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Lansdowne, PA
(610) 626-3338

 

March 2023

Tuesday, 28 March 2023 00:00

When a Hammertoe Causes Toe Pain

A hammertoe is a deformity that develops at the middle joint of a toe and causes the tip of the toe to turn down, resembling a hammer or claw. This generally happens in the foot's second toe when it is longer than the first toe or when the foot's arch is flat. Hammertoes can be caused by ill-fitting shoes that crowd the toes, genetics or a bunion that can overlap and crowd smaller toes. If the hammertoe remains in a bent position for a prolonged time, the tendons can tighten and shorten and remain this way even if shoes are not worn. A hammertoe can cause pain or discomfort when walking, and the skin can thicken on the toe causing corns or calluses to form. It can also be challenging to find shoes that fit well. If you have a hammertoe and it is causing you pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. George Yarnell of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Trauma
  • Sports injury
  • Wearing shoes that are too tight
  • Arthritis
  • Gout
  • Corns and calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Blisters
  • Ingrown toenails
  • Sprains
  • Fractures (broken bones)
  • Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

  • Severe pain
  • Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
  • Signs of infection
  • Continued swelling
  • Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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.

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Published in Blog
Tuesday, 21 March 2023 00:00

How Did I Injure My Achilles Tendon?

An Achilles tendon injury can cause extreme pain and discomfort. This tendon is located in the lower back of the leg, and connects the heel to the calf muscles. People who enjoy running may experience Achilles tendon injuries. This may be a result of increasing speed and mileage too quickly, and not warming up and cooling down properly before and after running. The pain is  immediately felt when this type of injury has happened, and additional symptoms can include decreased strength, stiffness in the back of the heel, and it can be difficult to walk. A proper diagnosis is often done, which consists of having an X-ray, MRI, or ultrasound performed. This often begins with resting the affected foot as frequently as possible, and keeping the weight off of it. It may be beneficial to perform strength training exercises and stretches as it heals, in addition to wearing custom-made orthotics. If you have an Achilles tendon injury, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. George Yarnell of Pennsylvania. 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 office located in Lansdowne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Published in Blog
Tuesday, 14 March 2023 00:00

Why Do My Feet Hurt?

Foot pain is common, and it is important to find the cause in order to treat it properly. Sometimes foot pain will be temporary, and rest is all that is needed. However, if this pain continues, it is important to seek medical help so that it does not get worse. Conditions that can cause foot pain include, wearing shoes that do not fit properly, Achilles tendonitis or rupture, and bone spurs. Achilles tendonitis occurs from overuse of the Achilles tendon. Anyone can be affected by this injury, but athletes are particularly prone to this condition. An Achilles tendon rupture can occur suddenly, and intense pain is felt in the back of the foot and into the calf. With an Achilles tendon rupture, surgery is sometimes necessary. Bone spurs can result from bone injuries. Generally there is only pain with a bone spur when it is larger or if it is angled in such a way that it presses on nerves. Shoes become difficult to wear and standing for a prolonged time is challenging. At times, the extra bone needs to be shaved to reduce pain. If you have foot pain that does not get better in a reasonable time or worsens, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. George Yarnell from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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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Published in Blog
Sunday, 12 March 2023 00:00

It's Time for Beautiful Feet

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

Published in Blog
Tuesday, 07 March 2023 00:00

Foot Problems Common in Seniors

As a person ages, problems involving the feet become more common. These issues among seniors can interfere with daily activity, increase the risk of falling, and adversely affect other body parts. Among the changes to the feet specifically linked to aging are dry skin, flat feet, hammertoe, toenail changes, and arthritis. Other potential problems include a shortened Achilles tendon, edema, and neuropathy. Dry skin, especially on the feet, can cause cracks in the skin that may result in fissures. Daily moisturizing is often a good preventative measure. Deep cracks in the skin can invite infection and in the worst cases develop into cellulitis. With age also comes a loosening of the ligaments, which can cause the arches of the feet to drop. This can negatively affect body mechanics, cause foot pain, and decrease stability. The Achilles tendon may begin to lose water as one ages, which can develop into drop foot. A decline in estrogen and testosterone production can affect the toenails, which may turn brittle and become thicker. Osteoarthritis, which is also termed wear and tear arthritis, may attack the major joints of the foot, big toe, and ankle. If any of these issues have begun to affect your feet, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist to find out more.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. George Yarnell from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

  • Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
  • Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
  • Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
  • Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
  • Shoes that don’t fit properly
  • Pressure sores
  • Loss of circulation in legs & feet
  • Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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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