ankle-and-foot-associates

Total Ankle Replacement

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 00:35:05 GMT

What is Total Ankle Replacement?

Total Ankle Replacement (TAR) is a surgical procedure that involves replacing the damaged or worn out bones and joints in the ankle with a prosthetic device. The goal of TAR is to relieve pain and improve the function of the ankle.

Indications for TAR include:

Osteoarthritis of the ankle
Rheumatoid arthritis of the ankle
Ankle fractures that have not healed properly
Post-traumatic arthritis of the ankle

The TAR procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes about 2-3 hours to complete. During the procedure, the arthritic portion of the joint in the ankle is removed and replaced with the prosthetic device. The incision is then closed, and a splint or cast is applied to the ankle to help protect it during the healing process.

Recovery from TAR can take several months, and physical therapy is typically required to help regain strength and range of motion in the ankle. The majority of patients are able to return to normal activities such as walking, climbing stairs, and even returning to low-impact sports activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is TAR a good option for me?

A: TAR may be a good option for you if you have severe pain and limited function in your ankle due to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis. Your Foot and Ankle Specialist can help determine if TAR is the best option for you after evaluating your medical history, symptoms, and imaging studies.

Q: How long does it take to recover from TAR?

A: Recovery from TAR can take several months. Physical therapy is typically required to regain strength and range of motion in the ankle. Most patients are able to return to normal activities such as walking and climbing stairs within 3-6 months after the surgery.

Q: What are the risks and complications associated with TAR?

A: As with any surgery, there are risks and complications associated with TAR. These can include infection, blood clots, nerve or blood vessel injury, and prosthetic failure. Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you before the surgery and provide instructions on how to minimize them.

Q: Will I be able to return to my normal activities after TAR?

A: Most patients are able to return to normal activities such as walking and climbing stairs within 3-6 months after TAR. However, it is important to follow your surgeon's instructions and physical therapy plan to ensure a successful recovery.

Consult your Foot and Ankle Specialist for a personalized evaluation, to know if TAR is the best option for you.

Avoiding Ingrown Toenails

Sun, 10 Apr 2022 12:46:04 GMT

The great mountain ranges of the world—the Himalayas, the Rockies, the Alps—are all formed by tectonic plates colliding with one another. One large piece of land slowly inserts itself underneath another, burrowing down while the other plate rises to form the majestic monoliths we know today.

An ingrown toenail is pretty much the same thing—though, maybe not as majestic to look at. When it comes to ingrown toenails, think of the nail like that tectonic plate that is caught below the surface, burrowing under while the other plate—your skin—is stuck on top. So, next time you’re looking at a beautiful mountain scene, think of the mountains as nature’s ingrown toenails.

All jokes aside, ingrown toenails can be right painful. Unlike nature, however, there are plenty of things you can do at home to prevent these painful tectonic collisions from forming on your feet.

CAUSES OF INGROWN TOENAILS

Probably the most common (and preventable) cause of ingrown toenails is cutting the nail too short. If the nail is cut too far back on the toe, it allows the skin in front of the nail edge to get in the way of nail growth. As the nail regrows and gets longer after cutting it, it starts to dig into the skin.

Another cause of ingrown toenails is shoes that are too small or crush the toes together. Constant crushing and squeezing of the toes can affect how the nail grows. Compression of the toe will cause the nail to grow pressed too tight against the skin, causing ingrowth.

Heredity is the third cause. Your toenails might just have an extra pronounced curl by nature. Unlike natural curls in your hair that you may inherit from your parents, extra toenail curl isn’t quite as nice of genetic inheritance, as it can increase the risk of your nail growing into your skin.

Finally, traumatic injury to your toes—such as stubbing them or crushing them—may cause damage to your nail or push them into your skin.

HOW TO PREVENT INGROWN TOENAILS

Once you understand the causes, prevention of ingrown toenails is pretty straightforward.

When you trim your nails, make sure to cut across in a straight line and then file the edges away slightly, so they are no longer sharp or snag on anything. Cutting them too much on the side is a common way for the nail to get ingrown on the edges. Also, be sure not to cut your nails too far back on the skin. If you go out and get a pedicure, make sure the person working on your feet knows what he or she is doing and does not file your nails too short.

