States this year. Experts claim this may be occurring because we live in a fitness conscious society where there is high appeal for running shoes. Since running has become a more accessible form of exercise more people than ever before are interested in purchasing the proper shoe for their foot type.
The right running shoe is essentially different for every person. If you have any concerns feel free to contact Dr. Steven Schwartz of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle 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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Published in Blog
Monday, 21 September 2015 00:00
How to Prevent Blisters During your Next Night Out
Lindsey Rose Black from Bustle has listed a few ways to reduce blisters on the feet the next time you go out on the town in your high heels. Wearing thin socks with your heels around the home can help break in the shoe as well as show you wear your feet may blister when wearing them outside. This method can tell you where to rub slicking balm or deodorant to prevent friction from causing blisters on your feet. Sprinkling cornstarch on your feet before putting on your shoes can keep them from getting too moist; moistened feet are more prone to blisters than dry feet! Putting on a protective covering over your Achilles or any other place you are known to blister before you actually blister may prevent a lot of pain. Ultimately it is best to make sure your shoes fit properly to prevent any foot ailment, even blistering.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If you have any concerns with blisters on your feet contact Dr. Steven Schwartz of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.
What are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
How do Blisters Form?
Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.
Prevention & Treatment
It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a doctor.
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.
Read more about blisters on the feet.
Published in Blog
Monday, 14 September 2015 00:00
Irish Rugby Player Recalls Problems with Sesamoiditis
Munster rugby player, Donnacha Ryan, is finally cleared to join the international team for the first time since suffering from sesamoiditis. Ryan was first aware something was wrong with his feet when he started walking with a limp and found it too painful to run. After being diagnosed with sesamoiditis and left unable to play, the Irish native decided to undergo an operation where surgeons had to carefully adjust the tendon running from the big toe to the back of the calf, take out bones, and avoid hitting the nerve in his foot. Since his return Ryan has become more thankful for his position on the team stating, “I’d love to say that I always thought that I would be back, but to be honest, no, I didn’t.”
Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Dr. Steven Schwartz of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will perform a diagnostic exam and treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.
Sesamoiditis
Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.
Causes of Sesamoiditis
- Sudden increase in activity
- Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
- Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible
Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.
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 and ankle needs.
Published in Blog
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
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