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December 2019

Monday, 30 December 2019 00:00

Morton’s Neuroma and Pinched Nerves

A pinched nerve that is located between the toes may be referred to as Morton’s Neuroma. It may occur as a result of an injury that happened to the foot, and the pain that is felt is generally on the ball of the foot as it radiates from the toes. When a diagnosis is performed, the range of motion is checked, and this is helpful in looking for arthritis or inflamed joints. Additionally, it is important that an X-ray or MRI is performed, as this may be beneficial in ruling out other ailments. Moderate relief may be found when the correct shoes are worn, and it may help to add support to the affected area by taping the foot. If you are afflicted with Morton’s Neuroma, it is advised that you speak to a podiatrist who can guide you toward the proper treatment, which may include surgery.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Howard Waxman, DPM of Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

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 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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Monday, 23 December 2019 00:00

Where Does a Plantar Wart Develop?

A plantar wart develops on the bottom of the foot, and is generally in the heel area. It grows into the heel as a result of pressure that is put on the foot as everyday activities are completed. The medical term for this type of wart is known as a verrucae wart, and it is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). This type of virus attacks the bottom of the feet, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. A common symptom of a plantar wart can include pain and tenderness while walking, and it may be more noticeable in the morning upon arising. There are a variety of ways to treat this type of wart. These can range from laser therapy, applying salicylic acid cream to the affected area, or possibly using essential oils. If you are afflicted with a plantar wart, it is strongly advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can guide you toward the proper treatment.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Howard Waxman, DPM from Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

  • Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
  • Hard or thick callused spots
  • Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
  • Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

  • Freezing
  • Electric tool removal
  • Laser Treatment
  • Topical Creams (prescription only)
  • Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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.

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Monday, 23 December 2019 00:00

Contagious Athlete’s Foot

The medical condition that is known as athlete’s foot is caused by a fungus. Common names for this ailment can include tinea pedis and ringworm of the foot. The symptoms that are typically associated with athlete’s foot can consist of itching on the bottom of the feet and between the toes, in addition to dry, flaky, and cracking skin. In severe cases, there may be small blisters that form which may ooze. This type of fungus generally lives and thrives in warm and moist environments. These can include public swimming pools, locker rooms, and shower room floors. Research has shown that there are methods that can be implemented which may prevent this contagious condition. These can consist of wearing appropriate shoes while in these areas, and avoiding sharing shoes and towels. If you believe you have developed athlete's foot, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine what the best treatment is for you.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Howard Waxman, DPM from Pleasant Valley Podiatry.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

  • Hydrate your feet by using lotion
  • Exfoliate
  • Buff off nails
  • Use of anti-fungal products
  • Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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.

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Many people worldwide are familiar with heel pain. The heel typically absorbs the weight of the body, and can endure significant damage if there is an injury involved. A common form of heel pain can come from plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of the plantar fascia. This is a band of tissue that is located at the bottom of the foot, and connects the heel to the toes. This type of pain generally develops gradually, and can come from standing for the majority of the day. Sever’s disease affects teenagers, and targets the growth plate in the heel. This can cause considerable pain and discomfort. The condition that is referred to as tarsal tunnel syndrome is caused by a compressed nerve that is inside the ankle. The symptoms that patients notice can include a burning or tingling sensation underneath the heel. If you are experiencing any type of heel pain, it is advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist as quickly as possible so the correct treatment can begin.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, 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.

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 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.

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Monday, 09 December 2019 00:00

Signs You May Need Orthotics

Orthotics are special, custom-made foot or heel inserts that are normally prescribed by a podiatrist to help treat foot, leg, or back issues. You may need orthotics if you are experiencing foot deformities, need assistance in the overall function of the foot, are seeking support for your ankle, or you are trying to reduce the risk of other foot related injuries. Orthotics help to treat a number of issues concerning the feet such as arthritis, bunions, hammertoes, flat feet, heel spurs, and plantar fasciitis. If you have any of these conditions or are experiencing foot pain, we recommend you seek the assistance of a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis, and to see if orthotics are the best treatment option for your discomfort.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, 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.

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 overarched 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 concern, 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 severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about 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 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.

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Published in Blog
Sunday, 08 December 2019 00:00

It's Time for Beautiful Feet

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

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The foot is comprised of muscles, tendons, and ligaments that work together to move the toes. If one or more of the muscles become weak, the medical condition that is known as hammertoe may develop. The second toe will bend at the middle joint, and may resemble a hammer. It is considered to be an imbalance in the toes, and may be caused for a variety of reasons. These can include wearing shoes that do have adequate room for the toes to move freely in, broken or stubbed toes, and genetics may play a significant role in the onset of hammertoe as well. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this condition may consist of pain and discomfort in the affected toe and surrounding areas, redness, swelling, and difficulty straightening the toe. If you are afflicted with this ailment, It is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment options which may include surgery.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Howard Waxman, DPM from Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

  • Pain in the affected toes
  • Development of corns or calluses due to friction
  • Inflammation
  • Redness
  • Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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.

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