Archive for the ‘Symptoms’ Category

Heel Pain in Children :: Severs Syndrome

Tuesday, May 8th, 2012

Heel pain should never be ignored, especially in growing children. It could be the first sign of a more serious problem.

Causes of Heel Pain in Children

  • Growth plate inflammation on the back and the bottom of heel in children between 8 and 14.years of age
  • Seen in active children who often go barefoot
  • Poor foot posture such as low arch or extremely high arch feet causes overload of the heel
  • May occur during growth spurts

Signs and Symptoms of Heel Pain in Children

  • Pain to the heel bone at the end of an activity.
  • Occasionally painful to the Achilles tendon
  • Stiffness after sitting and getting up to walk
  • Limping after sitting and getting up to walk, particularly after completion of athletic or exercise activity
  • No evidence of redness or swelling
  • Usually associated with tight lower extremity muscles
  • Tenderness to press the area of the growth plate (area is demonstrated on picture below)

If you are experiencing any of the above signs and symptoms, schedule an appointment with We Treat Feet as soon as possible. And, most importantly, Don’t Ignore Heel Pain! Early intervention can make all the difference in your treatment and recovery. So contact the podiatric specialists at We Treat Feet when the first symptom arises.

Treatment of Heel Pain in Children

  • Rest
  • Ice
  • Custom molded prescription orthotics (shoe inserts) to support poor foot posture(low arch or high arch feet)
  • Heel lifts in the early stages of treatment to help decrease the pull of the tight calf muscle and Achilles tendon
  • Stretching exercises to help stretch the tight calf muscles
  • Physical Therapy Modalities to help reduce the inflammation
  • Night splinting to prevent tightness or low grade spasm of the calf muscles while sleeping
  • In severe cases, cast immobilization to allow the area to rest completely

If you want to learn more about Heel Pain in Children or wish to schedule an appointment with a qualified podiatric specialists, please contact We Treat Feet Podiatry in Maryland by visiting our website or click here to view our various locations and phone numbers!

About We Treat Feet Podiatry:

We Treat Feet! That’s what we do. From the simplest nail problems, to the most complex foot deformities, we provide exceptional care in a kind and compassionate manner. We offer board certified physicians that have spent years learning the intricate structures and functions of the human foot and ankle. No knees or elbows here, only the best foot and ankle care in Maryland.

From heel pain, bunions, Sports medicine injuries, broken bones, neuromas, hammertoes, and flatfeet to Achilles tendon problems, we have the most modern technology available to help you, including digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, and vascular testing equipment.

You can check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!

What are “Growing Pains” and how do they affect Children? :: Podiatric Tips

Tuesday, May 1st, 2012

The term “Growing Pains” is an overarching term for foot, ankle, and leg problems in growing children. And while growing pains may be fairly harmless, they could be the first signs of a more serious underlying problem, such as lower extremity malalignment.

Causes of Growing Pains in Children

  • Flat feet or feet that appear to point to the outside.
  • Children who are knock-kneed.
  • Tight muscles, especially the calf, hamstrings and external rotator muscles of the hips.

Symptoms of Growing Pains in Children

  • Pain during physical activity, especially along the inside of the shinbone, ankle, and foot.
  • Premature fatigue during strenuous physical activity.
  • A sedentary lifestyle or a general avoidance of activity and sports.
  • Leg pain, especially at night.
  • Lower back pain.

Treatment of Growing Pains in Children

  • The Right Footwear: Changing to more supportive shoes will help support the feet and lower extremity better.
  • Orthotics: Custom molded prescription orthotics (shoe inserts) realign the lower extremity. In many cases this will have a relatively quick positive effect on the leg pains these children are experiencing.
  • Physical Therapy: A more hands-on approach, like physical therapy, can help improve overall muscle flexibility and improve muscle strength, coordination and balance.

If you want to learn more about Growing Pains or wish to schedule an appointment with a qualified podiatric specialists, please contact We Treat Feet Podiatry in Maryland by visiting our website or click here to view our various locations and phone numbers!

About We Treat Feet Podiatry:

We Treat Feet! That’s what we do. From the simplest nail problems, to the most complex foot deformities, we provide exceptional care in a kind and compassionate manner. We offer board certified physicians that have spent years learning the intricate structures and functions of the human foot and ankle. No knees or elbows here, only the best foot and ankle care in Maryland.

From heel pain, bunions, Sports medicine injuries, broken bones, neuromas, hammertoes, and flatfeet to Achilles tendon problems, we have the most modern technology available to help you, including digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, and vascular testing equipment.

You can check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!

 

Could Your Foot Fracture be an Early Sign of Osteoporosis?

