Items filtered by date: August 2020

Monday, 31 August 2020 00:00

What Caused My Cracked Heels?

Dry, cracked heels can have a variety of different causes. Standing for prolonged periods of time, especially on a hard floor, wearing thin-soled shoes, or obesity, can increase pressure on the heel, causing cracks to appear. Conditions such as eczema, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, palmoplantar keratoderma, and juvenile plantar dermatosis affect the skin of the feet and could increase the risk of developing cracked heels. Certain systemic conditions, like diabetes or neuropathy, can make one more likely to develop cracks and may make it more difficult to feel those cracks due to a loss in sensation in the feet. Another common cause of dry, cracked heels is footwear without a proper back, such as open sandals and flip-flops, because they expose your heels to the elements and don’t provide adequate support. If you have dry, cracked heels that are causing you pain or discomfort, please seek the care of a podiatrist.

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

Cracked Heels

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

How Do You Get Them?

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

Promote Healing

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

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

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

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

Change in Diet

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

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

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Monday, 24 August 2020 00:00

The Two Types of Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are warts that appear on the bottom of the feet. They are caused by the human papillomavirus, also known as HPV. A plantar wart may resemble a callus, as it is characterized by tough, thick tissue. It may cause pain while you stand or walk, or when any pressure is applied to it. Tiny black dots, which are actually dried blood contained in tiny blood vessels, often appear on the surface of plantar warts. There are two types of plantar warts. Solitary plantar warts are single warts that appear on their own and slowly increase in size. They may eventually multiply, forming additional warts. Mosaic plantar warts are a cluster of several small warts that grow together in the same area, and are usually more difficult to treat. If you have plantar warts, it is strongly recommended that you visit a podiatrist for treatment.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

  • Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
  • Hard or thick callused spots
  • Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
  • Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

  • Freezing
  • Electric tool removal
  • Laser Treatment
  • Topical Creams (prescription only)
  • Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

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Sunday, 23 August 2020 00:00

Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

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Monday, 17 August 2020 00:00

Podiatrists and Diabetic Patients

Research has shown the importance of diabetic patients paying close attention to their feet. The elevated sugar levels that can cause diabetes may produce numbing sensations in their feet, and existing cuts, bruises, and wounds may be difficult to feel. If left untreated, infections may develop, and in severe cases amputation may be necessary. There are methods that can be implemented which may help protect the feet of diabetic patients. Circulation may improve when smoking is stopped. Additionally, the feet will feel better when they are washed and dried daily, followed by applying a moisturizer, which may help to prevent cracked heels. It is strongly recommended that diabetic patients be under the care of a podiatrist who can properly 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. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. 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 our office located in Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Retaining fluid and swelling in your feet is extremely common during pregnancy. The swelling may be especially noticeable at the end of the day, during hot weather, or after standing for long periods of time. There are several things that you can do at home that may bring you mild relief. Resting and elevating your feet for at least 20 minutes at the end of the day may help reduce swelling. Eating a balanced diet with less salt and drinking plenty of water is suggested to reduce excessive fluid retention. Gentle, regular exercise and wearing wide, supportive shoes can make you more comfortable as well. For more information on how to deal with fluid retention and swelling in your feet during pregnancy, consult with a podiatrist.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

  • Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
  • Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
  • Wear shoes with good arch support
  • Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
  • Elevate feet if you experience swelling
  • Massage your feet
  • Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

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Monday, 03 August 2020 00:00

How Is Gout Diagnosed?

Excess uric acid in the bloodstream may cause an arthritic condition that is known as gout. This can happen as a result of genetic factors, or from eating foods that have elevated purine levels. These types of foods can include red meat, shellfish, and drinks that have large amounts of sugar. Gout typically affects the big toe, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. Common symptoms consist of swelling, tenderness, and the affected area may appear red. A proper diagnosis is done by performing a blood test which can be helpful in verifying the amounts of uric acid in the blood. Additionally, in some cases, a needle may be inserted into the affected area to analyze the crystals and confirm the onset of gout. There are methods that can be implemented which may prevent painful gout attacks from occurring. It is beneficial to ingest a diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables, in addition to drinking plenty of fresh water daily. If you are afflicted with gout, it is strongly suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can help you find relief as quickly as possible.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

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