Glen Allen Office
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Because pregnant women put such stress on their feet, finding the right forms of exercise during their pregnancy is essential. One of those exercises is water aerobics, in which you perform aerobic activities in the water in tune with music, building stamina and endurance while also releasing endorphins to relax the mind. The use of water aerobics to remain active during pregnancy as well ease the soreness of swollen feet can be essential to pregnancy health
Swimming is a great way to exercise the feet. If you have any questions regarding the benefits of swimming on the feet, consider contacting one of our podiatrists from The Podiatry Center. Our doctors will explain the unique health advantages this activity has and recommend some simple exercises.
Benefits of Swimming and Foot care
Our feet receive the most stress on a daily basis. Walking, running, and long standing contribute to pain and stress on the feet. Swimming helps promote circulation and keep the body feeling great and healthy.
Benefits of swimming:
Improve blood circulation
· Swimming is a good, safe way to get in extra physical activity and improve circulation, without causing further trauma to the feet
Relieve aches or pains
· It takes all the pressure off of them, allowing the feet to relax and recover, and improves blood flow to them.
Circulation overall for diabetics
· Swimming contributes to blood flow, and increase oxygen levels within the body.
Reduce foot inflammation
· Swimming in warm water can increase blood flow and make it easier to move and stretch the afflicted foot. The feet are also exposed in water, giving them much needed air.
Swimming the helpful alternative:
Many people like the elderly and diabetics suffer from weakened muscles and joints. A water sport like swimming will support the body, thus allowing him or her to move freely. Blood flow circulation is a main trigger to tired inflamed feet.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Richmond and Glen Allen, VA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
While most people get pedicures to wind down and relax, pedicurists want some of their customers to know a few things they should and should not expect from the process. While pedicurists will take care of your feet by removing dead skin and calluses, somethings they just cannot take care of. For example, plantar warts, ingrown toenails, and fungal should not be taken care of at home or at a nail salon, they should be taken care of by a podiatrist. “A podiatrist is qualified to take care of the problem as quickly as and pain-free as possible,” says pedicurist Alexandra Calle.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you have any concerns with plantar warts on your feet contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
About Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.
While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.
Symptoms
· Legions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
· Hard or thick callused spots
· Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
· Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing
Treatment
· Freezing
· Electric tool removal
· Laser Treatment
· Topical Creams (prescription only)
· Over-the-counter medications
To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, will help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Richmond and Glen Allen, VA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Arthritis affects millions of people around the world, with 33% of people aged 45-years-old and over suffering from osteoarthritis and a significant amount suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Gout, caused by a buildup of uric acid in the body, is another common form the affects many. To help prevent and combat the effects of arthritis, people should control their weight with a healthy diet, exercise to maintain muscle strength and prevent weakness, and thoroughly rehabilitate from any injuries.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are suffering from arthritic foot pain, contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center. Our podiatrists can treat your foot and ankle 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 about arthritic foot care, please feel free to contact our offices located in Richmond and Glen Allen, VA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Spring and summer weather is a sure indication of sandals, bare feet, and painted toes. Some women, however, have to contend with foot conditions such as ingrown toenails that developed over the winter months. Experts provide women with4 tips for ingrown toenail prevention and treatment. Be careful while cutting toenails and be careful to not cut the cuticles. Wear shoes that do not squish toes or force the big toe inward. Clip toenails straight across. Finally, soak the feet in a solution of ½ cup iodine and 1 gallon of warm water for 15 to 20 minutes a day.
Ingrown toenails are very painful and could lead to other complications. If you have any concerns about your ingrown toenails contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.