Another great way to prevent problems is to make sure your shoes fit in the right direction. If you have children, they may be more susceptible to ingrown toenails because they outgrow their shoes so quickly, so be sure to keep a close eye out.

It’s also a good idea to avoid injury to your feet. This is common sense regardless of whether you’re worried about ingrown toenails or not—you should always try to prevent toe injury regardless!

If you do find yourself with an ingrown toenail that is causing you pain, book an appointment with Ankle & Foot Associates, and we’ll get you in for an exam so you’ll be back up and moving in no time.

Controlling Foot Blisters

Sun, 20 Mar 2022 22:47:54 GMT

If you are a runner, or even if you spend a lot of time on your feet, you know how painful blisters can be. One little bump is all it takes to ruin your day. Luckily, there are a few methods and techniques you can use to help prevent blisters and treat them if they do form so you can get on with your life.

HOW BLISTERS FORM

Runners know that friction is one of the main causes of blisters, but there is more to it. The two biggest culprits to blister formation are ill-fitting shoes and poor moisture control.

Shoes that are too big allow excessive movement for your feet, causing undue friction and irritation. On the other hand, shoes that are too tight will not only rub against your skin but also leave your feet gasping for fresh air and drowning in sweat—not a pretty mental picture, huh?

Your skin reacts to friction by producing a bubble of fluid in the form of a blister. In the case of too much moisture, sweat can clog up your pores, resulting in the same skin reaction.

While these are the most common causes, blisters can also form from frostbite, fungal and bacterial infections, allergic reactions, and other conditions.

BLISTER PREVENTION

Now that you know the causes, you have the first weapon in preventing their formation. While you may not be able to make yourself completely immune, there are a few ways to minimize friction and moisture to keep your feet as healthy as possible.

Proper fitting shoes should be your first go-to solution. Just like Goldilocks, your shoes need to be just right—not too big or too small. Shoes with adequate ventilation will give you the biggest advantage in preventing blisters.

Beyond shoes, foot powder and sweat-wicking socks are a great way to control moisture in your shoes. If friction is still an issue, two pairs of socks can help provide an extra cushion (as long as they don’t make your feet too hot). Foot powder is also great in preventing fungal issues.

If you are anticipating blisters, such as before a long run or if you can feel “hot spots” starting to form, preemptively applying bandages or moleskin to your feet can help you stay ahead of the game.

BLISTER TREATMENT

If blisters still form despite your best efforts, all is not lost. There are plenty of ways to minimize the impact it has on your feet so you can carry on with your day.

When a blister forms, try not to pop or drain it. Popping a blister essentially creates an open wound that can get infected if not kept clean. Sometimes, though, a blister pops on accident. If that does happen, make sure to keep the wound as clean and well ventilated as possible.

Moleskin—yep, the exact same kind you used to prevent blisters—is great for protecting blisters as well. Cut the material into a donut-like shape so that the blister fits inside the “donut hole”. If the blister protrudes extra high, you can add several layers of moleskin. The goal is to surround the blister so there is less direct pressure on it as you walk. Just be sure not to cover the blister itself because the adhesive could cause it to tear.

If you are consistently dealing with blisters and want professional advice or help, call or visit Ankle & Foot Associates to schedule an exam and we will happily give you treatment options to help you get back on your feet!

Why Are My Feet Itchy?

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 00:05:53 GMT

Itchy feet can be incredibly annoying, especially when you have shoes and socks on and can’t seem to get to the itch. Not only does it cause stress, but it can significantly impact the quality of your life.

If you’re suffering from itchy feet, you’re probably wondering what is causing it and what you can do about it. Here are some possible causes for your foot discomfort:

ATHLETE'S FOOT

This is a fungal infection. Many people come in contact with the infection when using public pools, showers, and even gym locker rooms.

