Blog
Monday, 30 March 2015 00:00
Jockey Out until May due to Broken Ankle
For the third time in her career, New Plymouth Jockey Vanessa Johnston has been forced to the sidelines due to a broken ankle. The incident occurred when the 27-year-old fell from her horse at the New Plymouth track. Although the Johnston had started the season off slowly, she felt as though things had started to go well, winning the Fielding Gold Cup, the Eulogy Stakes, and the Levin Stakes so far this season. The night of the injury, the jockey had spent the night in the hospital with a plaster cast and will spend the rest of the time recovering. “I’ll be in a moon boot for five weeks…I hope to be back riding in May,” Johnston stated.
Broken ankles are extremely painful and inconvenient. If you have any questions about broken ankles contact Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth, FL. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.
When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle and the following symptoms may be present.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
- Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
- Swelling around the area
- Bruising of the area
- Area appears to be deformed
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our offices located in Lake Worth, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 23 March 2015 00:00
Proper Supportive Footwear can Prevent Long Term Foot Problems
Whether you were born with perfect feet or have every ailment possible in your lower extremities, it is necessary to have the proper footwear to avoid future pain and practice every day foot care. Often time many common foot problems such as plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and hammertoes occur because of ill-fitting and unsupportive footwear. By having your foot fitting for the best type of shoe that suits your needs, you are treating and preventing foot complications.
Finding shoes with the proper fit and support is only one portion in maintaining everyday foot care. For more information about everyday foot care, consult with Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will provide you with the foot- and ankle information you seek.
Every Day Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. After all, without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks. It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before, for example.
For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops.
Also, wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office, located in Lake Worth, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all of your foot ankle injuries.
Monday, 16 March 2015 00:00
Viola Davis of How to Get Away with Murder Discusses her Bunion Cure
Viola Davis recentlyappeared on the Ellen Show after winning a SAG Award for her role in How to Get Away With Murder where she discussed her quick remedy for temporary relief on bunion pain. The actress recalled that she was extremely worried about walking around on the red carpet in heels that would cause further pain to her foot. The night before the awards Davis had her husband go to the supermarket and buy her a can of white vegetable shortening called Crisco. She claims the white greasy ingredient in fried chicken reduces the friction between the bunion and the shoes and soothes her dry skin.
Bunions can be very troublesome if they are not treated correctly. If you are having problems with your bunions consult with Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will diagnose the severity of your bunion and give you the proper treatment for your needs.
What is a Bunion?
A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs by the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.
Why do Bunions Form?
Genetics – susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary
Stress on the feet – poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can cause bunions to form
How are Bunions Diagnosed?
Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.
How are Bunions Treated?
- Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
- Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
- Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
- Orthotics or foot inserts
- Surgery
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lake Worth, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Friday, 06 March 2015 00:00
Obesity Causing Limb Amputation Epidemic in Scotland
Obesity Causing Limb Amputation Epidemic in Scotland
According to the World Health Organization, as obesity increases in young adults and children, so do foot and ankle problems. These issues are more likely to occur because there is too much pressure being put on the lower extremities. Obese children are less likely to participate in physical activities due to the problems that may occur in the foot structure and often time, obese individuals end up with flat feet due to the pressure. Childhood obesity may have a negative effect on the feet over a period of time and may result in permanent issues with foot function. For children and young adults to reduce the chance of permanent foot problems, it is important to establish the proper amount of diet and exercise. For some, additional coaching may be necessary to overcome the challenges of obesity.
Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet if not taken care of properly. If you’re an obese individual and you’re concerned about your feet, talk to Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Dr. Lapoff will can determine if your weight has caused you to develop any complications in your lower extremities and get you the care that you need.
Obesity and your Feet
Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.
Problems & Complications
Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.
Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.
Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot.
If you have any questions, please contact our office located in Lake Worth, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Obesity and Your Feet
According to the World Health Organization, as obesity increases in young adults and children, so do foot and ankle problems. These issues are more likely to occur because there is too much pressure being put on the lower extremities. Obese children are less likely to participate in physical activities due to the problems that may occur in the foot structure and often time, obese individuals end up with flat feet due to the pressure. Childhood obesity may have a negative effect on the feet over a period of time and may result in permanent issues with foot function. For children and young adults to reduce the chance of permanent foot problems, it is important to establish the proper amount of diet and exercise. For some, additional coaching may be necessary to overcome the challenges of obesity.Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet if not taken care of properly. If you’re an obese individual and you’re concerned about your feet, talk to Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Dr. Lapoff will can determine if your weight has caused you to develop any complications in your lower extremities and get you the care that you need.
Obesity and your Feet
Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.
Problems & Complications
Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.
Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.
Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot.
