If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!
If you are suffering from heel pain, it could be a result of plantar fasciitis, which is the leading cause of heel pain. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the band on the bottom of the foot that connects the toes to the heel, called the plantar fascia, becomes inflamed. This commonly occurs in those who have problems with their arches, such as flat feet or overpronation. Common plantar fasciitis symptoms include pain in the bottom of the heel or the arch of the foot, pain that increases over time, pain that is worse when getting up in the morning, and swelling on the bottom of the heel. If you believe that you are suffering from plantar fasciitis, it is important to visit a podiatrist. A podiatrist will be able to provide a proper diagnosis and treatment method that may include medicine, taping/strapping, orthotics, casts, therapy, or surgery.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
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 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 Plantar Fasciitis
A skin lesion KOH exam is a diagnostic test used to determine whether an infection of the skin is caused by a fungus. Athlete’s foot is one of the most common fungal infections of the feet, and the KOH exam can be used to test for it. When a doctor performs this test, they will scrape a small piece of skin off of the affected area and then mix this sample with potassium hydroxide (KOH). The KOH destroys healthy skin cells in the sample, leaving behind only the cells of the fungus, if one is present. The KOH exam is simple, straightforward, and relatively painless. If positive results are obtained, treatment of the fungal infection can begin. If you suspect that you may have athlete’s foot, it is recommended that you visit a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
- Hydrate your feet by using lotion
- Exfoliate
- Buff off nails
- Use of anti-fungal products
- Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop
Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.
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 How to Deal with Athlete's Foot
While ankle pain can affect anyone. Athletes, and runners in particular, have been known to experience many issues involving the ankle. Some common causes for pain while running can include a sprained ankle, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, or a stress fracture. Most issues caused by running may be due to adding too much mileage, not developing enough hip or core strength, or simply by losing balance and tripping. Other factors such as changing the type of surface you run on, or wearing the incorrect type of shoe for the style of running you prefer, can also increase your risk of experiencing an ankle injury. To help identify what’s causing your ankle pain, please speak with a podiatrist.
Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Carl Ginsberg from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
- Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
- Ankle sprains
- Broken ankles
- Achilles tendinitis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Stress fractures
- Bursitis
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
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 care needs.
Read more about Ankle Pain
The Achilles tendon is the band of tissues that connects the back of the calf muscles to the heel bone. Common causes of pain primarily consist of ruptures and tendonitis. During a tear or rupture of the Achilles tendon, some of the fibers may remain connected (partial tear) or tear completely. Ruptures are likely to occur when there is a sudden increase in exercise and may be signaled by a popping or snapping sound, pain in the back of the legs, or swelling around the heel. Achilles tendonitis occurs when the tendon becomes inflamed, resulting in pain, stiffness, or swelling. Achilles tendonitis can occur from excessive strain, tight calf muscles, or not warming up before exercising. If you are experiencing pain in your Achilles tendon it is recommended to have it checked by a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. 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
- Inflammation
- Dull to severe pain
- Increased blood flow to the tendon
- Thickening of the tendon
Rupture Symptoms
- Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
- Total immobility
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:
- Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
- Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Achilles Tendon InjuriesWhy Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?
Written by PCC Admin
Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.
A sprained ankle is a common injury. It can occur quite easily just from a quick sideways movement or a twist of the ankle during sports or everyday activities. Sprained ankles vary in their severity, and medical intervention is usually necessary. In addition to following the doctor’s orders, you can help your ankle heal at home by following the R.I.C.E. acronym. Rest your ankle by avoiding activities that cause pain and discomfort. Ice your ankle for about 20 minutes at a time during the first two days after your injury. Compress your ankle by wrapping it with an elastic bandage or brace to help stop swelling. Elevate your ankle above the heart as often as possible to reduce swelling. If you have sprained your ankle, it is recommended that you are under the care of a podiatrist.
Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.
What Are the Symptoms?
- Pain at the sight of the tear
- Bruising/Swelling
- Ankle area is tender to touch
- In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
- Skin discoloration
Preventing a Sprain
- Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
- Stretching before exercises and sports
- Knowing your limits
Treatment of a Sprain
In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.
It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.
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 care needs.
Read more about Ankle Sprains
If you have a blister on your foot, you may feel tempted to pop the fluid-filled pocket under your skin. Should you? The general consensus is that you probably shouldn’t. A blister is filled with serum, the liquid part of your blood that contains protective substances like antibodies. Popping or draining your blister removes the serum and makes a hole in your skin, opening the area up to infection. Popping the blister can also cause more pain than simply having an intact blister on your foot. Additionally, it is very important to avoid popping your foot blister if you have diabetes, heart failure, peripheral artery disease, swollen legs, venous ulcers, or a condition that affects your immune system, as these things can increase your chances of getting an infection. If you have a painful foot blister, it is recommended that you visit a podiatrist for treatment.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.
