July 2022
Tuesday, 26 July 2022 00:00
Surgery for Toe Arthritis
Arthritis is an ailment that affects joints and results in pain, swelling, and stiffness. It can occur throughout different parts of your body as well as in your toes. Arthritis in the toes can make walking and balancing hard. The toe can hurt when it is lifted or when walking, but also sometimes when it is at rest. With big toe arthritis, there can be an inability to bend the toe upwards. In fact, it might bend down and be unable to lay flat. Not only is there often swelling and inflammation of the big toe joint, but sometimes a bump might form from the joints rubbing together. There are various forms of arthritis that can affect the toes. Osteoarthritis causes the cartilage between joints to break down and rub against each other. Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory arthritis and can affect several small joints in the foot at the same time, including the toes. Gout, psoriatic arthritis, and infectious arthritis that can impact the toes as well. Doing regular exercises, wearing comfortable, well-fitting shoes, and maintaining a proper body weight can help to prevent toe arthritis. Rigid orthotics, steroid injections, and anti-inflammatory medications might help with pain, but sometimes surgery is necessary for relief. If you have arthritis that is affecting your toes, and less invasive options are not providing relief, see a podiatrist who can talk to you about surgical options that may help.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dawn Miles, DPM of Florida. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:
- Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
- Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
- Cosmetic reconstruction
What Types of Surgery Are There?
The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:
- Bunionectomy for painful bunions
- Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
- Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage
Benefits of Surgery
Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.
Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Palatka and Saint Augustine, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Tuesday, 26 July 2022 00:00
Foot and Ankle Surgery
When conservative, noninvasive methods prove ineffective, surgery may be selected as the next course of action for the treatment of your foot or ankle condition. A wide number of foot and ankle surgical procedures exist, and it is up to your podiatrist to determine which intervention will be most appropriate and helpful for your case. Some surgical procedures include bunion surgery, fusion, hammertoe surgery, heel spur surgery, metatarsal surgery, nail surgery, neuroma surgery, reconstructive surgery, skin surgery, and tendon surgery. Typically, surgery is turned to as a definitive way to alleviate excessive pain or discomfort and to return your foot to full mobility.
Regardless of the location on the body, all surgical procedures require preoperative testing and examination to ensure the surgery’s success and preferred outcome. A review of your medical history and medical conditions will take place, as will an evaluation of any current diseases, illnesses, allergies, and medications. Tests such as blood studies, urinalyses, EKG, X-rays, and blood flow studies may be ordered. Because the procedure involves the foot and/or ankle, the structures of your feet while walking may also be observed by your podiatrist.
Care post-surgery will depend on the type of surgical procedure performed. Typically, all postoperative care involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation. To improve and ensure a safe recovery, your foot and ankle surgeon may also employ the use of bandages, splints, surgical shoes, casts, crutches, or canes. He will also determine if and when you can bear weight. A timely and thorough recovery is a priority for both you and your podiatrist, and carefully following postoperative instructions can help achieve this.
Tuesday, 19 July 2022 00:00
Relief Options for Mild and Severe Cases of Morton’s Neuroma
The medical term for the foot condition known as Morton’s neuroma is Morton’s metatarsalgia or interdigital neuroma. It is an ailment that affects the area between the third and fourth toes, and is quite painful. The pain is often felt in the ball of the foot and between the toes. It occurs as a result of a nerve that thickens between the toes, and can happen from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. High heels generally fit into this category. Additionally, people who participate in high-impact physical activities that consist of running and jumping may be affected. Many patients with Morton's neuroma experience severe pain and find it difficult to walk. It may begin with a tingling or numbing sensation, and may gradually develop into a shooting pain. It can be likened to walking with a pebble or marble in the shoe. In mild cases, relief may come from implementing simple lifestyle changes, such as wearing comfortable shoes and refraining from running and jumping. Surgery that can reset the nerve may be an option in severe cases. If you have this type of foot pain, please consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat Morton’s neuroma.
Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dawn Miles, DPM of Florida. 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 Palatka and Saint Augustine, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Tuesday, 19 July 2022 00:00
What is Morton's Neuroma?
Morton’s neuroma, (also referred to as Morton’s metatarsalgia, Morton’s neuralgia, plantar neuroma or intermetatarsal neuroma) is a condition that is caused when the tissue around one of the nerves between your toes begins to thicken. This thickening can result in pain in the ball of the foot. Fortunately, the condition itself is not cancerous.
Morton’s neuroma affects women more often than men with a ratio of 4:1. It tends to target women between the age of 50 and 60, but it can occur in people of all ages. There are some risk factors that may put you at a slightly higher risk of developing the condition. People who often wear narrow or high-heeled shoes are often found to be linked to Morton’s neuroma. Additionally, activities such as running or jogging can put an enormous amount of pressure on the ligament and cause the nerve to thicken.
There usually aren’t any outward symptoms of this condition. A person who has Morton’s neuroma may feel as if they are standing on a pebble in their shoe. They may also feel a tingling or numbness in the toes as well as a burning pain in the ball of their foot that may radiate to their toes.
In order to properly diagnose you, the doctor will press on your foot to feel for a mass or tender spot. He may also do a series of tests such as x-rays, an ultrasound, or an MRI. X-rays are usually done to rule out any other causes for your foot pain such as a stress fracture. Ultrasounds are used to reveal soft tissue abnormalities that may exist, such as neuromas. Your podiatrist may want to use an MRI in order to visualize your soft tissues.
There are three main options for treatment of Morton’s neuroma: Injections, decompression surgery, and removal of the nerve. Injections of steroids into the painful area have been proven to help those with Morton’s neuroma. Decompression surgery has been shown to relieve pressure on the affected nerve by cutting nearby structures such as the ligaments in the foot. Another treatment option would be to surgically remove the growth to provide pain relief.