Tuesday, March 20th, 2012

An unexplained foot fracture may be an early warning sign of osteoporosis, also referred to as the “silent crippler.” Osteoporosis is a bone thinning disease that often progresses without any symptoms. Because of this, osteoporosis is often not diagnosed until a person experiences pain from a fracture.

Symptoms of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is most common in women over age 50, but the degenerative bone disease also affects younger people and men. Symptoms include:

•      Increased pain with walking

•      Redness

•      Swelling on the top of the foot

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, schedule an appointment with We Treat Feet as soon as possible. And, most importantly, Don’t Ignore Foot Pain! Early intervention can make all the difference in your treatment and recovery. So contact the podiatric specialists at We Treat Feet when the first symptom arises.

Osteoporosis currently affects over 28 million Americans and accounts for 1.5 million bone fractures a year.

Are you at risk? We Treat Feet can help you find out.

Testing for Osteoporosis

Our foot and ankle surgeons are able to diagnose osteoporosis through bone densitometry tests, which measure calcium and mineral levels in the bones through low-dose radiation x-ray, or possibly through a routine x-ray.

Treatment for Osteoporosis

If you are diagnosed with osteoporosis, it’s important to protect your feet from stress fractures. Wear shoes that provide support and cushioning, such as athletic running shoes, to provide extra shock absorption and protection. Custom orthotics may also be recommended to protect the foot from pressure and provide shock absorption, particularly during exercise.

If you have any questions about Osteoporosis or if you are suffering from foot pain and wish to schedule an appointment with one of our podiatric specialists, please contact We Treat Feet Podiatry in Maryland by visiting our website or click here to view our various locations and phone numbers!

About We Treat Feet Podiatry:

We Treat Feet! That’s what we do. From the simplest nail problems, to the most complex foot deformities, we provide exceptional care in a kind and compassionate manner. We offer board certified physicians that have spent years learning the intricate structures and functions of the human foot and ankle. No knees or elbows here, only the best foot and ankle care in Maryland.

From heel pain, bunions, Sports medicine injuries, broken bones, neuromas, hammertoes, and flatfeet to Achilles tendon problems, we have the most modern technology available to help you, including digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, and vascular testing equipment.

You can check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!

What is Causing my Heel Pain?

Thursday, February 9th, 2012

Your heel pain may be caused by any number of different conditions, including tendinitis, stress fractures, neuritis, bursitis, tarsal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, and fat pad thinning. However, the number one cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of the thick tissue (plantar fascia) on the bottom of the foot that connects the heel bone to the toes and creates the arch of the foot.

Plantar Fasciitis occurs when the thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot is overstretched or overused, making it painful to walk.

Plantar Fasciitis Risk Factors

•      Obesity or sudden weight gain

•      Foot arch problems, like flat feet and high arches

•      Long-distance running

•      Tight Achilles tendon

•      Shoes with poor arch support or soft soles

•      Walking barefoot

•      Walking on hard surfaces without proper support

Signs and Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

•      Pain and stiffness in the bottom of the heel

•     Tenderness on the bottom of your foot

•     Flat feet or high arches

•     Foot swelling

•     Redness

Plantar Fasciitis Treatment

Once your podiatrist examines your feet and determines the cause of your pain, you may be treated immediately with options such as custom orthotics, steroid injections, prescription medications, physical therapy, and immobilization. Depending on your response to treatment, your pain may require more advanced treatments or surgery. Talk to your podiatrist about what avenue of treatment is best for you.

Please contact We Treat Feet if you think you may have a heel disorder.

If you have any questions or if you wish to schedule an appointment, please contact We Treat Feet Podiatry in Maryland by visiting our website or click here to view our various locations and phone numbers!

About We Treat Feet Podiatry:

We Treat Feet! That’s what we do. From the simplest nail problems, to the most complex foot deformities, we provide exceptional care in a kind and compassionate manner. We offer board certified physicians that have spent years learning the intricate structures and functions of the human foot and ankle. No knees or elbows here, only the best foot and ankle care in Maryland.

From heel pain, bunions, Sports medicine injuries, broken bones, neuromas, hammertoes, and flatfeet to Achilles tendon problems, we have the most modern technology available to help you, including digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, and vascular testing equipment.

You can check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!

Sources:

Plantar Fasciitis

Foot Tendonitis: Signs, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Wednesday, December 28th, 2011

Tendonitis of the foot is a common medical condition that affects the posterior tibial tendon, the tendon that helps support the arch of your foot and prevents your feet from rolling in. Foot tendonitis is a secondary reaction most often caused by overuse or injury.

