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Items filtered by date: May 2022
Tuesday, 31 May 2022 00:00
Every Day Foot Care
Our feet are important in our everyday lives. The problem is that we tend to neglect them. When this becomes a habit, it can cause significant trouble. Ignoring foot problems can mean pain, limited mobility, and expensive doctor's visits. On the other hand, if feet are cared for and looked after regularly, they will perform without pain or complication.
Routine hygiene is the most basic way to care for the feet. Wash and dry them thoroughly daily. Remember to get between the toes and keep the toenails trimmed and short. If the feet feel dry or there are signs of dryness or cracking, use a moisturizer designed for the feet.
When using moisturizer on the feet, try to avoid applying between the toes. If cream or lotion sits too long, they can cause fungal and bacterial growth. When moisturizer is used between the toes, it can also cause the skin to soften too much.
Shoes are also an important aspect of foot care. When one is picking out shoes, make sure they are the correct size. Shoes need to be snug, but not too tight. On the other hand, if shoes are too loose they can cause foot problems as well. It is highly recommended that shopping for new shoes be done later in the day. The reason for this is that the feet will have settled and swelled to their full size by then. To keep your feet at their most healthy, avoid wearing high heels or flip flops too often. Instead, choose shoes that are good for your feet. Good shoes pad the soles of your feet and support the arches and ankles.
Socks should also be worn daily with closed-toe shoes. They may feel hot during the summer months, but they absorb sweat and moisture off the feet. Without socks, the build-up of sweat in a closed-toe shoe can cause fungal problems and athlete's foot.
The best thing to remember in every day foot care is that shoes do make a difference. If you spend a lot of time on your feet, make sure that your shoes show no signs of wear. Shoes should offer ample support for the arches and the overall foot. Additionally, try to make foot cleaning and maintenance a daily habit. If you keep these things in mind, your feet will stay healthy and safe.
Tuesday, 31 May 2022 00:00
Ways to Prevent Foot Pain
Foot pain has become a common ailment, which can often be prevented with a few simple actions. First, check your weight. Obesity is one of the major causes of foot joint problems, as the feet may not be able to support your weight adequately. Another way to avoid foot pain is by wearing shoes that fit properly and are appropriate for the activity you are doing. Try to avoid, or at least reduce, the amount of time spent wearing high heels, which are major contributors to bunions, metatarsal pain, and sprained ankles. Stretching your calf muscles and performing other foot exercises can help you avoid both plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. Ingrown toenails can be prevented in many cases by keeping nails properly trimmed. Cut toenails straight across and keep them at medium length. Examine your feet and ankles frequently to spot cuts, bruises, or sores that may develop into painful infections. If you experience foot pain that persists or worsens, it is a good idea to see a podiatrist as soon as possible for a diagnosis and treatment options.
Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Adriana Strimbu, DPM from Complete Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Everyday Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.
It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hallandale Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Tuesday, 24 May 2022 00:00
Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment for a Broken Foot
One out of ten broken bones is reported to be in the feet. When an object crushes, bends, or stretches the bone beyond acceptable ranges, bones break. A break in the foot is either a fracture or a straight break.
The location of any break can tell you how the break happened. Toes, for instance, break typically as a result of something being kicked hard and with great force. Heel breaks almost always are a result of an improper landing from a tall height. Twists or sprains are the other two frequent occurrences. As with all usual breaks, they result from unexpected accident or sudden injury. As with stress fractures, breaks form as a process over time from repeated stress on already present cracks. Runners, dancers, and gymnasts are the usual athletes who receive this type of break. Stress fractures result from incredible pressure on the feet. It is no surprise these athletes bear the majority of reported fractures.
Pain, swelling, bruising, and redness are all indicative of the typical symptoms from a broken foot. Severe pain—to the point of not being able to walk—usually depends on the location of the break in the foot. Toes are on the lower scale of pain threshold, but heels are high, as are a few other particular bones. As the severity of the broken foot increases, symptoms like blueness, numbness, misshaping of the foot, cuts, or deformities will become apparent. These symptoms indicate the need to see a medical professional with access to an x-ray facility.
Prior to seeing a specialist, precautions should be taken to reduce pain and swelling. Elevate and stabilize the foot, and refrain from moving it. Immobilization of the foot is the next priority, so creating a homemade splint is acceptable. Keep in mind that while creating a splint, any increase of pain or cutting off blood circulation means that the splint should be removed immediately. Use ice to decrease swelling and relieve pain symptoms.
When dealing with a medical center, the patient should note that the treatment can vary. The treatment will depend on the severity of the fracture and the cause of the break. Crutches, splits, or casts are common treatments while surgery has been known to be used in more severe cases in order to repair the break in the bones.
