feet3Ingrown toenails is a common foot condition that many people experience. While visiting a podiatrist is the best way to ensure proper treatment, there are several simple methods one can follow to manage ingrown toenail recovery. Soaking the feet twice a day in warm water, cutting the toenails properly, wearing white socks to avoid dyes seeping into the wound, and wearing sensible and comfortable footwear can all ensure healing occurs smoothly.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. To learn more, consult with Dr. Edwin S. Hart III of Pennsylvania. Our doctorwill 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 office located in Bethlehem, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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fungal-toenail2Feet and how they interact with the spine play an important role in gait and biomechanics of the feet. Problems with this interaction can cause gait abnormalities which can cause overpronation, heel strikes, metatarsal problems as well as support problems. Since feet are commonly referred to as the foundation of the body, making sure the proper measures are taken to prevent gait issues is important in preventing problems in the biomechanics of the feet.

Proper foot care is important for biomechanics, which incorporates the moving parts that manage the movement of your feet. To learn more about biomechanics, see Dr. Edwin S. Hart III of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide you with the foot and ankle information you seek.  

A History of Biomechanics

- Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
- In 1974 biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination to the area.

Modern technology improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes providing a better understanding of podiatry concepts for biomechanics. Computers provide accurate determinations about the forces, moments and patterns of the foot and lower legs with the most important information captured.

Advances in materials and more awareness of biomechanics have developed enhanced corrective methods, offering further options for foot-related injuries. Understanding foot biomechanics can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot. 

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.

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foot-care2Ingrown toenails are a common foot problem for most people, but most individuals may not like the idea of using this new Japanese device called the Makizune Robo Ingrown Toenail Fixer. The device works by clamping the two sides of the device against the affected nail and submerging the foot in warm water to soak the nail. This helps the device straighten the nail. While this may seem like a quick fix, it is best to see a podiatrist to fix your ingrown toenail needs.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. To learn more, consult with Dr. Edwin S. Hart III 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 office located in Bethlehem, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Ingrown Toenails

feet3Presidential hopeful Carly Fiorina won CNN’s republican debate on two fronts: one for her actual answers and the second for the fact that she did so wearing 3 ½ inch heels for three hours. While most women are familiar with wearing heels in everyday situations, Fiorina’s feat was that she managed to remain poised and comfortable while fielding tough questions throughout the debate, proving that it is possible to remain both serious and stylish.

High heels have a history for causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet contact Dr. Edwin S. Hart III of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because they are associated with femininity. Despite their appeal, they can cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

What parts my body will be affected by high heels?

  • Ankle Joints
  • Achilles Tendon – may shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
  • Balls of the Feet
  • Knees – heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
  • Back – they decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain. Also, the vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What kinds of foot problems can develop from wearing high heels?

  • Corns
  • Calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Morton’s Neuroma
  • Plantar Fasciitis

How can I still wear high heels and maintain foot health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems. Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising. If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work. Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock; you can buy either full inserts or metatarsal pads.

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 the effects of high heels.

 

plantar-fasciitis6Potential GOP candidate for President of the United States and business mogul Donald Trump is known for making out of the ordinary statements including a few statements about his medical deferment from serving in the military. Donald Trump, often criticized for not having served in the military, has stated, “My [draft number] was so incredible and it was a very high draft number. Anyway I never had to do that, but I felt that I was in the military in the true sense because I dealt with those people.” Trump also cited his lack of military experience due to heel spurs on both of his feet.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful, and sometimes might make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, call Dr. Edwin S. Hart III of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be a cause from small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching it to the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot. Bone may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs. Pain sometimes intensifies with age. Heel spurs are known to cause a substantial amount of pain. One of the main associations spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often times because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to poke and affect other boners and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain there are several methods for healing. Medicines, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

For more information about Heel Spurs, follow the link below.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office in Bethlehem, PA. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

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obesity4According to a research from the North West Adelaide Health Study, an increase in body fat (FMI) and not body mass index were associated with current and potential foot pain. Among participants older than 50 years of age, foot pain increased by 8% for each FMI unit during the second stage of the study conducted between 2004 and 2006. The odds of foot pain during stage three of the study conducted between 2008 and 2010 increased by 6% per FMI unit. “This study adds further to the concept of metabolically, rather than mechanically, derived foot pain,” Tom Walsh of Flinders University stated.