If you have any questions, please contact our office located in Lake Worth, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Obesity and Your Feet
Friday, 20 February 2015 00:00
Study Finds High Heels Cause a Wide Variety of Foot and Ankle Problems
High heels are a major staple in nearly every woman’s wardrobe; unfortunately many doctors are telling their patients to avoid them at all costs to protect the feet and ankles from serious damage. Many women are aware that high heels will cause the usual pain of blisters and corns, but in a recent study, it was found that the shoe has the potential to change the entire way the foot moves even after they are taken off. The study listed nearly twelve possible injuries heel wearers can obtain from wearing the shoe type too often including: Morton’s neuroma, Achilles tendonitis, hammertoes, pump bump, sprained ankles, and arthritis. If avoiding high heels is not possible, professionals recommend wearing a lower heel or a heel with a wider toe box to avoid some of these ailments.
High heels are very fashionable and a necessity to some, but they can cause a tremendous about of harm to the feet and ankles. To learn more, contact Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will answer all of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because they are associated with femininity. Despite their appeal, they can cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
What parts my body will be affected by high heels?
- Ankle Joints
- Achilles Tendon – may shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
- Balls of the Feet
- Knees – heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
- Back – they decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain. Also, the vertebrae of the lower back may compress.
What kinds of foot problems can develop from wearing high heels?
- Corns
- Calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Morton’s Neuroma
- Plantar Fasciitis
How can I still wear high heels and maintain foot health?
If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems. Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising. If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lake Worth, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about the Effects of High Heels
Tuesday, 17 February 2015 00:00
Certain Massaging Techniques can Further Damage in Mortons Neuroma Patients
Morton’s Neuroma occurs when a nerve between the third and fourth or the second and third toes becomes compressed or injured. Those with Morton’s neuroma may typically feel sharp pain, burning, or numbness in the foot and the nerves may thicken causing a visible lump in the foot. According to Dr. Anthony Komaroff of Harvard Medical School, women are at a greater risk because they usually wear tight shoes or high heels. One of the best ways to prevent and treat Morton’s neuroma is to wear low heeled shoes with a wider toe box so the bones, ligaments, muscles and nerves, are not squeezed. Dr. K also recommends massaging the area or visiting your foot care professional for metatarsal pads to help correct any structural problems you may have. If the pain persists, doctors may inject a local anesthetic with corticosteroid to reduce inflammation. Surgery may be needed if the previously mentioned methods do not work. Morton’s neuroma can be a difficult condition to live with. If you would like to learn more about your Morton’s neuroma and possible treatment options, speak to podiatrist Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Dr. Lapoff will diagnose and treat your feet accordingly.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the third and fourth toe and the ball of the foot, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible to this condition. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones. Women are more likely than men to have an occurrence of this foot condition.
What Increases the Chances of having Morton’s Neuroma?
-Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot area.
-Jogging, running and any sports that involve constant impact to the foot area.
-Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformity may put you at a higher risk for developing Morton’s neuroma.
If you suspect that you may have this condition, you should visit your podiatrist. A podiatrist will first conduct a thorough physical examination to check for palpable masses between the bones of the foot.
If you have any questions, please contact our office located in Lake Worth, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more on Morton’s Neuroma
Wednesday, 04 February 2015 00:00
Kim Jong-un Disappears to Resolve Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
It has recently appeared as though North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un has disappeared from the public eye for a prolonged period of time after he was spotted limping due to a mysterious illness. Since then, it was discovered that Kim Jong-un has been diagnosed with tarsal tunnel syndrome in his right ankle and has received surgery to resolve the condition.Tarsal tunnel syndrome is described as the compression of nerves from the soles into the tarsal tunnel inside of the ankle joint. Those that are flat footed, have irregular arches, or have a damaged tunnel are more susceptible to the syndrome. Tarsal tunnel syndrome can often become aggravated when standing for long periods of time and is often resolved with corrective arch supports and anti-inflammatory drugs. Surgery is only suggested in extreme cases of the condition.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome is not an easy condition to endure. If you have pain in your foot or ankle, see Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Dr. Lapoff can treat your foot and ankle needs.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.
Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
-Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
-Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
-At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.
The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
-Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
-The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
-If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.
A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome.
For more information about Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome, follow the link below.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact our office located in Lake Worth, FL. We offer the latest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Monday, 26 January 2015 00:00
Woman Discovers Shockwave Therapy After Eight Years of Plantar Fasciitis Pain
Rosemary Smith was a full time carer from London when she started to feel shooting pains through her feet. She states she would even feel the pain while standing in her office making photo copies. Smith would often miss out on invitations to parties, exercising, and even found a new job where she could sit down more. After an extensive amount of research, Smith discovered that she had symptoms similar to plantar fasciitis that occurs often in middle aged and overweight individuals. After eight years of suffering from the pain of plantar fasciitis, the forty-five year old discovered shockwave therapy and the treatments have allowed her to live her life again. “My feet still ache if I’ve been shopping or standing for hours, but I don’t have to tiptoe out of bed and can dash off to get the post as soon as it drops through the door,” Smith mentioned.Shockwave therapy is one of many forms of treatment for plantar fasciitis. If you are interested in receiving shockwave therapy for your lower extremities, contact Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff from Lake Worth Podiatry. Dr. Lapoff will assess your needs and give you a professional opinion.