Tuesday, 24 May 2022 00:00
Common Causes of a Broken Foot
One of the most common injuries, a broken foot, is characterized by worsening pain, bruising, and swelling. It is usually accompanied by a loss of feeling, a limited range of movement, and difficulty in bearing weight. Two of the top causes of a broken foot are severe impact in car accidents and trauma from dropping something heavy on the foot. Another common way to break or fracture the foot, especially among athletes, is kicking a ball. Sudden impact combined with running speed can increase the risk. It is also quite common to break your foot from a fall, especially down stairs or onto a particularly rigid surface. Both sports injuries and falling can result in a twisted ankle, which can mask the fact that a bone also has broken. Taking a wrong step, such as off a curb or ladder, can result in foot fractures. Underlying conditions, like arthritis, may also contribute to the risk. Wearing shoes that lack proper stability and support, such as high heels, may cause a loss of balance or a fall that leads to a broken foot. Repetitive impact, common to runners and joggers, is a common cause of stress fractures in the feet. If you believe you have broken your foot, please seek immediate care from a podiatrist.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Adriana Strimbu, DPM from Complete Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury.
Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:
- Bruising
- Pain
- Redness
- Swelling
- Blue in color
- Numbness
- Cold
- Misshapen
- Cuts
- Deformities
Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.
Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hallandale Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Tuesday, 17 May 2022 00:00
Cuboid Syndrome
Cuboid syndrome mostly affects athletes, although it can affect non-athletes too. It is also known as cuboid subluxation or cuboid fault syndrome. This condition occurs when joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone of the foot are damaged, or when the cuboid bone itself is dislodged from its natural position. It is usually marked by pain on the outer side of the foot, which may be persistent or may come and go. Cuboid syndrome can be difficult to diagnose unless it becomes severe and more noticeable. Your doctor will likely ask questions about when the pain began and how long it has been present, and will put pressure on the cuboid bone to determine if that area is the origin of the pain.
Causes of Cuboid Syndrome
- Any repetitive stresses placed on the foot due to athletic activities are a common cause of cuboid syndrome.
- Although it develops over time, it is possible that this syndrome can occur all of sudden due to a single event or injury.
- Over-pronation can exacerbate the condition if not corrected.
Disagreements Amongst Podiatrists Regarding Cuboid Syndrome
- Some refer to it as the dislocation of the calcaneal-cuboid joint only.
- Other podiatrists see it as an injury of the ligaments located nearby, which also involves the cuboid bone.
It is very important that when you experience any kind of pain on the side of your foot, you should seek medical care right away. If a subluxed cuboid is caught early, your feet may respond well to the treatment, and you can get back into sports or other activities again as soon as the pain subsides.
Tuesday, 17 May 2022 00:00
Treatment of Cuboid Syndrome
Cuboid syndrome, or cuboid subluxation, happens when the joint and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot are injured or torn. Generally, this comes from an ankle sprain or fracture, where the cuboid bone moves out and the heel bone moves in and one or both bones are dislocated, or nearby ligaments are torn. Those who play sports, engage in activities where repetitive strain is put on the foot, or have flat feet, arthritis, or a bone condition, are more apt to suffer from cuboid syndrome. Being overweight, wearing shoes that are too tight or not supportive, not stretching the foot properly before working out, or not resting the foot after physical activity are also high risk factors for this condition. The most typical symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain on the outside of the foot where the smallest toe is. This pain can spread to other parts of the foot when standing as well. Other symptoms might include redness and swelling near the injury site, loss of mobility in the ankle or the outside of the foot, weakness in the outside toes, and a change in walking due to pain avoidance. If symptoms persist, or if another major injury has been sustained, a podiatrist should be seen for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Adriana Strimbu, DPM from Complete Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.
Causes
The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:
- Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
- Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
- Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.
Symptoms
A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hallandale Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Tuesday, 10 May 2022 00:00
Blisters on the Feet
Blisters are a common ailment of people who wear shoes that are either too tight or rub against the feet in an uncomfortable way. Knowing the basics of blisters is important for understanding how they are formed and what treatments should be used for them.
A blister on the foot, or any other part of the body, is a small pocket that is filled with fluid. It usually forms on the upper layer of the skin because these layers are loose enough to allow a blister to form. The most common fluid in a blister is just a clear, watery-like fluid that usually isn’t cause for concern. However, blisters can fill up with blood if they are deep enough and pus if they have become infected with bacteria.
Blisters almost always form on the feet due to shoes rubbing up against the foot, where the friction causes blisters. These can occur after you have walked for a long period of time or when your shoes do not fit you properly. Your feet are also more prone to blisters if they are moist, so keeping them dry and clean is one preventative step you can take.
Preventing infection should be the number one concern when treating blisters, as well as relieving the pain they can cause. Using a bandage to cover up the blister will help it heal and prevent bacteria from entering it. New skin will form under the blister and eventually cause it to pop. You can also take a sterilized pin and try to pop it yourself.
