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Tuesday, 11 October 2022 00:00

Types of Ankle Sprains

An inversion injury happens when the ankle rolls outward while the foot turns inward. This is considered to be the most common type of ankle sprain. Sprains happen as a result of the ankle stretching past its normal range of motion causing immediate pain and discomfort. An eversion injury happens when the opposite occurs, as the ankle rolls inward and the foot rolls outward. The ligaments can become damaged with this type of sprain which can be painful. The least common ankle injury is referred to as a high ankle sprain.  This occurs as the ankle moves while the foot remains stable. This can cause the leg to rotate, and often needs prompt medical attention. An ankle sprain can wreak havoc in completing daily activities, and it is strongly advised that if you have incurred this type of injury you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can provide correct treatment techniques. 

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, 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.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

  • Pain at the sight of the tear
  • Bruising/Swelling
  • Ankle area is tender to touch
  • In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
  • Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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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Saturday, 08 October 2022 00:00

Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

Tuesday, 04 October 2022 00:00

Stretching for Standing All Day

Sometimes due to one’s profession or lifestyle, an individual may be expected to stand for prolonged periods of time without otherwise moving or engaging in physical activities. This static position has its own risks of potential health problems, including lower back pain, foot pain, and achy knees. One way to address the problem of standing in a static position for long periods of time is to stretch because stretching can reduce tension in the muscles. For example, to reduce tension caused from standing, you may choose to perform the standing lunge calf stretch. This can be done by standing in front of a wall, putting one’s hands against the wall, and then repeatedly moving one foot behind the other in a lunge position. You ought to feel a stretch in the calf. This should be repeated on both feet. If you want to learn more about how stretching can address problems caused by standing all day, contact a podiatrist.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Howard Waxman, DPM from Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

  • Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
  • Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
  • Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

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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Tuesday, 27 September 2022 00:00

Why Are My Feet Swollen?

One can get swollen feet from walking or standing for long periods of time. The swelling is often relieved by resting and elevating the feet. Various other things can cause swelling in the feet, such as conditions with bones and tendons, problems with skin and toenails, or drug side effects. However, there are times when the swelling (or edema) is related to a more serious underlying problem like heart failure, developing blood clots, or kidney disease. So this must not be ignored. If you have swelling in your feet and you do not know the cause, or if the swelling worsens, causes pain, or interferes with mobility, contact a podiatrist immediately and have your feet examined. Swelling can be the first clue that something is going on in your body, and a proper diagnosis is imperative for effective treatment.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, 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.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

  • Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
  • Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
  • Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
  • Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
  • Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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.


 

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Tuesday, 20 September 2022 00:00

Pain From Ankle Avulsion Fractures

The ankle is one of the most critical parts of the human body because it enables the foot to move upwards and downwards. However, the ankle can be susceptible to painful sensations. For example, ankle avulsion fractures can cause pain in the ankles. This condition occurs when a tendon or ligament is torn and part of a bone is taken with it. Ankle avulsion fractures can feel very similar to ankle sprains, in terms of pain felt and swelling around the affected area. X-rays are usually required to identify ankle avulsion fractures and to distinguish them from regular ankle sprains. Treatment options for those suffering from an ankle avulsion fracture vary widely, depending on the severity of the case. Schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today if you have ankle pain or an ankle avulsion fracture.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially 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 tendonitis
  • Achilles tendon rupture
  • Stress fractures
  • Bursitis
  • 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 and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

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Reflexology is a popular form of foot therapy. It is performed by applying pressure to certain reflex points on the feet which are connected to specific organs. Patients have noticed their ailments may be diminished as a result of having this type of therapy done, and it may produce a healing response in the overall body. Some therapists lightly touch the heels and surrounding areas and may pull on the toes. Having a massage performed is another form of foot therapy. This targets the tissues to relieve tension in the muscles and may possibly improve circulation. The benefits of reflexology can include boosting the immune system, balancing the body’s energy, and reducing toxins in the body. There are additional bonuses for both types of therapies, and if you would like more information, please consult with a podiatrist who can help you to determine which is right for you.

