Blog
Monday, 18 April 2016 21:35
What to Look for in the Right Footwear
The phrase “breaking in your shoes” actually means bad news for your feet. Making your feet adjust to the shape and size of your shoes means prolonged strain and chronic problems. When choosing footwear, make sure to find shoes that fit your feet and optimize comfort. Your footwear should have enough room to allow your feet to wiggle your toes. Try on shoes at the store and walk in them first to see if there is any initial pain to prevent and avoid any long-term issues.
Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, see Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your growing feet in addition to other podiatric-related 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 is 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 tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 11 April 2016 11:23
Indiana Hoosiers Robert Johnson Sustains Ankle Injury
Indiana Hoosiers sophomore guard Robert Johnson sustained a sprained ankle injury in the game against Purdue. With a little over 3 minutes remaining in the game, Johnson had to be escorted off the court. Hoosiers coach Tom Crean confirmed on his radio show that Johnson has an ankle sprain. Crean was not able to give the exact status of Johnson’s condition at the time. Johnson was being monitored at the time and will be in recovery.
Ankle sprains are common, but need immediate attention. If you have any concerns about your feet, see Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your growing feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.
What are the Symptoms?
- Mild to moderate bruising
- Limited mobility
- Swelling
- Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)
Preventing a Sprain
- Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
- Stretching before exercises and sports
- Knowing your limits can aid in prevention
Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.
If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lake Worth, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 04 April 2016 10:56
Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis Are the Most Common Types of Arthritis
Arthritis is commonly used as a general term to describe a disease that causes inflammation and stiffness of small joints in the body. Included in the arthritis category are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, which are also the “most common types of arthritis, affecting 1.5 million and 27 million Americans, respectively.” Rheumatoid arthritis can develop quickly, usually affecting the small joints, while osteoarthritis develops over time and can affect any joint on the body. Arthritis pain symptoms are sporadic and should be treated immediately.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment,see Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your growing feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves inflammation of different joints in your body, such as in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. On top of this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.
In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.
Alleviating Arthritic Pain
- Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
- Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
- Massages can help to temporarily alleviate pain.
It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lake Worth, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 28 March 2016 17:56
Knowing Your Rheumatoid Arthritis Facts
Rheumatoid arthritis is commonly known as an inflammatory autoimmune disease that leads to swelling in the joints in areas of the body like the hands and feet. Constantly managing your rheumatoid arthritis is vital to reducing the onset of symptoms and the progression of the disease. Rheumatoid arthritis is also suggested to be linked to a higher risk of heart disease, due to drastic changes in lifestyle.
Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, see Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your growing feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.
Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet
Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.
Symptoms
- Swelling & pain in the feet
- Stiffness in the feet
- Pain on the ball or sole of feet
- Joint shift and deformation
Diagnosis
Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lake Worth, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 21 March 2016 22:44
New Study Suggests Motion Control Shoes to Help Prevent Running Injuries
According to the British Journal of Sports Medicine, motion control running shoes may prevent injury for those with flat feet or feet that overpronate. The study included 386 randomly assigned recreational runners aged 18 to 65 years of age. Each group was assigned either a normal running shoe or a motion control shoe for six months’ time. Of all the injuries sustained during the trial period, 32% of regular shoe wearers suffered an injury while 18% of motional control shoe wearers sustained an injury. This showed that motion control helped those with flat feet, but did not have any effect on those with normal pronation.
Runners can still be prone to running injuries even with proper precautions. For more information about treatment, see Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your growing feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.
What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.
Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber, this will help you gain better flexibility.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lake Worth, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 14 March 2016 14:51
Make a Habit out of Taking Care of Your Feet
Taking care of your feet is a routine everyone should make a daily habit of. Your feet support and sustain the weight of your body and are an indicator of your body’s health. To prevent conditions like ingrown toenails, trim your nails regularly and straight across. Wear comfortable shoes that do not put pressure or rub your feet. Consider going barefoot in clean and safe environments. Make a mixture, such as a honey, milk, and lemon juice mix, to soak your feet in. Scrub your feet often and use moisturizers like coconut oil.
Every day foot care is very important, especially for those that are lacking the proper foot care resources. For more information about everyday foot care, consult with Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will provide you with the foot and ankle information you seek.
Every Day Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. After all, without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks. It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before, for example.
For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops.
Also, wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lake Worth, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 07 March 2016 01:36
New Device for Treating Diabetic Foot Ulcers
The US Food and Drug Administration has approved a new form of treatment for patients dealing with non-healing diabetic foot ulcers. Known as the Integra Dermal Regeneration Template, the device works to provide immediate wound closure for an ulcer that has lasted over six weeks. With the use of silicone, cow collagen, and shark cartilage, the device allows cell migration, helping new cells grow.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet see Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your growing feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. Diabetes can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, including the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
- Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
- Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
- Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels because blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lake Worth, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 29 February 2016 08:37
Florida State University Quarterback breaks Ankle
Sean Maguire, quarterback for Florida State University, fractured his ankle while making a pass attempt in the first quarter of the game against Houston. He was immediately carted off the field and to the locker room to be evaluated. Following the stint, he decided to continue playing with a wrap on his broken ankle but was intercepted during pass attempts. Florida State ended up losing with a score of 38-24, and Maguire is set to have surgery and will be unable to play practice.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you need your feet checked, see Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your growing feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.
When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
- Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
- Swelling around the area
- Bruising of the area
- Area appears to be deformed
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lake Worth, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 22 February 2016 11:57
Possible Link Between Smoking and Lower Risks of Gout
A recent study conducted by the Arthritis Care & Research suggests that smoking or cigarette smoke may possibly lead to lower gout risks. The research indicates, however, that this “27% lower risk” benefit was noted only in men who were lean, non-overweight smokers. Urate levels in the test subjects were “significantly lower” than those who were previous smokers or who have never smoked. Research has never before been done on the correlation between gout and smoking, and the results are new and inconclusive.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you have any concerns about gout contact Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lake Worth, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 15 February 2016 05:07
Shoe Size important for Foot Health
Finding the right shoe size is pertinent to one’s foot health. Shoes that are too tight can irritate the feet and create blisters or calluses; shoes that are too loose can also cause tripping. When trying on shoes ensure that you select a pair that has solid foot support, sufficient toe room, and either laces or velcro if you intend to exercise in it.
Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. If you have any concerns about your feet contact Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Getting the Right Shoe Size
There are many people that wear shoes that are ill-fitting, which affects their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to selecting the right pair.
- When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot
- When measuring your foot with your shoe on, add 1-2 inches to the size
- Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes
- Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently
- Purchase shoes later in the day as your feet swell as the day progresses
- If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes
As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat your feet right by choosing the right pair of shoes that can provide them comfort and mobility with minimal pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lake Worth, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
