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.
The medical term for cracked heels can be referred to as heel fissures. They are defined as cracks in the outer edge of the heel that can be a result of dry skin. This can occur from wearing shoes that have an open back, or from standing on hard surfaces for the majority of the day. This condition can cause pain and discomfort, and in severe cases, bleeding may occur. There are many patients who find mild relief when the feet are soaked in warm water, followed by applying a good moisturizer. Additionally, a pumice stone may be used that can help to remove dead skin. Ignoring cracked heels can lead to fissures and increased risk of infection. For that reason, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who is able to offer safe treatment and suggest prevention techniques.
If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Howard Waxman, DPM from Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Cracked Heels
It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.
Ways to Help Heal Them
Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels
If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need.
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.
Pain in the front of the foot, particularly around the smaller toes, can develop from irritation, overuse, or structural changes in the joints and soft tissues. Wearing tight shoes, high heels, or repetitive stress can inflame the tendons, ligaments, or nerves that support the toes, leading to discomfort or swelling. Sometimes the issue involves joint misalignment or a buildup of pressure beneath the ball of the foot. Advanced imaging such as an MRI scan can help identify hidden causes like soft tissue injury or early joint damage that may not appear on X-rays. Treatment focuses on relieving pressure, improving foot mechanics, and reducing inflammation through custom orthotics, footwear modification, and targeted exercises. If you experience ongoing pain in the lesser toes, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can pinpoint the cause and recommend effective options for restoring comfort and balance.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. 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.
What Causes Toe Pain?
Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.
Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
When to See a Podiatrist
Diagnosis
In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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
Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
If you have any questions please 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.
Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, occurs when blood flow to the legs and feet is reduced. It often results in pain, cramping, tingling, or a heavy sensation during walking or activity. The skin on the feet may appear shiny, pale, or cool to the touch, and wounds may heal slowly. Common causes include tobacco use, diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol, all of which contribute to narrowed or blocked arteries. A podiatrist can perform a thorough evaluation, recommend diagnostic tests, provide treatment options, and guide patients in managing risk factors to prevent complications. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions, which may include lifestyle changes.
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 Howard Waxman, DPM from Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor 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:
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 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.
Many people have a difficult time recovering from falls that have occurred. Their feet may have become affected, and it may be overwhelming to complete daily activities. There are specific methods that can be implemented that may help to reduce the risk of falling. These can include removing worn rugs from the living environment, installing grab bars in the shower and toilet areas, and it may help to improve existing lighting. Additionally, it is beneficial to have current medication checked by having routine physical and eye examinations performed. Many patients find they may fall less often when the proper shoes are worn. If you would like more information about how possible foot conditions may be avoided by using fall prevention techniques, please confer with a podiatrist.
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.