Causes
· Bacterial infections
· Improper nail cutting such cutting it too short or not straight across
· Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
· Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
· Genetic predisposition
Prevention
Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Glen Allen and Richmond, VA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
While vinegar has long been recommended for treating foot problems such as athlete’s foot and toenail fungus, some critics say that there is no specific evidence to support those claims. Carol S. Johnston of Arizona State University states, “In popular media, vinegar is commonly recommended for treating toenail fungus, yet support for these treatment strategies is lacking.” Even though there is no scientific backing, remedies involving vinegar are listed on websites such as LiveStrong, Reader’s Digest, and The Huffington Post. Ultimately, if you are suffering from athlete’s foot or any other foot ailment, it is best to contact your podiatrist first.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you are concerned about your athlete’s foot, contact our podiatrist one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
· Hydrate your feet by using lotion
· Exfoliate
· Buff off nails
· Use of anti-fungal products
· Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop
Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speaking to your podiatrist will give you a better understanding of the different causes of athlete’s foot, as well as helping you figure out which treatment options are best for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Glen Allen and Richmond, VA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Boston College has lost tailback Jon Hilliman due to foot surgery. According to Coach Steve Addazio, the team will have to work hard as he rushed 122 yards and 24 carries during his last game. Other tailbacks, Myles Willis and Marcus Outlow, are currently both suffering from shoulder injuries leaving junior tailback, Tyler Rouse to maintain the position. “We will be without Jon Hilliman. This was a physical game that took a toll on us from a personnel standpoint,” Addazio stated.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries need proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
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 offices located in Richmond and Glen Allen, VA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
With New York Fashion Week and London Fashion Week coming to an end, designers will be seen attending and presenting their shows with their hair pulled back and heels left in their closet for a more comfortable foot wear. One Designer, Anya Hindmarch attempted to comfortable revive her guests with bright and familiar objects, logos, but her models were also kept in sneakers and more comfortable shoes. Models walking down the runway in what resembled gymnastics leotards gave way to a more comfortable outlook of the week, one without blisters and calluses and other issues caused by the effects of high heels.
High heels have a history for causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center Richmond. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because they are associated with femininity. Despite their appeal, they can cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
What parts my body will be affected by high heels?
· Ankle Joints
· Achilles Tendon – may shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
· Balls of the Feet
· Knees – heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
· Back – they decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain. Also, the vertebrae of the lower back may compress.
What kinds of foot problems can develop from wearing high heels?
· Corns
· Calluses
· Hammertoe
· Bunions
· Morton’s Neuroma
· Plantar Fasciitis
How can I still wear high heels and maintain foot health?
If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems. Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising. If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work. Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock; you can buy either full inserts or metatarsal pads.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Richmond and Glen Allen, VA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Fifteen years ago, Dipa Karmakar was a flat-footed six-year-old participating in gymnastics when Coach Bishweshwar Nandi decided to take her on. Today the partnership has corrected her flat foot and Karmakar has recently won the bronze medal at the Asian Championships in Japan. “I still remember Dipa coming to see me as a flat-footed kid, which is not good for a gymnast. It affects the spring her in jump,” stated coach Nandi. Since the fix, Karmakar has had a variety of successes including becoming the first Indian woman to win a Commonwealth medal at the 2014 Glasgow games on the Vault table.
Most arches will develop in children after a certain age. If you suspect that your child has the condition, speak to one of our podiatristsof The Podiatry Center. Our doctor will answer any of your foot and ankle related questions and attend to all of your podiatric needs.
What are Flat Feet?
Flat feet are a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. Standing about 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arch never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – if you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms:
Pain around the heel or arch area
Trouble standing on the tip toe.
Swelling around the inside of the ankle.
Flat look to one or both feet.
Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment:
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Richmond and Glen Allen, VA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and treatments for your foot and ankle needs.
Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center surgeon, Dr. Timothy Miller, recently streamed an Achilles tendon surgery on the video-streaming appPeriscope. Dr. Miller is one of the first among many surgeons using the app hoping that it will help advance medical education. In this day and age of medical education, students and residents are all equally busy which makes the viewing of cases like these increasingly difficult. The streaming session reeled in nearly 170 live viewers, was viewed more than 800 times after during the 24 hours Periscope archived the surgery, and with the help of an assistant in the operating room, five to six questions were answered during the procedure.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Glen R. Wilensky and Dr. Julie A. Greenwood of The Podiatry Center Richmond. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can cause severe difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What are the symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
- Inflammation
- Dull to Severe Pain
- Increased blood flow to the tendon
- Thickening of the tendon
Rupture Symptoms
- Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
- Total immobility
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
- Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
- Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Glen Allen and Richmond, VA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Gareth Bale of Real Madrid has undergone a series of medical tests to ensure his toe is not broken. Bale was sent to Sanitas La Moraleja after suffering a blow to his right toe during a game in Gijon. While the x-rays revealed Bale had no broken bones, the club has taken the matter seriously to quickly rule out injury. Bale has since been preparing for a game against Betis.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What to Know About a Broken Toe
Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
· throbbing pain
· swelling
· bruising on the skin and toenail
· the inability to move the toe
· toe appears crooked or disfigured
· tingling or numbness in the toe
Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.
Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.
If you have any concerns please feel free to contact our offices located in Richmond and Glen Allen, VA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
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