Blisters may look a little icky, but they serve the primary function of preventing infection when you’ve ruptured your skin’s cell tissue. Jordan D. Metzl, M.D., advises not popping a blister unless it is absolutely necessary, if the blister inhibits physical activity. Knowing how to pop your blister is important to prevent infection. You can do this by using a sterilized needle, then covering your popped blister with antibiotic ointment and waterproof bandages. Oxygen will also help speed up the healing of your blister. Opt for wearing comfortable socks and shoes during the process of healing.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. For more information about your feet, contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
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 and ankle needs.
Doctor K gives some special advice about how to take care of your feet at home with a DIY pedicure routine. Doctor K suggests soaking your feet in a basin of warm water, then rubbing a pumice stone against your feet skin to remove dead skin cells after drying thoroughly. Moisturize your toenails with lotion, then push the cuticles to the side instead of cutting them. Aftering clipping your toenails and cleaning underneath, moisturize with lotion. Apply nail polish, then disinfect your pedicure instruments with rubbing alcohol or peroxide.
Every day foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. For more information about working on your feet, contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle 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 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.
Going Barefoot Can Increase Overall Body Balance
Written by PCC AdminGoing barefoot can have various benefits for the feet, including better overall body balance. When barefoot, your feet aren’t confined to the width of your shoes, and your toes are able to spread and grow stronger. Your blood is able to circulate within your feet, and you gain better posture since shoes restrict your pelvic tilt. However, don’t forget to stick to simple precautions when you’re going barefoot as well. There are still the risks of picking up bacterial or fungal infections from wet surfaces or stepping on sharp objects. Wear shoes in cases where you may have an injury or infection on your feet, and opt for safe areas to walk barefoot.
Barefoot running has its own share of benefits and disadvantages. To learn more about this trend, consider speaking to Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will explain the facts of barefoot running and help you decide if it’s a practice you’d like to take up.
Barefoot Running
The Impact of Barefoot Running
-Running without shoes changes the motion of your running, as most running is done by landing on the heel of the feet.
-Running barefoot requires a different way of running; the landing is done on the front part of the feet.
The Advantages of Barefoot Running
-When running and landing on the front feet, the impact on the feet and ankle is reduced, this can reduce stress injuries.
-It strengthens muscles in the feet and ankles and the lower legs.
-Balance of the body is improved and there is a greater sensory input from the feet to the rest of the body.
The Drawbacks of Barefoot Running
-No protection while running, makes it likely that runners will land on sharp objects and scrapes, bruises and cuts on the feet will result.
-Blisters may form.
-Possibility of plantar fascia problems.
-Risk of getting Achilles tendonitis.
So what can runners do to make barefoot running safe? It’s best to make a slow transition from running shoes to barefoot running. Once the feet begin to adjust, try walking, then jogging and gradually increasing the distance. Minimalist running shoes may also be an option.
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.
Athlete’s foot is a common form of Tinea, a contagious skin disease that appears as small round patches. Tinea can be caused by fungi and it mostly affects the scalp and feet. Athlete’s foot occurs at least in one in every four adults, and can be contracted by contamination of public areas like pools or saunas. Infections may not usually be serious but can be passed on if your hands and feet are not properly protected in wet areas.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. For more information about working on your feet, contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of 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. Speaking to your podiatrist will give you a better understanding of the different causes of athlete’s foot, as well as helping you figure out 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.
Diabetic feet need extra daily attention to maintain optimal health. Moisturizing the feet and relaxing them in warm water can be vital in relaxation. When exercising or going for walks, be sure to wear a properly fitted shoe. Keep an eye out for blood circulation issues and always talk to your doctor about any issues you may have with your feet.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. For more information about working on your feet, contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle 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 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.
Tow Truck Driver Recalls How Dangerous the Job can be on Life and on Feet
Written by PCC AdminBattle Creek towing company owner Randy Hammer is very familiar with the risks motorists are for tow truck drivers who do not slow down and move to another lane when passing emergency vehicles. Nearly two years ago Hammer was caught in a deadly accident that forced him to spend six hours on the operating table and two-and-a-half weeks in intensive care when he was hit while trying to pull a car from a ditch. Emergency workers had to use a crowbar to free his foot from between two wheels after calling 911 himself. “It is an ongoing problem and a scenario that in the nation every four to six days a wrecker driver is killed by a car not moving over.”
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 of 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 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 hours, or all day. Try allowing yourself to expose your feet to air.
Eliminate Pain
Foot Exercises – performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and stretches is 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.
Keep your feet healthy and your body will thank you for it.
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.
Marathoner Runs to Repay Hospital Staff Who Saved Twin Babies
Written by PCC AdminDes Lynch, a 34-year-old father, recently completed the Dublin marathon despite being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and viral meningitis. Lynch was determined to run the marathon in order to pay back the hospital staff who saved the lives of his twin babies. His twins, Matthew and Noah, were safely delivered prematurely at Dublin’s Coombe hospital thanks to the professionalism of the medical staff. His wife, Susanne Lynch, shared, “We’ve had a very tough time and Des took up running as a way of dealing with the fear and lack of control regarding our sons.”
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 about Rheumatoid Arthritis and its symptoms, consult with Dr. Carl Ginsberg from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
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 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.
