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The ankle joint is defined as a hinge between the foot and the leg. There are bands of tissues that are referred to as ligaments, and these can tear as a result of a sprained ankle. This can happen as the ankle twists from falling, or while suddenly stepping off a curb. Common symptoms of an ankle sprain include severe pain, swelling,  and difficulty walking. If you have sprained your ankle, mild relief may be felt when the foot is elevated, and it is advised to refrain from putting any weight on the affected ankle. If you have injured your ankle, it is strongly suggested that you speak to a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can help you to manage and treat this condition.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle 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.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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.

Toenail fungus is a common occurrence that many people experience in their lifetime. The most common fungal infection, Distal subungual onychomycosis (DSO), is caused by Dermatophytes—the same fungus found in athlete’s foot. This fungus enters through the end of the nail. Older adults are more prone to developing this toenail fungus because as we age, nails can dry out, making them more susceptible to cracks making it easier for the Dermatophytes to get inside. DSO usually turns the nail yellow and may cause it to disintegrate into tiny fragments which build up under the nail along with pieces of skin, which thicken the nail. Sometimes the nail will even pull away from the skin. DCO can make wearing shoes very uncomfortable, not to mention making the toenails look unsightly. Left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other nails, skin, and possibly even fingernails. If you are suffering with toenail fungus, contact a podiatrist who can treat the condition with a variety of medicinal treatments as well as laser therapy to remove the infection.

For more information about treatment, 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.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot 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.

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.

Trail running shoes are designed to provide support and protection on uneven and rugged terrain, and selecting the right pair is essential for foot health. Key qualities include appropriate stack height for cushioning, lug length, or how tall or deep the rubber protrusions are on the sole or traction, and proper shoe width to accommodate foot shape. Wearing trail shoes that do not fit correctly or provide adequate support can lead to blisters, plantar fasciitis, ankle sprains, or other injuries. A podiatrist can help evaluate your foot structure, recommend suitable trail running shoes, and provide guidance on orthotics or preventive strategies to reduce risk of injury. If you have foot pain from wearing the wrong type of running shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and guide you on proper footwear choices for your running style.

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, 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.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

• Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• There should be little to no slipping at the heel
• Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
• Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
• Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

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.

Diabetic blisters are a rare but serious skin complication that can occur in people with diabetes. These blisters often appear suddenly, usually on the feet or toes, and may resemble burn blisters. They are typically painless, filled with clear fluid, and may be surrounded by slightly red or swollen skin. Poor circulation, nerve damage, and uncontrolled blood sugar levels are common causes. While they may heal on their own, diabetic blisters are a warning sign of underlying issues and can lead to infections, if not cared for properly. A podiatrist can diagnose diabetic blisters through a physical exam and an evaluation of medical history. Treatment focuses on protecting the area, preventing infection, and management of blood sugar levels. In some cases, topical medications or dressings may be applied. If you notice unexplained blisters on your feet, especially without injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for proper care and monitoring.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, 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.

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 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 form of inflammatory arthritis that often affects the big toe and can cause sudden, intense pain, swelling, and warmth in the joint. It may feel like a sharp, burning pain that worsens with movement or even light pressure, such as from a bedsheet. Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. It can occur due to factors such as genetics, a diet high in purines, obesity, or underlying health conditions. Visually, the affected joint may appear shiny, swollen, and discolored. A podiatrist can help diagnose gout by evaluating symptoms, ordering blood tests, and performing joint fluid analysis if needed. Treatment may include anti-inflammatory medications, dietary recommendations, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, long-term medication to manage uric acid levels. Since repeated attacks can lead to joint damage, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Howard Waxman, DPM from Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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.