Laser Treatment Gaining Popularity in Reducing Toe Nail Fungus
Written by PCC Admin
While toenail fungus is estimated to have an effect on nearly 35 million people worldwide, laser treatment for the condition has become increasingly popular. The treatment works by sending wavelengths of light through the nail bed to eliminate fungal spores. Since this occurs by delivering heat into the nail, patients often find warming or pinprick sensations in the area. According to Dr. Alap Shah, “The reason more people are going to it is because it’s preventing people from having to take some of these medications that can be toxic to the liver.”
While toenail fungus is troublesome to eradicate, it is not impossible. For more information about treatment, consult with Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will attend to all of your podiatric needs.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a problem which affects many people and is hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating toenail fungus.
Antibiotics & Treatments
Lamisil – is the most commonly effective treatment for toenail fungus. It is available as an antibiotic Terbinafine tablet and cream. Terbinafine is a chemical component which kills fungal growth on the body. Applying regular doses will gradually kill the fungal growth. It is important to keep the area clean and air free.
Talcum powder – applying powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well
Alternative Treatments
There are always surgical procedures that are available for toenail fungus. Some people would like immediate quick removal of toenail fungus. Surgeons will be able to cut through and remove the growth using laser surgery. It is important not to try and remove it yourself. Once removed, your old shoes will need to be replaced to avoid reinfection.
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.
Jacoby Jones Suffers Minor Ankle Sprain Early in the Season
Written by PCC Admin
Jacoby Jones, wide receiver for the Chargers, has been temporarily sidelined for what appears to be a minor ankle sprain. The injury occurred during the Week 1 win over the Lions. While Jones is a key player for the team, Branden Oliver and Keenan Allen are likely to take over for him until he is ready and healthy enough to join the team again. Should Oliver and Allen not be available or prepared fourth receiver Dontrelle Inman will step up.
Ankle sprains are common, but need immediate attention. If you have any concerns about your potential ankle sprain contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.
What are the Symptoms?
- Mild to moderate bruising
- Limited mobility
- Swelling
- Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)
Preventing a Sprain
- Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
- Stretching before exercises and sports
- Knowing your limits can aid in prevention
Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.
If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.
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.
Alberta Residents Hold Sock Drive to Protect Homeless from Foot Ailments such as Corns
Written by PCC AdminThe Alberta government has teamed up the United Way to establish the annual Toasty Toes Sock Drive to collect 100,000 socks for the homeless before the colder weather makes an appearance. Well known for their harsh winters, socks are one of Alberta’s most requested items to shelters and those that do not have the resources to purchase socks become more susceptible to foot ailments such as corns, athlete’s foot, frostbite and blisters.
Corns can be a huge nuisance for the feet. If you have any foot or ankle concerns contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will attend to your foot and ankle needs.
Corns: What are they? And how do you get rid of them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.
Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:
- Well-fitting socks
- Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
- Shoes that offer support
Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Salicylic acid can help in getting rid of these corns because it dissolves keratin, which is the protein that makes up a good majority of corns. Podiatrists recommend that people with diabetes not use salicylic acid but should consult with their podiatrist regarding the treatment of corns.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Plantar Fasciitis Occurs in More Women than Men
Written by PCC Admin
According to the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society, plantar fasciitis occurs more in females, those that are overweight, walking or standing often on the job, running or walking for exercise, and having tight calf muscles. Plantar fasciitis is an overuse injury that occurs when the tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes becomes inflamed. Although the condition can become chronic, most people know they have it when they feel pain at the heel during their first few steps in the morning. Applying ice, taking anti-inflammatories, stretching as well as taping the foot are all great ways to heal the injury. Surgery is typically used as a last resort.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, visit Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can treat your heel pain as well as any other foot or ankle condition.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of a 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 in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
Key Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms to Look Out for
Written by PCC Admin
Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition that tends to affect women more than it does men. Many people associate rheumatoid arthritis with its classic symptoms of joint pain and joint stiffness. Aside from these signs, however, there are another nine symptoms to be aware of: fatigue, slow healing, numbness, foot issues, eye trouble, joint ache, stiffness, locked joints, and nodules. Foot issues can include the development of pain in the heel, which is due to swelling tissue.
