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Monday, 17 August 2020 00:00
Ballet Dancers and Stretching the Feet
Ballet dancers are often aware of the importance of properly stretching their feet on a daily basis. This may help to avoid cramps, and stretching may minimize the risk of injury. An effective stretch is performed by crossing one leg over the thigh while sitting down, and pushing into the feet with the hands. It may help to relax the Achilles tendon as the hand pushes into the heel. Pulling on the toes is good for strengthening the overall foot, and it is important not to overstretch. There are some dancers who ask other people for help in stretching their feet, despite research indicating that it is beneficial to perform these types of stretches alone. If you would like additional information about how to perform foot stretches, please consult with a podiatrist.
Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Dr. Harry I. Zirna from Lockport Foot Care, PLLC. Dr. Zirna will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Stretching the Feet
Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.
- Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
- Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
- Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
- Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.
It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Lockport, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Monday, 10 August 2020 00:00
Ultrasounds Can Be Used to Check Your Blood Flow
Do you have foot pain, numbness, tingling, or cold feet? If so, you may need to see a podiatrist for vascular testing. Vascular testing in podiatry is used to assess the blood flow to your feet and ankles and to screen for conditions such as peripheral artery disease. One common vascular test is a Doppler ultrasound. This test uses a handheld device that emits sound waves to create an image of how blood flows through your veins and arteries. A Doppler ultrasound is quick, painless, and noninvasive. Typically, you do not need to do anything special to prepare for this test. However, smokers may be asked to refrain from smoking for several hours prior to the ultrasound, as smoking can constrict blood vessels and affect the test results. If you suspect that you may have reduced blood flow to your feet and ankles, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for evaluation.
Vascular testing plays an important part in diagnosing disease like peripheral artery disease. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, or diabetes, consult with Dr. Harry I. Zirna from Lockport Foot Care, PLLC. Dr. Zirna will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Vascular Testing?
Vascular testing checks for how well blood circulation is in the veins and arteries. This is most often done to determine and treat a patient for peripheral artery disease (PAD), stroke, and aneurysms. Podiatrists utilize vascular testing when a patient has symptoms of PAD or if they believe they might. If a patient has diabetes, a podiatrist may determine a vascular test to be prudent to check for poor blood circulation.
How Is it Conducted?
Most forms of vascular testing are non-invasive. Podiatrists will first conduct a visual inspection for any wounds, discoloration, and any abnormal signs prior to a vascular test.
The most common tests include:
- Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) examination
- Doppler examination
- Pedal pulses
These tests are safe, painless, and easy to do. Once finished, the podiatrist can then provide a diagnosis and the best course for treatment.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Lockport, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Friday, 07 August 2020 00:00
Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked
Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.
Wednesday, 09 October 2019 00:00
Are High Heels Good for Your Feet?
If you frequently wear high heels, you may be prone to having sore and aching feet. This may be a result of the unnatural position the feet are in while wearing these types of shoes. There may be specific foot conditions that can develop from wearing high heels. These can include ingrown toenails and hammertoes, which can happen if there is a limited amount of room for the toes to move freely in. Additionally, it may be easier to fall, which may cause an ankle injury. If you choose to wear high heels, it may be beneficial to alternate days by wearing shoes with a lower heel. Research has indicated it may be beneficial to perform gentle stretches, which may help to strengthen the calves and to keep the feet strong. If you would like additional information about the possible dangers high heels can have on the feet, please consult with a podiatrist.
High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Harry I. Zirna from Lockport Foot Care, PLLC. Dr. Zirna can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal. Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?
- Ankle Joints
- Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
- Balls of the Feet
- Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
- Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain. The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.
What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?
- Corns
- Calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Morton’s Neuroma
- Plantar Fasciitis
How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?