Signs of athlete’s foot:

Scaly red rash on the feet and between the toes
Peeling skin
Blisters
Unrelenting itchy feeling

Unfortunately, this fungal infection will not run its course and go away on its own. You need topical treatment for it. There are many creams over-the-counter at your local drug store, but they aren’t always effective. If you use it and it doesn’t work, contact a podiatrist for something stronger.

MOSQUITOES AND OTHER BUGS

There is nothing worse than having a mosquito or other bug bite you on the feet, especially in several places. In addition to the itching, you may experience swelling and redness.

The best way to relieve this cause of itchy feet is to apply a cold compress to the area. This condition will run its course, but there are some anti-itching creams you may want to get to help you get through the healing process.

SCABIES

Scabies are like bugs, but deserve their own section. These are microscopic mites that burrow themselves into your skin. While they may get into your feet, they can move all over your body and end up in your hands. The signs scabies is the cause of itchy feet are thick, crusty, dry sores on the feet.

ALLERGIC REACTION

An allergic reaction on the skin, or also known as dermatitis, can cause itchy feet. The most common allergens people react to are soaps, lotions, dyes, and some types of plants.

The symptoms of dermatitis are usually redness and itchiness. The best way to treat it is to remove the allergen. It’s not always easy to do that when the cause is unknown.

Anti-itch cream can help relieve the symptoms. If the rash becomes too unbearable, a foot doctor can help identify the cause and other treatments.

DIABETES

People who suffer from diabetes often suffer from dry skin, especially on the feet. This dryness can cause the skin to be itchy.

The itchiness is bad enough, but what is worse is that diabetics are at an increased risk for open sores, foot fungus, and other inflammatory conditions that also cause intense itchiness and discomfort.

Those who suffer from diabetes should visit a podiatrist regularly to ensure their feet are in good health.

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

Contact Ankle & Foot Associates, LLC today for an appointment with our highly knowledgeable, experienced, and skilled podiatrists. We can help relieve your foot condition, so you can get back to an itch-free life.

Five Ways to Care for Your Feet

Tue, 04 Jan 2022 00:21:22 GMT

Your feet matter a lot in your life! They directly impact your overall health and quality of life. Diabetes, heart disease, lower back pain, and even emotional difficulties like stress and depression all start in the foot.

Here are five recommendations to constantly keep in mind when it comes to foot care.

1. MAKE SURE THAT YOU HAVE CLEAN AND SOFT FEET BY CLIPPING YOUR TOENAILS REGULARLY.

A. Clean your feet by washing them daily, paying special attention to the areas between the toes.

B. Additionally, exfoliate and moisturize your feet every day. Remove dead skin cells with an exfoliating product (such as a foot scrub) or a pumice stone. This will aid in the softening of your skin and the avoidance of calluses.

C. Because the skin on your feet is naturally dry, moisturize them daily – especially after washing, while they are still damp..

2. THE SECOND WAY TO LOOK AFTER YOUR FEET IS TO SIT DOWN NOW AND THEN AND PROP THEM UP.

Weary feet deserve a break. If you’re on your feet all day, take a break and elevate your feet.

A . It will promote circulation and relaxation. Getting a professional foot massage is also good for your feet.

B. If you feel more energized, consider going for a swim. Swimming is beneficial for the entire body, but it is especially beneficial for the feet, as the water supports them.

C. If you must wear high heels or pointed shoes, do so sparingly rather than daily, as they might permanently alter the contour of your feet. Rather than that, choose comfortable shoes that fit well and give arch support.

3. SHOES ARE YOUR FEET’S PROTECTOR.

When choosing shoes, make sure they are appropriate for the activity. If you’re going for a run or another sport, be sure the shoe’s sole has cushioning or other shock-absorbing features. Wearing the same shoes every day can cause foot deformities.

A. Footwear should not be tight-fitting. Wide and comfortable shoes are more pleasant to wear and provide additional support for your foot.

B. Also, whenever possible, choose socks made of natural fibers like cotton or wool. Synthetic fibers like nylon or polyester suffocate your feet while these materials let them breathe. Textiles like cotton socks provide for better ventilation than synthetics, wicking moisture away from the skin and preventing blisters. Wool socks also keep your feet warm in the winter and cool you in the summer!

