The Different Types of Ankle Injuries
There are several components that make up each ankle. These include numerous bones, tendons, muscles, and ligaments. An injury could affect one or all of the parts of the ankle, and this may cause severe pain and discomfort. There are various injuries that can occur which may hinder completing daily activities. These can consist of bruises, deep cuts, fractures, and sprains. Additionally, many patients can experience pain in the back of the calf, and this may be indicative of an Achilles tendon injury. If your ankle is swollen, or you find it difficult to walk and stand, speak to a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat your ankle pain.
Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Joshua David Scoll from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
- Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
- Ankle sprains
- Broken ankles
- Achilles tendinitis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Stress fractures
- Bursitis
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
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.
What Can Be Done About Bunions?
A bunion is a common foot deformity characterized by a bony bump developing at the base of the big toe joint. Bunions can cause symptoms such as foot pain or soreness, redness, inflammation, a burning sensation, or numbness. Mostly, bunions can make it very uncomfortable to wear shoes or spend long periods of time on your feet. Fortunately, there are a variety of treatments available for bunions. Conservative treatments, such as changing your footwear, padding the bunion, wearing orthotic inserts, avoiding activities that cause bunion pain, icing the affected area, and taking anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain, are often effective. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to eliminate the bunion. For more information about bunions and to determine what treatment option is best for you, please speak with a podiatrist.
If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Bunion?
A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.
Why Do Bunions Form?
Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary
Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions
How Are Bunions Diagnosed?
Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.
How Are Bunions Treated?
- Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
- Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
- Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
- Orthotics or foot inserts
- Surgery
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.
Heel Pain Can Be Treated!
Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
Can Lifestyle Changes Help the Pain From Morton’s Neuroma?
Numbing and tingling sensations between the third and fourth toes are often indications of a foot condition that is known as Morton’s neuroma. This ailment occurs from irritation of the nerve that lies in this location. It can happen for a variety of reasons, including wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, frequently participating in running and jumping activities, or possibly from an abnormal foot structure. A noticeable symptom can progress from a tingling feeling to a sharp or burning pain in the top of the foot, and many patients feel like there is a small stone between the toes. Research has indicated there are simple lifestyle changes that may help to ease the pain of Morton’s neuroma. These can include wearing shoes that have ample room for the toes to move freely in, or from wearing custom-made orthotics that can help to relieve the pressure from the damaged nerve. If you have this type of pain in your foot, please consult with a podiatrist who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.
Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.
What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?
- Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
- Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
- Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities
Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.
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.
Diabetes and Children
The summer months is a common time for diabetic families to inquire about proper foot health. Children with diabetes may walk barefoot outside, and a foot infection may occur as a result of a small cut in the skin of the feet. Research has indicated that diabetes may cause neuropathy. This is defined as a numbing sensation in the feet, and it is often difficult to feel cuts, bruises, and scrapes that may have occurred. It is important for parents to properly manage their children’s diabetes, and this may help children to lead more of a normal life. This can be accomplished by having your child receive a yearly foot exam, and it is beneficial to encourage participating in physical activities. If your child has diabetes, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially 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, as 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 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.
The Right Shoes May Prevent Foot Problems in Kids
Children, like adults, can have a variety of foot problems. Many children have flat feet, an overpronated gait, blisters, calluses, or corns. The right shoes can help mitigate some of these issues. Children with flat feet often have an overpronated gait in which their feet roll inwards as they walk. The right pair of shoes can help correct overpronation and adequately support your child’s feet. Blisters, calluses, and corns all affect the skin of the feet. The most common culprit behind these issues is wearing the wrong shoes. Shoes that are too small, tight, or narrow put excess pressure and friction on the feet, causing these skin problems to develop. Not wearing socks can sometimes make these problems worse. To avoid irritations to the skin of the feet, it is important to wear shoes that fit properly and socks to protect the feet. If your child has foot problems, please consult with a podiatrist.
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.
What Is Joint Replacement Surgery?
Joints, including those in the feet and ankles, can become worn down and damaged due to injuries or diseases, such as arthritis. This can lead to pain and a loss of mobility. In some cases, a joint replacement surgery may be necessary to relieve pain and restore function. During a joint replacement surgery, the surgeon removes the damaged joint and replaces it with a new, prosthetic joint made of metal, plastic, or other materials. Following the surgery, recovery time varies between individuals and the type of joint replacement surgery that they had. For an ankle joint replacement, it typically takes 6 weeks to be able to bear weight on the affected ankle again. For more information about joint replacement surgery for the joints of the feet and ankles, please consult with a podiatrist.