Runner Lucky to Participate in Marathon After Blisters
Written by PCC AdminKlas Stolpe’s qualification for the New York and Boston marathons was a surprise reward after running the Bismarck Marathon. The marathon, which occurs in North Dakota, was not planned for Stolpe. Thirteen miles into the marathon, Stolpe experienced his first blister of the run. The blister was located on the outer side of his left foot and was luckily his only blister for the entire run. Stolpe finished with a time of 3:29:25, 18th overall out of 168.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If you have any concerns with blisters on your feet contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
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 doctor.
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.
Swimming Great for Pregnant Women’s Body and Feet
Written by PCC AdminBecause pregnant women put such stress on their feet, finding the right forms of exercise during their pregnancy is essential. One of those exercises is water aerobics, in which you perform aerobic activities in the water in tune with music, building stamina and endurance while also releasing endorphins to relax the mind. The use of water aerobics to remain active during pregnancy as well ease the soreness of swollen feet can be essential to pregnancy health
Swimming is a great way to exercise the feet. If you have any questions regarding the benefits of swimming on the feet, consider contacting Dr. Carl Ginsberg from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will explain the unique health advantages this activity has and recommend some simple exercises.
Benefits of Swimming and Foot care
Our feet receive the most stress on a daily basis. Walking, running, and long standing contribute to pain and stress on the feet. Swimming helps promote circulation and keep the body feeling great and healthy.
Benefits of swimming:
Improve blood circulation
- Swimming is a good, safe way to get in extra physical activity and improve circulation, without causing further trauma to the feet
Relieve aches or pains
- It takes all the pressure off of them, allowing the feet to relax and recover, and improves blood flow to them.
Circulation overall for diabetics
- Swimming contributes to blood flow, and increase oxygen levels within the body.
Reduce foot inflammation
- Swimming in warm water can increase blood flow and make it easier to move and stretch the afflicted foot. The feet are also exposed in water, giving them much needed air.
Swimming the helpful alternative:
Many people like the elderly and diabetics suffer from weakened muscles and joints. A water sport like swimming will support the body, thus allowing him or her to move freely. Blood flow circulation is a main trigger to tired inflamed 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 the Benefits of Swimming and Foot Care
Arkansas’ Keon Hatcher Goes to Surgery for Foot Injury
Written by PCC AdminKeon Hatcher, the Arkansas Razorbacks senior wide receiver, will be out for at least six weeks following a foot injury. Head coach Brett Bielema didn’t go into further detail on Hatcher’s injury but he did confirm that Hatcher went in for surgery on Monday. The six week absence will allow Hatcher to rehab and re-strengthen his foot to hopefully get back on the field at full strength by mid-season.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to fix a foot ailment. If you have any concerns about your foot and ankle needs contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle 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 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.
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Listening to Heel Pain Sufferers Problems Thoroughly to Get to the Source
Written by PCC AdminHeel pain that is proven difficult to treat often tends to stem from the nerves; experts urge podiatrists, therefore, to listen thoroughly to their patients’ complaints and to have a “high index of suspicion” for neurogenic causes of pain after injury and plantar fasciitis, which are often undetected. Testing that involves gait analysis, radiographs, and diagnostic nerve blocks using lidocaine can also help podiatrists further assess their patients for neurologic problems.
Anyone can wind up suffering from heel pain. If your heel is hurting, see Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctorwill treat your heel pain symptoms in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
Causes of Heel Pain
● Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.
● Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.
● Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.
Why Might Heel Pain Occur?
- Wearing ill-fitting shoes
- Wearing non-supportive shoes
- Weight change
- Excessive running
Treatments
Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a thing of the past.
With the advancements in technology and greater knowledge of how muscles and joints work, physical therapists can turn things around dramatically.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
University of Michigan Loses Bryan Mone due to Broken Ankle
Written by PCC AdminUniversity of Michigan loses their defensive tackle Bryan Mone due to a broken ankle sustained during practice. The sophomore player was excited to start the season, but will apparently not be able to participate since the injury was significant enough to keep him off the field for a long period of time. Initially sources and Mone’s coach refused to comment for the Wolverines player stating they wanted to keep him away from the media. However, the injury and Mone’s time off this season have since been confirmed.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.
When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
- Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
- Swelling around the area
- Bruising of the area
- Area appears to be deformed
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
The Wide Variety of Running Shoes Today Allows Everyone to Find the Proper Fit
Written by PCC AdminIn the past couple of years, the running shoe market has skyrocketed with nearly thirty-five legitimate running shoe models currently for sale in the United States this year. Experts claim this may be occurring because we live in fitness conscious society where there is a high appeal for running shoes. Since running has become a more accessible form of exercise more people than ever before are interested in purchasing the proper shoe for their foot type.
The right running shoe is essentially different for every person. If you have any concerns feel free to contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle 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 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.
The Wide Variety of Running Shoes Today Allows Everyone to Find the Proper Fit
Written by PCC AdminIn the past couple of years, the running shoe market has skyrocketed with nearly thirty-five legitimate running shoe models currently for sale in the United States this year. Experts claim this may be occurring because we live in fitness conscious society where there is a high appeal for running shoes. Since running has become a more accessible form of exercise more people than ever before are interested in purchasing the proper shoe for their foot type.
The right running shoe is essentially different for every person. If you have any concerns feel free to contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle 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 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.