Painful deformities, such as hammertoes, can be treated. Stop living with foot pain, and have beautiful feet again!
Research has indicated that frequent stretching and exercise may prevent falling episodes. This may be a result of the body becoming stronger as specific routines are performed, and falling may happen less often. Flexibility can be increased, and coordination and balance may also improve. Many injuries that can affect the feet can occur from falling, and this may cause difficulty in accomplishing daily activities. It is important to ensure the living environment is free of clutter, and it may help to install grab bars in the shower and toilet area. For added safety, many people choose to have a bath mat in the shower or tub area, as this can provide security. It is beneficial to have regular physical and eye examinations, as this may help to manage and update existing medication. If you would like additional information about how falling can impact the feet, please consult 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:
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.
A plantar fibroma is a noncancerous or benign growth in the arch of the foot that slowly grows over time. It develops on the plantar fascia, the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel to the toes. A fibroma appears as a small bump typically less than an inch in size, and can occur in one or both feet. Often, a plantar fibroma does not cause symptoms. However, a fibroma can cause pain and discomfort if it grows in size, and it may be especially painful if pressure is applied to the area. Some experts say genetics play a factor, but it is not clear what exactly causes plantar fibroma or why, there’s no known way to prevent its occurrence. If you suspect that you have a plantar fibroma, it is suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist.
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:
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.
Just like most physical activities, there is a risk of a variety of foot and ankle injuries that can occur from playing soccer. While many are acute, overuse injuries can happen as well. One of the most common injuries (and re-injuries) that occurs is an ankle sprain. When the ankle rolls, the ligaments can become damaged or torn. Achilles tendonitis is another form of an overuse injury that causes pain and inflammation to the Achilles tendon in the back of the ankle. Metatarsal stress fractures are also a common overuse injury in soccer. A stress fracture is a hairline crack in the bones that causes gradual worsening pain. If you have been injured or notice moderate to severe pain or swelling, especially while walking, visiting a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment method is highly recommended.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, 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.
Sports 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:
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 Southaven, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
There are several reasons why bunions may develop. These can include genetic factors, wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, a foot deformity, or from a medical condition like arthritis. A bunion is defined as a bone that protrudes from the joint in the big toe, and may cause severe pain and discomfort. Additional symptoms of a bunion can consist of swelling and redness surrounding the affected joint, and the toe may be difficult to move. After a proper diagnosis is made, which generally involves having an X-ray taken and a physical examination of the foot is performed, proper treatment can begin. Orthotics may be prescribed and it is beneficial to wear shoes that have low heels and a wide toe box. If your bunion is very painful or causing difficulty walking, it is strongly suggested that you are examined by a podiatrist.
If you are suffering from bunion pain, 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.
What Is a Bunion?
Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.
Causes
Symptoms
In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.
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.
Patients who have experienced an Achilles tendon injury are often aware of the severe pain and discomfort this can cause. It can occur from repetitive irritation, or from a sudden injury. Additionally, wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or having an abnormal foot structure may contribute to the onset of this type of injury. The symptoms that are often associated with this condition can consist of extreme tenderness in the heel, calf, and ankle, and it can be difficult to walk. It is beneficial to consult with a podiatrist if you have endured an Achilles tendon injury. A podiatrist can guide you toward the right treatments for you.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, 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.
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 create immense 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 injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
Rupture Symptoms
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:
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.
The condition that is referred to as ingrown toenails is quite a common ailment. It occurs as a result of the outer edges of the toenail growing into the surrounding skin. The big toe is often affected when this condition develops, and it may happen for several reasons. These can consist of genetic factors, certain medical conditions, and wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. Patients who are diabetic or who have poor circulation, may be prone to developing ingrown toenails. Some of the symptoms that are associated with ingrown toenails can include tenderness around the affected toe, swelling, and in severe cases, a discharge may be evident. Possible prevention techniques can include trimming the toenails correctly, and wearing shoes and socks that fit properly. If you are afflicted with an ingrown toenail or seem to have reoccurring ingrown toenails, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.
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 Brian Shwer, DPM of Southaven Foot Clinic. 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
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 Southaven, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Plantar fasciitis is the result of the plantar fascia, the band on the bottom of the foot that connects the toes to the heel, becoming inflamed. Plantar fasciitis usually results in pain at the bottom of the heel or midfoot. Generally, the pain develops over time and can be either sharp or dull. Pain from plantar fasciitis is usually worse after waking up in the morning, after sitting or lying down for a long period of time, or after climbing stairs. Pain from plantar fasciitis is usually felt after an activity is completed and not as much during the activity. People who are between the ages of 40 and 70 and are active are at a higher risk of developing plantar fasciitis. Those who are obese, pregnant, run long distances, have structural foot problems, or have a very active job are also at a higher risk of developing plantar fasciitis. If you are experiencing the symptoms of plantar fasciitis, it is important to visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.
Prevention
There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.
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.
Excess levels of uric acid in the blood may lead to the medical condition that is known as gout. Crystals can form in the joints of the big toe, and this can cause severe pain and discomfort. Additional symptoms that patients experience may consist of swelling, heat and redness, and it may become difficult to walk. Gout is considered to be a form of arthritis and it can develop for a variety of reasons. These can include genetic factors, eating foods that have high purine levels, or from taking certain medications. When a gout attack occurs it can be beneficial to rest and elevate the affected foot, as well as apply ice packs and take anti-inflammatory medication, and the pain may be reduced. Gout can be a debilitating foot condition, which is why you should consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible so correct treatment options can be discussed.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Brian Shwer, DPM from Southaven Foot Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.
Symptoms
Risk Factors
Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.
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.
