Blog
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
Thursday, 08 January 2015 22:58
Jack Wilshere of Arsenal to Miss the Rest of the Season due to Tackle on Ankle
Arsenal’s Jack Wilshere suffered ligament damage to his left ankle due to a tackle from a Manchester United player during a recent game. The twenty-two year has to undergo surgery to repair the ligaments in his ankle and will be off the playing ground for nearly three months. Recently Wilshere has suffered a series of similar injuries throughout the season totaling around nearly thirteen injuries. The tremendous amount of injuries has caused some questioning in the strength of his ankles to which the midfielder replied on social media, “Luckily I have ‘loose joints’, not brittle, only damaged ligaments.” As Wilshere recovers from his treatment he will miss many important Premier League games against Liverpool, Manchester City, and Tottenham as well as the last rounds in the Champions League and FA Cup.
No athlete wants to get hurt while playing their sport and suffer any foot or ankle injuries. For assistance with any kind of sports related foot or ankle injury, consult with Dr. Kevin Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Dr. Lapoff can present you with an ample amount of treatment options and will do everything he can to help you heal.
Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Plantar Fasciosis
- Achilles Tendinitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
Sports-related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
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 Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Thursday, 01 January 2015 00:00
NASCAR Driver Receives Surgery to Resolve Inflammation in Foot
Nascar’s Kyle Busch has been suffering from chronic inflammation in his left foot. He recently underwent surgery to resolve the issues in his lower extremity. After his surgery his wife made to social media to show his fans how well the driver was doing post-surgery posting a photo of him playing video games and wearing a boot on the injured foot. She stated, “He’s doing great!” Busch is expected to make a full recovery before the new season starts in February 2015 and will not miss out on any preseason preparation since there will not be any off season testing this year.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary when non-surgical methods do not work. If you are struggling with a foot or ankle condition, talk to Dr. Kevin Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Dr. Lapoff can treat your foot and ankle needs.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to help with the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary are:
- Removing foot deformities like bone spurs and bunions
- Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
- Reconstruction to attend injuries caused by accidents or malformations
What Types of Surgery Are There?
The type of surgery you receive will be dependent on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:
- Bunionectomy for painful bunions
- Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
- Nerve removal for painful nerve endings
Benefits of Surgery
Although surgery is usually a last resort, when it is undertaken, if can provide more complete pain relief than before, and may allow you to finally resume full activity.
Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Such techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
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 Foot Surgery
Monday, 22 December 2014 23:38
President Obama Struggles with Effects of Plantar Fasciitis
As leader of the United States of America, President Barack Obama needs to be on his feet with all the meetings and conferences he must attend daily. As a result, it may come to no surprise that our president has been contending with pain in his right foot. Dr. Ronny L. Jackson states that Obama’s symptoms happen to be consistent with “regular recurring plantar fasciitis”.
Chronic plantar fasciitis tends to be common among middle aged people, especially those with overworked feet. Fortunately, our president remains up to the task and is said not to be hampered by his foot pain.
Plantar fasciitis can be quite painful. If you have heel pain, visit Kevin Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Dr. Lapoff can treat your heel pain as well as any other foot or ankle condition.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis refers to heel and arch pain caused by an inflammation of the connective tissues on the bottom of the foot.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Ill-fitting shoes
- Weight change
- Excessive running
- Non-supportive shoes
- Overpronation
How Can It Be Treated?
- Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices.
- Shockwave therapy – sends sound waves to the areas where pain is experience. Requires multiple sessions. This is used for very persistent cases of plantar fasciitis.
- Ultrasound-guided technique with steroid injections into the plantar fascia. This is from a relatively new and small study, but was shown to be effective in most cases treated.
New Studies on Treatment
According to groundbreaking treatment option studies, Luca M. Sconfienza, M.D. says that ultrasound with steroid injections was effective in over 95% of cases that involve plantar fasciitis. This process involves anesthesia and is a single process, out-patient treatment that was discovered to be highly effective. Luca M. Sconfienza M.D. presented her study at an annual meeting for the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA). Be sure to speak with your podiatrist about different methods that can be used, as well as finding out what treatment options they offer.
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