Any additional problems in the feet of those with obesity can be detrimental to foot health. If you have any concerns about your feet contact Dr. Edwin S. Hart III of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Obesity and your Feet

Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.

Problems & Complications

Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.

Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.

Solutions

Footwear – Specially made footwear that supports your joints, arches, and ankles, and allows room for good circulation is a great option to mitigate pressure and pain. A podiatrist will help you decide what works best for your specific needs.

Exercise – Exercise will help alleviate the pain and give your feet the strength it needs to support your body. Exercise also increases blood flow to your feet, allowing them to remain healthy and strong.

Most importantly, seek the help of a podiatrist for foot care if something is wrong or doesn’t seem to be working. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed.

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 obesity and the feet.

stretching2According to a study reported at the American Pain Society Annual Scientific Meeting chemotherapy induced neuropathy has been found to hurt more in the feet than in the hands making every day routine difficult. The study included 184 patients from the San Francisco Bay area completing taxane or platinum based chemotherapy where chemo-induced neuropathy was in their hands and feet. With the help of questionnaires such as the pain interference scale and brief pain inventory, chemotherapy induced neuropathy was found to cause treatment delay, decreased functioning of the feet, and poorer quality of life since the pain reduced everyday activities.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly. For professional help, see Dr. Edwin S. Hart of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will ensure that your feet receive the care that they need.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable. Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Bethlehem, PA. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Read more about Systemic Diseases of the Feet

runners20With the return of fall weather, it is important to get the feet prepared for blister prevention during the boot weather months. When purchasing shoes it always best to make sure you are getting the correct size and fit of the shoe. A shoe that is too tight will definitely cause blisters on the feet. Rubbing a blister block or silicone based hair serum on blister prone parts of the feet can help reduce friction if you already have shoes that are too tight. On the chance that you are unable to take the proper measures to prevent a blister and get one anyways, make sure to keep durable band aids on you to allow it to heal properly.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If you have any concerns with blisters on your feet contact Dr. Edwin S. Hart III, DPM 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 office located in Bethlehem, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about blisters on the feet.

Monday, 05 October 2015 00:00

Tips to Avoid Running Injuries this Fall

foot-exercise4As the cooler Fall weather begins to take over, more people will head outdoors for a run. Here are a few tips to help prevent common foot injuries this season. Achilles tendonitis can usually occur when the tendon between the heel and calf muscle becomes over stressed. Rehabbing the area with ice and anti-inflammatories can help prevent the injury from becoming any more severe. Plantar fasciitis mostly occurs in the heel of the foot and can result in pain all over the body if not properly treated. Stretching and applying ice to the area. Additionally strengthening and stretching the foot, calves, and Achilles tendon can reduce the pain. While injuries typically occur when workouts are intensified, make sure to take it easy and give your feet the proper care they need.

Runners can still be prone to running injuries even with proper precautions. If you are suffering from a running injury see Dr. Edwin S. Hart III from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will provide you with quality treatment and assist you with all of your foot and ankle concerns.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber, this will help you gain better flexibility.

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 How to Prevent Running Injuries

Monday, 28 September 2015 00:00

Reggie Bush Suffers Injury to Achilles Tendon

broken-foot4Early this NFL season we have seen many sidelining injuries, including Reggie Bush with a ruptured Achilles tendon. While commentators were not initially ready to commit to an injury report, the injury did occur during a game against the Vikings. Bush did appear to be in visible pain as he limped away with his head down and was helped back into the locker room. Although Bush could be out for the entire season, with an injury report he could come back to the field sooner if the injury is not deemed to be serious.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Edwin S. Hart 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 office located in Bethlehem, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Achilles tendon injuries.

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