Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked

Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.

Achilles Tendon Injuries in Children

Achilles tendon injuries in children often result from overuse or sudden increases in physical activity, particularly in sports that involve running and jumping. The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, and repetitive strain can lead to inflammation, tendonitis, or even partial tears. Common symptoms include pain and stiffness at the back of the ankle, especially in the morning or after periods of rest, as well as difficulty while walking or running. Growth spurts in children can make them more vulnerable to these injuries as muscles and tendons tighten during rapid growth. If your child experiences persistent Achilles pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who will evaluate the injury, recommend treatments such as rest and specific stretches, in addition to providing guidance on how to safely return to physical activity without risking further damage.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Associates in Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

  • Inflammation
  • Dull to severe pain
  • Increased blood flow to the tendon
  • Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

  • Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
  • Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

  • Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
  • Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Achilles Tendon Injuries

Toenail Fungus Progression and Treatment

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, begins as a small white or yellow spot under the nail. As the fungus spreads, the nail can thicken, become discolored, and develop a brittle or crumbly texture. Without treatment, the fungus can worsen, leading to overgrowth, making it difficult to trim nails, and causing discomfort when walking. In severe cases, the nail may separate from the nail bed, increasing the risk of bacterial infection. Signs that toenail fungus is getting worse include increased nail thickening, spreading discoloration, foul odor, and pain. If left untreated, the infection can spread to surrounding skin, causing more severe issues like cellulitis. If you have signs of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Associates in Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Treating Toenail Fungus

What You Eat Can Cause Gout

Gout is a form of arthritis that causes sudden and severe pain, redness, and swelling in the joints, most commonly affecting the big toe. It occurs when uric acid builds up in the bloodstream, forming sharp crystals in the joints. This often leads to intense pain that makes even the lightest touch feel unbearable. Certain foods can trigger gout attacks, particularly those high in purines, which the body converts to uric acid. It is advisable to avoid red meats, organ meats, shellfish, sugary beverages, and alcohol. Instead, focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to help manage uric acid levels. If you are experiencing gout symptoms or have questions about managing this condition, it is important to seek professional guidance. It is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss treatment options and preventive strategies, ensuring your feet remain healthy and pain-free.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Associates in Podiatry. Our doctors 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 our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Everything You Need to Know About Gout

Bunions and Accompanying Symptoms

Bunions are painful bony bumps that develop at the base of the big toe, often causing discomfort and affecting daily activities. Common symptoms include swelling, redness, and a noticeable protrusion on the side of the foot. You may also experience stiffness in the big toe, making it difficult to wear certain shoes or walk comfortably. Treatment for bunions often begins with wearing properly fitting shoes with a wide toe box that can help reduce pressure on the bunion. Padding or custom orthotic inserts can provide additional support and alleviate pain. If conservative treatment fails, surgery may be considered to realign the toe and remove the bunion. It is important to address bunions early to prevent worsening symptoms. If you are experiencing bunion pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. This type of doctor can evaluate your condition and recommend a tailored treatment plan to restore your comfort and mobility.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact one of our podiatrists of Associates in Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

  • Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
  • Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

  • Redness and inflammation
  • Pain and tenderness
  • Callus or corns on the bump
  • Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about What Are Bunions?

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.

Facts About Foot Drop

Foot drop is a medical condition characterized by difficulty lifting the front part of the foot, which can lead to various challenges in mobility. Individuals with foot drop may experience symptoms such as tripping frequently, a noticeable limp, and numbness in the affected foot. These symptoms can make walking cumbersome and may cause individuals to drag their toes or catch them on the ground, increasing the risk of falls. Additionally, those with foot drop may struggle to keep their shoes on securely, leading to discomfort and further mobility issues. This condition can result from various underlying causes, including nerve injuries, muscle disorders, or neurological conditions. Recognizing the symptoms of foot drop is essential, as early intervention can improve mobility and quality of life. If you notice symptoms of foot drop, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Associates in Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Foot Pain

What Causes a Bruised Heel?

A bruised heel, also known as a heel contusion, occurs when the heel experiences trauma or impact, leading to damage of the soft tissues and blood vessels. This condition often results from activities that involve jumping, running, or walking on hard surfaces. Symptoms typically include localized pain, swelling, and tenderness on the heel. The area may also appear discolored due to internal bleeding. The pain is usually sharp and may worsen with pressure or movement. Relief for a bruised heel involves rest to avoid aggravating the injury, and performing gentle stretching exercises to promote healing. Pain relief medication can help manage discomfort. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a thorough evaluation, and to rule out more serious injuries.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Associates in Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

  • Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
  • Wearing non-supportive shoes
  • Weight change           
  • Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Heel Pain

Definition of Achilles Tendinopathy

A common Achilles tendon injury known as Achilles tendinopathy is a condition characterized by pain and inflammation in the Achilles tendon, the thick band connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. This condition often manifests as a dull ache or stiffness in the back of the heel, particularly noticeable during or after physical activity. Common symptoms include swelling, tenderness, and a decrease in flexibility. The primary causes of Achilles tendinopathy include repetitive strain from overuse, sudden increases in activity, and wearing poor footwear. Factors like tight calf muscles or improper running technique can also contribute to the development of this condition. An Achilles tendon injury can lead to severe pain, and most likely will cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have sustained this type of injury, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can begin the treatment process.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Associates in Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

  • Inflammation
  • Dull to severe pain
  • Increased blood flow to the tendon
  • Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

  • Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
  • Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

  • Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
  • Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about What are Achilles Tendon Injuries

Possible Causes of Big Toe Pain

Sharp pain in the big toe can be distressing and may arise from several conditions. Gout, a type of arthritis caused by uric acid crystals, often leads to sudden, intense pain in the big toe joint. Another common cause is bunions, which create a painful bump at the base of the toe due to misalignment. Turf toe, an injury from hyperextending the toe, can also cause sharp pain. Other potential issues include sesamoiditis, an inflammation of the small bones beneath the big toe, and ingrown toenails, which can cause localized pain and discomfort. To diagnose the cause, a podiatrist will assess your symptoms, examine the toe, and may order imaging tests. Treatment varies based on the diagnosis and includes medications, rest, proper footwear, or, in some cases, surgery. If you have big toe pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and management.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Associates in Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Trauma
  • Sports injury
  • Wearing shoes that are too tight
  • Arthritis
  • Gout
  • Corns and calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Blisters
  • Ingrown toenails
  • Sprains
  • Fractures (broken bones)
  • Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

  • Severe pain
  • Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
  • Signs of infection
  • Continued swelling
  • Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Toe Pain

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