Rheumatoid Arthritis and joint pain can become very painful and debilitating if left untreated. For more information about Rheumatoid Arthritis and its symptoms, consult with Dr. Carl Ginsberg of 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.
For more information about rheumatoid arthritis please follow the link below.
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.
Tips to Relieve Swollen Feet and Ankles During Pregnancy
Written by PCC Admin
During pregnancy many women experience swelling of the feet, ankles, and other parts of the body; this swelling is known as edema or the buildup of the fluid inside of the tissues. Bold Sky has come up with a few ways to reduce swelling to make pregnancy a little bit easier. The consumption of salt is known to cause fluid retention in the body so drinking a lot of water and cutting down on salt intake will aid in the reduction of edema. When possible, rest your legs on an area that will make them higher than your waist when lying down. This will help stimulate the blood flow in the legs in feet. Try avoiding heat or adding a cold compress to the mix for added comfort and swelling reduction.
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, speak to Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle concerns and answer any of your related questions.
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.
Auburn University Senior Prevails After Previous Injuries
Written by PCC Admin
Auburn University senior Justin Garrett has suffered many injuries during his career, but may finally have a shot at a starting as Michael and Sam linebacker with the help of corrective orthotics. Garrett was fitted for custom orthotics after sustaining two different injuries on his feet that made him miss most of the 2013 season. “Right now Justin and Cass are probably playing better than at the two inside linebacker positions consistently through the first eight practices,” stated defensive coordinator Will Muschamp. Knowing his progression with past injuries Garrett states, “Now I feel comfortable I know this is the stationary position I’m going to be at and being able to go out there and work every day to get better.”
Orthotics can help provide support and prevent injury to your feet. If you have any questions contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What are Orthotics?
Orthotics are inserts 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 can’t 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.
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 feel free to contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
How to Deal with Blisters on the Feet According to the Today Show
Written by PCC Admin
The Today Show recently presented a few tricks to reduce the woes of blisters on the feet when wearing a new pair of shoes. While the idea is to avoid shoes that are uncomfortable and rub the feet the wrong way, this is not always possible. Making sure your feet and ankles are moisturized can prevent the friction between the feet and shoes, avoiding blisters. Walking around for a couple of hours at home after buying a new pair of shoes will help adjust your feet to your shoes and reduce the chances of obtaining blisters before they are actually worn out. While blisters can be a huge inconvenience, many suggest that if blisters do arise due to your footwear they will most likely go away on their own.
Blisters on the feet are very painful and can become problematic if not treated properly. 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.
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 attention from a doctor.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Professionals Find Increased Flip-Flop Injuries Resulting in Emergency Room Visits
Written by PCC Admin
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, nearly 25,000 people visited the emergency room last year due to flip-flop related injuries. Although flip-flops are convenient and comfortable, flip-flops are becoming an increasing problem. Many medical professionals have seen an increase in flip-flop related blisters, posture problems, overuse injuries, and tripping injuries. While you can still wear flip-flops for now, experts say it is best to warm the feet up to the impact the shoes may have on the feet and body.
Flip-flops can cause many problems to the feet. If you have any concerns about your foot and ankle needs contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Jenkintown, PA. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Flip-Flops and Feet
Flip-flops are not only very popular, but very convenient, especially in the warmer weather. They allow your feet to breathe and let you move your toes freely. They also go with most attire and can be worn with many different clothing styles. Unfortunately, these type of shoes also have a disadvantage, as they can cause harm to your feet in more ways than you think. These symptoms include:
- Ball and arch problems in the foot
- Changes to the body’s natural gait
- Blisters
- Ankle Sprains
- Higher risk of infection
- Higher risk of scrapes and cuts to the feet
- Issues in the lower back, legs and ankles
To avoid these symptoms (and minimize your risks), select a pair of flip-flops made of high quality materials that can offer protection. Purchase flip-flops from a reliable manufacturer and be sure to replace them every three to four months. Be sure the soles are firm and not ‘floppy’, or that they don’t bend or wiggle a lot when lifted from the floor.