If the blister is filled with pus or blood, seeking treatment from a doctor is ideal. Antibiotics may need to be taken in order to completely eliminate the bacteria inside the blister. See a doctor to have an antibiotic prescribed.
The best way to treat blisters is to prevent them all together. Keeping your feet dry and making sure that your shoes fit properly are just two of the steps you can take to prevent blisters. Shoes that are too tight or shoes that are too loose and allow your feet to slide in them will cause blisters. Applying a bandage to an area where you think a blister is about to form is another way you can prevent them.
Tuesday, 10 May 2022 00:00
Hiking and Blisters
Most people who enjoy hiking are familiar with blisters. They are considered to be a common injury and typically develop on the feet as a result of excess friction. Friction is often caused from wearing socks or shoes that do not fit correctly. At first, the skin will become red and irritated and then a small bubble that is filled with liquid will form. This is actually the body’s natural method for protecting raw skin. The blister will gradually drain when new skin will form underneath it. Many people find blisters to be painful, and may find mild relief when it is covered with a protective pad. Effective prevention methods can include wearing shoes and socks that fit properly, and many hikers wear a liner sock under their regular socks. It is important that the blister does not drain before it is time as this may help to prevent a painful infection. As tempting as it may be to some, do not pop it. If you have developed a blister and it has become infected, or more knowledge is needed for proper healing, please consult a podiatrist.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Adriana Strimbu, DPM of Complete Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
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 podiatrist.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hallandale Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Tuesday, 03 May 2022 00:00
Corns: What Are They, and How Do You Get Rid of Them
Corns are thickened areas on the skin’s surface, to the point of being irritating and sometimes painful. Commonly found on the feet, corns are circular or cone-shaped. They develop where there are areas of pressure or friction, such as on the little toe when it rubs up against shoes, or on the ball of your foot.
Corns are often confused with a callus, but there is a difference between them. Corns can be raised bumps that are painful to the touch. They consist of a rough, thick area of skin that may be dry or waxy. Corns tend to be surrounded by skin that is inflamed, and are usually much smaller than calluses.
Removing the dead skin that has built up is the key in treating corns. Salicylic acid medication is most common in accomplishing this. The acid works by dissolving keratin, which is the protein that makes up the majority of corns. You can purchase salicylic acid over-the-counter in products such as wart removers. It comes in a variety of forms such as medicated pads, drops, or creams. However, people who are diabetic should not use salicylic acid, but should instead consult their doctor immediately.
According to the product directions, applying the medication directly onto the corn will treat it. The top layer of the corn will begin to turn white after use. When that occurs, the layers of skin can then be peeled away, making the corn smaller. Shaving off corns with razors or other pedicure equipment is never a good idea. This can lead to infection. If your corn gets infected, and is not treated immediately, a visit to the doctor will be necessary.
Another way to treat corns and help prevent their return is by using orthotic inserts, fitted by a podiatrist. Inserts fit right into your shoes and adjusts the way your foot fits into your shoes. This fixes the way you walk. This will lower your chances of getting corns, and eliminate current corns by reducing rubbing from friction.
Surgery is rarely used to treat corns, but does occur on occasion. Surgery actually deals with the underlying issue that causes corns. During surgery, the bone is shaved and any abnormalities are corrected, thus reducing the amount of friction that occurs during walking.
To prevent corns, the first step is reducing friction. Always wear shoes that fit well and don’t rub your feet. Pads can be purchased if you notice rubbing developing. These pads can be purchased over-the-counter, and can be simply placed on the irritated area. Wearing cushioned insoles in your shoes can always reduce the friction, and making sure to wear well-fitting shoes. This will ensure that your foot is not being squeezed awkwardly, and prevent corns from forming in the first place.
Tuesday, 03 May 2022 00:00
Tiny, Troublesome Corns
Corns are small, round patches of thickened skin. Hard corns usually develop on the smaller toes due to shoes rubbing against them. Soft corns are more rubbery in texture, and typically develop in between the toes. They are softer due to sweat between the toes that keep them moist. Factors such as thin skin, boney toes, or deformities such as hammertoes and bunions can make a person more likely to develop corns. The best way to avoid corns from developing is to wear shoes that fit properly and have room in the toes. High heels and pointy shoes force the toes into unnaturally tight spaces that can cause them to rub against each other and the shoe. A corn can become painful when shoes press down on the corn, forcing it down on the underlying layers of skin. In rare cases, a corn can become infected. It is wise to contact a podiatrist who can effectively and safely treat corns. This is especially important for people with diabetes and the elderly.
If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Adriana Strimbu, DPM of Complete Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor will treat 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. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hallandale Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
