Blog
Monday, 17 September 2018 00:00
The Benefits of Pursuing a Podiatric Career
Podiatric medicine treats disorders of the ankles and feet. There are several conditions that fall under this category, including ingrown toenails, hammer toe, bunions and general foot pain. There are different types of physicians who may specialize in several types of podiatric medicine. Some may choose to develop custom made orthotics and braces and have more of an interest in surgical procedures, while others may prefer to treat patients who have diabetic feet and other related foot issues. Many podiatrists treat general conditions of the feet including athletes foot, cracked heels and toenail fungus. Research has shown that podiatry can be a rewarding form of medicine to practice. For those people who are interested in pursuing a career in this specific field of healing, it’s suggested to speak with a podiatrist for additional information.
If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to 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 a Podiatrist?
A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.
What Do Podiatrists Do?
On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:
- Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
- Use innovative methods to treat conditions
- Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
- Correct walking patterns and balance
- Provide individual consultations to patients
It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.
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.
Monday, 10 September 2018 00:00
How Edema Can Affect Your Pregnancy
Pregnant women tend to experience many different foot problems during their pregnancy. One of these problematic conditions is edema. Edema is a condition that is characterized by an excess of watery fluid that collects in the body’s cavities and tissues. Some pregnant women notice that their shoe size will also become larger as a result of their swollen feet. Approximately 75% of pregnant women deal with edema before they reach their third trimester. Although the condition can be frustrating, it is usually harmless. If you are trying to minimize edema, you should drink a lot of water, eat a well-balanced diet, and avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time. If you have questions or concerns regarding your feet during pregnancy, consult with your 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.
Read more about Pregnancy and Foot Health Tuesday, 04 September 2018 00:00
Causes of Swollen Feet During Pregnancy
Many women enjoy being pregnant, but will often complain about their feet becoming swollen as the pregnancy progresses. It’s a common condition that often develops as a result of excess fluid the body produces in addition to pressure exerted from the growing baby. Most of the swelling will dissipate after the baby is born, but until then, there are specific ways to find moderate relief. Research has shown the importance of lying on your left side while sleeping, in addition to consuming plenty of water and exercising regularly. The majority of pregnant women may find that elevating their feet as often as possible and not standing for extended periods of time may help to reduce a portion of the swelling. If you are pregnant and are experiencing severely swollen feet, please consult with a podiatrist for additional information on how to properly care for your feet.
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.
Monday, 27 August 2018 00:00
What Causes Athlete’s Foot?
There are several obvious symptoms that are associated with athlete’s foot, including itching, blisters, and cracked skin between the toes. Fortunately, moderate relief can be found with proper treatment. This condition is caused by a fungus, and it often thrives in warm and moist areas such as public pools, showers, and surrounding areas. It is known to be contagious, and it can be prevented by wearing appropriate shoes when visiting these areas. It may be beneficial to wear shoes that allow the feet to breathe in addition to wearing cotton socks that will aid in absorbing sweat. There are several treatment options available and it’s advised to consult with a podiatrist to determine which treatment is best for you.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff from Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
- Hydrate your feet by using lotion
- Exfoliate
- Buff off nails
- Use of anti-fungal products
- Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop
Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are 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 and ankle needs.
Read more about How to Deal with Athlete's Foot Monday, 20 August 2018 00:00
Trevor Bauer Injures Ankle
Although the Cleveland Indians have little to worry about in their pursuit of another division title, the team will unfortunately have to do without starter Trevor Bauer for a short period of time. The pitcher suffered an ankle injury when he was struck by a line drive in a game against the Chicago White Sox. After he was hit, Bauer was seen in a recoiled position grabbing onto his leg. When the game ended, the pitcher was still seen limping around the clubhouse; however, manager Terry Francona expects Bauer to be able to make his next start against Baltimore. The specific injury that Bauer was diagnosed with was an ankle contusion, which is far less severe than a fracture or sprain. If you are suffering from ankle pain and are looking for treatment, it may be best to make an appointment with your podiatrist.
Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, 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.
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 Lake Worth, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Monday, 13 August 2018 00:00
Can Toenail Fungus Be Prevented?