Foot Tendonitis Symptoms and Signs

•      Pain in the posterior tibial tendon region

•      Inflammation or Swelling of the foot

•      A hot feeling

•      Stiffness of the foot and ankle

•      Stabbing pain in the arch of the foot

Foot Tendonitis Treatment

The first step in treatment is to stop activity immediately and apply the R.I.C.E. method: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Remember to never apply ice directly to the affected area. Wrap the ice or ice pack in a towel and apply in 20-minute intervals. If swelling does not go down, take a regular over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication.

Keep up with this regimen until your symptoms subside. If symptoms do not subside or if your tendonitis keeps recurring, consult your podiatrist.

Foot Tendonitis Prevention

•      Wear appropriate footwear: supportive shoes that fit properly

•      Avoid running on uneven surfaces

•      Warm up and stretch before athletic activities

Take care of your feet and they will take care of you!

If you have any questions about Tendonitis of the foot or if you wish to schedule an appointment, contact We Treat Feet Podiatry in Maryland by visiting our website or click here to view our various locations and phone numbers!

We Treat Feet! That’s what we do. From the simplest nail problems, to the most complex foot deformities, we provide exceptional care in a kind and compassionate manner. We offer board certified physicians that have spent years learning the intricate structures and functions of the human foot and ankle. No knees or elbows here, only the best foot and ankle care in Maryland.

From heel pain, bunions, Sports medicine injuries, broken bones, neuromas, hammertoes, and flatfeet to Achilles tendon problems, we have the most modern technology available to help you, including digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, and vascular testing equipment.

Our physician team offers treatments for people of all ages, from infants to seniors. No foot is too big, no problem is too big, because remember, We Treat Feet!

You can check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!

Sources:

Foot Tendonitis Information

Hammertoe: Signs, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Thursday, December 22nd, 2011

Hammertoe is a condition in which one or both joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth (little) toes are abnormally bent (contracture). Commonly caused by a muscle or tendon imbalance – though hammertoes can be inherited or result from trauma – this condition usually starts out mild and slowly worsens over time.

Hammertoe Symptoms and Signs

•      Pain or irritation when wearing shoes

•      Corns and calluses

•      Inflammation

•      Redness

•      Burning sensation

•      Contracture (bending) of the toe

•     In more severe cases, open sores may form

Hammertoe Treatment

Due to its progressive nature, hammertoes should receive treatment as soon as possible. If left untreated, hammertoes can become more rigid. If this is the case, non-surgical treatment is no longer an option.

Non-Surgical Treatment of Hammertoes includes:

Padding corns and calluses: Your podiatrist can either prescribe or provide you with a special pad designed to shield corns and prevent irritation.

Changes in shoewear: Shoes with pointed toes are strictly forbidden. The same goes for shoes that are too short or high heels. All three of these will force the toe against the front of the shoe, aggravating your condition.

Orthotic devices:  Custom orthotics can be placed in your shoe to help control the muscle/tendon imbalance.

Injection therapy:  Corticosteroid injections can be used to ease pain and inflammation.

Medications:  Oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, may be recommended to reduce pain and inflammation.

Splinting/strapping: Splints or straps may realign the affected toe.

If the hammertoe does not get better with non-surgical treatment and your condition worsens, surgery may be your last option.

If you have any questions about Hammertoes or if you wish to schedule an appointment, contact We Treat Feet Podiatry in Maryland by visiting our website or click here to view our various locations and phone numbers!

We Treat Feet! That’s what we do. From the simplest nail problems, to the most complex foot deformities, we provide exceptional care in a kind and compassionate manner. We offer board certified physicians that have spent years learning the intricate structures and functions of the human foot and ankle. No knees or elbows here, only the best foot and ankle care in Maryland.

From heel pain, bunions, Sports medicine injuries, broken bones, neuromas, hammertoes, and flatfeet to Achilles tendon problems, we have the most modern technology available to help you, including digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, and vascular testing equipment.

Our physician team offers treatments for people of all ages, from infants to seniors. No foot is too big, no problem is too big, because remember, We Treat Feet!

You can check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!

Sources:

Hammertoe Foot Health Facts

Corns and Calluses: Signs, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Wednesday, December 14th, 2011

Corns and calluses are protective layers of thickened skins formed in response to repeated pressure or friction. What differentiates a corn from a callus is its placement. A corn is a thickened layer of skin on the top or side of your toe, while a callus is a thickened layer of skin on the sole of your foot. Neither is a serious medical condition.

