September 2020

Total ankle replacement surgery, also known as total ankle arthroplasty, is a procedure designed to reduce ankle pain. In this procedure, the surgeon removes the bottom portion of the shin bone and the top portion of the foot bone, replacing the ankle with plastic or metal pieces. This type of surgery is done in cases of severe pain and loss of motion in the ankle, which may be caused by arthritis. Total ankle replacement surgery is often a last resort, only performed when more conservative treatments have not led to any improvement. It typically takes at least four months to recover from this procedure, and follow-up care is very important to ensure optimal results. If you are experiencing severe ankle pain, it is recommended that you see a podiatrist for treatment.

In certain cases, in which the patient suffers from extreme pain or damage in a joint, joint replacement surgery may be deemed useful. If you have constant pain in a foot joint, 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 Joint Replacement Surgery?

Over time, joints wear down; this can be exacerbated by diseases and conditions. Joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is when a damaged joint is surgically removed and replaced with a prosthesis. Prostheses, which can be made of ceramic, plastic, or metal, act as joints in lieu of an actual joint. One of the most prevalent causes for joint replacement is arthritis.

Arthritis in the Foot

Arthritis can occur in any joint in the body, including in the feet. Common types of arthritis in the foot are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. The big toe is usually where arthritis occurs in the foot; this is known as hallux rigidus.

Joint Replacement Surgery in the Foot

The most common form of joint replacement in the foot is a first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint placement. MTP joint replacement surgery is designed to treat hallux rigidus. Surgery is not intensive, and recovery occurs within one to two months after the procedure has been done. Overall, joint replacement surgery is a safe and effective way to treat pain in the joint of the foot.

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.

Many patients who are afflicted with arthritis are familiar with the pain and discomfort this condition can cause. When arthritis is present, there are several symptoms that can affect the feet, which can include stiffness in the toe joints or ankles, swelling, and warmth in parts of the foot. The joints in the feet may gradually deteriorate, and it may become difficult to walk. Mild relief may be felt when pressure is taken off of the affected foot, and this may help to reduce existing swelling and pain. Arthritis in the feet may lead to other foot ailments, including bursitis, hammertoes, and nodules that may form on the heel, which can affect the Achilles tendon. If you have arthritis in your feet, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment techniques.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, 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.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method 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.

The feet are considered to be the foundation of the body, and it is important to wear the right shoes for your chosen sport. The main differences between walking and running shoes is the amount of flexibility and stability. The heel is constructed differently in running shoes, and appears to be wider than in walking shoes. Additionally, it is beneficial to have the feet professionally measured, as this is helpful in determining what the correct size shoe is. If you would like more information about the differences between walking and running shoes, please speak to a podiatrist.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff from Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

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.