May 2022

Research has shown that one of the leading causes of injury among older people is falling. It can lead to a fractured foot and other bones may break when falling occurs. As we age, our bones can become brittle and the risk of falling increases. There are preventive methods that may help to prevent falling. These can include having routine medical examinations performed which can also be useful in updating existing medication. Additionally, it is beneficial to remove worn rugs in the living area and to improve lighting in the house. Many people have installed grab bars in the shower and toilet areas as this can help to provide stability. Incorporating a gentle exercise regime as part of your daily routine can help to improve muscle strength and wearing shoes that fit correctly is instrumental in the prevention of falls. Using walkers or canes can be crucial in maintaining balance and it is important to refrain from drinking excess alcohol. Several foot conditions can result from falling so it is advised that you confer with a podiatrist who can help you with effective prevention methods.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff from Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious 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.

Patients who have pain between the toes may have a condition that is known as Morton’s neuroma. The discomfort can come from the nerves between the toes, and the pain may extend to the ball of the foot. The first symptom of Morton’s neuroma is often a tingling sensation, which will gradually worsen. In severe cases, the pain can become unbearable as pressure is exerted from shoes. Some patients describe the pain as being so unbearable they are anxious about putting the affected foot on the ground. This condition occurs as a result of compressed nerves between the toes, and the surrounding tissue may become thick. People who are most likely to be affected by Morton’s neuroma include women who frequently wear high heels, runners, or anyone with a high arch. In mild cases, treatment can consist of changing the type of shoes worn, and it may help to use orthotics. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary. After the surgery, many times a protective shoe is worn as the healing process takes place. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested to consult with a podiatrist who can perform a proper diagnosis and suggest the correct treatment for you.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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.

A symptom of the foot condition known as plantar fasciitis is severe heel pain and it can make daily activities difficult to complete. The plantar fascia is found on the sole of the foot and it connects the heel to the toes. Many people have found the benefits of practicing specific foot stretches to help ease heel pain. A towel stretch is an effective exercise for the bottom of the foot. This is done by sitting on the floor, wrapping a towel around the sole of the foot, and gently flexing the foot towards the face. Some patients find it helpful to practice heel stretches. This is accomplished by standing on a step and lowering the heels one at a time until a mild stretch is felt. There are many exercises that can specifically help plantar fasciitis. If you would like more information, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can effectively guide you toward proper treatment techniques.

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.

A person with lupus might experience swelling in the feet and ankles because the inflammation of lupus attacks the kidneys, which can lead to fluid build-up or edema of the lower extremities. Swelling can make movement uncomfortable, lead to pain, and become more serious if left untreated. Reducing sodium in the diet and controlling high blood pressure can help with swelling.  It is also wise to discuss medicines that can ease pain with a podiatrist. A podiatrist can provide valuable education on how Lupus affects the feet and assist in devising a customized treatment plan to control symptoms.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff from Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of 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.

When the nerves in the extremities (feet and hands) are damaged, a condition known as peripheral neuropathy can develop. Diabetes is thought to be a major contributor to peripheral neuropathy. Symptoms can include numbness, shooting pain, tingling, and swelling. Among the most serious complications of this condition are developing foot ulcers, gangrene, and cardiovascular problems. A diabetic foot ulcer is simply a wound (usually on the foot) that takes a long time to heal. Because the foot is numb, it is often difficult to know when you have been injured or developed blisters. These sores can easily become infected, and if left untreated can then develop into gangrene. In extreme cases, gangrene can lead to amputation or even death. If you have a sore that won’t heal, have diabetes, or feel numbness in your feet and toes, it is extremely important to see a podiatrist as soon as possible for an exam, diagnosis and treatment options.   

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in 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 for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then 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.