Items filtered by date: August 2022

Tuesday, 30 August 2022 00:00

Accessory Navicular Syndrome

The accessory navicular is an extra bone or piece of cartilage on the inner side of the foot, just above the arch. This is congenital, or present at birth. Most people do not have this as it is not part of the normal bone structure. People who have this condition are often unaware that they have it, especially if it does not cause problems. However, some people with this extra bone develop accessory navicular syndrome, which is painful. The pain comes from aggravation to the bone or posterior tibial tendon that can come from trauma (like a foot or ankle sprain), chronic irritation (from friction from shoes rubbing against the extra bone), or prolonged activity or overuse. Many of those with this affliction also have flat feet or fallen arches. Having flat feet puts more strain on the posterior tibial tendon, and this can cause inflammation or irritation of the accessory navicular. Symptoms of this syndrome usually appear in adolescence when the bones are mature and cartilage develops into bone. Signs and symptoms of this condition include a visible bony prominence with redness or swelling on the inside of the foot, just above the arch, and a vague pain or throbbing in the midfoot and arch areas, usually after periods of activity. If you or your child have pain in this area of the foot, please see a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

  • Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
  • Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
  • Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
  • Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
  • Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
  • Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

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

Read more about Congenital Foot Problems
Tuesday, 30 August 2022 00:00

Accessory Navicular Syndrome

The accessory navicular is an extra bone or piece of cartilage on the inner side of the foot, just above the arch. This is congenital, or present at birth. Most people do not have this as it is not part of the normal bone structure. People who have this condition are often unaware that they have it, especially if it does not cause problems. However, some people with this extra bone develop accessory navicular syndrome, which is painful. The pain comes from aggravation to the bone or posterior tibial tendon that can come from trauma (like a foot or ankle sprain), chronic irritation (from friction from shoes rubbing against the extra bone), or prolonged activity or overuse. Many of those with this affliction also have flat feet or fallen arches. Having flat feet puts more strain on the posterior tibial tendon, and this can cause inflammation or irritation of the accessory navicular. Symptoms of this syndrome usually appear in adolescence when the bones are mature and cartilage develops into bone. Signs and symptoms of this condition include a visible bony prominence with redness or swelling on the inside of the foot, just above the arch, and a vague pain or throbbing in the midfoot and arch areas, usually after periods of activity. If you or your child have pain in this area of the foot, please see a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

  • Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
  • Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
  • Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
  • Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
  • Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
  • Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Philadelphia, Bensalem, and Fairless Hills, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Congenital Foot Problems

An ingrown toenail is easy to notice. The side of the toenail grows into the skin instead of over it. It can be quite uncomfortable, and in severe cases, may bleed, and become infected. It can happen for a variety of reasons, such as wearing shoes that do not have enough room in the toe area, having endured a toe injury, or from trimming the toenails improperly. Genetic reasons may contribute to getting an ingrown toenail, and this may account for people who naturally have curved toenails, or have toenails that are too large for their toes. Common symptoms that are associated with ingrown toenails include redness, swelling, and pain. The affected toe may temporarily feel better when it is soaked in warm water, which can soften the nail. This may make it easier to pull the skin away from the toe, despite the fact it may not last. If you have an ingrown toenail, there is a chance it can become infected, and it is strongly advised that you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can offer professional treatment. 

 

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

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 one of our offices located in Philadelphia and Bensalem, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Ingrown Toenail Care

An ingrown toenail is easy to notice. The side of the toenail grows into the skin instead of over it. It can be quite uncomfortable, and in severe cases, may bleed, and become infected. It can happen for a variety of reasons, such as wearing shoes that do not have enough room in the toe area, having endured a toe injury, or from trimming the toenails improperly. Genetic reasons may contribute to getting an ingrown toenail, and this may account for people who naturally have curved toenails, or have toenails that are too large for their toes. Common symptoms that are associated with ingrown toenails include redness, swelling, and pain. The affected toe may temporarily feel better when it is soaked in warm water, which can soften the nail. This may make it easier to pull the skin away from the toe, despite the fact it may not last. If you have an ingrown toenail, there is a chance it can become infected, and it is strongly advised that you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can offer professional treatment. 

