Blog
Friday, 17 September 2021 00:00
Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?
If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!
Tuesday, 14 September 2021 00:00
What Can Cause a Bunion?
A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the main joint of the big toe because the joint was pulled out of alignment. This causes the big toe to be turned towards the rest of the toes. This condition gradually develops over time and becomes more and more painful around the base of the big toe. There are a variety of factors that can lead to the formation of bunions. Biomechanical factors such as overpronation or flat feet can lead to the development of a bunion. Footwear also plays a huge role in the formation of bunions because shoes that are too tight can put pressure on the toe, and the narrow toe box of high heels can also cause bunions to form. Age can play a role in the development of bunions because the ligaments in the toes lose strength over time. Patients who are struggling with bunion pain should visit a podiatrist for a proper treatment plan that may include orthotics or surgery.
If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor 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 office located in Lake Worth, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Tuesday, 07 September 2021 00:00
Heel Pain and Podiatrists
The feet are considered to be the foundation of the body, and heel pain for any reason may hinder accomplishing daily activities. The structure of the foot is designed to protect the foot from potential impact, and it is beneficial to know the reason why existing heel pain occurs. There are several foot conditions that can affect the heel, such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendon injuries, and bursitis of the foot. The bottom of the foot is where the plantar fascia is found, and it can cause severe pain and discomfort if it should become inflamed. There are specific stretches that can be performed which may help to diminish the pain from plantar fasciitis. Achilles tendon injuries and bursitis may be improved when under the care of a podiatrist, and it is suggested that a consultation be scheduled.
Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor 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 office located in Lake Worth, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Tuesday, 31 August 2021 00:00
Causes and Treatments for Broken Toes
Broken toes are extremely painful, and they are usually a result of a severe impact or trauma such as stubbing the toe or having something fall on it. However, stress fractures, which are small hairline fractures that occur from overuse, may also develop in the toes. Common signs of a broken toe include severe pain that starts at the moment of trauma, rapid swelling, bruising and deformity. While treatment options for a broken toe generally start with resting and icing the toe, patients who may have broken their toe should consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. A podiatrist will be able to take an X-ray of the toe to tell if it is broken and suggest more in depth treatment options such as surgery, buddy taping (taping the broken toe to a healthy toe next to it), or, in some cases, a walking boot.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff from Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What to Know About a Broken Toe
Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
- Throbbing pain
- Swelling
- Bruising on the skin and toenail
- The inability to move the toe
- Toe appears crooked or disfigured
- Tingling or numbness in the toe
Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.
Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.
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.
Tuesday, 24 August 2021 00:00
Can Toenail Fungus Be Prevented?
The medical term for toenail fungus is known as onychomycosis. It is considered to be the most common of nail diseases among adults and can be quite unsightly. Conditions that can include diabetes and ailments that suppress the immune system may lead to the development of toenail fungus. This condition is caused by a specific type of fungus that lives and thrives in warm and moist environments. These types of places can include public swimming pools, locker rooms, and surrounding areas. Common symptoms that many people experience can include yellow and thickened nails, and in severe cases, the nail may have an odor. Effective prevention techniques can consist of wearing appropriate shoes while in these places, and refrain from sharing towels and socks. It is suggested that you visit a podiatrist if you have any of these symptoms, who can help create the correct treatment plan for you.
If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Symptoms
- Warped or oddly shaped nails
- Yellowish nails
- Loose/separated nail
- Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
- Brittle, broken, thickened nail
Treatment
If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.
Prevention
In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.
In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.
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 care needs.
Wednesday, 18 August 2021 00:00
Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?
Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.
Tuesday, 17 August 2021 00:00
Can Foot Pain Be Avoided During Pregnancy?
Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women. As their belly grows so does the baby, and with this the feet tend to become bigger. This may be a result of thickened blood that develops during pregnancy, in addition to standing on the feet for most of the day. Research has indicated there are several different things that can be done to help alleviate foot pain during pregnancy. It is beneficial to elevate the feet as often as possible, as this may help to reduce existing swelling. Additionally, it can help to flex and point the feet at various times during the day to help improve circulation. Patients may see a noticeable difference in choosing shoes that are wide and have a low heel. Wearing cotton socks can help to avoid sweating and may improve comfort. If you would like more information about how to avoid foot pain during pregnancy, please 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. Kevin H. Lapoff from Lake Worth 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 Lake Worth, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Tuesday, 10 August 2021 00:00
Complications of Overly Sweaty Feet
We all deal with foot sweat from time to time, but if you find that your feet are wet, clammy, or leaving soggy footprints on the floor, you may have plantar hyperhidrosis. Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition that causes excessive sweating. It can affect various parts of the body, but is particularly common in feet. Other than being annoying and possibly embarrassing, untreated plantar hyperhidrosis can have health consequences. Excessive sweating can make the feet perpetually moist, increasing the risk of fungal (athlete’s foot, toenail fungus), bacterial (folliculitis), and viral (warts caused by HPV) infections and skin breakdown. A heat rash, which causes itching, redness, and stinging, may also develop. If you are suffering from plantar hyperhidrosis, a podiatrist can help find the most effective treatment for you.
If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
Hyperhidrosis of the Feet
Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.
Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.
Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.
In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.
A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.
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.
Tuesday, 03 August 2021 00:00
How Does Plantar Fasciitis Make the Heel Hurt?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common reasons for heel pain. This condition occurs when the plantar fascia, a ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes, becomes inflamed. This is typically caused by tiny, repetitive trauma to the area during walking, running, standing for prolonged periods of time, or wearing ill-fitting shoes. The heel pain associated with plantar fasciitis is usually at its worst when you take your first few steps in the morning or after a long period of rest. This is thought to be because of the plantar fascia being slightly contracted while in bed or at rest. When you take your first few steps the ligament is stretched, which can bring about heel pain. If you are suffering from plantar fasciitis it is suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist.
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff from Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Excessive running
- Having high arches in your feet
- Other foot issues such as flat feet
- Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
- Being on your feet very often
There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.
Prevention
- Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
- Maintain a healthy weight
- If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain
There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.
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 care needs.
Tuesday, 27 July 2021 00:00
Topical Treatments for Diabetic Foot Wounds
Those with diabetes may find that their feet are more prone to dryness, itchiness, bruising, cuts, scrapes, and sores. These seemingly minor issues can be dangerous for diabetic feet. Even small wounds may heal slowly and poorly, becoming infected, or develop into diabetic foot ulcers (DFU's) over time. Topical medications are treatments that are applied directly to the skin to treat a skin problem. There are various topical medications that may be used to address skin conditions on diabetic feet. These include medications that moisturize the skin, protect the skin from irritants, reduce itchiness, decrease pain, disinfect wounds and aid wound healing. If you have DFU's or other skin problems on your feet a podiatrist can help to find the correct treatment for you.
Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff from Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Wound Care?
Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic.
What Is the Importance of Wound Care?
While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.
How to Care for Wounds
The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.
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 care needs.