4. INSPECT YOUR FEET AND ANKLES FOR SYMPTOMS OF REDNESS, SWELLING, CUTS, OR BRUISING, AS WELL AS ANY OTHER ABNORMALITIES.

A. Ascertain your ability to distinguish between hot and cold feelings by first contacting your foot with an ice cube and then with a warm towel. If these feelings become numb or undetectable, you should consult a podiatrist to rule out nerve damage.

B. If you have diabetes, it is critical to take daily care of your feet and ankles. Over time, elevated blood sugar levels can cause nerve damage in the feet and legs. You may begin to lose sensation in your feet and ankles, which might result in unintentional injury.

C. If you have nerve damage, you may experience no pain when something injures your foot or ankle. Unnoticed and untreated injuries can result in significant problems such as infection, therefore it’s critical to inspect your feet daily.

5. CONSULT YOUR PODIATRIST REGULARLY.

A. At some point in their life, almost 75% of Americans will encounter foot-related ailments. Fortunately, the majority of these issues are preventable with proper care and treatment.

There are numerous ways to care for your feet; nevertheless, keep the following five suggestions in mind. Additionally, maintain a healthy diet and exercise schedule.

Above all, remember that preventative steps can go a long way toward maintaining healthy feet. With the assistance of your doctor or podiatrist, eliminate risk factors such as stress and smoking, and always wear properly fitting shoes. With a little effort and adherence to a few easy recommendations, you’ll be well on your way to living a healthier lifestyle.

For more information please contact Ankle & Foot Associates, LLC today!

How Podiatrists Can Help with Shin Splints

Sun, 12 Dec 2021 20:26:45 GMT

During the new year, it is common for people to start new exercise programs as part of their new year’s resolutions. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced athlete, shin splints can be a painful ailment that keeps you on the bench. As podiatrists, we can diagnose and treat your shin splints as well as offer advice on how you can reduce your risk of shin splints in the future.

WHAT ARE SHIN SPLINTS?

Shin splints, also known as medial tibial stress syndrome or MTSS, are the inflammation of muscles, tendons, and bone tissue around your tibia. This painful condition is often associated with overuse injuries and is common among athletes when tiny tears in the muscle and bone tissue occur after being pushed too far, too fast.

The pain, swelling, and discomfort can become debilitating when weight and pressure are placed on the leg, making it difficult to stand, walk, and run. Pain often occurs along the inner line of the tibia where the muscles attach to the bone. If left untreated, tiny stress fractures can develop along the tibia where the stress is most intense.

WHAT CAUSES SHIN SPLINTS?

As stated above, shin splints are a common occurrence in exercise programs from taking on too much, too soon before the body is conditioned to do so. It can occur in people of all fitness levels and stems from not allowing your body to properly recover between sessions and pacing your progress.

Other factors can increase your risk of developing shin splints. These factors include:

Constantly running on hard or uneven surfaces
Exercising in unsupportive footwear
Flat feet
High arches
Muscle tightness
Overpronation
Sudden changes in intensity or duration of activity

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS OF SHIN SPLINTS

If you have shin splints you may experience tenderness, soreness, or pain along the shinbone and mild swelling. Pain can be sharp or dull at times and often worsens after activity.

It is important to note that lower leg pain, even along the shin, does not always mean you have shin splints. A qualified podiatrist can determine if your pain is caused by shin splints or another condition.

HOW ARE SHIN SPLINTS TREATED?

During your appointment, your podiatrist will conduct a physical examination, review your medical history, and discuss your symptoms. This will help to determine the cause of your pain.

Once your diagnosis is confirmed, we can begin to customize a treatment plan for your needs.

In most cases, shin splints can be remedied at home using over-the-counter pain medication, anti-inflammatory medication, and cold therapy. Massaging, wrapping your shins, and gentle stretches can also provide symptom relief. Rest or the elimination of physical exercise is beneficial as it gives your body time to heal. If your shin splints are the result of flat feet or overpronation, we can prescribe custom orthotics. We can also recommend footwear to suit your foot type and lifestyle.

