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Poor circulation is defined as reduced blood flow to specific parts of the body. There are several symptoms that are associated with this condition. These often include dry skin, feet or hands that have a tingling or numbing sensation, and any existing wounds may have difficulty in healing. Research has indicated that diabetes, elevated cholesterol, and high blood pressure may increase the risk of developing this ailment. Relief may be found when a gentle exercise regime is frequently practiced, in addition to maintaining adequate blood pressure levels. If you are a diabetic patient, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can perform tests for poor circulation in the feet.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. George Yarnell of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness 
• Numbness or cramping in the legs
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lansdowne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

If your middle toe is bent in a downward position, you may have a condition that is known as hammertoe. The shape of the toe may resemble a hammer, and wearing shoes may be uncomfortable. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this condition include corns or calluses that form on top of the toe and pain that is felt when the toe is straightened. Hammertoe may develop as a result of wearing shoes that do not have adequate room in the toe area, causing the toes to be in a cramped position for the majority of the day. Medical conditions such as arthritis or diabetes may be responsible for the formation of hammertoes, in addition to genetic factors. If you believe that you have a hammertoe, schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat this condition.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. George Yarnell from Pennsylvania. 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 feel free to contact our office located in Lansdowne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

If you notice an uncomfortable rash on your foot, you may have a condition that is known as athlete’s foot. Symptoms of this ailment include a burning sensation between the toes or on the soles of the feet, in addition to dry and flaky skin. In severe cases, blisters can form. It is known to be contagious, and it is important to take precautions, which can help to prevent this condition. These include wearing appropriate shoes while in public pools, shower room floors, and surrounding areas. Additionally, it is helpful to alternate shoes that are frequently worn, and ensuring clean tools are used while pedicures are performed. It is beneficial to wear cotton socks, which is advantageous in absorbing any moisture the feet produces. If you notice you have this condition, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can offer proper treatment options.

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. George Yarnell from Pennsylvania.  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 our office located in Lansdowne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The ankle enables the foot to move up, down, and around. It is the part of the body that connects the leg and the foot, and mobility may become difficult if the ankle is injured. There are additional symptoms that can accompany ankle pain, including a tingling sensation, swelling, or bruising. These may be a result of existing medical conditions, which can include gout, rheumatoid arthritis, Achilles tendonitis, or a fall involving the ankle. If the swelling occurs on one side of the ankle, it may be from a sprain or strain. Additionally, pregnant women may experience swelling as a result of excess fluid that is present in the body, and this may lead to ankle pain. If you have ankle pain for any reason, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can properly treat your condition.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. George Yarnell from Pennsylvania. 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 our office located in Lansdowne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.