Items filtered by date: March 2022

People who are diabetic are often concerned about the health of their feet. Elevated blood sugar levels in diabetic patients may lead to possible nerve damage, foot ulcers, and foot deformities. It is important for patients to examine their feet daily, and notice any cuts, bruises, or broken skin. Additionally, it is beneficial to take extra time and care while trimming the toenails, and it helps to wear shoes and socks that fit correctly. Research has indicated that diabetic patients who refrain from walking barefoot can have fewer foot injuries. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you be under the care of a podiatrist who can correctly monitor 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 Peter C. Smith from Lancaster 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 Lancaster, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

There is no difference between a fractured or broken ankle but many people, even sports coaches, do not know this.  A break or a fracture constitutes the loss of bone integrity, and this is true whether there is a hairline crack or the shattering of an ankle bone. To distinguish between a fractured/broken or sprained ankle, an X-ray is needed. Fractures and breaks indicate problems with bones while sprains refer to injuries to ligaments – bands of cartilage that attach bones. You can break a bone and stretch or tear a ligament. Broken/fractured and sprained ankles hurt. If you have injured your ankle, consult with a qualified podiatrist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Peter C. Smith from Lancaster Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

A broken toe can be surprisingly painful. We have probably all stubbed a toe while rushing around barefoot in the dark or trying to get somewhere too fast. When that happens, it hurts. Sometimes, after elevating the foot and taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, the pain subsides and all is well. Other times, the toe is swollen or bruised, the pain persists, and it becomes hard to bear weight on the affected foot. Your toe bone may have come out of alignment and point at an odd angle, there may be a deep cut, and if a break heals improperly, other problems can develop. If the toe does not feel better in a day or two, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and treatment so you can get back to normal functioning as quickly as possible.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Peter C. Smith from Lancaster Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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

Morton’s Neuroma is the most common neuroma in the foot causing a thickening of the nerve between the third and fourth toes. Morton’s Neuroma may be painful and feel like one is walking on a golf ball because the nerve is irritated and swollen. This condition is often caused by wearing shoes that are too narrow in the toe box or high heels that can cause the toes to be forced into the toe box of the shoe. Those who have other foot issues, who are involved in activities that cause repetitive irritation of the nerve, or who have another foot injury are often more susceptible to developing Morton’s Neuroma. Treatment can involve changing shoes, obtaining orthotics, or getting a cortisone injection, but it is strongly suggested that you contact a qualified podiatrist if you experience foot pain or feel like you may be afflicted with Morton’s Neuroma to properly diagnose and treat this condition. 

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Peter C. Smith of Lancaster Podiatry. 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 our office located in Lancaster, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

It is very common for pregnant women to experience swelling in the feet and legs during pregnancy. This swelling occurs because the body holds more water than usual, and that water pools in the lower part of the body. The swelling can get very uncomfortable, but it is usually not harmful. However, it is important to note that if there is a sudden increase in swelling, it should be monitored as soon as possible, because this could be a sign of preeclampsia. Ways that swelling can be reduced include not standing for long periods of time, wearing comfortable shoes and socks that aren’t too tight, resting with the feet up, and consistently going for walks. Patients who are struggling with swelling feet during their pregnancy would be wise to consult with a podiatrist to help manage and monitor the situation. 

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 Peter C. Smith from Lancaster 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 Lancaster, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.