Corn Prevention Can be as simple as Wearing Proper Fitting Shoes
Corns, hardened layers of skin formed through pressure or friction on the feet, are known to be unsightly and painful. Without the proper treatment, abnormalities in the gait of the foot can arise. Experts suggest wearing proper fitting shoes, toe splints, or orthotics to reduce any pressure that may cause corns. Diabetics especially need to pay attention to this condition as diabetic feet are more susceptible to complications.
Corns can be a huge nuisance for the feet. If you have any foot or ankle concerns contact Dr. Edwin S. Hart III, DPM of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will attend to 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. 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 feel free to contact our office located in Bethlehem, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Children Involved in Sports and Physical Activities More Prone to Foot and Ankle Injuries
With summer and summer sports in full swing, the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS) reminds parents and coaches that increased involvement in outdoor sports can also increase the likelihood for foot and ankle injuries to occur. This applies particularly to kids who play field sports. Ten percent of all injuries seen in emergency departments are ankle sprains alone. Parents and coaches should therefore make sure to recognize the signs of foot and ankle injuries and to seek treatment early.
Looking out for potential foot and ankle injuries is vital in maintaining proper development in children’s feet. If you have any concerns contact Dr. Edwin S. Hart of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet in childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care from birth to school-age.
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
- Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet
- Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. Be sure the child wears comfortable and protective shoes so that they can grow into their feet properly.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet
- Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus
- Be watchful of any pain or injury
- Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible
- Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play
Children of all ages are constantly developing and growing, and as a parent you want to make sure that nothing is hindering their maturation.
If you have any concerns feel free contact our office located in Bethlehem, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Some Children prone to Pediatric Flat Feet
Babies have many bones in their feet that need to close and grow to become a proper joint later in life. Many of these bones make up the arch that usually starts out as flexible flat feet. For 80-90% of children, those flat feet will eventually turn into arches, but for the rest pediatric flat feet occurs. Children with pediatric flat feet may experience pain, tenderness, cramping in the feet and legs and should seek treatment especially if they have difficulty walking. Treatment for flat feet includes activity modifications, such as cutting down on sports, orthotic inserts, physical therapy, and surgery.
Certain sports and physical activities may become difficult for children with flat feet. If you suspect that your child has the condition, speak to Dr. Edwin S. Hart III, DPM of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will answer any of your foot and ankle related questions and attend to all of your podiatric needs.
What are Flat Feet?
Flat feet are a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. Standing about 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arch never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – if you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms:
Pain around the heel or arch area
Trouble standing on the tip toe.
Swelling around the inside of the ankle.
Flat look to one or both feet.
Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment:
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Bethlehem, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and treatments for your foot and ankle needs.
Flip-Flops can be Harmful to the Feet and Body after Prolonged Usage
Dr. Braxton Littles appeared on Good Morning America to discuss the negative impacts flip-flops have on the feet. In addition to causing many trips and falls among the shoe wears Dr. Littles states that flops are the cause of many heel and arch problems due to their lack of support. Without providing the foot with the support that it needs problems such as plantar fasciitis, muscle fatigue, and pain within the rest of the body may arise. Littles states that if you must wear flip-flops, it is best not to wear them regularly to avoid foot pain.
Flip-flops can cause a lot of damage to the feet and rest of the body. If you have any concerns about your foot and ankle needs contact Dr. Edwin S. Hart III, DPM of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Flip-Flops and Feet
Flip-flops are not only very popular, but very convenient, especially in the warmer weather. They allow your feet to breathe and let you move your toes freely. They also go with most attire and can be worn with many different clothing styles. Unfortunately, these type of shoes also have a disadvantage, as they can cause harm to your feet in more ways than you think. These symptoms include:
- Ball and arch problems in the foot
- Changes to the body’s natural gait
- Blisters
- Ankle Sprains
- Higher risk of infection
- Higher risk of scrapes and cuts to the feet
- Issues in the lower back, legs and ankles
To avoid these symptoms (and minimize your risks), select a pair of flip-flops made of high quality materials that can offer protection. Purchase flip-flops from a reliable manufacturer and be sure to replace them every three to four months. Be sure the soles are firm and not ‘floppy’, or that they don’t bend or wiggle a lot when lifted from the floor.