Signs and Symptoms of Corns and Calluses

•      Skin is thick and hardened

•      Skin may be flaky and dry

Treatment and Prevention of Corns and Calluses

Reducing the friction that caused the corn or callus is the best form of treatment and future prevention. For example, if your corn was caused by a shoe that does not fit properly, changing to a new shoe should eliminate the corn within a couple of weeks. Other self-care home remedies include:

•      Place protective covering or bandages over the sore to decrease friction on the skin until the sore heals. This can be done with a donut-shaped corn pads (available in most pharmacies).

•      Apply moisturizing agents such as lotions to dry calluses and corns.

•      Rub sandpaper disks or pumice stone over hard thickened regions.

•      Avoid stress to hands or feet by using gloves or changing shoes or socks.

•      Soak feet or hands in warm soapy water to soften corns and calluses.

With proper care, your corn or callus should fade away in a few weeks. However, if the affected area becomes infected or if an ulcer occurs, contact your podiatrist as soon as possible. They will be able to remove the unhealthy tissue and prescribe an antibiotic for the infection.

Take care of your feet and they will take care of you!

If you have any questions about Corns and Calluses or if you wish to schedule an appointment, contact We Treat Feet Podiatry by visiting our website or click here to view our various locations and phone numbers!

We Treat Feet! That’s what we do. From the simplest nail problems, to the most complex foot deformities, we provide exceptional care in a kind and compassionate manner. We offer board certified physicians that have spent years learning the intricate structures and functions of the human foot and ankle. No knees or elbows here, only the best foot and ankle care available in Maryland.

From heel pain, bunions, Sports medicine injuries, broken bones, neuromas, hammertoes, and flatfeet to Achilles tendon problems, we have the most modern technology available to help you, including digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, and vascular testing equipment.

Our physician team offers treatments for people of all ages, from infants to seniors. No foot is too big, no problem is too big, because remember, We Treat Feet!

You can check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!

Sources:

Corns and Calluses Treatment

Corns and Calluses

 

Cellulitis: Signs, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Wednesday, December 7th, 2011

Cellulitis is a common skin infection that occurs when bacteria – primarily staphylococcus and streptococcus – enters the body through cracking or peeling skin, insect or animal bites, or wounds or cuts.

Signs and Symptoms of Cellulitis

•      Fever

•      Chills or shaking

•      Sweating

•      Fatigue

•      Pain or tenderness

•      Hair loss at the site of infection

•      Redness

•      Inflammation

•      Joint stiffness

•      Sudden rash

•      Stretched looking skin

•      Warmness in the affected area

•      General ill feeling

•      Nausea and vomiting

If you experience any combination of the above symptoms, schedule an appointment with your podiatrist at your earliest convenience.

Treatment for Cellulitis

For the most part, treatment will involve the use of antibiotics. Cellulitis usually goes away with 7 – 10 days of antibiotics, however, hospitalization may be necessary if:

•      You are very sick (for example, you have a very high temperature, blood pressure problems, or nausea and vomiting that does not go away)

•      You have been on antibiotics and the infection is getting worse

•      Your immune system is not working well (due to cancer, HIV)

•      You require antibiotics through a vein (IV)

Preventing Cellulitis

You can try to prevent cellulites and other skin infections by following these tips:

•      To prevent cracking, use lotions or ointments.

•      Wear comfortable shoes that fit your foot.

•      Keep your toenails trimmed and avoid irritating the skin around your toenails.

•      Wear protective equipment when at work or playing sports.

In the event of a break in the skin, do the following:

1.   Clean the break with soap and water.

2.   Apply an antibiotic cream or ointment.

3.   Cover the break with a bandage and change it everyday until the wound scabs over.

4.   Watch for signs of Cellulitis.

5.   If you notice any signs or symptoms of Cellulitis, call your podiatrist.

If you have any questions about Cellulitis or if you wish to schedule an appointment, contact We Treat Feet Podiatry by visiting our website or click here to view our various locations and phone numbers!

We Treat Feet! That’s what we do. From the simplest nail problems, to the most complex foot deformities, we provide exceptional care in a kind and compassionate manner. We offer board certified physicians that have spent years learning the intricate structures and functions of the human foot and ankle. No knees or elbows here, only the best foot and ankle care available in Maryland.

From heel pain, bunions, Sports medicine injuries, broken bones, neuromas, hammertoes, and flatfeet to Achilles tendon problems, we have the most modern technology available to help you, including digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, and vascular testing equipment.

Our physician team offers treatments for people of all ages, from infants to seniors. No foot is too big, no problem is too big, because remember, We Treat Feet!

You can check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!

Sources:

Cellulitis

Cellulitis

Bunions: Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention

Wednesday, November 30th, 2011

A common deformity of the big toe joint, a bunion typically forms when the great toe begins to point towards the smaller toes. This is often due to the wearing of tight shoes, which leads to a bunching of the toes. This bunching puts pressure on the great toe joint, pushing it outward and thus forming a bunion.

