Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Dr. Eric Polansky IMR Testimonial - Healthcare Physician Practice Management - Integrated MedReps, LLC

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Dr. Eric Polansky IMR Testimonial - Healthcare Physician Practice Management - Integrated MedReps, LLC   

http://www.integratedmedreps.com

Integrated MedReps, LLC (IMR) welcomes you to our website and thanks you for the opportunity to share our innovative concept in medical practice marketing.  As a marketing consulting company catering specifically to the medical sector, IMR trains, manages and continually educates your practice’s designated marketing representative in order to maximize the success of your healthcare practice’s marketing endeavors.  In our turn-key approach, IMR places your practice’s marketing representative, then assists and manages him or her in implementing our proven strategies to successfully develop the four pillars, or main areas, of marketing: referral-based, web-based, internal and external marketing.  Your practice’s marketing representative functions as an integral part of your medical office staff, not as an outside source handling your practice development needs.  Through IMR’s marketing consulting services partnering with your practice’s marketing representative, you can focus directly on patient care while your medical practices continues to grow, spending your valuable time appropriately.

An Investment, Not an Expense

Using IMR’s practice marketing consulting services will prove to be an investment in your company, not an expense.  Our on-going training, education, management, support and constructive feedback while working alongside your practice’s marketing representative will help your medical practice realize its full potential, bringing an increased flow of patients and subsequent revenue through our effective and efficient marketing strategies.  Through years of experience in the medical industry (see owner Chad Schwarz’s bio), IMR has identified what specifically works best when marketing healthcare practices; IMR knows what gets results, and our intent is to share with you and implement what we have learned about referral-based, web-based, internal and external marketing for the benefit of your medical office.

Our Goal

IMR’s goal is to have your healthcare practice grow in patient numbers as your practice’s marketing representative learns to use our pinpointed, streamlined marketing resources and strategies that have been proven to increase the results of money allocated for marketing.  Oftentimes, our existing clients found themselves spending significant amounts on marketing and advertising without realizing their desired results or growing their healthcare practices to their maximum potentials.  IMR provides your practice’s marketing representative with a clearly defined role in marketing your practice; he or she will learn, then execute, delineated strategies that, with our management and support, will attract new patients and reactivate existing patients to increase the traffic flow of patients to your office.

What’s Important to You Is Important to Us

Why waste marketing money?  IMR removes the guesswork and time squandered on ineffective marketing initiatives, concentrating your valuable resources on what really works in the areas of referral-based, web-based, internal and external marketing.  IMR stays abreast of the ever-changing aspects of marketing and public relations, which can help your healthcare practice stand out in and around the community.  Because IMR enables your newly-trained practice marketing representative to effectively manage your state-of-the-art, medical-field-specific marketing strategies, you can focus on what is most important: direct patient care.

Thank you for your time.  IMR looks forward to developing an on-going professional relationship with you so that together, we can help your medical practice flourish.

Visit our website: http://www.integratedmedreps.com

Custom Orthotics For Foot Problems - Podiatrist in Shallotte and Southport, NC

Custom Orthotics - Podiatrist in Shallotte and Southport, NC

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Dr. Bryan Satterwhite of Atlantic Foot Specialists discusses how custom orthotics can help alleviate your foot pain.

 http://www.atlanticfootspecialists.com

Orthotics, also known as orthoses, refers to any device inserted into a shoe, ranging from felt pads to custom-made shoe inserts that correct an abnormal or irregular, walking pattern. Sometimes called arch supports, orthotics allow people to stand, walk, and run more efficiently and comfortably. While over-the-counter orthotic are available and may help people with mild symptoms, they normally cannot correct the wide range of symptoms that prescription foot orthoses can since they are not custom made to fit an individual's unique foot structure.

Orthotic devices come in many shapes, sizes, and materials and fall into three main categories: those designed to change foot function, those that are primarily protective in nature, and those that combine functional control and protection.

Rigid Orthotics
Rigid orthotic devices are designed to control function and are used primarily for walking or dress shoes. They are often composed of a firm material, such as plastic or carbon fiber. Rigid orthotics are made from a mold after a podiatrist takes a plaster cast or other kind of image of the foot. Rigid orthotics control motion in the two major foot joints that lie directly below the ankle joint and may improve or eliminate strains, aches, and pains in the legs, thighs, and lower back.

Soft Orthotics
Soft orthotics are generally used to absorb shock, increase balance, and take pressure off uncomfortable or sore spots. They are usually effective for diabetic, arthritic, and deformed feet. Soft orthotics are typically made up of soft, cushioned materials so that they can be worn against the sole of the foot, extending from the heel past the ball of the foot, including the toes. Like rigid orthotics, soft orthotics are also made from a mold after a podiatrist takes a plaster cast or other kind of image of the foot.

