American women own approximately 17 pairs of shoes on average. However, they tend to only wear the same three or four pairs regularly. Heels usually don’t fall into the category of “everyday shoes” that women like to wear because they are uncomfortable. Wearing uncomfortable shoes such as heels can cause bunions because they shift your feet into an unnatural position.
Bunion surgery usually occurs after non-surgical methods have proved to be ineffective. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
What is a Bunion?
A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, 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 toe to become inflamed and painful.
Why do Bunions Form?
- Genetics – susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary
- Stress on the feet – poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can cause bunions to form
How are Bunions Diagnosed?
Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.
How are Bunions Treated?
- Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
- Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
- Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
- Orthotics or foot inserts
- Surgery
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about bunions.
Although flip-flops are comfortable, they may also be the source of your feet pain. One of the biggest issues with wearing flip-flops is that the back of your shoe is not attached to your foot when you walk. This fact may seem insignificant, but it isn’t. This is the exact opposite of the way your foot is supposed to move naturally. Wearing flip-flops everyday can cause foot problems that may eventually lead to spinal issues.
Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any questions concerning the feet, contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
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.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our office in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Read more about Flip-Flops and Your Feet
Immediately after the regular season ended, DeMarcus Cousins underwent four sessions of shockwave therapy in order to get rid of a pain he felt in his feet. Cousins stated that he feels much better after receiving the treatment, and hopes to be ready in time for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio. Cousins also expressed his excitement for the upcoming NBA season.
Shockwave therapy is a treatment commonly used to treat various injuries and conditions, particularly plantar fasciitis in the feet. To learn more, contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is a new treatment option designed to treat bone conditions such as tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and others. Shockwave therapy uses high intensity sound waves that are directed to the affected tissues of the body with pinpoint accuracy. The effects are very beneficial, leading to a production of collagen fibers, eliminating inflammation.
Who Benefits from Shockwave?
Shockwave is recommended for patients suffering from heel pain and associated problems. Heel pain is a common condition which can be caused by obesity, overexertion, and spending a substantial amount of time on hard floors with your feet exposed and unsupported.
Fast and Easy
The therapy is actually a simple process that can leave patients feeling better the very next day. Shockwave therapy is not as dramatic as it sounds. It enables more blood flow to effected areas, attacking the source of the problem so treatment lasts for a long time.
Treatment & Recovery Time
Shockwave treatment will enable your feet to recover quickly. This is especially important since surgery is not required. It is cost effective and does not require the use of anesthesia. This treatment is a better option to surgery, since it is proven safe.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Shockwave Therapy
It is a societal norm for women to wear heels on special occasions that require them to dress up. Some celebrities such as Julia Roberts have taken a stance against this unwritten rule, and have gone barefoot on red carpets. There are medical side effects that come along with this fashion trend. Wearing heels can cause pain in your feet and your back. Bunions caused from heels can result in hammertoe, which is a condition that forces toes to point downward. Additionally, heels can also cause arthritis and ankle fractures.
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information,consult Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.
Symptoms
- Pain in the affected toes
- Development of corns or calluses due to friction
- Inflammation
- Redness
- Contracture of the toes
Causes
- Genetics – people who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible
- Arthritis – because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur
- Trauma – direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe
- Ill-fitting shoes – undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe
Treatment
- Orthotics – custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it
- Medications – oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used
- Surgery – in more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option
If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
According to a recent study published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Injuries, high heels incorporated “123,355” injuries which had to be “treated in hospital emergency departments from 2002 to 2012.” The study also suggests that those who are in their 20s “were the most likely to experience an injury, followed by those aged 30 to 39 years.” A majority of the injuries experienced were in the ankle and foot area. Research suggests that high heels pose serious risks, especially to those who wear them daily. High heels impair our ankles, step movement, and overall balance.
High heels have a history for causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because their style and societal appeal. Despite this, they can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
What parts my body will be affected by high heels?
- Ankle Joints
- Achilles Tendon – may shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
- Balls of the Feet
- Knees – heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
- Back – they decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain. Also, the vertebrae of the lower back may compress.
What kinds of foot problems can develop from wearing high heels?
- Corns
- Calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Morton’s Neuroma
- Plantar Fasciitis
How can I still wear high heels and maintain foot health?
If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems. Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising. If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work. Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available.
If you have any questions, please contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Breanna Mitchell Returns to Field after Recovering from Broken Foot Incident
Written by PCC Admin
Dominion’s Breanna Mitchell had her career cut short temporarily when she “heard a frightening crack in her foot while playing on the club circuit” last November. She would soon be sidelined for up to 5 months after suffering her broken foot incident. Mitchell was able to return to the field in April, and she currently has committed to playing for Phoenix.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. To learn more, see Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your growing feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury.
Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:
- Bruising
- Pain
- Redness
- Swelling
- Blue (foot)
- Numbness
- Cold
- Misshapen
- Cuts
- Deformities
Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.
Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.
