Items filtered by date: August 2022

Tuesday, 30 August 2022 00:00

Clubfoot May Affect One or Both Feet

A rare foot condition that is generally identified after birth is known as clubfoot. Typically, one foot is affected in babies that are born with this condition, and in some cases, both feet have been afflicted. It is defined as an ailment that turns the foot sharply inward while the toes point towards the other foot. Children who have clubfoot try to maintain balance and can wobble as they walk. This condition often develops from genetic reasons, and it may be more prevalent among children whose mothers smoke or drink during their pregnancy. Many patients choose to manipulate the foot by performing specific stretches, as this may help to guide the foot into alignment. An effective treatment method is known as the Ponseti technique, and this involves putting the affected foot in a cast after it has been stretched into a normal position. This can be helpful in keeping the foot in the correct position until it is fully healed. If the clubfoot is severe or corrective treatment does not yield the desired results, surgery may be necessary. This can be beneficial in putting the bones, tendons, joints, and ligaments into their normal positions. If you would like additional information about clubfoot, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Gary J. Kaiserman, DPM of Achilles Footcare Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

  • Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
  • Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
  • Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
  • Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
  • Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
  • Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Forest Lane and West Kiest Boulevard Dallas, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Congenital Foot Problems

Custom orthotics can often provide much needed relief from foot pain and inflammation caused by osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Custom orthotics can help distribute the body’s weight more evenly across the feet and reduce pressure and stress placed on joints that are swollen and otherwise compromised by these arthritic conditions. Custom orthotics can also help correct certain alignment and gait issues through improved  biomechanics. Oftentimes, custom orthotics can help a person with arthritis reduce the amount of pain medication they take. Some even believe custom orthotics may contribute to a slowing down of the progression of arthritis in certain cases. If you suffer from arthritis in the joints of your feet or ankles, speak with a podiatrist about custom orthotics. If your podiatrist believes custom orthotics can help you (after examining you and diagnosing your condition), they will prescribe a set based on your foot structure and specific needs. They will then create a custom imprint of your feet either digitally or with a plaster cast, and your custom orthotics will be created to offer you the relief you seek.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Gary J. Kaiserman, DPM from Achilles Footcare Center. 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 our offices located in Forest Lane and West Kiest Boulevard Dallas, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Ankle Foot Orthotics for Athletes
Monday, 22 August 2022 00:00

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Tuesday, 16 August 2022 00:00

Three Tips for Preventing Falls

As an individual gets older and older, their risk of suffering a dangerous trip or fall increases. Many things can make seniors more likely to trip. For example, having poor eyesight and taking medication that makes one feel dizzy as a side effect can increase their likelihood of falling. However, many factors are related to the feet that can also make falling likely. For example, ill-fitting footwear that is either too loose, bulky, or slippery can be dangerous. Instead of wearing this kind of footwear, it is recommended that seniors try to use shoes with non-slip soles. This will enable the senior to get a better grip on the ground, making tripping less probable. Additionally, to prevent falls at the very beginning of the day, a senior might consider ensuring that their feet can easily touch the floor from a seated position on their bed. When a senior takes their first steps of the day, they must do everything they can to increase their stability. Having their feet comfortably reach the floor from their bed is a great start. They might even try sitting in an upright position for a few minutes before putting their weight on their feet at the beginning of the day to stimulate blood flow. All of this makes falling less likely when taking the first steps of the day. If you are a senior looking to prevent a dangerous fall, contact 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 Gary J. Kaiserman, DPM from Achilles Footcare Center. 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:

  • Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
  • Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
  • Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
  • Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
  • Utilizing a walker or cane
  • Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
  • Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

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 our offices located in Forest Lane and West Kiest Boulevard Dallas, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Falls Prevention
Tuesday, 09 August 2022 00:00

Who Gets Flat Feet?

There are many kinds of foot conditions that may alter the natural structure of your feet. Flat feet are one such foot condition. Also known as fallen arches, flat feet are defined by the lack of a natural arch in the feet. Individuals with flat feet, for example, can stand upright on the ground with the sole of the foot pressing flush against the floor. Although flat feet are not typically considered a serious condition, they can make running and walking for extended periods more difficult. Some individuals are more apt to develop fallen arches. Infants are one commonly affected group, as their tendons and ligaments in the feet are not yet fully grown and tightened. However, by the age of two or three, fallen arches usually disappear. Another group is those who have muscle diseases. Individuals who suffer from cerebral palsy, for instance, might experience flat feet because of their muscle condition. Lastly, since flat feet can be caused by experiencing an injury to the foot, athletes and senior citizens who are prone to falling are also at risk of flat feet. If you fall into one of the aforementioned categories, contact a podiatrist to learn more about your susceptibility to flat feet.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Gary J. Kaiserman, DPM from Achilles Footcare Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

  • Pain around the heel or arch area
  • Trouble standing on the tip toe
  • Swelling around the inside of the ankle
  • Flat look to one or both feet
  • Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Forest Lane and West Kiest Boulevard Dallas, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about What is Flexible Flat Foot?
Tuesday, 02 August 2022 00:00

Possible Reasons for Achilles Tendon Pain

The Achilles tendon main function is to connect the heel to the calf. An Achilles tendon injury can occur from overuse, or because of a fall. If the tendon tears, it is referred to as a rupture, and is common among those who are active or athletic. This can cause severe pain and discomfort, often making it difficult to walk. There are additional reasons why patients may experience Achilles tendon pain. These include pyoneritides, which is considered to be a form of tendinitis, an infection caused by bacteria, or possibly from fatty deposits in the tendon. Osteoarthritis has been known to cause pain in the Achilles tendon, and it may be a result of a loss of cartilage. Mild relief may be found when performing specific stretches. These include standing on a step and lowering one heel at a time until a gentle stretch is felt. Practicing toe curls can also be an effective exercise, and this is done by bending the knee while curling the toes up, and holding for several seconds. If you would like to know more about Achilles tendon injuries or how to perform exercises that can help this type of pain, please schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Gary J. Kaiserman, DPM of Achilles Footcare Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

  • Inflammation
  • Dull to severe pain
  • Increased blood flow to the tendon
  • Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

  • Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
  • Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

  • Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
  • Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Forest Lane and West Kiest Boulevard Dallas, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Achilles Tendon Injuries

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