Monday, 26 December 2016 00:00

Gout Risk possibly linked to Obesity

gout3According to a Swedish study, those who are considered obese are more prone to developing gout. Known as a form of arthritis that affects the joints due to a build-up of uric acid, gout affects “nearly 4 percent of people in the United States and is on the rise,” according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. According to the study, the group that had weight loss surgery was 53 percent less likely than the group who did not have surgery to develop high uric acid levels.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Edwin S. Hart of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Bethlehem, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Gout

 

achilles tendon6Known as the thick tendon that connects your calf muscles to your heel bone, the Achilles tendon allows you to do everyday activities such as walking and running. Insertional Achilles tendonitis is a condition of the Achilles tendon in which pain is experienced at the heel, and which can become chronic if left untreated. Non-insertional Achilles tendonitis can be described as a microscopic tearing of the fibers in the tendon. If the problem becomes chronic, a bone spur can eventually develop as the tendon thickens. If severe, the condition may require surgery.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Edwin S. Hart of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

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 contact our office located in Bethlehem, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Achilles tendon injuries.

Monday, 12 December 2016 00:00

Importance of Walking Correctly

feet7Although walking regularly offers many benefits for our overall health such as managing health conditions such as heart disease, it’s important to take caution as walking is not necessarily injury-proof. As we walk, we put pressure on our legs, ankles and feet. Improper walking motions can impact the amount of pressure exerted.  Avoid looking down as you walk, as this can lead to slouching. Keep your back straight and your head upright to avoid any gait problems. Proper shoes are also essential for ensuring that our leg and foot motions are correct, as they play a large role in the biomechanics of our feet. Remember to always change your shoes every 350 to 500 miles.

Every day foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checkedcontact Dr. Edwin S. Hart of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

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 contact our office located in Bethlehem, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Everyday Foot Care

Tuesday, 06 December 2016 00:00

Foot Care for Seniors

elderly feetAs we get older, we become more prone to foot problems. We lose the cushioning in our feet, and our nails and skin become brittle and dry without proper treatment. Poor circulation also becomes a common problem among seniors, leading to an increased risk of foot sores. Proper circulation can be improved with daily exercise. The elderly are also advised to avoid wearing tight socks and sitting for long periods of time, to wear comfortable footwear, and to maintain good foot hygiene. Improperly-fitting shoes can lead to long-term problems such as corns, bunions and calluses.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Edwin S. Hart of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

The Elderly and their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions

Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet, and can hide many life threating medical conditions.

Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.

Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:

Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe

Shoes that don’t fit properly

Pressure sores

Loss of circulation in legs & feet

Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

Read more about Elderly and Feet

Monday, 28 November 2016 00:00

National Diabetes Month

elderly feet 3November is known as National Diabetes Awareness month, as diabetes is “a worldwide health problem characterized by the body’s inability to break down sugar due to an inefficiency of the hormone insulin.” If left untreated, diabetes can lead to more severe problems such as diabetic ulcers, poor blood circulation, dry and cracking skin, and infections. Proper footwear, routine checks, and seeing your podiatrist are vital toward injury prevention. About “12 percent of those with diabetes will develop plantar ulcers and they’re responsible for approximately 85 percent of amputations of the lower extremities in diabetic patients.” Your podiatrist can help with managing foot hygiene as well as monitoring your blood sugar levels.

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 Dr. Edwin S. Hart of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. Diabetes can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, including the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

  • Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
  • Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
  • Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels because blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Read more about Diabetic Foot Care

Monday, 21 November 2016 00:00

Gout: “Disease of the Kings”

gout3If you suddenly find that your feet are in excruciating pain, it may be because you have gout. Gout has historically been known as the “disease of kings,” and symptoms include swelling, warmth, and redness in the big toe, ankle, and knee areas. Gout can be caused by many different factors such as a excessive diet of red meats or beer, which can increase the uric acids levels in your blood. The buildup of uric acid can then lead to gout’s inflammation. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “At least 4 percent of American adults” are affected by gout.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Edwin S. Hart of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

Read more about Gout

ankle surgeryKelly Wesolowski, a senior and cross-country athlete at Hereford High School in Parkton, Maryland, recently returned after having foot surgery for complications of Freiberg’s disease.  This disease, characterized by avascular necrosis, caused Wesolowski to undergo surgery on her second metatarsal.  The procedure was performed successfully, but rehab and recovery had kept her off the track for 14 months.  Exceeding all expectations, she has come back to a sport that she loves and been incredibly successful.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to fix a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. Edwin S. Hart of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to help with the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary are:

  • Removing foot deformities like bone spurs and bunions
  • Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
  • Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

  • Bunionectomy for painful bunions
  • Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
  • Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Bethlehem, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about foot surgery.

Monday, 07 November 2016 00:00

The Difference Between Corns and Calluses

toenail fungus7Corns and calluses are thickened areas of skin that may develop from repeated rubbing or pressure. The difference between the two of them is that corns appear on the top of the toes, and calluses appear on the bottom of the foot. Both of them, however, may cause pain for the individual who has them. Corns that are not painful do not require any sort of treatment, but if your corns are causing severe discomfort or pain, you should see a podiatrist.  

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Edwin S. Hart of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

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. Salicylic acid can help in getting rid of these corns because it dissolves keratin, which is the protein that makes up a good majority of corns. Podiatrists recommend that people with diabetes not use salicylic acid but should consult with their podiatrist regarding the treatment of corns.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Bethlehem, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Corns on the Feet.

Monday, 31 October 2016 11:12

Denzel Valentine Sprains Ankle

foot injuryDenzel Valentine rolled his ankle during the third quarter of early October’s exhibition opener, sidelining him for an estimated two weeks. Valentine is expected to miss all but the last two of the Bulls’ final exhibitions, at the best. Valentine was spotted without a walking boot and a lack of a limp, and has previously experienced a sprained ankle injury. “I’ll lose a little bit of time. But with all the great equipment and staff and trainers that we have, I know they’ll get me back as quickly as I can. If I have to play catch-up, then I’ll just have to play catch-up. It is what it is now, no point in stressing,” he said.

Ankle sprains are common, but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Edwin S. Hart of Pennsylvania. Our doctor 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 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 one of our offices located in Bethlehem, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about ankle sprains.

Monday, 24 October 2016 00:00

Check for Flexibility When Shoe Shopping

shoes2Many people look for fashion instead of comfort when picking out new shoes. When shopping for sneakers, you should check to see how flexible they are. If you can bend the shoe in half from the toes to the heel, the shoe is not going to provide much support. You should also make sure the shoes you buy are the right size. There should be half an inch to three-quarters of an inch between your longest toe and the front of the shoe. The width of the shoe should be snug, but not too tight. Your toes should be able to move around freely so that they are able to bend and separate a little inside the shoe.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Edwin S. Hart of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

  • Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
  • Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
  • Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
  • Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes is vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Bethlehem, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about proper shoe fitting.

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