If you have any questions, please contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Custom orthotics are prescribed by podiatrists and other foot doctors to treat a multitude of problems and conditions associated with the feet. Orthotics treat pain and offer support for the feet. The two different major procedures for creating orthotics include weight-bearing and non-weight bearing. Weight-bearing involves capturing images of the patient’s feet through a foot scanner, while non-weight bearing involves using a plaster cast to imprint the feet’s structure.
If you are seeking treatment, see Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your growing feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
What are Orthotics?
Orthotics are inserts, prescribed or over the counter, that you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain, but are unable to correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.
Over-the-Counter Inserts
Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct over arched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.
Prescription Orthotics
If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you, or if you have a more severe foot issue, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and more severe heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses, and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.
If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist on the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain free.
If you have any questions, please contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Plantar Fasciitis Becomes More Common Among Older Adults
Written by PCC Admin
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fasciia, the band that lines the soles of our feet, becomes swollen and irritated, leading to pain and inflammation. Plantar fasciitis becomes more common as we age and “is responsible for about 2 million medical visits per year.” Risk factors that can lead to the development or progression of plantar fasciitis include extensive physical activity, standing for long periods of time, obesity, and physical injury. Treating your plantar fasciitis involves visiting your foot and ankle specialist, physical therapy, and proper management of your feet.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, see Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your growing feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of 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 contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
New guidelines about managing diabetic feet have been published in the Journal for Vascular Surgery, emphasizing the importance of taking proper care of feet as a diabetic patient. “Diabetes is one of the leading causes of chronic disease and limb loss worldwide, currently affecting 382 million people.” If diabetic feet are not properly treated, this can lead to risk of neuropathy and foot ulcers. The guidelines suggest preventative care recommendations such as periodic foot inspections, patient and family education, therapeutic footwear, and controlling blood levels.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet see Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your growing feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. Diabetes can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, including the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
- Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
- Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
- Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels because blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
If you have any questions, please contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Kody Walker Suffers Broken Foot Injury during Practice
Written by PCC AdminKody Walker, senior running back for the Arkansas Razorbacks, suffered a broken foot injury while practicing in early April, the ninth practice of the spring for the team. The broken foot required surgery, but the surgery was successful and Walker is currently in recovery until June. “If anyone knows how to battle adversity, it’s Kody Walker,” said Arkansas Coach Bielema.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. To learn more, see Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your growing feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury.
Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:
- Bruising
- Pain
- Redness
- Swelling
- Blue (foot)
- Numbness
- Cold
- Misshapen
- Cuts
- Deformities
Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.
Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.
If you have any questions, please contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
More...
Buster Posey Suffered Bruised Right Foot, Condition Unknown
Written by PCC Admin
Buster Posey of the New York Giants suffered a bruised right foot, which might lead to Posey potentially missing the entire Rockies season. The foot was causing pain, and “Posey had a hard time running on it Wednesday afternoon,” according to manager Bruce Bochy. However, X-rays came back negative, and Bochy was confident the foot is “going to be fine,” but wanted to let Posey have sufficient recovery time.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries need proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. If you have any concerns, see Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your growing feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
Sport 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:
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Plantar Fasciosis
- Achilles Tendinitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
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 contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
New Drug Offers PotentialTreatment Solution for Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms
Written by PCC Admin
A new drug,baricitinib, was introduced in late March, with its effects intended to treat patients who have rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. The drug was offered as “a potential treatment for people with few options to ease the progressive condition.” According to upi.com, “rheumatoid arthritis affects 1.5 percent of people in developed countries,” and leads to debilitating symptoms such as pain, inflammation, and disability of small joints of the body such as the hands and feet.
Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, see Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your growing feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.
Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet
Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.
Symptoms
- Swelling & pain in the feet
- Stiffness in the feet
- Pain on the ball or sole of feet
- Joint shift and deformation
Diagnosis
Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.
If you have any questions, please contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
The feet are one of the most overlooked parts of the body when it comes to one’s general health. With warmer temperatures approaching, the feet will undoubtedly become more exposed to dirt and sun while wearing open sandals. To take care of the feet, be sure to always include them while washing. After spending time outside, wash the feet and apply moisturizing lotion to keep them from becoming cracked. Those with especially cracked heels may benefit from applying a nourishing gel onto the heels before going to bed.
Every day foot care is very important, especially for those that are lacking the proper foot care resources. For more information about everyday foot care, see Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your growing feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
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 contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Union captain Maurice Edu will be out for three months due to a stress fracture injury he recently discovered in his leg. An X-ray diagnosis found that Edu had a stress fracture rather than a stress reaction. Edu had hernia surgery last fall and was in recovery for five months. Edu’s diagnosis rated the stress reaction at grade two, with the bone showing “signs of cracking or breaking.” Edu will have to wear a walking boot and use crutches, unable to participate in any strenuous physical activity.
Activities, where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, see Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your growing feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
The Stress Fractures occur on the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use. Then the feet and ankles lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection the bones receive the full impact of each step. The stress on the feet causes cracks to form in the bones, thus called stress fractures.
What are Stress Fractures?
Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:
-runners
-people affected with Osteoporosis
-play tennis or basketball
-gymnastics
-high impact workouts
Symptoms
Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures, and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves in high impact will aggravate pain.
If you have any questions, please contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.