PREVENTION

We recommend patients wait until they are pain-free for at least two weeks before turning to their exercise routines. Once healed, be sure to invest in proper footwear that offers adequate support and cushioning. Always stretch before and after your workout to loosen muscles. Take your time and gradually increase the intensity, duration, and frequency of your workouts. If you have any questions on how slow you should take it, feel free to ask and we can help you see what an ideal workout plan should look like for your condition.

For more information on shin splints or to schedule an appointment, contact Ankle & Foot Associates LLC today.

Preventing Dry, Cracked Heels This Winter

Sun, 14 Nov 2021 20:45:33 GMT

During the winter, when you bundle up with extra layers, coats, and scarves to keep warm and defend against the cold–don’t forget about your feet! The dry winter air can steal moisture from your skin and feet, making the dead skin around your heels likely to harden and crack. Read on to learn about how to protect your feet and prevent cracked heels this winter.

CRACKED HEELS & WINTER

Though cracked heels can occur at any time of the year, they are a common winter ailment. The winter means cold, dry air with little humidity drying out your skin. While most people remember to keep themselves warm, it can be easy to forget about foot care! Your feet are naturally dryer than other areas making them more prone to dryness and cracking during the winter months.

If you already have a buildup of dead skin and callus on your heels, the cold wind and blasting heat from indoor heaters can dry your feet out leading to painful splits and cracking in your skin.

CAUSES

Seasonal dry skin can cause cracked heels, but other factors to consider may include:

Frequent hot showers
Improper footwear
Standing for long hours
Using harsh soaps that strip your skin of natural protective oils
Walking around barefoot

Certain medical conditions such as diabetes, vitamin deficiency, fungal infections, psoriasis, obesity, and pregnancy may also lead to dry skin and cracked heels. If you have an underlying medical condition, speak with your doctor before seeking treatment.

In some cases, cracks can lead to infection or make walking painful. If you suspect infection or have difficulty placing weight on your feet, contact your doctor.

WHAT CAN I DO TO PROTECT MY FEET THIS WINTER?

FOOT SOAK

Soaking your feet regularly in lukewarm water can help keep your feet feeling soft and smooth. Do not use hot water as it will strip away protective oils and leave your skin prone to dryness. Add Epsom salts, essential oils, oatmeal, buttermilk, and honey to add extra moisturizing properties to the water.

Soak your feet for 20 minutes and gently pat your feet dry before exfoliating or adding a moisturizer.

EXFOLIATE

After your soak, gently exfoliate your feet with a pumice stone or foot file to remove dead skin and smooth down calluses. If calluses become too thick, they can lose their elasticity and flexibility causing cracks when you move or if friction occurs.

If you use a pumice stone remember to clean it and rinse it well every few weeks to remove bacteria and dead skin.

If you notice rough calluses or cracks in your heel, it can be tempting to pick at them. Do not shave, peel, or pick away at your skin on your own. Schedule an appointment with your podiatrists for treatment to prevent injury or worsening the condition of your feet.

MOISTURIZE

Once you’ve soaked your feet or finished exfoliating, remember to moisturize! Invest in a good quality balm or ointment that you can apply daily in the morning and night.

Be consistent and apply to your feet daily. After you shower, try to moisturize within 10 minutes to keep your skin soft, smooth, and healthy. Massage the product into your feet and trap in extra moisture with cotton socks or silicone heel covers overnight.

HYDRATE

Make sure you stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. In dry winter climates, it is easy for your skin to dry out so drink more water during the day to keep your skin hydrated and prevent dryness.

A humidifier can help to restore moisture into the air while you sleep to help prevent your skin from becoming too dry, irritated, or itchy this winter.

COMFORT

Avoid standing in one position for too long and invest in shoes or custom inserts with cushioned heels. Make sure your shoes are not too loose or tight to prevent friction or additional pressure on your feet.

It’s winter and cold outside! As you bundle up and get ready for this holiday season, remember to consider your feet, and take off them with these tips! In many cases, cracked heels may not be cause for concern and you can treat them at home with over-the-counter remedies. However, if you have a severe case or an underlying medical condition, it is important to speak with your doctor to prevent any complications. For more information on how to prevent dry, cracked feet this winter or to schedule an appointment, contact Ankle & Foot Associates today.

