May 2024

Severe ankle sprains that do not respond well to conservative treatment methods, such as rest and elevation, may require surgical intervention to restore stability and function to the ankle. A podiatrist, or foot doctor, might suggest surgical procedures like arthroscopy, where a small camera and instruments are inserted through tiny incisions to visualize, diagnose, and repair damage to the ligaments inside the ankle. Severe tearing of the ligaments may require reconstructive surgery, which involves replacing the damaged ligament with a tendon graft taken from another part of the body or using synthetic materials to stabilize the ankle. These surgical options aim to alleviate pain, restore stability, and prevent chronic issues such as ankle instability or recurrent sprains. Post-surgery, a rehabilitation program with targeted exercises to strengthen the muscles around the ankle is important. This helps patients who have undergone ankle surgery regain full mobility and recover successfully. If you have a sprained ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist promptly for proper care. 

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of 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 alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. 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 and ankle needs.

Ingrown toenails occur when the edges of a toenail grow into the surrounding skin. This commonly causes pain, redness, and swelling. Effective management techniques include proper toenail trimming, such as cutting nails straight across without rounding the corners and wearing shoes that provide ample space for the toes. This is because excessive pressure on the nails is partly what leads to ingrown toenails. For recurring or severe cases, a podiatrist, or foot doctor, can offer professional treatments. One treatment includes lifting the nail edge and placing a small splint to allow the nail to grow above the skin level. In some instances, a minor surgical procedure might be necessary. In this case, a podiatrist removes part of the offending nail and may treat the nail bed to prevent the problematic portion of the nail from growing back. Podiatrists can also provide guidance on foot hygiene and footwear to prevent future ingrown toenails. Addressing ingrown toenails professionally helps both reduce pain and prevent infections. If you are suffering from an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist for care.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. 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 are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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.

As we age, the risk of experiencing a fall increases, posing a significant threat to independence and mobility among individuals aged 65 and older. Falls can lead to severe consequences, often affecting the feet, including fractures, reduced quality of life, and loss of independence. Therefore, prioritizing falls prevention is paramount. Several risk factors contribute to falls in older adults, including muscle weakness, balance issues, medication side effects, and environmental hazards. Implementing preventive measures, such as regular exercise to improve strength and balance, removing tripping hazards at home, ensuring proper lighting, and reviewing medications with a healthcare provider, can significantly reduce the risk of falls. A podiatrist can assess foot health and address issues, such as wearing improper footwear and having foot pain, which can contribute to instability. Additionally, they can provide guidance on proper foot care and recommend custom orthotic devices to improve balance and mobility. If you are a senior and want to learn more about falls prevention and what you can do to protect yourself, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can help you safeguard your independence and well-being.

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.

Podiatrists specialize in diagnosing, treating, and preventing various foot and ankle conditions. These medically trained foot doctors address common conditions such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, heel spurs, ingrown toenails, and diabetic foot complications, to name a few. They conduct thorough evaluations with diagnostic tools, including X-rays, imaging tests, and medical histories to formulate comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs. Treatment modalities may include medication, orthotic devices, and surgical interventions when necessary. With their expertise and dedication, podiatrists empower individuals to maintain optimal foot health, alleviate discomfort, and regain mobility, enhancing their overall quality of life. The feet are the foundation of the body and having foot pain can wreak havoc on daily activities. If you have foot pain for any reason, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can offer you appropriate treatment measures.

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.