Blog
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.
Monday, 08 February 2016 14:44
Addressing Your Heel Pain
If you are always on your feet, heel pain may be a common occurrence. Changing your fitness routine or putting on a few pounds can also add pressure to the feet, resulting in heel pain. Discomfort in the feet should never be overlooked, but heel pain can often be resolved through stretching. Properly flexing and exercising the muscles in your lower extremity can strengthen and protect your heels and other areas of the foot from future pain.
Anyone can wind up suffering from heel pain. For more information, consult with Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes of Heel Pain
● Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.
● Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.
● Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.
Why Might Heel Pain Occur?
- Wearing ill-fitting shoes
- Wearing non-supportive shoes
- Weight change
- Excessive running
Treatments
Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a thing of the past.
With the advancements in technology and greater knowledge of how muscles and joints work, physical therapists can turn things around dramatically.
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, 01 February 2016 10:29
Carmelo Anthony Sprains His Ankle Against Magic
Despite Carmelo Anthony’s insistence of playing against LeBron James during practice, Anthony may have to stay sidelined. Anthony sprained his ankle in the game against the Magic during the third quarter and had to receive treatment the following morning. Anthony is determined, however, to keep playing. “You got to get yourself going mentally. You got to get yourself going physically,” Anthony said in acknowledgment of the challenge of being prepared for his games.
Ankle sprains are common, but need immediate attention. 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.
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, 25 January 2016 16:32
Denver Broncos’s David Bruton Jr. Plays With Fractured Fibula
The Denver Broncos’s David Bruton Jr. will be out for about 4 to 6 weeks as he recovers from a fractured right fibula. The injury occurred when Bruton Jr. collided with Aqib Talib of the Pittsburgh Steelers, but Bruton did not realize he had suffered an injury. He went on to keep playing and did not realize he had broken his fibula until almost a day later. Bruton Jr. needed to be helped to the locker room and was seen limping around in the last drives of the game.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries need proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, consult with Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Sport 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 tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 18 January 2016 04:33
Managing Your Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis can be described as a condition in which the heel of the foot becomes inflamed with pain. This occurs when the fibrous band of tissues that connect your heel to your toe becomes infected. There are several solutions for treating plantar fasciitis. The first recommended tip is to go see your podiatrist. Consider taking over-the-counter calcium and magnesium supplements to help with managing your foot pain. Ice the bottom of your feet, stretch your calves, and massage your feet often to help reduce inflammation and pain.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. For more information, consult with Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
· Excessive running
· Non-supportive shoes
· Overpronation
· Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
How Can It Be Treated?
· Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
· Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
· Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
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.
Wednesday, 13 January 2016 11:16
Botox As A Possible Treatment for Hyperhidrosis
For those who have hyperhidrosis, Botox can be considered one potential treatment option in controlling sweat glands. Botox injections can help aid in the paralysis of over-exerting sweat glands, which results in hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating. Advanced Dermatology in Sydney, Australia, uses Botox as treatment for hyperhidrosis. “Hyperhidrosis is a serious condition affecting thousands of people, and it has a negative effect on their confidence in both social and professional settings,” says a spokesman. If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis, there are several different treatment choices to look into, with Botox being one potential option.
For more information, consult with Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Hyperhidrosis of the Feet
Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.
Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.
Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.
In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.
A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.
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 January 2016 05:21
New Invention of Customized 3D Printed Shoes
ATOSSA founder and product designer Behrad Ghodsi has purportedly invented a “new generation” of 3D printed shoes, which “embraces each person’s unique form and shapes itself accordingly.” The custom printed shoes resemble high heels, but are designed to promote style, comfort, and quality. ATOSSA requires users to take three pictures of the feet, which they can then use to create custom-made shoes. The footwear’s design is created with the user’s ergonomics in mind, which entails the support of the arch, ball and heel of the feet.
Proper foot care is important for biomechanics of the feet, which incorporate the parts that manage the movement of your feet. 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.
A History of Biomechanics
- Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
- In 1974 biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination to the area.
Modern technology improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes providing a better understanding of podiatry concepts for biomechanics. Computers provide accurate determinations about the forces, moments and patterns of the foot and lower legs with the most important information captured.
Advances in materials and more awareness of biomechanics have developed enhanced corrective methods, offering further options for foot-related injuries. Understanding foot biomechanics can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.
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.