You can still wear your favorite pair of flip-flops if you so choose, just don’t wear them for extended periods of time, and especially not every day. However, it would be far wiser to purchase a more expensive pair of flip-flops or to refrain from wearing the shoe at all for the sake of your foot health. While these shoes are comfortable, the risks included with wearing them are not.
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.
Bradford City Holds Walk to Raise Awareness for Diabetic Amputations
The NHS team at Bradford City Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is holding a walk to back Diabetes UK’s Putting Feet First campaign to raise awareness for the thousands of amputations that occur each year from a lack of diabetic foot care. Many of the amputations that occur each year are completely preventable and Dr. Sohail Abbas of Bradford states, “It is especially important to look after your feet if you have diabetes because it can reduce blood supply to your feet and cause a lack of sensations. The main message of the campaign is for diabetics to pay better attention to their feet.
Amputations occur in extreme cases in diabetics when the feet are not properly cared for. If you have any concerns about your diabetic feet, contact Dr. Edwin S. Hart, III 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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Kim Kardashian Making Smarter Shoe Choices during Second Pregnancy
During Kim Kardashian’s first pregnancy, she was known for wearing high heels despite suffering from extreme edema, or swollen feet. However, it seems
she has learned her lesson and will opt for more comfortable shoes during her current pregnancy. The reality star recently posted to photo sharing app Instagram featuring her husband’s new sneaker line stating, “So happy I ran back inside to grab these! Lifesaver on these long flights! Most comfy shoes in the world!”
A supportive and comfortable shoe is the best choice for feet during pregnancy. If you have any concerns contact Dr. Edwin S. Hart III DPM of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What foot problems can arise during pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is over-pronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy, but tends to occur in the later stages.
How can I keep my feet healthy during pregnancy?
- Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
- Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
- Wear shoes with good arch support
- Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
- Elevate feet if you experience swelling
- Massage your feet
- Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet
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.
Rosie Pope Joins Forces with Stride Rite as an Advocate of Children’s Foot Health
Rosie Pope, star of Pregnant in Heels, is partnering with Stride Rite to advocate that children need good shoes on their feet as they grow. As a mother of four kids Pope states, “They need shoes that are good for their feet and make playing easy and safe regardless of what else is going on that day.” Pope noted that she loved the Stride Rite team because they consist of real parents that understand the problems little feet may face on a daily basis. “Shoes have to feel good, be good for their feet, and my kids have to love them, and I have to like them too. So, I appreciate that real moms and dads are behind these shoes,” she added.
Having proper shoes for children is essential in allowing them to grow properly and keeping them disease free. If you have any concerns contact Dr. Edwin S. Hart III of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet in childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care from birth to school-age.
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
- Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet
- Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. Be sure the child wears comfortable and protective shoes so that they can grow into their feet properly.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet
- Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus
- Be watchful of any pain or injury
- Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible
- Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play
Children of all ages are constantly developing and growing, and as a parent you want to make sure that nothing is hindering their maturation.
If you have any concerns feel free 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 keeping children’s feet healthy.
Rugby Halfback Breaks Ankle During Tackle
Danny McGuire, halfback for the Leeds’ Rhinos, has sustained a broken ankle after being tackled by Hull FC’s Marc Sneyd. The tackle resulted in a penalty for the Rhino’s after Sneyd was carded for holding, but McGuire needed medical attention and had to be helped off the field. Head coach Brian McDermott states, “He could have broken his ankle by the looks of it. He’s not walking - he can’t even put it on the ground. It’s a bad one.”
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Dr. Edwin S. Hart III 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 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 office located in Bethlehem, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Gout Often Misdiagnosed in Women
Three years ago Kathleen Sundbye began feeling a painful burning sensation in her right foot that was quickly diagnosed as gout. Accordingly, many women are often misdiagnosed since gout is known to occur more likely in males. In recent years more and more women have been diagnosed with the disease; however, it seems to occur in different areas of the lower extremities compared to men. Most men experience gout pain in their knees, ankles, and feet while women will have it in their knees and toes.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you have any concerns regarding gout, consult with Dr. Edwin S. Hart of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will assist you with all of 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 holistic treatment protocols for all your individual foot and ankle needs.