Many people are unaware that they may have toenail fungus, and this may often be a result of a lack of pain and discomfort. Common symptoms that are associated with this ailment may include the toenail becoming dry and brittle, the nail appearing yellow and thick, or a separation from the nail and the nail bed. It’s important to take proper care of your feet, which may possibly avoid this unsightly condition from developing. There are several ways to accomplish this, including wearing shoes that fit properly, trimming the toenails correctly, and wearing appropriate shoes in the shower and pool areas. If you are afflicted with toenail fungus, it’s suggested to speak with a podiatrist who can provide proper guidance for the best treatment options.
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.
Monday, 06 August 2018 00:00
Blue Jays Outfielder Suffers Ankle Sprain
Outfielder Lourdes Gurriel of the Toronto Blue Jays suffered both a knee contusion and an ankle sprain during a game against the Chicago White Sox. The injury occurred on a play where the outfielder twisted himself to avoid a tag at second base. When he attempted to slide, his left cleat caught on the dirt, forcing him to bend his knee and ankle awkwardly. After the play, it was obvious that Gurriel was in serious pain. Although initial x-rays were negative, Gurriel is expected to undergo an MRI for his ankle to determine if he suffered any further soft tissue damage.When asked about the outfielder, manager John Gibbons stated, “It looked like it was something very serious but he’s moving around okay. I’m sure it’ll tighten up on him and swell up on him. I think it’s already swelling, his ankle.” If you are experiencing symptoms from an ankle sprain and are seeking treatment, contact your podiatrist right away.
Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, 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.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.
What Are the Symptoms?
- Pain at the sight of the tear
- Bruising/Swelling
- Ankle area is tender to touch
- In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
- Skin discoloration
Preventing a Sprain
- Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
- Stretching before exercises and sports
- Knowing your limits
Treatment of a Sprain
In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.
It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.
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.
Monday, 30 July 2018 00:00
How to Strengthen Your Feet
Strengthening exercises are very beneficial for runners who are constantly on their feet. These exercises should be done three or four days a week. A good exercise is to lay your feet flat on the ground, while lifting only the big toe. This should be repeated ten times. Next, try this same exercise except lift the rest of the toes while laying the big toe flat. Now, repeat this ten times. Another helpful exercise is to pick up marbles from the ground by curling your toes. Try to fill a small cup with all of the marbles and then try the same exercise with your other foot.
All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.
More Tips for Preventing Injury
- Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
- Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
- “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
- Cross-Training is Crucial
- Wear Proper Running Shoes
- Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury
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.
Monday, 23 July 2018 00:00
Red Sox Pitcher Sprains Ankle
Lefty pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez of the Boston Red Sox was recently placed on the 10-day disabled list due to an ankle sprain. Rodriguez suffered the injury when he tumbled to the ground while trying to cover first base in a game against the Toronto Blue Jays. Rodriguez has pitched to a respectable 3.44 ERA and his injury will be a significant loss for the first place Red Sox. The team has activated left-hander Brian Johnson from the disabled list to fill Rodriguez’s spot on the active roster.
Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, 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.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.
What Are the Symptoms?
- Mild to moderate bruising
- Limited mobility
- Swelling
- Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)
Preventing a Sprain
- Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
- Stretching before exercises and sports
- Knowing your limits
Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.
If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.
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.
Monday, 16 July 2018 00:00
Exercises for Foot Pain
Foot pain is commonly experienced by those who stand for long periods of time in uncomfortable shoes. This is why it is beneficial to perform foot exercises to alleviate the stresses and pains from standing all day. One of the best ways to exercise your feet is by doing ball rolls. To perform this exercise, you will need to sit down in a chair and put a tennis ball beneath your foot. Next, move the ball back and forth between your heel and the ball of your foot for thirty seconds. Another exercise you can do is a foot flex. This is done by sitting down, crossing your legs, and sliding your fingers between your toes. Afterward, rotate your ankles in a circle before flexing your foot in both directions. This exercise should be done for approximately one minute on each foot.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, 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.
Exercise for Your Feet
Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.
Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual.
Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.
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 Exercise for Your Feet
