Foot Conditions

 
 

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Alternative Methods for Bunion Pain Relief



bunionIn response to a concern over increasing bunion pain and shoes that hurt, Mayo Clinic reports that while surgery is an option to consider for bunion pain, it is not the only treatment available for the condition. One of the first steps one should take to relieve bunion pain is to change footwear and wear shoes with a wide toe box and soft leather uppers, which will relieve pressure on bunions.  Stretching out shoes can also aid in decreasing irritation and make them feel more comfortable. Acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen are pain-relieving medications one can take that may help control bunion pain, as well as cortisone injections.

To avoid extended pain, consider bunion treatment as soon as possible. For more information about bunion treatments, consult with one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality care.

What is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or boney growth enlargement, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs by the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big to become inflamed and often painful.

Why do Bunions Form?

  • Genetics – susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary, particularly among Caucasians

  • Stress on the feet – poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that place undue stress on feet, such as heels and stilettos, can cause bunions to form


How are Bunions Diagnosed?

Podiatrists knowledgeable in anatomy and foot structure can be able to diagnose bunions through the following two methods:

  • Blood Tests – to help rule out other conditions while finding underlying causes to bunions, especially from disease

  • Radiological Exam- X-rays can show whether there are any joint enlargements near the toe’s base, which can indicate a bunion


For more information about Bunions, follow the link below.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Corns and Other Podiatric Issues Can be aided by Mother Nature

CornsMany individuals believe that nature is sufficient in curing nearly anything. According to writers at the Outdoor Life, those suffering from corns on the feet can treat the thickened skin in natural ways. On one instance, those with corns can submerge their feet in a will tree bark and water solution for thirty minutes to soften the skin in the area.

Acorns can be especially helpful in removing ingrown toenails. Grind the acorns up, soak them in water, and then dunk your feet in for a surprisingly effective treatment. For blisters or lesions, apply crushed plantains or yarrow to the afflicted area and cover the wound with a bandage.

Although nature has many surprising aids and tips, it cannot resolve everything. If you have a corn or any other podiatric concern, contact Dr. Paula F. Raugellis of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Dr. Raugellis will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What are they? And how do you get rid of them?

Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:
- Well-fitting socks
- Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
- Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treating corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Salicylic acid can help in getting rid of these corns because it dissolves keratin, which is the protein that makes up a good majority of corns. Podiatrists recommend that people with diabetes not use salicylic acid but should consult with their podiatrist regarding the treatment of corns.

For more information about Corns on the Feet, follow the link below.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs

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Wet Weather makes practicing Everyday Foot Care Important

Everyday foot care is a practice that should be maintained year-round, regardless of the season. There is no denying, however, that the unpredictable wet weather of fall and winter makes it a season where extra care should be taken. Prolonged exposure to moisture and water can create bacterial growth on the feet. Washing and scrubbing cracked feet can help remove dead cells, and the space between toes should be cleaned regularly. Toenails should be kept trimmed to prevent dirt from accumulating and makes cleaning the nails much easier. The feet should always be kept dry and clean, and it is important to wear waterproof shoes if possible when out in the rain or snow.


Everyday foot care is necessary all year round, regardless of weather. To learn more about daily foot care practices and how to maintain optimal foot health, consult with podiatrists Dr. Paula Raugellis and Dr. C. Michael Irvin of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors can answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

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 one of our offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

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Scientists of the University of Calgary Study Running Shoes

University of Calgary scientists want to build the perfect running shoe through studying the effects of comfort and its effect on the rates of injury. Even though the idea of the perfect running shoe has circulated for years, modern schools of thought claim that shoe design has no effect on the rate in which running injuries occur.

Advocates of the ‘comfort theory’ suggest that people should just go with the pair of running footwear that feels best for them. The scientific team still wants willing participants for their study, hoping to learn more through research.

For help with selecting an appropriate shoe size, consult with podiatrists Dr. Paula Raugellis and Dr. C. Michael Irvin of Greene Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Getting the Right Shoe Size
Sometimes it may be difficult finding the right shoe size especially because shoe sizes tend to vary depending on the brand and company you are looking for. A size 6 for one brand may be a size 7 in another. Although many people know their exact shoe size, it can range within 2 sizes depending on where they shop.

So it is important not to always go for a size 7 just because you think you might be a size 7 universally. It is best to try on the shoe and walk around for a bit to see how it fits and how it feels. Comfort is essential and the fitting has to be well otherwise it can lead to blisters, bruises at the back of the ankle and it can also hurt your toes if the shoe is too tight for example.
People walk a lot, so it is important for you to find what is comfortable when it is possible.
For more information about Getting the Right Shoe Size, follow the link below.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Foot Muscles Provide More Support than You Think

University of Queensland scientists conducted research indicating the plantar fascia is not the only muscle in the foot that can provide arch support. The first experiment involved weights being tied to the knees of two test subjects. The scientists monitored the responses of the muscles in their feet.

The second experiment involved electrical stimulation was performed soon after, showing that when activated, these tissues caused the arch to rise. Dr. Glen Lichtwark believes this could play an important role in fields focusing on the feet.

The biomechanics are the cogs behind the gears that manage your feet. If you would like more information, see podiatrists Dr. Paula Raugellis and Dr. C. Michael Irvin of Greene Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide in-depth information as well as measure your personal foot biomechanics.   

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 one of our offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

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