Exploring a different country on foot, whether in the tranquil early morning or during the enchanting twilight hours, offers a unique experience. However, this active exploration can come with challenges, particularly when navigating a city's cobblestone streets. Walking extensively can lead to foot pain, with common issues including plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinopathy. These conditions are often caused by overuse, wearing inadequate footwear, or tight and weak muscles. Plantar fasciitis, for example, manifests as a sharp pain in the heel as a result of overburdening the feet. Achilles tendinopathy presents as pain in the lower leg and is often caused by tight calves and wearing unsupportive shoes. To prevent and treat these issues, it is suggested that prior to your trip, you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss options such as using custom-made orthotics and targeted stretching and strengthening exercises that may help you to avoid foot pain so you can enjoy your vacation
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Howard Waxman, DPM from Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Willoughby Hills and Broadview Heights, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.
The journey of infancy unveils the uniqueness of every child, including the diverse ways their little feet may develop. Clubfoot and metatarsus adductus stand out as congenital foot conditions that influence the early stages of a child's mobility. Clubfoot presents as a deformity where the foot turns inward and downward, affecting the bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Conversely, metatarsus adductus, involves a curved or turned in position of the front part of the foot. Both conditions are noticeable from birth and can be attributed to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. While clubfoot necessitates gentle manipulations and casting to guide the foot into proper alignment, metatarsus adductus often resolves with stretching exercises and wearing proper footwear. Understanding these congenital foot conditions empowers parents and podiatrists to initiate timely interventions, providing the best foundation for a child's healthy and active future. If your child has been born with one of these foot conditions, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can promptly begin the correct treatment.
Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Howard Waxman, DPM of Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.
What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?
A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.
What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?
Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:
Treatment and Prevention
While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Willoughby Hills and Broadview Heights, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Pes planus, commonly known as flat feet, occurs when the foot's arch does not develop or collapses, leading to the entire sole touching the floor. Children typically have flat feet, and their arch develops as they grow into toddlerhood. It usually suffices for podiatrists to provide shoe advice for the majority of kids who have this condition. However, for kids with hypermobility or hypotonia, further intervention might be required. Flat feet typically emerge as the infant's fat pad recedes and motor skills progress, but sometimes arch development is impeded by factors such as calf muscle tightness or ligament hypermobility. While flat feet often do not trouble children, they can eventually cause gait changes, clumsiness, or pain. Early treatment is important to prevent these types of issues. If your child has flat feet that are causing problems, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Howard Waxman, DPM from Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Are Flat Feet?
Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms
Treatment
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Willoughby Hills and Broadview Heights, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Lymphoedema is a condition where the legs or feet swell due to fluid buildup because the body's lymphatic system, which functions similarly to veins, is struggling to remove it. This swelling is called edema and can happen when you do not move enough, such as after sitting for long periods during a flight. Persistent swelling of the feet, swelling that lasts over three months, is known as chronic edema, which suggests the beginning of lymphatic failure or early lymphoedema. If left untreated, chronic foot edema can cause skin changes, deeper tissue damage, and increase the risk of infections such as cellulitis. It is often associated with chronic venous insufficiency. Various factors can contribute to lymphoedema, including genetics, obesity, inactivity, vein problems, or damage from cancer treatments. Joint surgery may also impair lymphatic vessels, leading to lymphoedema. If you are experiencing swollen feet on a regular basis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible to obtain treatment and prevent serious complications.
Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Howard Waxman, DPM of Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:
Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet.
Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Willoughby Hills and Broadview Heights, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Bunions, those bony protrusions that form at the base of the big toe, can be both painful and unsightly. Recognizing the symptoms of bunions is essential to address this common foot condition effectively. One of the most apparent signs is the visible bump on the side of the big toe, which may be accompanied by redness and swelling. Bunions often cause pain, which can range from mild to severe, especially when wearing tight shoes or engaging in activities that put pressure on the affected area. Over time, the big toe may start to deviate towards the other toes, causing further discomfort and potentially leading to complications like hammertoes. Apart from the physical symptoms, bunions can impact daily life by limiting choice of footwear and causing difficulty in finding comfortable, supportive shoes. Early intervention can help alleviate pain and prevent the condition from worsening, making it vital to recognize the signs and seek professional advice from a podiatrist to address bunions and regain foot comfort and functionality. If you see symptoms of a bunion developing, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer you various forms of relief and effective treatment methods.
If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Howard Waxman, DPM of Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Bunion?
Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.
Causes
Symptoms
In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Willoughby Hills and Broadview Heights, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.
Running is a fantastic way to stay fit, boost cardiovascular health, and enjoy the great outdoors. Despite its many benefits, running can also take a toll on your feet and ankles. More than 80 percent of running injuries are attributed to repetitive stress, making it important for runners to be aware of the potential pitfalls and methods to prevent and address them. The repetitive impact of every foot strike during your runs can put significant stress on your muscles, joints, and connective tissues, increasing the risk of injury. Foot injuries are a significant concern for runners. Plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, and stress fractures are some of the more common conditions that can affect the feet. These injuries can cause intense pain, particularly during the push off phase of running. Ankles are susceptible to sprains, strains, and ligament injuries in runners. Running on uneven terrain and wearing improper footwear can contribute to these injuries, which may result in instability and limited mobility. If you experience pain or discomfort in the feet or ankles from your running, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and tips for preventing injuries.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Howard Waxman, DPM of Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.
What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.
Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Willoughby Hills and Broadview Heights, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
As we age, it is helpful for our homes to be a sanctuary of comfort and safety. For the elderly, preventing falls is paramount to maintaining independence and overall well-being. Simple yet effective home preparations can make a world of difference. This can begin by decluttering living spaces and removing tripping hazards like loose rugs or cords. Install handrails and grab bars in bathrooms and along staircases to provide stability. Adequate lighting is important, ensuring that every corner is well-lit, regardless of day or night. Non-slip mats in the bathroom and a shower chair can reduce the risk of slips and falls during bathing. Regular maintenance is essential, so fix unstable floorboards, uneven tiles, or loose handrails promptly. Falling can seriously affect the feet, and may lead to difficulty in accomplishing daily activities. If you would like more information about how to protect your elderly loved ones from falling in the household, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer you additional effective fall-prevention tips.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Howard Waxman, DPM from Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Willoughby Hills and Broadview Heights, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
A broken toe can be a painful and inconvenient injury, but with proper care, you can help it heal more quickly and minimize discomfort. First and foremost, it is essential to rest and protect the injured toe. This means avoiding putting weight on it and wearing comfortable, supportive footwear. Swelling and pain can be reduced by elevating the foot whenever possible, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers may provide some relief. In some cases, a splint or buddy taping the broken toe to its neighbor toe can aid in stabilization. Be mindful of any signs of infection, such as increased pain, redness, or discharge, and seek medical attention promptly if you notice these symptoms. Patience is key when caring for a broken toe, as it may take several weeks to fully heal. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose this condition, and guide you toward the treatment that is right for you.
Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Howard Waxman, DPM from Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is a Broken Toe?
A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Willoughby Hills and Broadview Heights, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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