Diabetes and Your Feet: What You Should Know

Sun, 12 Sep 2021 19:51:43 GMT

You may know that diabetes is a chronic disease affecting blood sugar (glucose) and insulin, but did you know that affects approximately 29.1 million people in the United States, which is more than 9% of the population? Every year 1.7 million new cases of diabetes are diagnosed, and as many as 8.1 million people are estimated to have diabetes but remain undiagnosed. There are three main types of diabetes – type I, type II, and gestational diabetes. When dealing with diabetes, there can be several considerations that need to be taken to ensure your overall health, including the health of your feet!

HOW DOES DIABETES AFFECT MY FEET?

Diabetes weakens your immune system, making it more difficult for your body to fight off infections, which can damage your nervous system. Damage to your nervous system can affect your feet’s ability to produce sweat and other natural oils that keep your skin lubricated. Without proper lubrication, the skin, bones, and joints of the foot can become injured.

Sometimes, those with diabetes do not notice sores or injuries to their feet until it is too late. It is important to maintain proper foot health and seek treatment immediately when an injury is present. Poorly fitting shoes are the number one cause of foot injury when it comes to diabetes. Red spots, sores, blisters, corns, calluses, or any persistent pain should be taken seriously, and proper fitting footwear (along with orthotics) should be worn.

You may also be at risk for a condition known as diabetic neuropathy if your diabetes has been poorly managed. This condition is characterized by nerve damage and affects as many as 50% of patients diagnosed with diabetes. Diabetic neuropathy often damages the nerves in the feet and legs, but can also cause issues with the digestive system, urinary tract, blood vessels, and heart. Taking preventative measures and following your doctor’s recommendations for the management of your diabetes can often prevent or slow the progression of diabetic neuropathy.

WHAT PREVENTATIVE STEPS CAN I TAKE?

If left untreated or unmanaged, foot problems can lead to problems such as losing a toe, foot, or leg. Keeping your diabetes well managed and preventing injury is the key to maintaining proper foot health.

In addition to managing your diabetes, there are some steps you can take to help further protect your feet from injury and infection. It is important to wash and check your feet daily and address any issues immediately to avoid further problems. Here are some preventative steps you can take:

Keep your skin well moisturized, soft, and smooth.
Gently smooth corns and calluses that may be on your feet.
Trim your toenails straight across on a regular basis. If you are unable to reach your feet or do this safely, ask your podiatrist or a loved one to help you.
Always wear shoes and socks, even when indoors. Unprotected feet can lead to increased risk of injury.
Protect your feet from hot and cold temperatures. Wear socks that will keep your feet warm.
Check your feet every day and report any abnormal changes to your doctor.
Wear shoes that fit well and are designed for your specific condition and/or level of activity.

If you notice any abnormalities in your feet, it is important to bring them to the attention of your podiatrist immediately. While diabetic foot problems can lead to more serious conditions, they can be prevented. Practicing these preventative measures, maintaining good hygiene practices, and managing your blood sugar levels are all essential to keeping your feet healthy. For more information about diabetes and foot health or to schedule an appointment, contact Ankle & Foot Associates LLC today.

Treating Plantar Warts

Sun, 29 Aug 2021 20:00:34 GMT

Though warts may seem like a common ailment that doesn’t often require emergency treatment, that doesn’t mean we should just learn to live with them. Some warts can be painful and unsightly, even if they might be harmless. If you’ve noticed a new suspicious growth or wart, it is always recommended that you get it examined by a professional. At our office, we are proud to offer various treatment options for patients diagnosed with plantar warts.

WHAT IS A PLANTAR WART?

Plantar warts are non-cancerous growths that develop on the sole, heel, or ball of your foot. They often start as small, fleshy bumps that can be mistaken for a callus or corn.

There are two types of plantar warts: solitary and mosaic. Solitary warts are single warts that may grow and multiply over time if left untreated, while mosaic warts initially appear as a cluster of small warts.

