Items filtered by date: June 2022

Tuesday, 28 June 2022 00:00

Pickleball and Foot Injuries

Pickleball is one of the most popular sports people are playing now because it is slower and has a lower intensity compared to other sports. However, despite it seeming to be an easier form of exercise, injuries to all parts of the body can still be sustained. Ailments from pickleball related to the feet are commonly associated with the Achilles tendon and ankles. An Achilles strain involves the tendon in the back of the ankle that connects the calf to the heel. This can happen from the sudden stop-and-go actions in pickleball and can be accompanied by a sharp, snapping feeling. Ankle sprains are injuries to the ligaments on the side of the ankle and are typically caused by missteps or faulty landings. Wearing well-fitting and supportive footwear, warming up before playing pickleball, doing stretching and strengthening exercises regularly, and using ankle braces can help. If you get injured during pickleball or get another sports injury,  it is important to rest. If pain persists or worsens, see a podiatrist as soon as possible to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan so you can return to pain-free play.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Plantar Fasciosis
  • Achilles Tendinitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Media, Glen Mills, Riddle Memorial Hospital, and Concordville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 21 June 2022 00:00

3 Major Problems With Wearing Flip-Flops

There are many reasons people wear flip-flops in the summer. Yes, they are easy to put on, they keep your feet cooler, and they are much more affordable than shoes so you can get them in many colors. But experts believe that wearing flip-flops on a regular basis can generate serious problems for your feet. First, most flip-flops do not provide adequate cushioning for your heels or support for your arches. They also lack the proper stability and may cause your gait to change, which can cause alignment problems in other body parts. Second, flip-flops offer little protection for your feet against injury, insect bites, and stings, or sunburn. Third, wearing flip-flops can leave you vulnerable to fungal infections, as well as other microorganisms that thrive in the water or sand. If you want further information about foot safety in the summertime, it might be wise to consult with a podiatrist for professional guidance. 

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

  • Ankle problems
  • Hip problems
  • Lower back problems
  • Pain in the balls of the feet
  • Problems with foot arches
  • Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

  • Sprained ankles
  • Blisters
  • Infections
  • Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Media, Glen Mills, Riddle Memorial Hospital, and Concordville, PA .  We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Wednesday, 15 June 2022 00:00

Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

Tuesday, 14 June 2022 00:00

What Is a Neuroma?

The pain from a foot condition that is known as Morton’s neuroma is generally found in the ball of the foot. A neuroma is another name for a pinched nerve or nerve tumor. It is often benign, and can grow and spread to other nerves in the foot. It is an ailment that affects the nerves between the third and fourth toes, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. Many patients describe the pain as feeling like a pebble or marble under the foot, and possibly cause difficulty in completing daily activities. Common reasons for this condition to develop can include frequently wearing high heels, and participating in running and jumping activities that can compress the feet in shoes. Additionally, medical conditions consisting of bunions and hammertoes may lead to getting Morton’s neuroma. A proper diagnosis consists of having a CT scan taken, or possibly an MRI. Many people have found mild relief when specific foot stretches are performed, and it can be beneficial to wear shoes that fit correctly. These types of shoes will have adequate room for the toes to move freely in, and this can help to achieve full range of motion and flexibility. Morton’s neuroma can be painful, and can hinder the ability to complete daily tasks. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested you consult with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat Morton’s neuroma.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry. Our doctors 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 Media, Glen Mills, Riddle Memorial Hospital, and Concordville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Tuesday, 07 June 2022 00:00

Facts About Foot Drop

If you have trouble flexing or lifting your foot when you walk, you may have a condition known as foot drop. Symptoms include numbness, difficulty walking, or feet and toes that slap the ground when you walk. Foot drop is caused by a pinched nerve and may result from crossing your legs while sitting or wearing a tight bandage, brace, or cast. Foot drop can increase your risk of falling and may cause changes in your gait as well. You may start to march rather than walk as a way of lifting the toes that would otherwise drag behind. Foot drop can be permanent and calls for wearing an ankle brace to hold your foot in position. If you are experiencing symptoms of foot drop, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can perform specific tests to determine the severity and prescribe appropriate treatment regimens. 

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

  • Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
  • In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Media, Glen Mills, Riddle Memorial Hospital, and Concordville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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