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April 2018

There are typically several signs that can indicate cracked heels may be a growing concern. The skin will generally become rough, and it’s suggested to observe this condition and promptly administer an appropriate moisturizer or cream. Additional symptoms may include an itchy feeling in the feet, peeling skin, or the excretion of any type of liquid, such as blood, from the heels. There are reasons why many people experience cracked heels, including certain types of medical conditions, standing for extended periods at a time, or dry skin. Research has shown that the sooner cracked heels are treated, the sooner a more comfortable feeling will return to the feet. Utilizing a pumice stone to scrub away dry skin after soaking the feet in warm, soapy water may be an effective method to ease the roughness of cracked heels. The use of coconut oil or vegetable oil may aid in obtaining relief. If you are experiencing this condition, please consult your podiatrist for additional information.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. George Yarnell from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

  • Invest in a good foot cream
  • Try Using Petroleum Jelly
  • Ease up on Soaps
  • Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

  • Moisturize After Showering
  • Skip a Shower
  • Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
  • Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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.

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Monday, 23 April 2018 00:00

Does My Child Have An Ingrown Toenail?

If you notice swelling and redness around your baby’s big toe, it is possible that an ingrown toenail has developed. Common signs of this occurring include your baby pulling on the big toe excessive crying because of the pain that is felt. Ingrown toenails can often become infected, and relief may often be attained by using warm soapy water to soak the foot in. This ailment may be a result of nails that are not cut properly, in addition to wearing socks and shoes that may not fit correctly. It’s suggested that nail clippers are used for the task of trimming the toenails instead of scissors, and this should be performed straight across the nail. If the toenail should become infected, please seek the advice of a podiatrist.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. George Yarnell of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

  • Improper toenail trimming
  • Genetics
  • Improper shoe fitting
  • Injury from pedicures or nail picking
  • Abnormal gait
  • Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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.

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Monday, 16 April 2018 00:00

Symptoms of Sesamoiditis

If you experience pain between the ball of the foot and the big toe, you may have a condition referred to as sesamoiditis. It originates from the sesamoid bones, which can be found under the big toe. If the foot has a high arch, these tiny bones endure additional pressure while walking or running. The purpose of the sesamoid bones is to propel the foot forward while walking, which may become difficult to accomplish if they become injured. The symptoms typically consist of pain in the foot while walking, in addition to becoming red and swollen. Wearing a shoe with adequate padding will aid in attaining a certain amount of relief and may take a portion of the pressure off the sesamoid bones. Additional treatment techniques may consist of binding the big toe, which may limit movement, and utilizing crutches to keep the weight off the foot. Please schedule a consultation with a podiatrist if you would like additional information about sesamoiditis.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Dr. George Yarnell of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

  • Sudden increase in activity
  • Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
  • Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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.

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Monday, 09 April 2018 00:00

Different Types of Flat Feet

Well-developed arches in the feet provide the necessary balance the body needs to achieve maximum flexibility and stability. When this arch is not developed, the condition is called flat feet, also known as fallen arches. Babies are typically born with flat feet, and the arch generally develops in childhood. Recent research has shown there are two types of flat feet: flexible and rigid. A partial arch is noticeable in the patient that has flexible flat feet, while there is no arch present at all in rigid flat feet. As the aging process transpires, there may be several reasons why flat feet develop, including weight gain and possible foot injuries. Runners with this condition may find that choosing shoes to wear while jogging that offer additional support may feel more comfortable. It’s suggested to consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis or for additional information. 

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. George Yarnell from Pennsylvania. 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 office located in Lansdowne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Women who choose to wear high heels are generally aware of  their feet hurting at the end of the day or night. This type of discomfort is a consequence of wearing these specific shoes, and this typically occurs due to the toes being crammed into a small area with little room to move freely. There are several conditions that can develop from wearing high heels, including the formation of bunions, which is a large and unsightly bony lump on the side of the big toe. Corns and calluses are among additional foot issues that are prone to developing, including pain in the heel, which can cause extreme distress. If high heels are an important part of your wardrobe, it's suggested to wear a lower heel, which may possibly diminish any discomfort that is felt.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. George Yarnell from Pennsylvania. Our doctor 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 office located in Lansdowne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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