Like most warts, plantar warts develop when you come into direct contact with the human papilloma virus, also known as HPV. There are over 100 different strains of HPV and can cause different types of warts to develop on other areas of the body.

You can contract the virus through small cuts or break in the skin when in contact with a contaminated surface. When the virus enters the body, it leads to an infection and develops a plantar wart. The virus survives best in warm, moist environments. Commonly infected areas include locker rooms, gym floors, pool decks, and public showers.

SYMPTOMS

Warts sometimes begin as small spots that grow and develop into a rough raised bump. Since plantar warts grow on the bottom of your feet and are weight-bearing, a rough callus often forms on top of the wart. Patients do report feeling pain or tenderness when standing or walking for several hours. Some warts develop small black dots in the center, commonly called wart seeds, but they are tiny, dried clots in the blood vessels attached to the wart.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

Warts can be resistant to treatment as they survive by being connected to blood vessels and often go unnoticed by your immune system as it is near the surface of your skin. Though some warts may disappear on their own, foot warts are notoriously stubborn. The pressure of walking on them pushes the infection deeper into the skin making it harder to reach.

At-Home Treatment: At-home and over-the-counter treatments include creams, patches, non-prescription freezing medication, and even duct tape. These options may work for minor cases, but we always recommend coming into our office for a consultation so we can accurately determine what kind of wart you have and what the best treatment options are for your needs.

In-Office Treatment: As podiatrists, we are able to safely remove your wart with minimal damage to healthy skin cells in both minimally invasive and non-invasive treatment methods. Common treatment options include:

Cryotherapy: Using liquid nitrogen, your doctor will apply the chemical to your wart. This causes a blister to form as the cells are burnt and the blood supply cut off, killing the infection. After a week or so, the dead skin will slough off. This treatment can be painful like a minor burn, so your doctor may recommend administering a numbing agent to the area.

Electrocautery: With electrocautery, an electric needle is used to remove it surgically. Both the virus and the wart are treated. Before the procedure, the area is numbed.

Laser Therapy: Laser removal is a more highly effective, minimally invasive, and speedy treatment option. A high-powered laser cuts off the blood supply from the wart while eliminating the virus from your body. After treatment, the wart dies and sloughs off within a week.

Salicylic Acid: Similar to chemical peels, salicylic acid works by removing layers of your wart at a time. This topical medication is a stronger dose than products that can be bought over-the-counter.

Depending on the severity of your wart or warts, multiple treatment sessions may be needed to completely remove the wart.

You can reduce your risk of developing plantar warts by wearing footwear in public areas. If you know someone who has a wart or if you have one, avoid touching it as it spreads easily from direct contact. Keep it covered until you can come into our office for your consultation. During your appointment, we will determine the type of wart you have, and which treatment option is best for your needs. For more information on plantar warts and our treatment options or to schedule an appointment, contact Ankle & Foot Associates LLC today.

Peripheral Artery Disease

Sun, 15 Aug 2021 20:11:04 GMT

Did you know that every year nearly 6 million Americans struggle with peripheral artery disease, also known as PAD ? September is Peripheral Artery Disease Awareness Month and during this month, we join thousands of podiatrists in educating the public about the warning signs of PAD and how to reduce your risk.

WHAT IS PERIPHERAL ARTERY DISEASE?

Peripheral artery disease is a circulatory condition in which plaque, fatty deposits, and inflammation build up and block blood flow through your arteries. Your arteries play the important role of carrying oxygen-rich blood from your heart to the rest of your body. If your arteries become blocked by buildup, it can significantly impact blood flow to your limbs, including your legs and feet. This condition can also increase your risk for heart attacks and strokes. If the arteries inside your heart become hardened or narrowed, it can also lead to the development of cardiovascular disease.

1 in every 5 people over the age of 70 is diagnosed with peripheral artery disease. It is also one of the leading causes of foot or leg amputation within the United States. Common risk factors for peripheral artery disease include smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. Patients with diabetes, kidney disease, or over the age of 65 are also at an increased risk of developing this condition.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Common signs of peripheral artery disease may include the following:

Changes in skin tone and texture
Cramps
Muscle fatigue in feet, legs, thighs, and buttocks that disappears when resting
Numbness in legs and feet even in periods of rest
Pain or dull ache in legs and/or feet
Poor nail growth
Ulcers
Wounds that heal slowly or do not heal even after several weeks

It is important to note that not all patients diagnosed with PAD experience leg pain, which may be an indication of poor circulation. If you notice any of these symptoms, please schedule an appointment with your doctor.