Because of the make of many women’s shoes – often tight, pointed, or confining – women are more frequently affected with bunions.

Symptoms of Bunions

•      Red, calloused skin along the inside edge of the big toe

•      A bony bump on the outside of the big toe

•      Joint pain, aggravated by pressure

•      Big toe pointed inward

Treatment of Bunions

If you experience any of the above symptoms, schedule an appointment with your podiatrist at your earliest convenience. Odds are he/she will have you try the following early bunion treatment solutions:

•      Padding: This is the first and most important step in terms of early treatment.

•      Wearing wide-toed shoes

•      Orthoses (shoe inserts): These may be used to reduce abnormal foot movement and may reduce bunion symptoms.

•      Medication: Anti-inflammatory drugs or cortisone injections may be prescribed to ease pain and inflammation.

•      Physical Therapy: ultrasound treatment, whirlpool baths or other techniques can also provide temporary relief

These early treatment tricks will often solve your bunion problem and prevent the need for further medical intervention. However, if the situation doesn’t resolve itself – or if you experience severe deformity and pain – contact your podiatrist right away. Surgery to realign the toe and remove the bony bump (bunionectomy) may be your last option.

If you have any questions about Bunions or if you wish to schedule an appointment, contact We Treat Feet Podiatry by visiting our website or click here to view our various locations and phone numbers!

We Treat Feet! That’s what we do. From the simplest nail problems, to the most complex foot deformities, we provide exceptional care in a kind and compassionate manner. We offer board certified physicians that have spent years learning the intricate structures and functions of the human foot and ankle. No knees or elbows here, only the best foot and ankle care available in Maryland.

From heel pain, bunions, Sports medicine injuries, broken bones, neuromas, hammertoes, and flatfeet to Achilles tendon problems, we have the most modern technology available to help you, including digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, and vascular testing equipment.

Our physician team offers treatments for people of all ages, from infants to seniors. No foot is too big, no problem is too big, because remember, We Treat Feet!

You can check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!

Sources:

Bunions

Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis): Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention

Wednesday, November 23rd, 2011

Tinea Pedis, better known as Athlete’s Foot, is a skin disease caused by a fungal infection of the foot (usually between the toes).

Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot

•      Cracked, Flaking, or Peeling Skin

•      Red and Itchy Skin

•      Burning or Stinging Pain

•      Oozing or Crusty Blisters

•     Discolored, Thick and even Crumbling Toenails

Athlete’s foot is highly contagious and can be passed either through direct contact or contact with items like shoes, socks, shower floors, etc.

Treatment of Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is very treatable with over-the-counter antifungal powders or creams and proper foot hygiene. However, if your fungus condition does not respond to proper foot hygiene or self-care within 1-2 weeks, call We Treat Feet Podiatry. We will determine if the fungus is the cause of the problem. If it is, a specific treatment plan, including the prescription of antifungal medication. A biopsy of the area may be needed in some cases to determine if a fungal infection is present.

If the infection is caused by bacteria, antibiotics, such as penicillin, that are effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria may be prescribed.

Preventing Athlete’s Foot

It is not easy to prevent Athlete’s Foot since the disease is usually contracted in dressing rooms, public showers, or swimming pools. However, there are several steps you can take to better protect your feet from this fungal infection, including:

•      Practice good foot hygiene: Wash your feet daily with soap and water and dry carefully.

•      Change your shoes and socks frequently to decrease moisture.

•      Wear sandals or swim shoes in public swimming pools or showers.

•      Wear shoes that are well ventilated and avoid plastic-lined shoes.

•      Use anyfungal or drying powder if you are susceptible to contracting Athlete’s Foot.

If you have any questions about Athlete’s Foot or if you wish to schedule an appointment, contact We Treat Feet Podiatry by visiting our website or click here to view our various locations and phone numbers!

We Treat Feet! That’s what we do. From the simplest nail problems, to the most complex foot deformities, we provide exceptional care in a kind and compassionate manner. We offer board certified physicians that have spent years learning the intricate structures and functions of the human foot and ankle. No knees or elbows here, only the best foot and ankle care available in Maryland.

From heel pain, bunions, Sports medicine injuries, broken bones, neuromas, hammertoes, and flatfeet to Achilles tendon problems, we have the most modern technology available to help you, including digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, and vascular testing equipment.

Our physician team offers treatments for people of all ages, from infants to seniors. No foot is too big, no problem is too big, because remember, We Treat Feet!

You can check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!

Sources:

Athlete’s Foot