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.
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Recognizing Signs of Arthritis in the Feet
Arthritis in the feet occurs when joint cartilage gradually wears down or becomes damaged, leading to inflammation and painful movement. Each foot contains dozens of joints, so even small structural changes can affect walking and balance. Early signs of arthritis include aching during activity, swelling, stiffness after rest, and tenderness when pressure is placed on the foot. Osteoarthritis, which commonly affects the big toe joint, develops from long-term joint wear. Rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis result from immune system disorders that attack joint tissue. Previous injury, aging, excess body weight, family history, and abnormal foot mechanics can increase risk. A podiatrist can evaluate joint motion, identify deformities, order diagnostic imaging, and design a medical plan to reduce inflammation and protect joint function. If you have symptoms of arthritis in the feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and ongoing treatment.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Steven Shlonsky from Louisville, Kentucky. Dr. Shlonsky can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to 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 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 feel free to contact our office located in Louisville, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Causes of Heel Pain
Heel pain affects the underside or back of the heel and can interfere with daily activities. The most frequent cause is plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the thick band of tissue that supports the arch and connects the heel to the toes. Symptoms include sharp pain with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. Other causes include heel pad syndrome, which involves thinning or inflammation of the protective fat pad, and Achilles tendinopathy, which produces pain and stiffness at the back of the heel. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the exact cause, and provide personalized treatment.
Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Steven Shlonsky of Louisville, Kentucky. Dr. Shlonsky can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
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 condition of the past.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Louisville, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Care of Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body regulates blood sugar and can lead to reduced circulation and nerve damage in the feet. One serious complication is a diabetic foot ulcer, which is an open wound that may develop due to pressure, injury, or unnoticed trauma. Proper care is essential to prevent infection and further damage. Treatment often includes carefully cleaning and disinfecting the wound, performing debridement to remove unhealthy tissue, and taking pressure off the foot to allow healing. Ongoing monitoring is critical for recovery. A podiatrist plays a key role by managing wound care, addressing pressure points, and guiding prevention strategies. If you have diabetes or notice a wound on your foot that is not healing properly, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you manage this serious condition.
Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Dr. Steven Shlonsky from Louisville, Kentucky. Dr. Shlonsky will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Wound Care?
Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic.
What Is the Importance of Wound Care?
While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.
How to Care for Wounds
The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Louisville, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Recognizing Signs of Peripheral Artery Disease
Peripheral artery disease affects blood flow to the feet and legs. It can lead to serious complications if not identified early. Common signs include leg or foot pain when walking that improves with rest, as well as coldness in the feet and numbness or tingling. Slow-healing sores, changes in skin color, shiny skin, and hair loss on the lower legs may also be present. Because reduced circulation limits oxygen delivery to the extremities, even minor foot injuries can progress and increase infection risk. A podiatrist can recognize warning signs of periphery artery disease through a detailed foot exam, pulse assessment, and vascular testing. Coordinated care can protect skin health, manage wounds, and reduce complications. Early evaluation is important for people with diabetes, smoking history, or cardiovascular concerns. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment.
Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Dr. Steven Shlonsky from Louisville, Kentucky. Dr. Shlonsky will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.
Symptoms
Symptoms of PAD include:
- Claudication (leg pain from walking)
- Numbness in legs
- Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
- Paleness of the skin
- Erectile dysfunction
- Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
- Coldness in one leg
It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.
Diagnosis
While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.
Treatment
Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Louisville, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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