If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems. Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising. If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work. Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Lockport, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 03 August 2020 00:00
Proper Care for Existing Wounds on the Feet
Diabetic patients are often aware of the importance of maintaining proper foot care. Cuts, bruises, or scrapes on the feet can lead to serious foot conditions, and practicing correct wound care is essential for avoiding potential foot ulcers. There are methods that can be implemented that may help to protect the feet from painful wounds developing. These can include checking the feet daily between the toes and on the bottom of the feet. Existing wounds can benefit from keeping the dressings clean, and this can be accomplished by frequently changing the dressing. If you have wounds on your feet, it is strongly suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can help you with proper wound care management.
Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Dr. Harry I. Zirna from Lockport Foot Care, PLLC. Dr. Zirna will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Wound Care?
Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic.
What Is the Importance of Wound Care?
While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.
How to Care for Wounds
The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Lockport, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Monday, 27 July 2020 00:00
Fungus and Athlete's Foot
The foot condition that is known as athlete’s foot is caused by a fungus. This type of fungus is referred to as tinea pedis, and lives and thrives in warm and moist environments. These can include public shower room floors, locker rooms, pools, and their surrounding areas. Some of the symptoms that patients experience may include red and itchy skin, especially between the toes and the bottom of the feet, and small blisters, which may develop in severe cases. There are methods that can be implemented which can help to control the spread of athlete's foot. These can consist of wearing appropriate shoes while frequenting these types of areas, and avoiding sharing towels, shoes, and socks. Mild relief may be found when an antifungal powder or spray is used. If you are afflicted with this type of fungus, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can prescribe medicine that can promote recovery.
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 Dr. Harry I. Zirna from Lockport Foot Care, PLLC. Dr. Zirna 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 our offices located in Lockport, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 20 July 2020 00:00
What Causes Plantar Warts?
Warts, which can grow throughout the body, are outgrowths on the skin that are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). Warts can be very contagious, and they can spread through skin-to-skin contact or through sharing personal items. Plantar warts grow on the bottom of the feet and usually have tiny black dots in them. Generally, warts disappear over time, but it may take months for them to do so. While plantar warts are usually harmless, they can be very painful. There are a variety of treatment options for warts that are causing pain, including chemical treatments and lasers. Some podiatrists may even elect to surgically remove warts that have become a problem. If you are experiencing painful plantar warts, make sure to discuss with a podiatrist which treatment options may be right for you.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Harry I. Zirna from Lockport Foot Care, PLLC. Dr. Zirna 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 our offices located in Lockport, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Tuesday, 25 June 2019 00:00
Is My Toe Broken?
Noticeable symptoms of a broken toe include severe pain, swelling, and bruising. In severe fractures, the bone may protrude from the skin, which can cause it to appear deformed. This ailment can occur if the toe suddenly hits a piece of furniture, or if a heavy object is dropped on it. Some patients can develop a broken toe as a result of a stress fracture. This is caused by repetitive movements or from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. After a proper diagnosis takes place, which typically includes having an X-ray taken, the toe can be taped to the toe next to it. This is referred to as buddy taping. This procedure is helpful in maintaining stability as the healing process occurs. If you feel you have broken your toe, please consult with a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.
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 Dr. Harry I. Zirna from Lockport Foot Care, PLLC. Dr. Zirna 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
- Swelling
- Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
- Stiffness
- Nail Injury
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 our offices located in Lockport, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Tuesday, 12 December 2017 00:00
How to Tell if You Have a Broken Toe
While it might seem obvious when and if you have a broken toe, this is not always the case. While some may experience crippling pain that causes them to stop walking, others may not experience pain at all. Pain, swelling, bruising, and tenderness are common signs of a broken toe. You may experience pain for weeks; if you do, you should see a podiatrist as soon as possible. Another sign can be if you hear a popping sound at the moment you hit your toe against something. The most obvious sign is if bone is protruding out of the skin. In any case, it is important that you get checked out if you believe you have a broken toe, as the toe requires proper care if it is going to heal properly.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Harry I. Zirna from Lockport Foot Care, PLLC. Dr. Zirna will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What to Know About a Broken Toe
Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
- Throbbing pain
- Swelling
- Bruising on the skin and toenail
- The inability to move the toe
- Toe appears crooked or disfigured
- Tingling or numbness in the toe
Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.
Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Lockport, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Tuesday, 28 May 2019 00:00
Healing Time Frame for Stress Fractures
Stress fractures are tiny cracks in the bones of the feet. They occur as a result of participating in activities that cause the bones in the foot to weaken and crack faster than the healing process can begin. This can occur due to several reasons, including training in your chosen sport before adequate healing has been completed, increasing the amount of time training in a short period of time, or running on different surfaces. The symptoms that are associated with stress fractures often include swelling, burning pain, and difficulty walking on the affected foot. Effective treatment begins with staying off the foot for several weeks, depending on the severity of the injury. This can be accomplished by wearing a cast. If you have sustained a stress fracture, speak to a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment options.
Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Dr. Harry I. Zirna from Lockport Foot Care, PLLC. Dr. Zirna can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use. The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.
What Are Stress Fractures?
Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:
- Runners
- People affected with Osteoporosis
- Tennis or basketball players
- Gymnasts
- High impact workouts
Symptoms
Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Lockport, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 28 January 2019 00:00
What Occurs If You Have Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Most people have heard of carpal tunnel syndrome, but not many are familiar with tarsal tunnel syndrome. Tarsal tunnel syndrome is the ankle’s equivalent to carpal tunnel syndrome. Both syndromes involve the trapping of a nerve. When tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs, the nerve stemming from the ankle to the foot becomes entrapped in a tunnel of bones and ligaments. This creates a pressure that sends sharp burning pain into the sole of the foot. Coupling over the counter pain medications, cushioning pads for arch support and abstaining from any activity that results in pain, can be used to lessen the pain initially. If the pain lasts for more than six weeks, then it is time to consult a podiatrist, so they can properly treat the condition.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Dr. Harry I. Zirna of Lockport Foot Care, PLLC. Dr. Zirna can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.
Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
- Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
- At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.
The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
- The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
- If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.
A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Lockport, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 06 August 2018 00:00
Causes of Swollen Feet During Pregnancy
Many women enjoy being pregnant, but will often complain about their feet becoming swollen as the pregnancy progresses. It’s a common condition that often develops as a result of excess fluid the body produces in addition to pressure exerted from the growing baby. Most of the swelling will dissipate after the baby is born, but until then, there are specific ways to find moderate relief. Research has shown the importance of lying on your left side while sleeping, in addition to consuming plenty of water and exercising regularly. The majority of pregnant women may find that elevating their feet as often as possible and not standing for extended periods of time may help to reduce a portion of the swelling. If you are pregnant and are experiencing severely swollen feet, please consult with a podiatrist for additional information on how to properly care for your feet.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. Harry I. Zirna from Lockport Foot Care, PLLC. Dr. Zirna will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.
How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?
- Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
- Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
- Wear shoes with good arch support
- Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
- Elevate feet if you experience swelling
- Massage your feet
- Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Lockport, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 13 July 2020 00:00
Possible Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Many patients are affected by rheumatoid arthritis in the feet. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this condition can include severe joint pain, swelling, and the feet may feel stiff. Research has indicated that exercise may significantly contribute to managing a portion of the pain that could come from this ailment. It may be helpful to practice strength training, in addition to cycling. Patients may feel better when extra body weight is lost, as this is often helpful in reducing pressure on the feet and ankles. Pain in the feet and ankles may be indicative of rheumatoid arthritis. If you feel you may have developed this condition, please speak with a podiatrist as quickly as possible.
Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Dr. Harry I. Zirna of Lockport Foot Care, PLLC. Dr. Zirna will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.
Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet
Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.
Symptoms
- Swelling and pain in the feet
- Stiffness in the feet
- Pain on the ball or sole of feet
- Joint shift and deformation
Diagnosis
Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Lockport, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