In certain cases, in which the patient suffers from extreme pain or damage in a joint, joint replacement surgery may be deemed useful. If you have constant pain in a foot joint, consult with Dr. Joshua David Scoll from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Joint Replacement Surgery?
Over time, joints wear down; this can be exacerbated by diseases and conditions. Joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is when a damaged joint is surgically removed and replaced with a prosthesis. Prostheses, which can be made of ceramic, plastic, or metal, act as joints in lieu of an actual joint. One of the most prevalent causes for joint replacement is arthritis.
Arthritis in the Foot
Arthritis can occur in any joint in the body, including in the feet. Common types of arthritis in the foot are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. The big toe is usually where arthritis occurs in the foot; this is known as hallux rigidus.
Joint Replacement Surgery in the Foot
The most common form of joint replacement in the foot is a first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint placement. MTP joint replacement surgery is designed to treat hallux rigidus. Surgery is not intensive, and recovery occurs within one to two months after the procedure has been done. Overall, joint replacement surgery is a safe and effective way to treat pain in the joint of the foot.
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.
Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?
Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
How Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Occurs
The tarsal tunnel is a small opening in the ankle that the posterior tibial nerve, which supplies sensation and movement to the foot, travels through. Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when the nerve is compressed and pressed on in this area, which can be painful and lead to a loss of sensation in the feet. This compression can be caused by a direct injury to the ankle, as well as other issues such as swelling, a cyst, or arthritis. Tarsal tunnel syndrome can feel like other foot and ankle injuries. If you are suspicious that you may be suffering from tarsal tunnel syndrome, consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.
Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
- Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
- At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.
The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
- The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
- If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.
A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.
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.
Good Foot Hygiene to Help Prevent Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot can occur when fungi, namely dermatophytes, causes an infection in the skin of the foot. Athlete’s foot, or tinea pedis, is a persistent skin ailment with symptoms such as itchiness, redness, flakiness, burning, and cracking of skin—typically between the toes of the foot. Athlete’s foot is spread by direct contact and also through exposure to damp public areas where the fungi live. You can reduce your chance of contracting athlete’s foot by keeping your nails trimmed and using sandals or flip-flops in public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. If you develop athlete’s foot, you can help control it by wearing sandals and cotton socks to keep your feet dry, clean, and cool, and avoid public places where dermatophytes lives. If you are suffering from athlete's foot, a podiatrist can also prescribe medication to clear this persistent infection up, as well as help prevent it from returning.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
- Hydrate your feet by using lotion
- Exfoliate
- Buff off nails
- Use of anti-fungal products
- Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop
Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best 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.
Treatments for Cuboid Syndrome
Cuboid syndrome refers to a partial dislocation of the cuboid bone, which is located in the middle of the foot. This often occurs secondary to an ankle sprain. The main symptom of this condition is pain on the outside of the foot, especially when bearing weight. There are several different treatments for cuboid syndrome. A podiatrist can physically manipulate the dislocated bone back into proper alignment, tape or pad the affected foot to realign the bone, or prescribe custom orthotics. At home, you may be encouraged to rest and ice the affected foot to reduce pain and perform stretching exercises to strengthen the foot. For more information about cuboid syndrome, please consult with a podiatrist.
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 Dr. Joshua David Scoll from Pennsylvania. 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 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.
Education and Podiatry Skills
The type of doctor that specializes in treating foot and ankle conditions is referred to as a podiatrist. Some of the ailments that podiatrists encounter in their daily practice can include ingrown toenails, plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and foot deformities. This type of specialist can prescribe custom-made orthotics, and perform physical foot examinations. Additionally, they are able to give advice on how to improve mobility and instruct the patient on rehabilitative practices. Mandatory education includes obtaining a bachelor's degree, followed by earning a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (D.P.M.) degree, and often followed by a residency program they complete. It is beneficial for successful podiatrists to possess specific skills that can consist of critical thinking, compassion, and dexterity. If you are interested in pursuing a career in this type of medicine, speaking with a podiatrist may be able to help you to determine if this is the correct career choice for you.
If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Podiatrist?
Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.
Podiatric Treatment
A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:
- Physical therapy
- Drugs
- Orthotic inserts or soles
- Surgery on lower extremity fractures
A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.
