Monday, 18 April 2016 22:46

Use Banana Peels to Combat Your Plantar Warts

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childrens feet15Bananas may be one possible solution for getting rid of your plantar warts. Geeta Ramesh, Director of Kairala Ayurveda Group, explains how the potassium in a banana peel can help suppress warts, reduce irritation, and provide relief. Warts affect people of all ages, including children, and are easily contracted as they are contagious. Warts are characterized as painless, unsightly blisters that can appear anywhere on the body. Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable.

To learn more, see Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your growing feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

  • Legions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
  • Hard or thick callused spots
  • Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
  • Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

  • Freezing
  • Electric tool removal
  • Laser Treatment
  • Topical Creams (prescription only)
  • Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, will help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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.

Read more about plantar warts.

ankle surgeryPoint guard BenoUdrih of the Miami Heat underwent successful surgery for his foot injury, and is out for three months. Udrih tore his plantar plate in the game against the Indiana Pacers in late February, and will be out for the rest of the season. Josh Richardson will take Udrih’s place after Udrih served as Goran Dragic’s substitute.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to fix a foot ailment. To learn more, see Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your growing feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to help with the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary are:

  • Removing foot deformities like bone spurs and bunions
  • Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
  • Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

  • Bunionectomy for painful bunions
  • Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
  • Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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.

Read more about foot surgery.

plantar fasciitis6Kim Kardashian showed off her swollen,pregnant feet during the latest season’s finale of Keeping Up with the Kardashians. Her swollen feet was just one potential symptom of a larger problem, preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is a condition which can spike blood pressure and disrupt blood flow to the baby’s placenta. Swollen feet during pregnancy can also be a symptom of edema, in which water is retained in the legs, feet, and ankles. Avoid wearing uncomfortable footwear and drink lots of water to prevent edema.

Pregnant women are susceptible to aching and swollen feet and should be treated with care. 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 foot problems can arise during pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is over-pronation, 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 contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read the more about Pregnancy and Foot Health

runners20The day has come when people can make their own shoes at home, to adhere to the contours and biomechanics of the feet, with the help of 3D printing. German engineer Markus has been making 3D printed shoes for his wife to properly fit and support her feet. After eight hours of printing, Markus was able to create a white sandal with colorful blue straps with the help of his wife’s most comfortable pair of high heels.

Proper foot care is important for biomechanics of the feet, which incorporate the parts that manage the movement of your feet. 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.

A History of Biomechanics

- Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
- In 1974 biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination to the area.

Modern technology improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes providing a better understanding of podiatry concepts for biomechanics. Computers provide accurate determinations about the forces, moments and patterns of the foot and lower legs with the most important information captured.

Advances in materials and more awareness of biomechanics have developed enhanced corrective methods, offering further options for foot-related injuries. Understanding foot biomechanics can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot. 

If you have any questions, please contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Biomechanics of Podiatry

Monday, 21 March 2016 00:53

Who Are Geriatricians and Why Are They Important?

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slower walkingGeriatricians are “among a small number of medical specialties decreasing in size even as the need increases,” as reported by the New York Times. Geriatricians are important because they are podiatrists who specialize in the specific care of elderly patients. The recent report suggests however that geriatrics is becoming a less popular field, but projections indicate that the need for the field will increase years from now. Elderly patients should see their podiatrist or geriatrician on a regular basis to maintain proper foot care.

If you need your feet checked, see Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your growing feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.

Geriatrics and Podiatry

When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and even rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseases can affect your overall health and having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or anything else that may seem irregular.

Taking Care of Elderly Feet

Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. So wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Lastly, good foot health means you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health can also lead to good circulation which is paramount to overall health.

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.

Read more about geriatrics and podiatry.