Semi-Rigid Orthotics
Semi-rigid orthotics provide foot balance for walking or participating in sports. The typical semi-rigid orthotic is made up of layers of soft material, reinforced with more rigid materials. Semi-rigid orthotics are often prescribed for children to treat flatfoot and in-toeing or out-toeing disorders. These orthotics are also used to help athletes mitigate pain while they train and compete.

 

Visit our website: http://www.atlanticfootspecialists.com

Bunions Treatment - Podiatrist in Southport and Shallotte, NC

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Bunions Treatment - Podiatrist in Southport and Shallotte, NC

Dr. Bryan Satterwhite of Atlantic Foot Specialists discusses the symptoms, causes and treatments for Bunions.

 http://www.atlanticfootspecialists.com

A bunion is a bone deformity caused by an enlargement of the joint at the base and side of the big toe (metatarsophalangeal joint). Bunions form when the toe moves out of place. The enlargement and its protuberance cause friction and pressure as they rub against footwear. Over time, the movement of the big toe angles in toward the other toes, sometimes overlapping a third toe (known as Hallux Valgus). The growing enlargement or protuberance then causes more irritation or inflammation. In some cases, the big toe moves toward the second toe and rotates or twists, which is known as Hallus Abducto Valgus. Bunions can also lead to other toe deformities, such as hammertoe.

Many people with bunions suffer from discomfort and pain from the constant irritation, rubbing, and friction of the enlargement against shoes. The skin over the toe becomes red and tender. Because this joint flexes with every step, the bigger the bunion gets, the more it hurts to walk. Over time, bursitis or arthritis may set in, the skin on the bottom of the foot may become thicker, and everyday walking may become difficult—all contributing to chronic pain.

Wearing shoes that are too tight is the leading cause of bunions. Bunions are not hereditary, but they do tend to run in families, usually because of a faulty foot structure. Foot injuries, neuromuscular problems, flat feet, and pronated feet can contribute to their formation. It is estimated that bunions occur in 33 percent of the population in Western countries.

Treatment for Bunions

Because they are bone deformities, bunions do not resolve by themselves. The goal for bunion treatment is twofold: first, to relieve the pressure and pain caused by irritations, and second to stop any progressive growth of the enlargement. Commonly used methods for reducing pressure and pain caused by bunions include:

  • Protective padding, often made from felt material, to eliminate the friction against shoes and help alleviate inflammation and skin problems.
  • Removal of corns and calluses on the foot.
  • Changing to carefully fitted footwear designed to accommodate the bunion and not contribute toward its growth.
  • Orthotic devices—both over-the-counter and custom made—to help stabilize the joint and place the foot in the correct position for walking and standing.
  • Exercises to maintain joint mobility and prevent stiffness or arthritis.
  • Splints for nighttime wear to help the toes and joint align properly. This is often recommended for adolescents with bunions, because their bone development may still be adaptable.

Surgical Treatment

Depending on the size of the enlargement, misalignment of the toe, and pain experienced, conservative treatments may not be adequate to prevent progressive damage from bunions. In these cases, bunion surgery, known as a bunionectomy, may be advised to remove the bunion and realign the toe.

 

Visit our website: http://www.atlanticfootspecialists.com

 

Dr. Bryan Satterwhite of Atlantic Foot Specialists discusses the symptoms, causes and treatments for Bunions.

 http://www.atlanticfootspecialists.com

A bunion is a bone deformity caused by an enlargement of the joint at the base and side of the big toe (metatarsophalangeal joint). Bunions form when the toe moves out of place. The enlargement and its protuberance cause friction and pressure as they rub against footwear. Over time, the movement of the big toe angles in toward the other toes, sometimes overlapping a third toe (known as Hallux Valgus). The growing enlargement or protuberance then causes more irritation or inflammation. In some cases, the big toe moves toward the second toe and rotates or twists, which is known as Hallus Abducto Valgus. Bunions can also lead to other toe deformities, such as hammertoe.

Many people with bunions suffer from discomfort and pain from the constant irritation, rubbing, and friction of the enlargement against shoes. The skin over the toe becomes red and tender. Because this joint flexes with every step, the bigger the bunion gets, the more it hurts to walk. Over time, bursitis or arthritis may set in, the skin on the bottom of the foot may become thicker, and everyday walking may become difficult—all contributing to chronic pain.

Wearing shoes that are too tight is the leading cause of bunions. Bunions are not hereditary, but they do tend to run in families, usually because of a faulty foot structure. Foot injuries, neuromuscular problems, flat feet, and pronated feet can contribute to their formation. It is estimated that bunions occur in 33 percent of the population in Western countries.