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.
How Did I Get Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a foot injury in which the plantar fascia, a ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed. This inflammation causes sharp, stabbing pain in the heel that is typically at its worst in the morning or when you rest after walking, running, or standing. Plantar fasciitis is often the result of overuse. Athletes and people who engage in excessive running, jogging, walking, or dancing are more likely to develop this condition. Other factors that increase your risk of getting plantar fasciitis include suddenly increasing your level of activity, having arthritis, obesity, having flat feet or high arches, and wearing shoes that do not fit properly. For more information about plantar fasciitis, please consult with a podiatrist.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Excessive running
- Non-supportive shoes
- Overpronation
- Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
How Can It Be Treated?
- Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
- Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
- Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
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.
Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
From Crawling to Walking
Many people think babies' feet are smaller versions of their own adult feet, despite the fact that they go through a detailed developmental process. There are levels of growth in babies' feet. They start out crawling, and this phase can strengthen the feet by stretching the toes. As children start to walk, their feet become toned, and their soft cartilage begins to harden. It is beneficial to refrain from having your child wear shoes while walking indoors, as this can help to stretch the ligaments, tendons, and muscles that are found in each foot. The first pair of shoes should be worn when walking begins outside. It is important to monitor your child’s foot development and to be aware of any abnormalities if they appear. If you would like additional information about the stages of babies’ foot development, please consult with a podiatrist.
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.
More...
Cracked Heels and Fissures
Heel fissures often occur with cracked heels. Fissures are deep cracks in the skin of the heel that can cause severe pain and discomfort. They often develop as a result of standing on hard surfaces for the majority of the day or from wearing shoes that have an open back such as flip flops. Cracked heels can also form in the warmer months. Additionally, patients who have existing medical conditions such as psoriasis or eczema may be prone to developing cracked heels. The cracks will generally develop on the side of the heel, as daily activities are accomplished. Some patients find it helpful to soak their feet in warm water, followed by using a good moisturizer. Severely cracked heels can become infected, and it is strongly recommended that you consult with a podiatrist if you suffer from this condition.
If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. 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
It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.
Ways to Help Heal Them
- Invest in a good foot cream
- Try Using Petroleum Jelly
- Ease up on Soaps
- Drink Plenty of Water
Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels
- Moisturize After Showering
- Skip a Shower
- Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
- Don’t Scrub Your Feet
If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need.
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.
Foot Stretches for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes pain, inflammation, stiffness, and swelling in joints throughout the body, including those in the feet. Stretching the feet regularly can help in managing the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Toe lifts can be performed by standing with both feet on the ground near a counter or chair to steady yourself and then slowly lifting your toes off the ground, holding for several seconds, and lowering them back to the ground. Rolling a small ball side to side on the ground just under the front part of the heel can help ease foot pain. For more information about managing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms that affect your feet, please consult with a podiatrist.
Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.
Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet
Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.
Symptoms
- Swelling and pain in the feet
- Stiffness in the feet
- Pain on the ball or sole of feet
- Joint shift and deformation
Diagnosis
Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.
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.
What Are Common Symptoms of an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail is noticeable when the toenail grows into the surrounding skin. This is a condition that can cause severe pain and discomfort, and can occur for a variety of reasons. These can include genetic factors, wearing shoes that do not fit properly, or it may happen if the toenail has endured an injury. Common symptoms many patients have include swelling, redness, and soreness in the surrounding area. It may feel better if you soak the affected toe in warm water, as this can help to soften the area so the nail can separate from the skin. If you have developed an ingrown toenail, please speak to a podiatrist as quickly as possible so the correct treatment can begin.
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.
Arthritis Can Cause Pain in the Feet and Ankles
If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.
What Can Cause Gout?
Patients with gout are often aware of the intense pain and discomfort this condition may cause. It is an arthritic ailment that generally affects the joints in the big toe, and can cause difficulty in walking. It quickly develops as a result of excess uric acid levels in the blood, which can be caused by high amounts of purines. These are found in the foods that are eaten, and can include red meat, shellfish, and drinks that have a large amount of sugar, including alcohol. Additionally, people who have elevated cholesterol levels, kidney disease, or are overweight may be prone to developing gout. It is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist when gout attacks are experienced.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.
Symptoms
- Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
- Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
- Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
- Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility
Risk Factors
- Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
- Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
- Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
- Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
- Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
- Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout
Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment 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 care needs.
