Foot Conditions

 
 

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Flip Flops not the Best Choice of Summer Footwear

flip-flops7Basic foam flip flops are often a staple in many summer wardrobes. Many experts agree, however, that flip flops should be left for lounging around the pool. Often times flip flops and other summer sandals are too flat and do not properly hold the foot place. Support is typically lacking, and because the feet are not strapped in, slipping causes the foot to tense; allowing conditions such as calluses, blisters and corns to form. Summer sandals should have an adjustable strap to secure the foot into place to avoid slipping.

Flip flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any questions concerning the feet, consult with one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops. Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off, perfect for any summer beach goer. However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

  • Ankle problems
  • Hip problems
  • Lower back problems
  • Pain in the balls of the feet
  • Problems with foot arches
  • Changes in the way you walk

Are there injuries associated with flip-flops?

Yes. Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections. Common injuries and ailments include:

  • Sprained ankles
  • Blisters
  • Infections
  • Cuts and Scrapes

I like wearing flip-flops, are there safe alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and are made of high quality materials that will support for your feet. These flip-flops will cost more, but will also last longer as a result.

For more information about Flip Flops, follow the link below.

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

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Canadians Embarrassed by Toenail Fungus Study Finds

toenail-fungus7According to a recent study conducted by Leger 360 Marketing, one third of Canadians living with toenail fungus have given up on treating the condition and nearly two thirds of those suffering from the condition are embarrassed about their fungus. In recent years treating toenail fungus has not been very effective since topical treatments applied to the toenail or taken orally have not completely remedied the fungus and can have negative side effects; which may be why so many people have given up on treating the condition. The study also found that 83% of respondents agree that seeing a doctor is the best way to get assistance in treating toenail fungus.

While toenail fungus is troublesome to eradicate, it is not impossible. For more information about treatment, consult with Dr. Paula F. Raugellis of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc.. Our doctor will attend to all of your podiatric needs.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a problem which affects many people and is hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating toenail fungus.

Antibiotics & Treatments

Lamisil – is the most commonly effective treatment for toenail fungus. It is available as an antibiotic Terbinafine tablet and cream. Terbinafine is a chemical component which kills fungal growth on the body. Applying regular doses will gradually kill the fungal growth. It is important to keep the area clean and air free.

Talcum powder – applying 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

Alternative Treatments

There are always surgical procedures that are available for toenail fungus. Some people would like immediate quick removal of toenail fungus. Surgeons will be able to cut through and remove the growth using laser surgery. It is important not to try and remove it yourself. Once removed, your old shoes will need to be replaced to avoid reinfection.  

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

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Young Student Breaks Ankle after Getting Hit by a Car at Bus Stop

breakA student from Berlin, CT was injured and suffered a broken ankle after running into oncoming traffic. According to the police report, the student was supposed to get onto a school bus, but did not want to go to school.

This resulted in the young boy running into the street where a car swerved to avoid hitting him. The child was then transported to Hartford Hospital where he was treated for a broken ankle. The driver of the car was not charged.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact one of our podiatrists of Green Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both 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 offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Ryan Zimmerman suffering from Plantar Fasciitis

plantarWashington Nationals’ Ryan Zimmerman was advancing to third base during a game against the Cardinals when he began to hobble. Although Zimmerman continued to play, he seemed less into the game and more so visibly in pain. Manager Matt Williams revealed that Zimmerman has his first case of plantar fasciitis in his left foot.

The chronic pain in the heel and bottom of the foot began only four days ago, but he is now feeling more pain than usual. “I feel fine at the plate. It’s just, obviously, running the bases today wasn’t that great. But we’ll just try to treat it and try to keep it under control until it can go away,” Zimmerman stated.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, visit Dr. Paula F. Raugellis of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Dr. Raugellis can treat your heel pain as well as any other foot or ankle condition.

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of a 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 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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