 

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

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 one of our offices located in Philadelphia, Bensalem, and Fairless Hills, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Ingrown Toenail Care
Tuesday, 16 August 2022 00:00

Signs of Poor Circulation in the Feet

A variety of individuals across the country may exhibit poor circulation in their feet at some point in their lives. Poor circulation is essentially caused when the feet do not receive adequate blood flow. Certain individuals are more susceptible to this condition than others, such as those who have diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or a habit of smoking cigarettes. There are a number of signs that can point to poor circulation in the feet. First, if you have poor circulation, the temperature of your feet might be manipulated. For example, your feet may feel colder than usual. Additionally, you might lose feeling in your feet, experiencing numbness of some kind. If you are suffering from poor circulation in the feet, it is possible that you might even notice hair loss around the feet area. If you discover that the skin on your feet has become significantly cracked and the toenails have become brittle, this might be another sign of poor circulation to the feet. If you are exhibiting these signs, consider consulting with a podiatrist to determine whether or not you are suffering from poor circulation. Together, you can draw up a plan to address the problem and increase blood flow to your feet.


 

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be 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. This can restrict 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, stiffness, or weakness   
  • Numbness or cramping in the legs 
  • Skin discoloration
  • Slower nail & hair growth
  • Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those 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 podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

Read more about Causes Symptoms and Treatment for Poor Circulation in the Feet
Tuesday, 16 August 2022 00:00

Signs of Poor Circulation in the Feet

A variety of individuals across the country may exhibit poor circulation in their feet at some point in their lives. Poor circulation is essentially caused when the feet do not receive adequate blood flow. Certain individuals are more susceptible to this condition than others, such as those who have diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or a habit of smoking cigarettes. There are a number of signs that can point to poor circulation in the feet. First, if you have poor circulation, the temperature of your feet might be manipulated. For example, your feet may feel colder than usual. Additionally, you might lose feeling in your feet, experiencing numbness of some kind. If you are suffering from poor circulation in the feet, it is possible that you might even notice hair loss around the feet area. If you discover that the skin on your feet has become significantly cracked and the toenails have become brittle, this might be another sign of poor circulation to the feet. If you are exhibiting these signs, consider consulting with a podiatrist to determine whether or not you are suffering from poor circulation. Together, you can draw up a plan to address the problem and increase blood flow to your feet.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be 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. This can restrict 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, stiffness, or weakness   
  • Numbness or cramping in the legs 
  • Skin discoloration
  • Slower nail & hair growth
  • Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those 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 podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Philadelphia, Bensalem, and Fairless Hills, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Causes Symptoms and Treatment for Poor Circulation in the Feet
Monday, 15 August 2022 00:00

Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?

If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!

Monday, 15 August 2022 00:00

Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?

If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!

Tuesday, 09 August 2022 00:00

Odorous Feet in Children

Although having smelly feet is not always necessarily cause for serious concern, bad-smelling feet can be bothersome. If your child is complaining about their feet producing a foul odor, there are several things that you need to be aware of. The odor that is being emitted from your child’s feet is caused by bacteria. After your child spends a whole day sweating in a pair of sneakers, for instance, that sweat facilitates the multiplication of bacteria. If your child is not wearing socks, typically this only exacerbates the extent to which the bacteria can grow in your child’s shoes. In certain cases, your child’s shoes might even be home to a type of bacteria named Kyetococcus sedentarius. This bacteria can produce especially foul odors because they release volatile sulfur compounds. If you are concerned about your child’s smelly feet, be sure that they wash their feet and wear a new, clean pair of socks every day and alternate shoes regularly, especially if they get wet or sweaty. See a podiatrist for more ways in which you can protect the health of your child’s feet.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during 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. Here are some things to consider...

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’. 

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 for 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.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Philadelphia, Bensalem, and Fairless Hills, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about What to Do to Keep Your Child’s Feet Healthy
Tuesday, 02 August 2022 00:00

The Link Between Diabetes and Cracked Heels

Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, is a common and unsightly condition that negatively impacts the wellness of your feet. Simply put, this condition occurs when the skin surrounding the heel and bottom of the feet becomes exceedingly dry. This skin can crack, causing fissures. In many cases, this condition is harmless. However, cracked heels can be unattractive and, in severe cases, might lead to infection and swelling. If you are diabetic, you stand at an increased risk of suffering from cracked heels. This is because diabetes can make your feet dry and deprive the skin of necessary nutrients, making cracked heels more likely. Additionally, in some cases, diabetes can damage the nerves present in one’s feet, which can prevent sweat glands in the feet from releasing sweat. The deprivation of sweat can reduce the moisture in the feet, increasing the probability of the onset of cracked heels. Therefore, while cracked heels are not necessarily a sign of diabetes, diabetics can face an increased risk of suffering from this affliction. If you are a diabetic and want to protect yourself from cracked heels, consider contacting a podiatrist.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Philadelphia, Bensalem, and Fairless Hills, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Solutions for Cracked Heels

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