Monday, 14 March 2016 00:55

Plantar Warts vs. Corns and Calluses

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childrens feet15Plantar warts, not to be confused with corns or calluses, “develop as hard growths beneath calluses on the balls or heels of your feet,” which can lead to both discomfort and pain in your feet. Plantar wart growths can lead to pressure being exerted on your nerves, the reason behind the discomfort often associated with them. Plantar warts are contracted from the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is contagious and thrives in moist places. Avoid going barefoot in public areas where there is a communal pool or showers, such as locker rooms.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. To learn more, see Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your growing feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

  • Legions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
  • Hard or thick callused spots
  • Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
  • Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

  • Freezing
  • Electric tool removal
  • Laser Treatment
  • Topical Creams (prescription only)
  • Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, will help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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.

Read more about plantar warts.

runningAccording to Luxembourg Institute of Health, certain motion control running shoes help prevent injuries in some runners. In most cases the, motion control shoes assist those that over pronate their feet while running. This means the foot is rolling far too inward, common among those with low arches. The institute suggests that those with normal pronation need not wear motion control running shoes.  

The right running shoe is essentially different for every person. 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.

Choosing the Right Running Shoes for Your Foot Type

Running is a physical activity although fun, can put a lot of stress on the joints, bones and ligaments of the body. Injury and stress on the foot can be an important factor on which kind of shoe you’re wearing. Running shoes should be worn based on your foot type. It is important to find out what fits you based on cushioning, stability and motion.

Determining your type

Speak with a shoe specialist or retail professional to see what your foot type is. They will be able to identify and measure your arch type, stride and gait.

Running Mechanics

When you are running or walking in your shoes, every step determines how your foot is landing. Pronation is the natural rolling of your ankle from outside to inside during foot strike.

Pronation is a correct form of walking or running. It helps absorb shock and store energy from your lower extremities. Neutral runners who pronate correctly do not need specific shoes, since they have stability and control.

Over-pronators

Those who run with excessive ankle rolling. Over-pronators tend to have ankles that angle inward, flat feet, and or bowed legs. This can cause a series of injuries: of the knees, ankles and Achilles tendons.

Under-pronation

Under-pronation is less common than over-pronation. This usually happens to those who have inflexible feet and high arches. Even though there is less rotational stress on the ankles and knees, it prevents any kind of shock absorptions. Under-pronation needs shoes with increase in cushion and flexibility.

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.

Read more about choosing the right running shoe

Monday, 29 February 2016 08:37

Patriots Receiver recovered from Injury

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broken toe3Julian Edelman, wide receiver for the New England Patriots, is returning to play in the game against the Kansas City Chiefs, following his recovery from a broken left toe. Edelman was in recovery since November, but is seen “cutting and accelerating at practice.” Edelman plans to “go full throttle regardless,” in the game against the Chiefs. He feels “more focused than anxious” about playing again. He says, “I put my heart and soul into everything I do to get ready for the season.”

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • throbbing pain
  • swelling
  • bruising on the skin and toenail
  • the inability to move the toe
  • toe appears crooked or disfigured
  • tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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.

Read more about a broken toe.

Arthritis5A new program called Enhance Fitness, being launched by the Kokomo Family YMCA who’s partnering with the University of Washington, will employ a certified instructor to help manage arthritis in older individuals. The 16-week program will incorporate different training exercises that will strengthen targeted areas like the feet in your body. The activities should help prevent the progression of arthritic symptoms in a fun, simple way.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. 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.

Arthritic Foot Care

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves inflammation of different joints in your body, such as in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. On top of this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

  • Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
  • Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
  • Massages can help to temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

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.

Read more about arthritic foot care.

Monday, 15 February 2016 13:50

Steve Smith set to Retire

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achilles tendon6Although Steve Smith of the Baltimore Ravens was set to retire after tearing his Achilles tendon during a game against San Diego, he may return to the NFL.  ESPN.com reporter Jim Trotter describes, “This guy is just an insane competitor, and I think as long as his body works appropiately he’s really going to have a hard time next August saying, ‘Oh, wow. Guys are going to camp...he’s got a lot left in the tank.”

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you need your feet checked, see Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your growing feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.

What is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel bone 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 cause severe 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 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

- Snapping sensation

- 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 unable to immediately see your podiatrist, remember to Rest, Ice, Compress, and Elevate until then.

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.

Read more about Achilles tendon injuries.

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