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Tuesday, 21 February 2023 00:00

Foot Corns and Calluses

Foot corns and calluses are small areas of thick, raised, and hardened skin on the feet. These result from excessive friction or pressure on the skin and can cause pain. Calluses generally occur on the soles of the feet, around the toes. They are larger and flatter than corns. Corns tend to be smaller, circular in shape, and yellow or white in color. Corns press into deeper layers of the skin and are usually found on the top, side, or in-between toes. Usually, these come from wearing ill-fitting shoes and doing a lot of walking. Corns and calluses are usually not serious and can be dealt with by practicing good foot hygiene, wearing shoes that fit well, and using shoe inserts. Sometimes, medicine is required, and if they become infected or cause ulcers, surgery might also be necessary. If you have corns or calluses that do not respond to better foot care and footwear, and if they appear to be worsening, it is wise to see a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment suggestions.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Brian Shwer, DPM of Southaven Foot Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

  • Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
  • Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
  • Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Southaven, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Understanding Corns and Calluses
Tuesday, 14 February 2023 00:00

Blisters and Vaseline

If you are someone who wears shoes that rub up against your skin or shoes that are simply too tight, you may be putting yourself at an increased risk of developing blisters. Blisters on the feet are certainly nothing to take too lightly. These blisters may develop on the feet in different areas such as the heels and toes. If you have a blister that falls off prematurely, leaving a wound exposed, a podiatrist can help you address this problem. Depending on the nature of the blister and your particular case, a podiatrist may suggest a variety of different things. For example, a podiatrist may recommend that you would benefit most from applying petroleum jelly to the wound and covering it with a bandage. The goal of taking these steps is to facilitate the healing of the underlying wound. Please contact a podiatrist today for more information and correct treatment options.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Brian Shwer, DPM of Southaven Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Southaven, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Blisters
Tuesday, 07 February 2023 00:00

How Dancers Stretch Their Feet

Stretching the feet, no matter who you are or how frequently you engage in physical activity, can be beneficial for a number of different reasons. However, if you are a dancer, then stretching the feet can be all the more important and necessary. There are several different explanations for this phenomenon. By stretching the feet, a dancer is essentially building strength in their feet. This ultimately helps a dancer better handle the significant physical demands of dancing. Ballet, for example, is a particular kind of dance that is highly demanding on the feet. Therefore, ballet dancers stand to benefit to a great degree by stretching their feet. If you are a dancer looking to strengthen their feet through stretches and exercises, consider performing a hand towel or thera-band stretch. Contact a podiatrist today for more information about stretching the feet.  

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Brian Shwer, DPM from Southaven Foot Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

  • Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
  • Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
  • Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Southaven, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Stretching Your Feet
Sunday, 05 February 2023 00:00

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Tuesday, 31 January 2023 00:00

Long-Reach Foot Brush

When an individual grows older, it can become significantly difficult to take care of the feet, given the usual difficulty of bending down to reach them. However, it becomes even more important the older an individual gets to take good care of the feet. One interesting way in which senior citizens might be able to better care for their feet is with the help of a tool named a long-reach foot brush. This device has a long handle, and at the tip are a series of bristles that form the brush. This device can be used by seniors to reach their feet without the necessity of bending over. Often, long-reach foot brushes might be used during a shower for seniors to clean their feet during bathing. Some of these tools even have pumice stones attached to the back of the brush for ample foot care. If you are a senior citizen or are caring for one, consider incorporating these brushes into the daily foot care routine. If you have more questions, contact a podiatrist today. 