You can still wear your favorite pair of flip-flops if you so choose, just don’t wear them for extended periods of time, and especially not every day. However, it would be far wiser to purchase a more expensive pair of flip-flops or to refrain from wearing the shoe at all for the sake of your foot health. While these shoes are comfortable, the risks included with wearing them are not.
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.
Proper Shoes Are Necessary in Maintaining Biomechanics of the Feet
Written by PCC AdminFootwear News shares with readers several tips to keep in mind while shopping for properly fitting shoes this summer. Knowing your size, not always relying on cushioning, arch support, ensuring room for the toes, and not always relying on bounce are all ways to ensure that consumers get the best fitting shoes for their feet. Consumers should always get their feet measured each time they shop and always ensure that the position of their arch aligns with the one built into the shoe. Cushioning is often a factor many people consider, but it is important to remember that even the best material can compact over time, and that some people need firmness to keep the foot comfortable.
Proper foot wear is important for biomechanics, which incorporates the moving parts that manage the movement of your feet. To learn more about biomechanics, see Dr. Carl Ginsberg from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide you with the foot and ankle information you seek.
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.
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Increase in Morton’s Neuroma May be Due to High Heels
Written by PCC Admin
Within the past decade, more women have been admitted into the hospital with symptoms leading to Morton’s neuroma. Many scientists believe this spike is due to an increase in high heel usage especially in women ages 40 - 69. In fact, within the past ten years there has been a 115% increase in high heel related Morton’s neuroma treatment; 1,179 admitted women in 2005 and 2,523 admitted women in 2015. Since Morton’s neuroma affects the nerves that run between the toes, high heel shoes over five centimeters can become problematic by pushing the metatarsal bones against the nerves. Many suggest wearing shoes with a wider toe box and a lower heel to avoid this ailment.
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 treat your foot and ankle needs.
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 tools and treatments to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Specialty Walking Shoes are Made Completely Different than Running Shoes
Written by PCC Admin
While the casual recreational walker has fewer needs compared to the runner, those who are looking for shoes fit especially for walking must be as careful as the runner in selecting footwear. A running specialty store is a great place to start, as here shoes are often specifically fit to the foot. Walkers should explain to their salesperson that they are interested in walking long distance in their shoes as opposed to running. While a cushioned heel is excellent for a runner, it may make walking more difficult. When trying on shoes, be sure to walk a little bit in each pair until you can narrow it down to the pairs that feel best.
For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes consult with Dr. Carl Ginsberg from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.
Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes
There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.
You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.
Differences
Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.
Flexibility – walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.
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 The Differences between Walking and Running Shoes
Exercises for the Feet and Ankles during Long Work Shifts
Written by PCC Admin
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons has created a program to condition the foot and ankle in terms of strength and flexibility. The program was created to help break up the long hours of those that constantly have to stand on their feet while at work. There are six exercises in total, such as heel cord stretch, golf ball roll, and calf raise, which should be performed at least three to five days per week.
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.
Bryce Dallas Howard of Jurassic World had to Strengthen Ankles to Run in High Heels
Written by PCC Admin
In the new Jurassic World movie, Bryce Dallas Howard was often seen running away from dinosaurs in high heels. Although it would seem strange to have a character not change into a more stable shoe to run around in, Howard believed it was a proper fit for the movie and trained her ankles accordingly for the role. With the help of UFC winner Pete Williams, she participated in balance and ankle exercises to help reduce any potential injuries of running around in high heels. “I remember about half-way through I thought to myself, ‘Man, my ankles are so strong,’” the actress stated.
Running in high heels can cause many problems for the feet and ankles. If you have any concerns about your feet contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because they are associated with femininity. Despite their appeal, they can 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; you can buy either full inserts or metatarsal pads.
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.