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is a new treatment option designed to treat bone conditions such as tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and others. This technique is used on patients that do not respond well to physiotherapy. Shockwave therapy uses high intensity sound waves that are directed to the affected tissues of the body with pinpoint accuracy. The effects are very beneficial, leading to a production of collagen fibers, eliminating inflammation.
Who Benefits from Shockwave?
Shockwave is recommended for patients suffering from heel pain and associated problems. Heel pain is a common condition which can be caused by obesity, overexertion, and spending a substantial amount of time on hard floors with your feet exposed and unsupported.
Fast and Easy
The therapy is actually a simple process that can leave patients feeling better the very next day. Shockwave therapy is not as dramatic as it sounds. It enables more blood flow to effected areas, attacking the source of the problem so treatment lasts for a long time.
Treatment & Recovery Time
Shockwave treatment will enable your feet to recover quickly. This is especially important since surgery is not required. It is cost effective and does not require the use of anesthesia.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lake Worth, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Shockwave Therapy
Thursday, 22 January 2015 00:00
Dance Ambassador Not Deterred by Flat Feet
Chris Bath spent much of her younger years as a ballet dancer. Bath danced even in spite of suffering from flat feet and having ‘knock-knees’, according to an instructor. Today, although she does not dance, Bath remains loyal to the art and is even a new ambassador for Form Dance Project. “I loved dancing, but was not anatomically made for it so I had no turnout, my knees always wanted to knock in and my feet were also flat,” Bath says. “I realized at age 12 when my teacher told me, but I refused to give in.”Form Dance Project is a Parramatta-based foundation. In addition with other local business and creative leaders, Form Dance Project is looking for an artistic hub to host the city’s many dancers, choreographers, and school students.
Flat feet can flatten your dreams. If you have podiatric related problems, speak to Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Dr. Lapoff can see to your foot and ankle needs.
What are Flat Feet?
Flat feet are a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. Standing about 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arch never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – if you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms:
- Pain around the heel or arch area.
- Trouble standing on the tip toe.
- Swelling around the inside of the ankle.
- Flat look to one or both feet.
- Having your shoes feel uneven when worn.
To learn more about flat feet, follow the link below.
If you have any questions, please contact our office located in Lake Worth, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Flat Feet
Friday, 16 January 2015 09:47
Eddie Vega Competes in 101 Barefoot Marathons for Shoeless Children
This year, former Guam resident Eddie Vega, has completed 101 marathons while running barefoot in order to raise awareness and funds for young children in the Philippines and other countries walking around barefoot. Due to his efforts, Vega has raised nearly $12,000 that will provide thousands of shoes for children in third world countries. Barefoot running in marathons was not an intentional choice for the 55 year-old, who initially participated in the activity in order to reduce an injury incurred from previous marathons. Although Vega has ran in over 100 marathons, he does not believe in being barefoot all of the time and has experienced criticism from avid believers of the barefoot lifestyle. “I do it to create awareness for 300 million kids with no shoes,” he states.
Barefoot running has its own share of benefits and disadvantages. To learn more about this trend, consider speaking to Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Dr. Lapoff will explain the facts of barefoot running and help you decide if it’s a practice you’d like to take up.
Barefoot Running
The Impact of Barefoot Running
-Running without shoes changes the motion of your running, as most running is done by landing on the heel of the feet.
-Running barefoot requires a different way of running; the landing is done on the front part of the feet.
The Advantages of Barefoot Running
-When running and landing on the front feet, the impact on the feet and ankle is reduced, this can reduce stress injuries.
-It strengthens muscles in the feet and ankles and the lower legs.
-Balance of the body is improved and there is a greater sensory input from the feet to the rest of the body.
The Drawbacks of Barefoot Running
-No protection while running, makes it likely that runners will land on sharp objects and scrapes, bruises and cuts on the feet will result.
-Blisters may form.
-Possibility of plantar fascia problems.
-Risk of getting Achilles tendonitis.
So what can runners do to make barefoot running safe? It’s best to make a slow transition from running shoes to barefoot running. Once the feet begin to adjust, try walking, then jogging and gradually increasing the distance. Minimalist running shoes may also be an option.
If you have any questions, please contact our office located in Lake Worth, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Barefoot Running