If you suspect that you have Morton’s neuroma you should make an appointment with your podiatrist right away. You shouldn’t ignore any foot pain that lasts longer than a few days, especially if the pain does not improve.
Tuesday, 12 July 2022 00:00
Rare Foot Conditions
A podiatrist will be able to address a variety of rare foot conditions, particularly the ones that affect children. The most common are Kohler’s disease, Maffucci syndrome, and Freiberg’s disease. They can be properly diagnosed by having an X-ray taken, but in more serious cases an MRI may be needed. Kohler’s disease generally affects younger boys and bone deterioration may result from an interruption of blood supply. Children who have Kohler’s disease may find relief when the affected foot is rested, and a special boot is worn. Benign growths in the long bones of a child’s foot may lead to the development of bone lesions, and this is known as Maffucci syndrome. People who have this condition find mild relief when custom-made orthotics are worn. Freiberg’s disease targets the ball of the foot and can typically affect pre-teen and teenage girls. The metatarsal bone becomes deteriorated and flattened, and common symptoms include swelling and stiffness. A cast is often necessary to wear with this disease as it can help to reduce existing pain. Erythromelalgia is a rare foot condition, and its cause is unknown. Symptoms of this disease can include intense burning pain and the feet may appear red or feel warm. Relief may be found when the affected foot is immersed in ice water. It can also be beneficial to elevate the foot frequently. If your child complains of foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat rare foot conditions.
Tuesday, 12 July 2022 00:00
Erythromelalgia Is a Rare Foot Condition
A relatively rare foot condition known as erythromelalgia (EM) can cause severe burning and redness on the feet. It generally affects women more than men, and approximately one out of 100,000 Americans are affected annually. Some of the symptoms associated with this condition include swelling, a shooting pain sensation in the feet, and severe achiness. Some of these symptoms can be debilitating and can affect both feet. This condition may start with itchy feet and gradually advance to burning pain. Some of these attacks may be triggered by physical exercise, sweating, and excessive heat. Research has indicated that erythromelalgia is more common among children, teenagers, and patients who have autoimmune disorders, who may be at an increased risk for developing this rare ailment. In many cases, there is no actual cure, and podiatrists will concentrate on relieving the symptoms, which may include prescription medicines. If you have any sign of erythromelalgia, please speak with a podiatrist as quickly as possible for help in managing this condition.
Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Dawn Miles, DPM of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Rare Foot Conditions
The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist. Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care.
There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:
- Freiberg’s disease
- Kohler’s disease
- Maffucci syndrome
Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp.
Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.
Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking.
A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Palatka and Saint Augustine, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Friday, 08 July 2022 00:00
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!
Tuesday, 05 July 2022 00:00
Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Many foot diseases and conditions become more serious and common among the elderly. Some of these conditions include diabetic ulcers, ingrown toenails, fungus, arthritis, corns, and calluses. Unfortunately, it may be harder for older adults to take care of their own feet, but there are some precautions they can take in order to avoid any serious conditions.
Dry, cracked heels tend to be a common problem for older people. In order to avoid this, you should always keep your feet clean and well moisturized. Special feet moisturizers should be used as average lotions might not provide enough moisture for dry and cracked heels. Daily foot inspections are crucial for the elderly to detect any irregularities in their earliest stages. During the aging process, blood circulation tends to slow down causing older people to not feel their feet as well as they used to. This often results in foot problems going unnoticed.
Fungal and bacterial conditions thrive on elderly feet because older adults are less likely to keep their feet clean and dry; this makes it easier for bacteria to take hold in their dry, cracked skin. Elderly people should be sure to thoroughly dry their feet, especially in between the toes, after bathing. This will help them avoid developing any fungal infections. Additionally, clean cotton socks should be worn after the feet are dried.
Cutting toenails straight across will help prevent ingrown toenails. When toenails are cut too lose, the nail might break through the skin resulting in an ingrown nail. Clippers should be used to cut the nails in order to make the cut even.
Elderly people who have diabetes are at risk of developing serious foot problems that may lead to amputation. Ulcers that are left untreated can lead to gangrene. Dry and cracked feet, fungus, and untended cuts under the nails may also lead to infections.
Fortunately, Medicare covers many different types of services for foot care. Elderly people with any of these foot conditions should seek the help of a podiatrist and perform daily foot inspections in order to ensure that they have healthy feet.
Tuesday, 05 July 2022 00:00
Footwear Choices Are a Critical Component of Elderly Foot Care
As an individual ages, the extent to which they should be taking steps to care for their feet often increases. This is partly due to the fact that senior citizens become increasingly susceptible to dangerous falls as they age, and healthy feet may help prevent these incidents. A critical component of elderly foot care is choosing the right shoe. For example, certain types of footwear that offer strong backs and low heels are ideal for seniors looking to increase their stability and avert hazardous falls. Shoes that can be snugly fastened to the foot with laces or Velcro can also increase the senior’s stability when standing and walking. When shoe shopping, senior citizens might find it useful to avoid footwear with especially high heels, as these kinds of shoes can make balancing more challenging. Ultimately, the right kind of footwear for seniors will have a sturdy and steady grip on the ground. Elderly foot care is certainly multi-faceted and ever-changing, but selecting the right kind of footwear is one simple yet critical step a senior can take to improve the health of their feet. Contacting a podiatrist may help you learn more ways in which elderly foot care can help you or those you care for have a safe, healthy life.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dawn Miles, DPM from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
- Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
- Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
- Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
- Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
- Shoes that don’t fit properly
- Pressure sores
- Loss of circulation in legs & feet
- Edema & swelling of feet and ankles
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Palatka and Saint Augustine, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