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Brian Shwer, DPM from Southaven Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

  • Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
  • Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
  • Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
  • Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
  • Shoes that don’t fit properly
  • Pressure sores
  • Loss of circulation in legs & feet
  • Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Southaven, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Elderly and their Feet
Tuesday, 24 January 2023 00:00

Facts About Ankle Replacement

Ankle replacement surgery is a last resort to eliminating severe pain, stiffness, and inflammation caused by arthritis. This procedure is usually considered only after less-invasive measures, such as arthroscopic debridement and ankle fusion, have been dismissed. There are many risks involved with ankle replacement surgery, including infection, nerve damage, and blood clots. Additionally, there is a chance of misalignment of the bones involved, as well as risks related to age and other underlying medical conditions. The procedure replaces parts of the affected bones with plastic or metal pieces. It is usually recommended only for someone who can barely move their ankle. Recovery from this surgery may include wearing a cast or protective boot and taking prescription pain medication. The ability to bear weight on the ankle will improve very slowly, and recovery may take four months or longer. The new ankle joint is expected to last for about 10 years. For more information on ankle replacement surgery or to see if you qualify, please consult a podiatrist. 

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Brian Shwer, DPM from Southaven Foot Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

  • Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
  • Ankle sprains
  • Broken ankles
  • Achilles tendinitis
  • Achilles tendon rupture
  • Stress fractures
  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome
  • Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Southaven, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

Read more about Ankle Pain
Tuesday, 17 January 2023 00:00

Reasons for Foot Cramps

Any kind of foot cramp usually grabs our attention, mainly because it interferes with carrying out the activities of the day. If foot cramps start to become an ongoing occurrence, it may be a good idea to question why they are happening. One common cause of foot cramps is wearing shoes that are too tight. The reason is likely to be that blood circulation to the feet is being blocked. Cramps in the feet may also be the result of dehydration, which keeps the muscles from getting the water they need to function properly. This may be caused by an underlying condition or an infection. Overdoing exercise may result in foot cramps as the feet work extra hard to maintain your balance. Athletes, dancers, and workers who stand for long periods may experience this reaction. Among the other possible causes of foot cramps are pregnancy, low levels of electrolytes and other minerals, and nerve damage. If foot cramps become more frequent or severe, it is a good idea to visit a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer ways to prevent or lessen them.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Brian Shwer, DPM from Southaven Foot Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Southaven, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Foot Pain

It can be common for older people to fall. Many patients who fall may escape from having a serious injury happen but can develop a fear of falling from the stress it can cause. One of the most effective fall prevention techniques is to wear shoes that fit correctly. This is instrumental in maintaining balance and possibly avoiding unwanted foot conditions. Additional methods can include getting routine physical and eye examinations which are helpful in monitoring existing medications and eyeglasses and frequently participating in a gentle exercise program. Some people also find it beneficial to install grab bars in the shower and toilet area, in addition to removing worn rugs and clutter from the living area. Eating small meals during the day may help to maintain proper energy and strength, and this may help to prevent falling. The feet may become injured when a fall occurs, which may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you would like to learn about the importance of implementing fall prevention techniques into your lifestyle, please confer with a podiatrist.

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 Brian Shwer, DPM from Southaven Foot Clinic. 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 Southaven, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Falls Prevention
Friday, 06 January 2023 00:00

Do You Suffer From Painful Feet?

Painful deformities, such as hammertoes, can be treated. Stop living with foot pain, and have beautiful feet again!

Tuesday, 03 January 2023 00:00

Toenail Fungus and Nail Polish

The extent to which an individual wears nail polish on their toenails may have some effect on how susceptible they are to developing toenail fungus. For example, a person shouldn't wear nail polish on their toenails at all times because despite the pop of color nail polish can provide, there are also many different detrimental effects this may produce on the feet. When an individual constantly wears nail polish on their toenails, the pigment from the nail polish can be essentially soaked up, causing the nails to become exceedingly dry. As a result of this, a fungus may become more likely. Rather than wearing toenail polish at all times every day, it is recommended that you take time off in between wearing polish on the toenails. This will give the toenails a chance to fully recuperate and breathe again. If you are interested in learning about more ways in which a toenail fungus can be prevented and how one can healthily wear toenail polish, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today. 

For more information about treatment, contact Brian Shwer, DPM of Southaven Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Southaven, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Treating Toenail Fungus
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