What Are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
How Do Blisters Form?
Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.
Prevention & Treatment
It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.
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 care needs.
Read more about Blisters
The medical name for the condition that is known as toenail fungus is onychomycosis. It is a fungal infection and can affect different parts of the toenail that can include the entire nail, the cuticle, or under the nail. This type of fungus may change the appearance of the nail, which can become brittle, yellowed, and crumbly. Toenail fungus is contagious, so it is suggested that you avoid sharing shoes, socks, and towels. The fungus that infects toenails lives in warm and moist environments, such as public swimming pools, shower room floors, and surrounding areas. For severe infections, a chemical may be applied to the nail, which can be an effective treatment method, or surgery may be necessary to remove the nail. If you have toenail fungus, please consult with a podiatrist who can help you get the proper treatment.
If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Symptoms
- Warped or oddly shaped nails
- Yellowish nails
- Loose/separated nail
- Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
- Brittle, broken, thickened nail
Treatment
If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.
Prevention
In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.
In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.
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 care needs.
Read more about Toenail Fungus
Footwear Do’s and Don'ts When Working on Your Feet
Written by PCC Admin
If you work on your feet, you may find your legs aching by the end of the day. Working in a standing position for prolonged periods of time is associated with sore feet, leg swelling, varicose veins, and general muscle fatigue. Wearing shoes that are comfortable and properly-fitted can help prevent or alleviate some of the problems that stem from standing all day. They should be wide enough for you to move your toes and should have arch support for your foot. Using a shock-absorbing cushioned insole may help make you more comfortable, especially if you work on a cement or metal floor. You should avoid wearing shoes that are completely flat, as this can strain your Achilles tendon, but also avoid high heels that are more than 1 inch tall. Finally, be sure to choose footwear that is safe and appropriate for your work conditions. For more information about footwear do’s and don’ts, consult with a podiatrist today.
While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Working on Your Feet
Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.
Positive Changes
Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.
Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.
Eliminate Pain
Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.
Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen.
With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.
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 Working on Your FeetMore...
If you have a rash between your toes or find your feet to be itchy, scaly, stinging or burning, you may have contracted athlete’s foot. Athlete’s foot, or tinea pedis, is a contagious fungal infection of the skin on the feet. It doesn’t just affect athletes, anyone can develop this fungus. Your feet are exposed to the tinea fungus when they come in contact with a contaminated surface. Communal showers, locker rooms, public swimming pools, and gyms are often crawling with the fungus that causes athlete’s foot. If your feet are damp from water or sweat, they are extra susceptible to picking up this fungus. As athlete’s foot is highly contagious, sharing contaminated items, such as towels, shoes or socks, also puts you at risk. If you have athlete’s foot it is strongly recommended that you see a podiatrist who can prescribe the appropriate treatment.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
- Hydrate your feet by using lotion
- Exfoliate
- Buff off nails
- Use of anti-fungal products
- Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop
Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.
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 Athlete's Foot
Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.
Morton’s neuroma can occur when nerve tissue swells or grows abnormally, causing damage to the nerves. Morton’s neuroma specifically affects the intermetatarsal plantar nerve found in the foot. Some symptoms of this condition may include a burning sensation in the ball of your foot and tingling, or a numbing feeling in your toes. The most popular symptom related to Morton’s neuroma is feeling as if a pebble is stuck in your shoe. For a proper diagnosis, please consult with a podiatrist if you believe you’re experiencing symptoms of Morton’s neuroma.
Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.
What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?
- Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
- Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
- Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities
Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.
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 care needs.
Read more about Morton's Neuroma
Pregnancy may alter a woman’s body tremendously, affecting different body parts, including the feet in particular. Due to the added weight put on throughout pregnancy, the pressure that is being put on the feet may begin to increase. When this happens, the feet can slowly begin to flatten. Another change women can experience throughout pregnancy is the swelling of their feet. Again, the added weight and pressure of the growing fetus can take a toll on the feet, which can cause them to swell. When this occurs, elevating the feet as often as possible can help lessen the swelling. For more advice on how to treat the changes of your feet during pregnancy, please consult with a podiatrist.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. Carl Ginsberg from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.
How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?
- Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
- Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
- Wear shoes with good arch support
- Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
- Elevate feet if you experience swelling
- Massage your feet
- Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet
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 Pregnancy and Foot Health