Foot therapy is often necessary for those recovering from either foot deformities or foot injuries. If you have concerns regarding therapy, consult with Howard Waxman, DPM from Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Most Common Injuries

People who are active or athletes are prone to a variety of injuries. Therefore, it is often important to take part in physical therapy in order to quickly get back on the right track. 

What to Do When Injured

Physical Therapy – This specialized treatment will focus on the affected area, speeding up recovery and the overall healing process. It is a proven method that has helped millions of people return from any injury.

During physical therapy you will undergo regimented training to get back into full form. Training is often very difficult, especially at first when the foot feels weak. Physical therapy often involves:

Basic stretching and twisting exercises – getting the feet’s mobility and flexibility up.

Massaging – the therapist will massage the injured area in order to activate the muscles and relax them.

Strengthening Exercises – this allows the muscles in the affected area to regain their full strength, a vital step towards full recovery.

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.

Read more about Foot Therapy for Sports Injuries
Thursday, 08 September 2022 00:00

Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?

If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!

Wednesday, 07 September 2022 00:00

Dealing With Gangrene

One of the more severe side effects of diabetes is the development of wounds that do not heal properly. Wounds may cause skin ulcers, which can develop into gangrene if not treated correctly. Gangrene indicates the death of tissue, typically in the feet, because of decreased blood flow to the area. Causes of gangrene include diseases that affect blood circulation like smoking or infected wounds. Among the symptoms are pain and swelling, decay of the affected area, a blackened color, and a foul odor. If you have any of these symptoms it is essential to consult with a podiatrist who can evaluate the severity of the condition. Treatment may include debridement or removal of the dead tissue and intravenous antibiotic medication. In addition, pain relievers and anticoagulation medicine may be prescribed. In the most severe cases, the affected area may need to be amputated. For more information, please contact a podiatrist. 

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 Howard Waxman, DPM from Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor 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 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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Tuesday, 30 August 2022 00:00

Treating Plantar Fasciitis With Surgery

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common foot conditions that causes heel pain. The plantar fascia is a long band composed of tissue, running from the heel to the toes. The plantar fascia also makes up the arch of the foot. When this band of tissue becomes irritated or inflamed, it is known as plantar fasciitis. This condition can be treated in several ways. If you do not respond to any of the less severe treatment options like orthotics or anti-inflammatory medications, you might be a candidate for a surgical procedure. The surgery, known as plantar fasciotomy, is a procedure that essentially moves the affected fascia away from the heel bone. This is done to ultimately reduce the tension that is causing the condition. There are two main kinds of surgery for plantar fasciitis. First, you may have an open surgery, which is performed in a hospital and includes making a 1-2 inch incision. Alternatively, you may have an endoscopic surgery, which involves making two small incisions that are less than half an inch deep. There are a variety of factors that can determine whether you are a candidate for this kind of surgery. If you are interested in this treatment and want to learn more, contact a podiatrist.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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 Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

  • Excessive running
  • Non-supportive shoes
  • Overpronation
  • Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

  • Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
  • Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
  • Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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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Tuesday, 23 August 2022 00:00

Athlete’s Foot in Teens

Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, is the most common fungal infection that affects the feet. It is common in older children, and it might occur in one or both feet. This fungus grows best in warm, moist areas of the skin and between the toes. Someone with this affliction will experience red, moist, scaly, and cracked skin that can be itchy and peeling between the toes. Sometimes they will find small blisters on the bottoms and sides of the feet. This might also be accompanied by an unpleasant odor and can come back repeatedly. Home treatment of athlete’s foot includes washing and drying the child’s feet daily, moisturizing them, using antifungal powders and lotions that can be purchased over-the-counter, wearing clean socks daily, wearing shoes that breathe, not sharing shoes or socks with others, rotating shoes between wearing them, and making sure to wear footwear in public spaces like community showers, gyms, or swimming pools. If the condition is not healing, an infection develops, the feet swell, there is pus or pain, consult with a podiatrist for a more effective treatment for your child’s athlete’s foot.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, 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.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

  • Make sure their shoes fit properly
  • Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
  • Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
  • Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
  • Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
  • Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
  • Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
  • Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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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