Swedish Company Designs 3D Camera to find Proper Fitting Shoes
Volumental, a Swedish based firm, has developed software with the capability to take a lifelike image of the foot for users to find a more exact shoe fit. The image is said to be in 3D with the use of spatial awareness cameras. Founded in the Royal Institute of technology in Stockholm, became refutable need upon the realization that there are many inconsistencies between shoes and the size or shape of the foot. “Our vision is that the system of going around the stores, trying on lots of shoes or jeans and different products and having a problem of not knowing whether you are a medium or large …I think that system will be gone in 10 years. Instead it will be size me,” stated Caroline Walerud co-founder of Volumental.
Finding a proper fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information contact Dr. Edwin S. Hart of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
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 come factors to consider when it comes to investing in properly 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, improperly 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, keeping properly fit 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 technologies for your foot and ankle needs.
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Cold Feet May be Related to Poor Circulation
According to Amy Rushlow of Yahoo health, your constantly freeze feet may be due to something more serious than you thought. Blood in the body is warm and is a key factor in maintaining body temperature, have cold feet regularly may mean poor blood circulation in the feet. When the feet see reduced circulation, they will not be as warm. Additionally poor circulation in the feet has been linked to a few health issues such as smoking and diabetes.
Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Edwin S. Hart III of Pennsylvania. Our podiatrist will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Poor Circulation in the Feet
Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.
Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. It usually restricts the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.
Causes
Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development.
It can also cause:
-muscle pain -numbness in legs
-cramps -skin discoloration
-weakness -slower nail & hair growth
-stiffness -erectile dysfunction
Those who have diabetes and or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, or who are over 50.
If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD, and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.
As always see a doctor as they will help try and fit a regime that suits you. A doctor will also prescribe you medication which will help for PAD.
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.
Woman Undergoes New Surgery to aid Arthritic Foot Pain
Anne Tigwell of North Yorkshire recently underwent surgery after her big toe had started to feel extremely painful making it difficult to walk. Tigwell’s foot doctor diagnosed her with arthritis in the big toe where her cartilage had worn away and the joints in the toe were grinding against one another. Although treatment ranges from painkillers to screwing the joints in place, Tigwell was offered another option of replacing the head of the metatarsal in her big toe with plastic to reduce friction. Since the operation Tigwell has been able to walk without any pain and should be able to do so for another ten to 15 years.
Arthritis is a painful condition and arthritic foot care is necessary to avoid further complications. If you have any concerns contact Dr. Edwin S. Hart III of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves inflammation of different joints in your body, such as in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. On top of this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.
In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.
Alleviating Arthritic Pain
- Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
- Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
- Massages can help to temporarily alleviate pain.
It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.
If you have any concerns contact our office located in Bethlehem, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Danny Graham Makes Generous Donation to JJ O’Donnell’s Surgery
Danny Graham, striker of Sunderland, has donated money to a fund created to cover the cost ofJJ O’Donnell’s surgery. O’Donnell, the midfielder for Gateshead, is suffering from a rare foot condition known as sesamoiditis. The midfielder confirmed the news on his Twitter account, stating, “I’m not singling Danny out as, without everybody donating, I wouldn’t have ever reached my target, but a donation like that has left me speechless.”
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to fix a foot ailment. If you have any concerns about your foot and ankle needs contact Dr. Edwin S. Hart III of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
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
- Bunionectomy for painful bunions
- Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
- Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage
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:
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 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.
Finally a Few Companies that Provide Shoes for Smaller Women
According to Perrie Samotin of StyleCaster, smaller women of today are having an extremely difficult time finding the right shoe size. More often than not, if you are a woman with a shoe size smaller than size six, you will most likely be out of luck on finding fashionable and well-fitting shoes. This occurs since the average shoe size of women today stands between eight and a half and nine. Samotin found a list of high fashion brands that provide a range of shoes sizes sometimes starting at size four. J. Crew, Asos, Eileen Fisher and Sam Edelman are just a couple of brands with a wide range of shoe sizes; however, these smaller sizes are typically sold out quick.
Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. If you have any concerns about your feet contact podiatrist Dr. Edwin S. Hart III of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Getting the Right Shoe Size
There are many people that wear shoes that are ill-fitting, which affects their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to selecting the right pair.
- When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot
- When measuring your foot with your shoe on, add 1-2 inches to the size
- Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes
- Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently
- Purchase shoes later in the day as your feet swell as the day progresses
- If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes
As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat your feet right by choosing the right pair of shoes that can provide them comfort and mobility with minimal pain.
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.