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Tendonitis in the Foot and Ankle
Tendons are thick bands of tissue that connect muscles to bones. The feet and ankles have a large number of tendons, any of which can become inflamed, a condition known as tendonitis. The main cause of tendonitis is overuse from repetitive movement. For that reason tendonitis is especially common to runners, because if a tendon is made to work too hard or too long it can develop tears. Other causes of foot and ankle tendonitis include an abnormal foot structure like flat feet or high arches, an injury, or a medical condition, such as gout or rheumatoid arthritis. The primary symptom of tendonitis in the foot or ankle is sharp, burning pain, often followed by swelling and stiffness. In many cases, tendonitis can be treated successfully, though the recovery period may take weeks, or even months. The first way to begin the process is to rest the painful area and cease the activity that caused it. If pain continues, or worsens, it is a good idea to visit a podiatrist for a thorough exam. The doctor may prescribe a variety of treatment options to ease the inflammation, including medication, orthotics, and exercises.
Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:
- Broken bones
- Muscle strains
- Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
- Stress fractures
Symptoms
Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:
- Bruising
- Inflammation/ Swelling
- Pain
Diagnosis
To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.
Treatment
Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Various Reasons That Flat Feet Can Occur
The medical condition known as flat feet exists as a result of little or no arch in the foot. It is easy to notice and can be seen by standing on the floor with the entire foot lying flat. It can be referred to as pes planus, or fallen arches, and most babies are born with this condition. It generally disappears as most arches are fully developed by the teenage years. There is a small percentage of patients who have flat feet throughout adulthood that may induce pain and discomfort. There are various types, and flexible flat feet are the most common. It is evident when the arch is visible as the foot is lifted. Additionally, a tight Achilles tendon may be a source of flat feet and often affects the arch. The heel can lift sooner than it should while walking and running, and it can cause pain and discomfort. If a foot injury occurs and the tendon that connects the inside of the ankle to the calf muscle becomes swollen or torn, the arch can be affected, possibly resulting in flat feet. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can prescribe custom-made orthotics, which may help to strengthen the area where the arch normally is.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors 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 offices located in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Heel Pain Can Be Treated!
Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
Keeping Feet and Ankles Healthy While Playing Golf
Regardless of your level of fitness or skill, or how often you play, you may experience an injury at some point while playing golf. Golf injuries can occur throughout the body, including the feet and ankles. The feet are critical to providing the necessary power and balance required as the body goes through the mechanics of the golf swing. Losing your footing, trying to strike the ball while balancing on an uneven surface, or having poor form while swinging may all contribute to injuries in the feet. Other golf injuries in the feet include ankle sprains, tendinitis, inflammation, and even blisters. You can help protect your feet and ankles while playing golf by improving your swinging form and wearing golf shoes that fit properly. To keep your feet and ankles in top form, or to learn more about how biomechanics can affect your game, make an appointment with a podiatrist.
Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Common Injuries
The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:
- Achilles Tendonitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
- Broken Foot
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Stress Fractures
- Turf Toe
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.
Treatment
Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
What Does Gout Feel and Look Like?
Gout can negatively impact your overall health and well-being. It is therefore important to make yourself familiar with the symptoms of gout in case you ever develop this condition. Gout is a specific kind of arthritis that affects joints in the toes of the feet. It is characterized by the formation of crystals around a joint which can ultimately lead to inflammation and severe pain. One sign that you might have gout in the joints of your toes is that the affected area may become hot and significantly tender to the touch. Additionally, you might notice a change of color in the skin–namely, the skin surrounding the affected joint can become bright red and shiny. Lastly, you may notice that the affected area becomes significantly swollen and inflamed. These are all very characteristic signs of gout and if you find yourself exhibiting any of these signs, you should contact a podiatrist. Upon visiting the podiatrist, you can receive an accurate diagnosis and receive the care that you need for your gout.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?
Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
Plantar Fasciitis in Children
If you are the parent of growing children, then you surely know the importance of looking after their health to make sure that they mature into healthy, vibrant young adults. When they complain about pain in their feet, therefore, you might take these complaints seriously. Some children often experience some kind of heel pain, typically from overuse or an underlying condition or injury. Although there are many potential causes of heel pain in a child, one of the most common overuse injuries that might be causing pain is known as plantar fasciitis. This condition primarily affects the plantar fascia, the tissue that runs from the heel to the bottom of the toes. Children who suffer from plantar fasciitis will sometimes experience pain most prominently when walking at the beginning of the day. This condition can occur from excessive strain put on the feet through sports and other physical activities, or simply from wearing footwear that provides inadequate support and cushioning. Living with plantar fasciitis can be quite uncomfortable. If your child is involved in a sport, it might be very difficult for them to be able to painlessly continue to play if the condition is left untreated. If your child is complaining about heel pain, consider taking them to the podiatrist who can determine if they are suffering from plantar fasciitis or some other kind of condition.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors 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 our offices located in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Proper Tools for Cutting Toenails
Cutting one’s toenails is a key component of maintaining healthy feet. Not only does keeping your toenails cut to an appropriate length help stave off the development of ingrown toenails, it is also a way to make your feet look more visually appealing. However, many individuals who attempt to cut their toenails fail to utilize the appropriate tools for this critical self-care practice. For example, many individuals attempt to cut their toenails by using a pair of regular scissors or even a cutting knife. These tools are not appropriate and can be very dangerous. Instead, you may opt for a proper pair of toenail clippers. It is important that you utilize a different, larger pair of nail clippers used exclusively for your toenails. This is because using the same pair of nail clippers on both your fingernails and your toenails can spread bacteria and be unhealthy. In addition to having two pairs of different nail clippers, you should also be mindful of keeping them clean. You can clean and disinfect your pair of toenail clippers after each use to make sure that you are doing your best to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria. Lastly, another proper tool for cutting your toenails is a nail file, such as an emery board. You can use this tool to smooth the edges of your nails after clipping them. For more information on the proper tools you should be using to cut your toenails, consult a podiatrist.
Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors 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 offices located in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?
Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.
How Long Does a Broken Toe Take To Heal?
Breaking any bone in the body can be a serious threat to your overall health and well-being. Broken toes are no exception. Since the bones in the toes are smaller, they can be particularly vulnerable to being injured and broken. When broken, toe bones will often bleed and swell. It is common also to identify blood beneath the toenail. Breaking bones in the toes is usually extremely painful and can make walking especially difficult. Many patients will wonder how long it takes for a broken toe to heal. Although it varies depending on the patient, the injury, and the particular toe bone, there are several rules of thumb to follow. Broken big toes generally take longer to heal. After wearing a walking boot and then eventually a shoe with a stiff sole, patients can recover from broken big toes in approximately 6 to 8 weeks. Broken toes other than the big toe, commonly the pinky toe, take less time to heal. For example, after strapping and wearing shoes with stiff soles, a patient can recover from a broken pinky toe in 4 to 6 weeks. No patient wants to suffer a broken toe injury for longer than is necessary or to prolong the pain. However, it is important to let the bone take time to properly heal. Always talk with a podiatrist to ask questions about your broken toe bone and how it can be treated.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What to Know About a Broken Toe
Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
- Throbbing pain
- Swelling
- Bruising on the skin and toenail
- The inability to move the toe
- Toe appears crooked or disfigured
- Tingling or numbness in the toe
Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.
Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
More...
House Slippers, Socks, or Crocs: How to Choose the Safest Footwear
You want your loved one to be comfy around the house, but what's on his or her feet has a huge impact on safety. Accidental falls are a major cause of broken bones and, in turn, out-of-home placement for older adults.
Look for nonskid soles.
Socks provide warmth and can be a good around-the-house choice, especially at nap time. Whether you choose slippers or socks for hanging around the house, look for nonskid materials. These are now readily available in socks as well as slippers and shoes. Nonskid surfaces provide traction against smooth wood and tile, reducing the chance of falls.
