Eating the Right Foods Can Help Reduce Foot Pain
Including certain foods in your diet is a good way to keep your feet healthy, experts say. This is especially true with people who suffer from gout, diabetes, and heart disease. Each of these conditions have a direct relationship with the health of the feet. For instance, ginger acts as an anti-inflammatory, hot peppers stimulate nerve endings, and salmon, which is high in omega-3 acids, improves blood flow. Additionally, chocolate and walnuts can improve moisture balance, which helps prevent calluses. Cherries, which are high in antioxidants, can help relieve muscle soreness, and asparagus contains compounds that help to reduce swelling. Other foods shown to reduce swelling and water retention are pumpkin, yogurt, and parsley. The foot contains 26 bones. Foods that contain certain vitamins and minerals that are believed to improve bone health include cheese, spinach, sardines, and tuna. In addition to eating foods that promote foot health, it is also important to make periodic visits to a podiatrist who can treat any serious or painful conditions that may arise.
Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. 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.
Everyday 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. 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 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. 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 one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Who Knew Yoga Can Cause Foot Pain?
Yoga is relaxing and provides an excellent way to stay flexible and balanced throughout one’s life. There are several styles of yoga, such as Ashtanga, Iyengar, and Kundalini. Some of these styles of yoga involve transitional movements, like vigorous linked poses called the Sun Salutation, that require stepping or jumping back and landing on the pads of one’s toes. This action can lead to foot pain. Also, wearing shoes during yoga can constrict the feet, causing foot pain because the arches can’t carry the weight of the body. To eliminate foot pain while practicing yoga, it is suggested one changes their style of yoga and do it with yoga shoes or go barefoot on a clean mat. Yoga devotees can also practice some exercises that will bring back elasticity in the plantar fascia muscles that form the arch bed. Once such exercise is standing with the feet hip-width apart while keeping the head and chest tall and the lower abs drawn in towards the spine. Lift both heels as you contract the leg muscles. Pause before lowering the heels to the floor. This exercise should be done 10 to 20 times each day. If you would like more information about how to practice yoga in a way that is least apt to cause foot pain, consult with a podiatrist who is an expert in everything related to the feet and ankles.
Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from PA Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Common Injuries
The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:
- Achilles Tendonitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
- Broken Foot
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Stress Fractures
- Turf Toe
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.
Treatment
Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked
Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.
Exercising May Help to Prevent Falling
Falling can be a terrifying experience, and can be common among elderly people. One of the most effective methods to decrease the number of falls that happen to older people is to regularly exercise. This is beneficial in strengthening the overall body, and may help to prevent a bone from breaking during a fall. The feet can become affected during a fall, and may cause the patient an inability to complete daily activities. A good prevention technique consists of having a routine physical and eye examination, so existing glasses and medication can be monitored and updated, if necessary. Many people choose to have grab bars installed in the shower and toilet area, in addition to using a bathmat to avoid slipping. If you would like to learn more about how to implement fall prevention techniques, please speak with a podiatrist.
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 Allentown, Easton, Northampton, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
A Possible Treatment for a Broken Toe
A broken toe is generally not a serious foot condition, despite the fact that it can cause pain, discomfort, and inconvenience. It is considered to be a common ailment, and it can happen for a variety of reasons. These can consist of dropping a heavy object on it or stubbing it into a piece of furniture. Additionally, it may fracture from increasing physical activity too quickly, possibly resulting in a hairline fracture of the toe. The common symptoms that many people experience with a broken toe can include immediate bruising, swelling, and it is often difficult to walk. The buddy taping method can be effective in treating mildly broken toes. This is accomplished by taping the affected toe to the toe next to it, which is generally adequate in providing the necessary stability as the healing process occurs. For severely broken toes, the expertise of a podiatrist is needed who can effectively treat broken toes.
Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from PA Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is a Broken Toe?
A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
- Swelling
- Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
- Stiffness
- Nail Injury
Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
How Is Toenail Fungus Treated?
Fungal infections commonly affect the toenails. Research has shown that approximately 14 percent of the population nationwide suffers from this fungus, and it can be a stubborn ailment to treat. The fungus that causes toenail fungus enters the body through small cracks in the skin on the feet. These fungi live and thrive in warm and moist environments, such as shower room floors and public swimming pools. The most common type of fungus that affects the toes is called tinea unguium, and it is caused by dermatophytes. Athlete’s foot is also caused by this fungus and can be uncomfortable and unsightly. Toenail fungus is often treated with topical medications, and oral pills may be prescribed. Having laser treatment performed is an option that many people choose, and it may be successful and painless in treating this condition. If you are afflicted with toenail fungus, it is strongly suggested that prompt medical attention is received from a podiatrist who can determine which type of treatment is best for you.
If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, 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.
Symptoms
- Warped or oddly shaped nails
- Yellowish nails
- Loose/separated nail
- Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
- Brittle, broken, thickened nail
Treatment
If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.
Prevention
In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.
In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
It's Time for Beautiful Feet
You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.
Hammertoe and Orthotics
A hammertoe is a condition that makes the toe point upwards at the joint in an unnatural way. As a result, the toe resembles a hammer. There are several ways that a medical professional might go about helping you correct this deformity. Orthotics can play an important role in the correction process. Orthotics are special inserts that can be either custom-made or one-size-fits-all, and they can help people correct deformities or their gait. A medical professional might recommend the use of orthotics for hammertoes. One specific kind of orthotic for hammertoes is known as a hammer toe crest pad. The hammertoe is essentially held in place by this pad, which is positioned underneath the toes. The crest pad resembles a kind of ring that goes around the hammertoe. This device is meant to support and mitigate the hammertoe condition. If you are afflicted with hammertoe and think that you might be a good candidate for orthotics, consult a podiatrist today for more information.
