If you need a more accessible version of this website, click this button on the right.Switch to Accessible Site

Lansdowne, PA
(610) 626-3338

 

August 2017

Those who suffer from diabetes typically also suffer from neuropathy. Neuropathy is a condition in which nerves are damaged and numbness often ensues. Typically this loss in sensation occurs in the lower parts of the body, such as the legs and feet. This is troublesome; if a diabetic with neuropathy sustains a minor foot injury, they may not even feel it. Without proper care, these injuries can become potentially serious. Be sure to check your feet daily for blisters, redness, swelling, cuts, or anything else that is abnormal. Wash your feet with warm water, and dry them often to prevent infections or fungus. Using talcum powder and wearing breathable socks that wick away moisture can help keep your feet dry. Make sure your shoes fit and provide good support and cushioning. Avoid soaking your feet, wearing tight or non-breathable socks, and wearing poorly fitted shoes. Seeing a podiatrist once a year for a foot exam can help ensure that your feet are healthy.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr. George Yarnell from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

  • Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
  • Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
  • Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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.

Read more about How to Care for Diabetic Foot
Published in Blog
Tuesday, 22 August 2017 00:00

Is Barefoot Running Right for You?

While running barefoot may just seem to be the newest fad in recent years, its emergence spawned decades ago. African barefoot runners Abebe Bikila and Zola Budd both set world records back in the 1960’s and 80’s respectively. Researchers have noted there is less impact on the foot when running barefoot compared to running in shoes--that means less potential for injuries. However, it is important to consult a podiatrist before running barefoot. Furthermore, it is best to ease into running barefoot, as this will help accustom your feet to the ground and prevent any potential injuries.

Barefoot running has its own share of benefits and disadvantages. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. George Yarnell from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Barefoot Running

The Impact of Barefoot Running

  • Running without shoes changes the motion of your running, as most running is done by landing on the heel of the feet.
  • Running barefoot requires a different way of running; the landing is done on the front part of the feet.

The Advantages of Barefoot Running

  • When running and landing on the front feet, the impact on the feet and ankle is reduced; this can reduce stress injuries.
  • It strengthens muscles in the feet, ankles and lower legs.
  • Balance of the body is improved, and there is a greater sensory input from the feet to the rest of the body.

The Drawbacks of Barefoot Running

  • No protection while running, makes it likely that runners will land on sharp objects and scrapes, bruises and cuts on the feet will result.
  • Blisters may form.
  • Possibility of plantar fascia problems.
  • Risk of getting Achilles tendonitis.

So, what can runners do to make barefoot running safe? It’s best to make a slow transition from running shoes to barefoot running. Once the feet begin to adjust, try walking, then jogging and gradually increasing the distance. Minimalist running shoes may also be an option.

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

Read more about Barefoot Running
Published in Blog

Flip-flops fail to provide support for your foot’s arch and heel, and this is one of the main reasons why they are considered bad for your feet. However, if you decide that you still want to wear flip-flops, you should look for a pair that are good-quality and have features that will not harm your feet. The best material for flip-flops to be made out of is leather. High-quality leather will reduce your chances of developing blisters and other irritations on your feet. Support is also a problem with flip-flops. Make sure to limit the amount of time you spend wearing them.

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. George Yarnell from Pennsylvania. Our doctor 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 our office located in Lansdowne, PA .  We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Flip Flops and Feet
Published in Blog
Tuesday, 08 August 2017 00:00

What May Be Causing Your Foot Pain

Foot pain can be a hassle, and it is important to get to the root of the problem so you can be aware of how to treat it effectively. The arches in your feet can be a source of your pain, especially if you are flat footed. If you have flat feet, you should try to wear supportive footwear or shoe inserts to help provide an arch in your foot. Ingrown toenails are caused by wearing shoes that are too small or narrow, and they can cause a great deal of pain. If your toenail becomes infected, swollen, or changes color, you should seek help for it immediately. Another source of your foot pain could be bunions. Bunions, which are bone protrusions near the big toe, can make walking and standing on your feet very uncomfortable. If your feet are constantly hurting due to your bunions, you should consult with a podiatrist to look into a form of treatment.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. George Yarnell from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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.

Read more about Every Day Foot Care
Published in Blog
Connect with us