If you need a more accessible version of this website, click this button on the right.Switch to Accessible Site

Blog

Foot injuries are common among athletes and individuals engaged in high-impact activities, but understanding the difference between a stress reaction and a fracture is critical for proper diagnosis and treatment. A stress reaction, also known as a stress response, occurs when the bones of the foot undergo repetitive stress without adequate time for recovery, resulting in microscopic damage to the bone. Symptoms include localized pain and swelling, particularly during activity, which typically improves with rest. In contrast, a fracture involves a complete or partial break in the bone due to sudden trauma or excessive force. Fractures often present with more severe pain, swelling, bruising, and sometimes deformity at the site of injury. While stress reactions may not always be visible on imaging tests like X-rays, fractures typically show up clearly. If you have foot pain, and feel it may be a stress fracture, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can guide you toward appropriate treatment options.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, 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 Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

  • Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
  • Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
  • Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
  • Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
  • Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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.

Read more about Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
Wednesday, 07 February 2024 00:00

It's Time for Beautiful Feet

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

Tuesday, 06 February 2024 00:00

Foot and Toe Stretching for General Well-Being

In the quest for overall health and vitality, the incredible benefits that come from incorporating foot and toe stretching into our daily routine is often overlooked. Stretching not only improves flexibility but also plays a vital role in enhancing the strength and mobility of the feet. These simple yet effective exercises promote better blood circulation, alleviating tension and reducing the risk of common foot issues. Regular stretching can contribute to improved posture, balance, and stability, benefiting not only the feet but the entire musculoskeletal system. Additionally, toe stretching exercises can prevent and alleviate discomfort associated with conditions like plantar fasciitis and toe deformities. Embracing a consistent routine of gentle stretches not only revitalizes tired feet but also fosters a sense of relaxation and well-being. If you are interested in learning about what type of foot and toe stretches to perform, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist. 

Why Stretching Is Important for Your Feet

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet 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.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first to determine if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

  • Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
  • Similar to the previous exercise, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
  • Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
  • Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising to ice and rest the foot. It is advised that you then see a podiatrist for help.

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.

Read more about Stretching Your Feet
Tuesday, 30 January 2024 00:00

Causes and Definition of Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails, a common ailment, occur when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to discomfort and potential complications. The causes often stem from improper nail trimming, tight footwear, or inherited nail shape, creating an environment conducive to ingrowth. The condition typically manifests as redness, swelling, and pain along the nail's edge. Diagnosis involves a careful examination by a podiatrist who assesses the visual symptoms and inquires about the individual's lifestyle and footwear choices. While mild cases may be managed with warm soaks and proper nail care, severe instances may require medical intervention. Podiatrists may recommend partial nail removal or antibiotics to address infection. An ingrown toenail can cause severe pain and discomfort. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide the treatment that is right for you.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, 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.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

  • Bacterial infections
  • Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
  • Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
  • Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
  • Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right 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 Ingrown Toenails
Tuesday, 23 January 2024 00:00

Definition and Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis, an often debilitating foot condition, emerges as a result of inflammation in the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue connecting the heel to the toes. This inflammation occurs when the tissue endures excessive stress or strain, leading to small tears and irritation. The plantar fascia plays a vital role in supporting the arch of the foot, and when subjected to prolonged or repetitive stress, it becomes vulnerable to damage. The primary cause of plantar fasciitis is often attributed to overuse or excessive strain on the feet, commonly seen in activities like running, standing for extended periods, or wearing unsupportive footwear. Factors such as obesity, high arches, or abnormal foot mechanics can further increase the risk of developing plantar fasciitis. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis.

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.