Treatment for Bunions

Because they are bone deformities, bunions do not resolve by themselves. The goal for bunion treatment is twofold: first, to relieve the pressure and pain caused by irritations, and second to stop any progressive growth of the enlargement. Commonly used methods for reducing pressure and pain caused by bunions include:

  • Protective padding, often made from felt material, to eliminate the friction against shoes and help alleviate inflammation and skin problems.
  • Removal of corns and calluses on the foot.
  • Changing to carefully fitted footwear designed to accommodate the bunion and not contribute toward its growth.
  • Orthotic devices—both over-the-counter and custom made—to help stabilize the joint and place the foot in the correct position for walking and standing.
  • Exercises to maintain joint mobility and prevent stiffness or arthritis.
  • Splints for nighttime wear to help the toes and joint align properly. This is often recommended for adolescents with bunions, because their bone development may still be adaptable.

Surgical Treatment

Depending on the size of the enlargement, misalignment of the toe, and pain experienced, conservative treatments may not be adequate to prevent progressive damage from bunions. In these cases, bunion surgery, known as a bunionectomy, may be advised to remove the bunion and realign the toe.

 

Visit our website: http://www.atlanticfootspecialists.com

Diabetic Foot Problems - Podiatrist in Southport and Shallotte, NC

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Diabetic Foot Problems - Podiatrist in Southport and Shallotte, NC

Dr. Bryan Satterwhite of Atlantic Foot Specialists discusses why diabetics must come in for a comprehensive foot exam to avoid the complications of diabetes.

 http://www.atlanticfootspecialists.com

 According to the American Diabetes Association, about 15.7 million people (5.9 percent of the United States population) have diabetes. Nervous system damage (also called neuropathy) affects about 60 to 70 percent of people with diabetes and is a major complication that may cause diabetics to lose feeling in their feet or hands.

Foot problems are a big risk in diabetics. Diabetics must constantly monitor their feet or face severe consequences, including amputation.

With a diabetic foot, a wound as small as a blister from wearing a shoe that's too tight can cause a lot of damage. Diabetes decreases blood flow, so injuries are slow to heal. When your wound is not healing, it's at risk for infection. As a diabetic, your infections spread quickly. If you have diabetes, you should inspect your feet every day. Look for puncture wounds, bruises, pressure areas, redness, warmth, blisters, ulcers, scratches, cuts and nail problems. Get someone to help you, or use a mirror.

Here's some basic advice for taking care of your feet:

  • Always keep your feet warm.
  • Don't get your feet wet in snow or rain.
  • Don't put your feet on radiators or in front of the fireplace.
  • Don't smoke or sit cross-legged. Both decrease blood supply to your feet.
  • Don't soak your feet.
  • Don't use antiseptic solutions, drugstore medications, heating pads or sharp instruments on your feet.
  • Trim your toenails straight across. Avoid cutting the corners. Use a nail file or emery board. If you find an ingrown toenail, contact our office.
  • Use quality lotion to keep the skin of your feet soft and moist, but don't put any lotion between your toes.
  • Wash your feet every day with mild soap and warm water.
  • Wear loose socks to bed.
  • Wear warm socks and shoes in winter.
  • When drying your feet, pat each foot with a towel and be careful between your toes.
  • Buy shoes that are comfortable without a "breaking in" period. Check how your shoe fits in width, length, back, bottom of heel, and sole. Avoid pointed-toe styles and high heels. Try to get shoes made with leather upper material and deep toe boxes. Wear new shoes for only two hours or less at a time. Don't wear the same pair every day. Inspect the inside of each shoe before putting it on. Don't lace your shoes too tightly or loosely.
  • Choose socks and stockings carefully. Wear clean, dry socks every day. Avoid socks with holes or wrinkles. Thin cotton socks are more absorbent for summer wear. Square-toes socks will not squeeze your toes. Avoid stockings with elastic tops.

When your feet become numb, they are at risk for becoming deformed. One way this happens is through ulcers. Open sores may become infected. Another way is the bone condition Charcot (pronounced "sharko") foot. This is one of the most serious foot problems you can face. It warps the shape of your foot when your bones fracture and disintegrate, and yet you continue to walk on it because it doesn't hurt. Diabetic foot ulcers and early phases of Charcot fractures can be treated with a total contact cast.

The shape of your foot molds the cast. It lets your ulcer heal by distributing weight and relieving pressure. If you have Charcot foot, the cast controls your foot's movement and supports its contours if you don't put any weight on it. To use a total contact cast, you need good blood flow in your foot. The cast is changed every week or two until your foot heals. A custom-walking boot is another way to treat your Charcot foot. It supports the foot until all the swelling goes down, which can take as long as a year. You should keep from putting your weight on the Charcot foot. Surgery is considered if your deformity is too severe for a brace or shoe.