Hammertoe
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from PA Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.
Symptoms
- Pain in the affected toes
- Development of corns or calluses due to friction
- Inflammation
- Redness
- Contracture of the toes
Causes
Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible
Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur
Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe
Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe
Treatment
Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it
Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used
Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option
If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
What Causes Foot and Toe Cramps?
Anyone who has been jarred awake in the middle of the night by a toe, foot, or leg cramp knows how uncomfortable that can be. A cramp occurs when a muscle involuntarily contracts and is unable to relax. The intense pain caused by a cramp usually goes away, either on its own or by gently massaging or stretching the muscle that is affected. Athletes are most likely to experience foot and toe cramps after long bouts of exercise or other physical activity. High temperatures can also cause cramps from loss of electrolytes, which is a sign of dehydration. Wearing tight shoes or holding a specific position for a long period can bring on cramps, resulting from restricted blood flow. A more serious cause of cramps is arteriosclerosis, which is a constriction of blood flow to the extremities caused by a blockage in the arteries. In some cases, the cramping may be the result of diabetes, nerve damage, or Parkinson’s disease. Cramps may also be caused by deficiencies in certain minerals, such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium. If lower leg, foot, or toe cramps are becoming a regular occurrence, it is wise to visit a podiatrist for a diagnosis and possible treatment options.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, 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 Causes Toe Pain?
Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.
Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Trauma
- Sports injury
- Wearing shoes that are too tight
- Arthritis
- Gout
- Corns and calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Blisters
- Ingrown toenails
- Sprains
- Fractures (broken bones)
- Dislocations
When to See a Podiatrist
- Severe pain
- Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
- Signs of infection
- Continued swelling
- Pain that prevents walking
Diagnosis
In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Dog Bites May Affect the Feet
Dogs are cute, especially little puppies. But they like to bite and often playfully nip their owner’s feet. If a puppy gets carried away he can pierce the skin, and bacteria from his mouth can get into the foot possibly causing an infection. If this happens, it is important to wash the wound thoroughly to help prevent the bacteria from staying in the body. Infections like tetanus, rabies, or sepsis can develop from such bites. Since infections can spread to other parts of the body, in some cases, antibiotics or vaccinations are needed. If a dog bites your foot and the area swells or becomes red and painful, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist immediately to get the recommended treatment to halt the spread of a possible infection.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from PA Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Bunions
- Hammertoes
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Bone Spurs
- Corns
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Ingrown Toenails
- Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
- Flat Feet
- Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
- And more
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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Heel Pain Can Be Treated!
Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
Causes and Prevention of Athlete’s Foot
It is easy to pick up an athlete’s foot infection, even if you are not an athlete. This annoying skin infection, termed tinea pedis, is caused by a fungus that thrives in moist, warm environments. The most likely places to become infected with athlete’s foot are swimming pools, showering areas, and gym locker rooms. If you share a showering area or towel with someone who has athlete’s foot, the risk of becoming infected increases, as the fungus is highly contagious. Athlete’s foot is easy to recognize. The skin between the toes or on the bottom of the foot is likely to become itchy, and scaly, and may form blisters. Avoid touching the area with your bare hands as the infection can easily spread to other body parts. To prevent contracting athlete’s foot, wear protective shoes at pools, public showers and locker areas. Keep your feet clean and dry. Don’t share towels. If a case of athlete’s foot becomes severe, has spread, or recurs, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for treatment options.
Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from PA Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.
What Is Athlete’s Foot?
Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.
Prevention
The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:
- Thoroughly washing and drying feet
- Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
- Using shower shoes in public showers
- Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
- Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot
Symptoms
Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:
- Redness
- Burning
- Itching
- Scaly and peeling skin
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
What Can Cause Morton’s Neuroma?
The foot condition that is known as Morton’s neuroma can cause debilitating pain and discomfort. This is an ailment that affects the nerve which lies between the third and fourth toes, causing it to become thickened and irritated. It is a condition that can be common among women who frequently wear high heels. These types of shoes generally have little area in the toe box, prohibiting the toes to move freely. Patients who have Morton’s neuroma often liken the pain in their feet to having a pebble or marble in their shoe. Additionally, there may be a burning sensation in the ball of the foot, as a result of extreme inflammation. There may be existing conditions affecting the feet which can lead to getting this condition, including bunions, flat feet, or high arches. A proper diagnosis consists of pressing on specific areas of the affected foot, and an X-ray may be taken to rule out fractures or arthritis. The discomfort from this ailment is difficult to ignore, and if you are afflicted with this type of pain, please schedule an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can help you to find relief.
Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of PA Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.
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 one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Cutting Ingrown Toenails
Many individuals are affected with the foot condition known as ingrown toenails. This condition occurs when the side of the nail grows into the skin surrounding the toenail. As a result, the skin will grow overtop of the nail. This might cause pain. Many people affected with ingrown toenails are curious about how they might go about cutting an ingrown toenail. Generally, it is best to seek the help of a podiatrist to cut an ingrown toenail because doing so by oneself can potentially be damaging. If someone cuts the nail too short, they may be putting themselves at an increased risk of encouraging another ingrown toenail to develop. Also, when an inexperienced person attempts to cut an ingrown toenail, they might be increasing their susceptibility to infection. Under the care of a podiatrist, a patient can receive the care that they need to treat the underlying problem. If you have an ingrown toenail, contact a podiatrist today for an appointment.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. 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 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 one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