DIAGNOSIS

Using an ankle-brachial index, we can help to determine if you are showing signs of peripheral artery disease. It compares the blood pressure in your ankles to that of your arm. Depending on the reading, we may run additional tests such as CT scans or ultrasound imaging to confirm your diagnosis.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

Peripheral artery disease can be managed and treated if detected early. Common treatment options include:

Avoiding smoking
Controlling your blood pressure
Limiting alcohol intake
Lowering cholesterol levels
Managing blood sugar levels
Medications to prevent clotting

Lifestyle changes such as a well-balanced diet and regular exercise to manage weight may also be recommended. If these conservative treatment options prove ineffective or if your condition is considered severe, surgery may be recommended to improve circulation.

It is important to attend annual foot assessments so your podiatrist can monitor your foot health. Early detection can allow you to lower your risks and slow the progression of the disease so that you can continue to live a happy, healthy life. For more information on peripheral artery disease and your foot health or to schedule an appointment, contact Ankle & Foot Associates LLC today.

Back-To-School Podiatry Tips

Sun, 01 Aug 2021 20:23:41 GMT

With the school year about to start, we know parents and caregivers are busy getting ready for the first day of class. School shoes are a popular item on the back-to-school checklist, and we are here to offer our assistance so that your child can begin the new year on the right foot.

SCHEDULE YOUR CHILD'S FOOT ASSESSMENT

A child’s feet grow quickly, so you may notice your child’s sock and shoe size change every few months. It can be difficult at times for parents to keep up with all the changes and to know what is normal and what to look out for. The development of a child’s foot is important to ensuring a happy, healthy, and active adult life.

Painful legs and feet may be a common complaint from children and teens as they grow, but that doesn’t mean it should be dismissed. If the pain persists for several days, schedule an appointment. Flat feet, bowed legs, excessive tripping, difficulty walking or crawling, ingrown toenails, plantar warts, skin fissures (cracks), and rashes are common concerns in growing children.

We recommend children’s feet be evaluated annually by a podiatrist from the age of three, that way their growth can be monitored, and any potential concerns can be diagnosed and treated early. Before your child heads back to school, be sure to schedule a foot health exam.

PURCHASING SCHOOL SHOES

Children spend upwards of 6 hours a day in the classroom, 5 days a week, so it is important to make sure they have shoes that fit properly, are right for the activity, and are comfortable. The wrong shoes could hurt your child in the long term. Here are the key components to a quality school shoe:

Fit: Shoes that don’t fit properly will irritate your child’s feet and have the potential to lead to larger problems. Choose shoes that fit the length and width of your child’s foot. Your child should be able to wiggle their toes within the toe box easily.

Materials: Your child’s school shoes should be made of a breathable, water-resistant material to reduce the risk of fungal growth and smelly feet. The outside should be made of strong rubber to allow for proper shock absorption.

Flexibility: The sole of the shoe should be supportive with a firm heel and solid arch support. Shoes should only bend and flex at the ball of the foot to allow for easy propulsion and movement, proper shoes should not bend in the middle or be too rigid.

OTHER TIPS TO CONSIDER

Always buy for the larger foot
Avoid reusing “hand-me-down” shoes, as the same size shoe won’t always fit your child’s foot properly and may be too worn to offer good support
Check your child’s shoes regularly looking for signs of wear, as children grow 1-2 sizes a year
Don’t buy shoes that need to be broken in. School shoes should be ready to wear with no discomfort

If you are having trouble finding the right size shoe for your child, we can help with a fitting and measurement. This school year, make sure your child starts it off right by scheduling their annual foot assessment and exam with our office. For more information on back-to-school tips or to schedule an appointment, contact Ankle & Foot Associates today.