 

Visit our website: http://www.atlanticfootspecialists.com

 

Monday, January 23, 2012

Heel Pain Treatment - Podiatrist in Southport and Shallotte, NC

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Heel Pain Treatment - Podiatrist in Southport and Shallotte, NC

Dr. Bryan Satterwhite of Atlantic Foot Specialists discusses the symptoms, causes and treatments for Heel Pain.

 http://www.atlanticfootspecialists.com

Plantar fasciitis is the term commonly used to refer to heel and arch pain traced to an inflammation on the bottom of the foot. More specifically, plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the connective tissue, called plantar fascia, that stretches from the base of the toes, across the arch of the foot, to the point at which it inserts into the heel bone. Overpronation is the most common cause of plantar fasciitis. As the foot rolls inward excessively when walking, it flattens the foot, lengthens the arch, and puts added tension on the plantar fascia. Over time, this causes inflammation.

Also known as heel spur syndrome, the condition is often successfully treated with conservative measures, such as the use of anti-inflammatory medications, ice packs, stretching exercises, orthotic devices, and physical therapy. Note: Please consult your physician before taking any medications. In persistent cases, Extracorporeal Shock Wave Treatment (ESWT) may be used to treat the heel pain.

Visit our website: http://www.atlanticfootspecialists.com

Podiatrist in Southport and Shallotte, NC - Bryan Satterwhite, DPM

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Podiatrist in Southport and Shallotte, NC - Bryan Satterwhite, DPM[[posterous-content:pid___0]]

Meet Podiatrist Dr. Bryan Satterwhite as he discusses foot care at Atlantic Foot Specialists.  http://www.atlanticfootspecialists.com

Atlantic Foot Specialists, PLLC

Welcome to Atlantic Foot Specialists, PLLC

Welcome! Since 2002, Atlantic Foot Specialists, PLLC, has been working with patients to provide the best foot care for patients in the Brunswick County area. Dr. Satterwhite's experience in podiatry is coupled with genuine concern for his patients. All our staff is dedicated to your comfort and prompt attention as well. Our goal is to help you maintain healthy feet.

This web site provides you with an overview of our practice and the field of podiatry. As you navigate the site, you'll find information about Atlantic Foot Specialists, PLLC 's practice philosophy, our Brunswick County office location, insurance policies, and appointment scheduling procedures. Please browse the site at your convenience and feel free to contact us with any questions. You can also request an appointment by clicking here.

You’ll find a lot of valuable information on the web site about foot problems, diagnoses and treatments. We believe informed patients are better prepared to make decisions about their health and well being. We encourage you to review this information to help you understand any health concerns you may face.

Visit our website:  http://www.atlanticfootspecialists.com


Proudly serving the following NC communities Southport, Shallotte, Smithfield, St. James, Bolivia, Caswell Beach, Long Beach, Yaupon Beach, Holden Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, Sunset Beach, Calabash, Little River, Ashe, Boiling Spring Lakes, Leland, Acme, Seaside, Longwood, Wilmington, Winnabow, Bellville, Winding River Plantation, Ocean Trial, Sea Trail, and all of Brunswick County.

Ingrown Toenails - Podiatrist in Southport and Shallotte, NC

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Ingrown Toenails - Podiatrist in Southport and Shallotte, NC

Dr. Bryan Satterwhite of Atlantic Foot Specialists discusses the symptoms, causes and treatments for Ingrown Toenails.

 http://www.atlanticfootspecialists.com

Ingrown toenails, also known as onychocryptosis, is usually caused by trimming toenails too short, particularly on the sides of the big toes. They may also be caused by shoe pressure (from shoes that are too tight or short), injury, fungus infection, heredity, or poor foot structure. Ingrown toenails occur when the corners or sides of the toenail dig into the skin, often causing infection. A common ailment, ingrown toenails can be painful. Ingrown toenails start out hard, swollen, and tender. Left untreated, they may become sore, red, and infected and the skin may start to grow over the ingrown toenail.

In most cases, treating ingrown toenails is simple: soak the foot in warm, soapy water several times each day. Avoid wearing tight shoes or socks. Antibiotics are sometimes prescribed if an infection is present. Note: Please consult your physician before taking any medications. In severe cases, if an acute infection occurs, surgical removal of part of the ingrown toenail may be needed. Known as partial nail plate avulsion, the procedure involves injecting the toe with an anesthetic and cutting out the ingrown part of the toenail.

Ingrown toenails can be prevented by:

  • Trimming toenails straight across with no rounded corners.
  • Ensuring that shoes and socks are not too tight.
  • Keeping feet clean at all times.

Visit our website: http://www.atlanticfootspecialists.com