Friday, December 16, 2011

Heel Pain - Podiatrist in Springfield, IL

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Heel Pain Treatment - Podiatrist in Springfield, IL

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Dr. John Sigle discusses the symptoms, causes and treatments for Heel Pain.

http://www.myfootandanklecenter.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.myfootandanklecenter.com

Thursday, December 15, 2011

Bunions Treatment and Surgery - Podiatrist in Jacksonville, FL

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Treatment of Bunions - Podiatrist in Jacksonville, FL

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Patient discusses Bunions treatment and surgery received by Dr. Vimal Reddy at First Coast Foot and Ankle Clinic.

http://www.firstcoastfootclinic.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 cause by irritations, and second to stop any progressive growth of the enlargement. Commonly used methods for reducing pressure and pain caused by bunions include:

  • The use of 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.firstcoastfootclinic.com

Hammertoes and Bunions Treatment - Podiatrist in Jacksonville, FL

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Treatment of Hammertoes and Bunions - Podiatrist in Jacksonville, FL

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Patient discusses Hammertoes and Bunions treatment and surgery received by Dr. Vimal Reddy at First Coast Foot and Ankle Clinic.

http://www.firstcoastfootclinic.com

Hammertoe is a deformity of the second, third, or fourth toes. In this condition, the toe is bent at the middle joint, causing it to resemble a hammer. Left untreated, hammertoes can become inflexible and require surgery. People with hammertoe may have corns or calluses on the top of the middle joint of the toe or on the tip of the toe. They may also feel pain in their toes or feet and have difficulty finding comfortable shoes.

The primary causes of hammertoe include improperly fitting shoes and muscle imbalance.

Treatment for the condition typically involves wearing shoes with soft, roomy toe boxes and toe exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles. Commercially available straps, cushions, or nonmedicated corn pads may also relieve symptoms. 

In severe cases, hammertoe surgery may be recommended to correct the deformity.

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

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Laser Treatment for Fungal Toenails - Chiropodist, Burlington, Milton and Oakville, ON

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Laser Treatment for Fungal Toenails - Chiropodist in Burlington, Milton and Oakville, ON

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Peter Wilson, D. Pod. M.,discusses the symptoms, causes and treatments for Ingrown Toenails.

http://www.wilsonfootclinic.com

 

Many people don't realize they have a fungal nail problem and, therefore, don't seek treatment. Yet, fungal toenail infections are a common foot health problem and can persist for years without ever causing pain. The disease, characterized by a change in a toenail's color, is often considered nothing more than a mere blemish. Left untreated, however, it can present serious problems.

Also referred to as onychomycosis, fungal nails are infections underneath the surface of the nail, which may also penetrate the nail. Fungal nail infections are often accompanied by a secondary bacterial and/or yeast infection in or about the nail plate, which ultimately can lead to difficulty and pain when walking or running. Symptoms may include discoloration, brittleness, loosening, thickening, or crumbling of the nail.

A group of fungi, called dermophytes, easily attack the nail and thrive on keratin, the nail's protein substance. In some cases, when these tiny organisms take hold, the nail may become thicker, yellowish-brown, or darker in color, and foul smelling. Debris may collect beneath the nail plate, white marks frequently appear on the nail plate, and the infection is capable of spreading to other toenails, the skin, or even the fingernails.

Nail bed injury may make the nail more susceptible to all types of infection, including fungal infection. Those who suffer chronic diseases, such as diabetes, circulatory problems, or immune-deficiency conditions, are especially prone to fungal nails. Other contributory factors may be a history of Athlete's Foot or excessive perspiration.

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

 

Foot Warts (Plantar Warts) Treatment - Chiropodist in Burlington, Milton and Oakville, ON

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Foot Warts (Plantar Warts) - Chiropodist in Burlington, Milton and Oakville, ON

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Peter Wilson, D. Pod. M.,discusses the symptoms, causes and treatments for Foot Warts.

http://www.wilsonfootclinic.com

 

Most foot warts are harmless, even though they may be painful. They are often mistaken for corns or calluses, which are layers of dead skin that build up to protect an area which is being continuously irritated. A wart, however, is caused by a viral infection which invades the skin through small or invisible cuts and abrasions. Foot warts are generally raised and fleshy and can appear anywhere on the foot or toes. Occasionally, warts can spontaneously disappear after a short time, and then, just as frequently, they recur in the same location. If left untreated, warts can grow to an inch or more in circumference and can spread into clusters of warts. Children, especially teenagers, tend to be more susceptible to warts than adults.

 

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

Chiropodist in Burlington, Milton and Oakville, ON - Wilson Foot Health Clinic - Peter Wilson

 

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Chiropodist in Burlington, Milton and Oakville, ON - Wilson Foot Health Clinic - Peter Wilson

Meet Peter Wilson, D. Pod. M., as he discusses practicing foot care.

http://www.wilsonfootclinic.com

Registered Chiropodist, Foot Health Specialist

Peter has a wide range of experience in patient care having been involved with the clinical teaching of Ontario Chiropodists, since 1982. He has worked actively in association with numerous programs including vascular surgery, orthopaedics, and dermatology at several Toronto teaching hospitals including Toronto Western, Toronto General, Wellesely and Doctors Hospitals. From 1982 to 1996 part of Peter’s responsibilities included acting as Advisor to the Ministry of Health on Foot Health planning and development of Public Chiropody service and assisting over 80 hospitals in Ontario in establishing their Foot Care Programs.

Peter is a graduate of the Podiatric Medicine Program, Queen Margaret College, Edinburgh, Scotland.

 

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

Heel Pain Treatment - Chiropodist in Burlington, Milton and Oakville , ON

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Heel Pain Treatment - Chiropodist in Burlington, Milton and Oakville , ON

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Peter Wilson, D. Pod. M., discusses the symptoms, causes and treatments for Heel Pain.

http://www.wilsonfootclinic.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.

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