Don't let rubber meet the road.
Shoes with smooth rubber on the bottom, or shoes made of rubber (such as Crocs-style molded sandals) tend to catch on smooth floor surfaces, inviting accidental trips. A little tread, in contrast, provides a grip against the floor.
Avoid heavy treads.
Take care not to buy shoes with thick, overly heavy treads. Many running-shoe and walking-shoe styles seem like they'd be solid anchors on unsteady feet. However, when they have large, deep ridges in the soles, these can catch on carpeting and cause the walker to lose balance.
Avoid asking a woman to sacrifice her sense of style.
It can be hard for a "shoe person" to give up stylish footwear in favor of safer choices. First, try looking for brands (such as Merrell or Clarks) that emphasize movement without sacrificing style. Look for colors or detailing that can give the wearer that kick of pleasure. If such shoes prove hard to find, encourage a shoe gal to express herself with other accessories: Inspire or indulge a fancy for scarves, hats, or pocketbooks -- a different creative outlet that can take the sting out of giving up kitten heels and delicate T-straps.
Go for a good fit.
Shoes or slippers that fasten with Velcro are easy to put on and off, and they stay securely on the foot. Scuffs and slip-on styles, in contrast, are too easy to slip out of. Ideally, the shoe should be wide enough in the toe box to be comfortable and accommodate any bunions or bumps.
Don't go by your loved one's customary "old" size. Swelling and other conditions can make feet a size or more larger. Shoes that are too small pinch the foot and can impair gait. Try going up a size or two.
Take extra precautions once shuffling starts.
Many older adults shuffle their feet, either because of degenerative issues or as a complication of dementia. Comfortable footwear with safe treads becomes especially important.
Toenail Fungus Is Contagious, and May Be Prevented
Toenail fungus can be an unpleasant and unsightly foot condition, despite the fact it is generally not serious. The majority of people may experience this type of fungus at some point in their lives, and it can be difficult to treat. It occurs as a result of the fungus entering the body through tiny cracks in the skin on the feet. This type of fungus is known to be contagious, and it lives and thrives in warm and moist environments, including shower room floors and locker rooms. It is advised to wear appropriate shoes while in these types of areas, as this can help to stop the spread of toenail fungus. The noticeable symptoms consist of a thickening and yellowing of the toenails, often starting with the big toe. This infection can cause the toenails to become brittle, and they may be difficult to trim correctly. In severe cases, the surrounding skin can become red and irritated, and may begin to itch. Many patients have found effective preventive methods for this type of fungus. These consist of wearing shoes that are made of natural materials, and refraining from sharing towels, shoes, and socks. Additionally, shoes that have been contaminated with this fungus need to be replaced, and keeping the toenails trimmed may aid in helping to prevent toenail fungus. If you are afflicted with this infection, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist at the beginning stages who can offer you correct treatment techniques.
For more information about treatment, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM of Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.
Antifungals & Deterrence
Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.
Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
Caring For Corns on the Feet
When frequent rubbing occurs on your feet or toes, corns may develop in response to the friction. Such friction is usually caused by tight or ill-fitting shoes that rub against the feet. The corns are similar to calluses and usually create hardened patches of skin at the sight of the friction. In some cases, corns on the feet and toes may bleed and even cause discomfort. Fortunately, many instances of corns on the feet can be solved with a quick fix—simply not wearing the shoes that cause the friction to occur and opting for better-fitting footwear. Some individuals might even wear a protective pad around the corn while it is healing to ensure that it will not rub against anything and exacerbate the toughness of the skin. While these at-home remedies have proven effective, some individuals with corns may need further medical attention. For example, further complications could arise for those with diabetes or who experience numbness in the feet. Continuing to experience pain and inflammation at the sight of the corn may also be a sign to reach out to a medical professional. While corns do not usually pose a significant health threat, knowing the causes of this condition and being able to care for it can help you lead a healthier life for your feet.
Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM of Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.
Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:
- Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
- Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
- Wearing only shoes that offer support
Treating Corns
Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
