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Living with foot pain is hard on your body.  Give us a call and let us find out what's wrong.

Research has shown that approximately half the falls that occur at home require the patient to be hospitalized. Falls can lead to the onset of other health issues, so it’s important to be aware of how falling may be prevented. Removing excess clutter, repairing loose carpets which may prevent tripping, and having adequate lighting are effective approaches to preventing falls from occurring. It may be important to have handrails in the shower or bath area to avoid slipping. Seniors may find that living on one level may be helpful in avoiding falling, and if this cannot be accomplished, then extra precautions should be taken when using the stairs. Wearing shoes in the house is recommended instead of wearing socks unless non-slip socks are worn. Additionally, walking slowly and taking the time to complete necessary tasks in the household may aid in the prevention of falling as well.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from PA Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Pennsylvania. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The pain of an ingrown toenail can often be uncomfortable and frustrating, and will typically affect the big toe. It generally occurs when the nails are not trimmed correctly, which may cause the side of the nail to grow downward. Additionally, an ingrown toenail may result from wearing shoes that fit poorly. Common symptoms may include the toe appearing red and tender and in severe cases, a discharge may ooze from the affected and surrounding areas. Many patients will benefit from consulting with a podiatrist who may suggest soaking the foot in lukewarm salt water several times per day. This method will soften the skin which may attain moderate relief. If the toenail becomes infected, surgery may be a necessary treatment option for removal of the nail and the infected surrounding tissue. If you would like additional information about how to prevent or treat ingrown toenails, please consult with a podiatrist

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of PA Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Pennsylvania. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

There are several different reasons for why corns on the feet to develop. These may include being on your feet for long stretches of time and wearing poorly fitting shoes that may cause friction. A corn typically resembles a round area of hardened skin that develops on the toes, and generally may cause pain and discomfort. Additionally, corns may form in between the toes, and this is commonly caused by wearing non-absorbent socks that allow moisture to develop. Some patients are able to file the corn, preceded by soaking the foot in warm water. This may enable the corn to soften, making it easier to file. It may be beneficial to use corn pads that will provide a protective layer that can possibly diminish the pressure. It’s advised to consult with a podiatrist for additional information and treatment options about corns.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of PA Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What are they? And how do you get rid of them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctors to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Pennsylvania. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Have your child's feet been examined lately?

A sprained ankle typically implies that the ankle's ligaments have been torn or twisted. It is considered to be one of the more common foot injuries and is frequently observed in runners or people who partake in any kind of jumping activities. Severe and excruciating pain is often associated with this type of injury, which may make it difficult to walk. Redness and swelling may be noticeable in the affected area of the foot, in addition to the surrounding area appearing bruised. Resting and elevating the ankle may alleviate a portion of the discomfort, and utilizing a compression bandage may curb the swelling. A proper diagnosis will often consist of an X-ray to eliminate the possibility of a fracture. Please consider seeing your podiatrist if you have sustained a sprained ankle.

Ankle sprains are common, but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from PA Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

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

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 one of our offices located in Pennsylvania. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The feet are considered to be the foundation of the body, and when the body endures pressure from being overweight, the feet bear the brunt of these abnormal stresses. Certain conditions may develop in the feet of an obese person, such as fallen arches and chronic heel pain. If children become obese, their ability to participate in sporting activities may be greatly diminished, potentially due to any pain the feet and arches may encounter. Custom-made insoles may be suggested for an overweight child to wear, and this may provide the support needed to aid in the formation of the arch. Individuals who have this condition may suffer from frequent falls, which is often as a result of a compromised gait. The feet will generally become larger and will benefit from being measured for correct sizing to avoid corns and calluses from developing. If you suffer from foot pain due to obesity, please consider a consultation with a podiatrist for dietary and lifestyle changes.

The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from PA Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and your Feet

People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.

Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity

• When the body is overweight, it tries to compensate by changing the way that it moves. An obese person may lean forward and put extra weight on the wrong part of the foot. This puts unnecessary stress on the feet.
• Obese people are also more likely to develop type II diabetes which is a condition that causes a lot of foot problems. People with diabetes often don’t feel the cuts and sores that they may have on their feet, which can lead to more complicated and severe issues.
• Plantar fasciitis is another foot condition that can be caused by obesity. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes pain and stiffness while walking and climbing stairs.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Pennsylvania. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

If you are afflicted with diabetes, it’s crucial that your feet are examined on a daily basis. There is typically a lengthy process for wounds and sores to heal, which causes the necessity to check for any cuts, blisters, or unusual redness. When comfortable footwear is worn, the feet may be protected from the development of cracked heels, which may be a gateway to the formation of painful infections. It’s important that proper foot care is maintained, and this can be achieved by washing the feet in lukewarm water, followed by thoroughly drying the feet and between the toes. Additionally, when the toenails are trimmed correctly, the risk of infection is kept to a minimum. When the blood sugar is kept at the proper levels, this generally aids in this condition being controlled. Nerve damage may be a result of elevated glucose levels and may possibly cause a lack of feeling in the feet. Please consider scheduling a consultation with a podiatrist for additional information about proper foot care for diabetics.

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, contact one of our podiatrists from PA Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially 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, as 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 one of our offices located in Pennsylvania. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Hallux valgus is the scientific name for the condition commonly referred to as a bunion. This condition occurs when the bone between the joint and the base of the big toe protrudes, often causing pain and discomfort. An additional bone may form as a result of severe inflammation the bunion can cause, in addition to developing arthritis. The area may become red, tender, and swollen, and it’s suggested that larger-sized shoes are worn to replace shoes that do not provide adequate room for the bunion. There are several reasons why bunions may develop, including a predisposed inherited gene, improper shoes that are worn, or a condition referred to as flat feet. If the bunion is mild and tolerable, there may be conservative ways to treat this ailment. For more severe bunions, surgery may be a remedy to alleviate pain associated with this condition. A consultation with a podiatrist is recommended for additional information consisting of proper treatment techniques.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of PA Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

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 due to 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 one of our offices located in Pennsylvania. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.