 

Read more about Plantar Fasciitis
Tuesday, 16 January 2024 00:00

Surgical Options for Big Toe Pain

The metatarsophalangeal, or MTP, a joint that connects the first metatarsal to the big toe's phalanx, is vital for walking. A stiff big toe, medically known as hallux rigidus, can hinder daily activities. If conservative treatments fail, surgery becomes an option. Cheilectomy involves removing bone spurs and bony material from the MTP joint to enhance toe movement. Recovery includes wearing specialized shoes and potentially physical therapy. For severe cases, joint fusion, or arthrodesis, eliminates joint surfaces and fuses bones with wires or plates. Although toe flexibility is lost, joint fusion effectively alleviates most big toe pain, allowing a return to athletic activities post-healing. For moderate to severe hallux rigidus in less active individuals, arthroplasty or joint replacement may be considered. Arthroplasty removes bone and aligns the joint with a pin. Joint replacement substitutes the joint with an artificial one. Long-term outcomes of joint replacement require further research for informed decision-making, comparing it to fusion. For help in understanding these surgical options, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine what the best approach is for you. Treatment will be based on severity, pain levels, and activity. 

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, 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 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 office located in Lake Worth, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Toe Pain
Tuesday, 09 January 2024 00:00

Well-Fitting Shoes

Choosing appropriate footwear is essential for maintaining foot health, enhancing physical activity, and preventing injuries. Well-fitted, activity-specific shoes that address individual foot concerns and offer adequate protection to feet, legs, and joints are essential. A suitable shoe should provide cushioning through its midsole, support proper foot alignment, ensure immediate comfort, and offer a snug, yet non-restrictive fit. Shopping post-exercise or late in the day ensures shoes remain comfortable when your feet are their largest. When trying on shoes, wear the type of socks you plan to use during the activity. Have your feet measured each time you buy shoes since size can change with age, and one foot may be slightly larger. Ensure there is room for toe movement and avoid shoes that require breaking in. Walk or run a few steps to assess comfort and heel grip. Ultimately, the right shoes can alleviate foot pain, improve mobility, and contribute to an active and pain-free lifestyle. If you would like specific help in finding shoes that fit properly, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can take into consideration your specific footwear concerns and make tailored footwear recommendations.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff from Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

  • Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
  • Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
  • Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
  • Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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 Proper Shoe Fitting
Monday, 08 January 2024 00:00

Heel Pain Can Be Treated!

Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.

Tuesday, 02 January 2024 00:00

Reasons to See a Podiatrist

Podiatrists are specialized healthcare professionals who focus on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of foot and ankle disorders. There are various compelling reasons to schedule a visit to a podiatrist. First, persistent foot or ankle pain should not be ignored, as it can be an indicator of an underlying issue. Podiatrists are experts in identifying and addressing the source of your discomfort. They can diagnose conditions such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, or heel spurs, and develop personalized treatment plans. If you are experiencing mobility issues, a podiatrist can help. They can provide custom orthotics or recommend appropriate footwear to improve your gait and balance. Diabetes can take a toll on the feet, leading to complications like neuropathy and ulcers. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist are essential for early detection and preventative care. In short, consulting a podiatrist is beneficial for anyone seeking to maintain their overall foot health, in addition to alleviating foot pain. It is suggested that you visit a podiatrist if you are interested in learning more about the field of podiatry. 

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. 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?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

  • Physical therapy
  • Drugs
  • Orthotic inserts or soles
  • Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

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 What is a Podiatrist?
Tuesday, 26 December 2023 00:00

The Seriousness of Cracked Heels

Cracked heels, medically known as heel fissures, are more than just a cosmetic issue, they can be quite serious. These splits in the skin surrounding the heel can become deep and cause pain, especially while standing or walking. For some individuals, the cracks are superficial, but for others, they can lead to bleeding and infections, particularly in those with compromised immune systems. In addition, people who have conditions such as diabetes can impair healing, possibly increasing the risk of foot complications. The skin around the heels is often subjected to pressure and weight-bearing, and if it is not supple due to dryness or thickened due to calluses, it is prone to cracking. Factors contributing to this can include walking barefoot or wearing open-backed shoes, prolonged standing, obesity, and certain skin conditions. In severe cases, dead skin may need to be removed by a podiatrist and medication prescribed. If you have cracked heels that are not healing or are worsening, it is suggested that you make an appointment with this type of medical professional for prompt treatment.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, 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.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

  • Invest in a good foot cream
  • Try Using Petroleum Jelly
  • Ease up on Soaps
  • Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

  • Moisturize After Showering
  • Skip a Shower
  • Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
  • Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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.

Read more about Solutions for Cracked Heels
Page 4 of 44
Connect with us