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Is Foot Reconstruction an Option for Permanent Relief?
Foot reconstruction is a type of surgery that patients may opt for to correct the structure of the foot. People can be born with abnormal feet, or it can happen from an injury. Additionally, specific foot diseases can affect the overall health of the body, and reconstructing the foot may enhance a better quality of life. Metabolic diseases that can include diabetes or gout may affect foot function, and walking can be difficult. If you are suffering from feet that inhibit daily activities, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine if this type of foot surgery is correct for you.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM of Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:
- Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
- Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
- Cosmetic reconstruction
What Types of Surgery Are There?
The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:
- Bunionectomy for painful bunions
- Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
- Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage
Benefits of Surgery
Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.
Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
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.
Read more about Foot and Ankle SurgeryCan Shockwave Therapy Help My Heel Pain?
In Shockwave therapy, acoustic waves are directed to damaged areas in the feet and ankles which can trigger a healing and regenerative response and reduce pain. Shockwave therapy can utilize either low-energy or high-energy waves, and can be administered in either a single, or series of treatment sessions. Shockwave therapy is FDA-approved for the treatment of plantar fasciitis—a painful condition in which the large fibrous connective tissue running along the bottom of the foot from heel to toe becomes inflamed. If you have pain in the bottom of your foot which may be particularly acute in the morning when you wake up, contact a podiatrist who can examine you, diagnose your issue, and discuss possible treatment plans.
Shockwave therapy is a treatment commonly used to treat various injuries and conditions, particularly plantar fasciitis in the feet. To learn more, consult with 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.
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is a new treatment option designed to treat bone conditions such as tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and others. Shockwave therapy uses high intensity sound waves that are directed to the affected tissues of the body with pinpoint accuracy. The effects are very beneficial, leading to a production of collagen fibers, eliminating inflammation.
Who Benefits from Shockwave?
Shockwave is recommended for patients suffering from heel pain and associated problems. Heel pain is a common condition which can be caused by obesity, overexertion, and spending a substantial amount of time on hard floors with your feet exposed and unsupported.
Fast and Easy
The therapy is actually a simple process that can leave patients feeling better the very next day. Shockwave therapy is not as dramatic as it sounds. It enables more blood flow to effected areas, addressing the source of the problem and allowing treatment to last for a long time.
Treatment & Recovery Time
Shockwave treatment will enable your feet to recover quickly. This is especially important since surgery is not required. It is cost effective and does not require the use of anesthesia. This treatment is a better option to surgery, since it is proven safe.
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.
Read more about Shockwave TherapyIt'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.
It Can Be Painful to Walk With Cuboid Syndrome
Common symptoms that often accompany the medical condition that is known as cuboid syndrome can include pain while putting weight on the outside of the foot, in addition to discomfort in the middle of the foot while walking. The cuboid bone is one of several bones that are located in each foot, and cuboid syndrome can develop if the surrounding ligaments and tendons become inflamed. This can occur from a sudden injury, or from repetitive motion that is common in ballet dancers. Relief may be found when a cushioned pad is placed in the shoe that lies underneath the bone, and it may help to perform heel exercises. If you have pain in this part of your foot, please confer with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can diagnose and treat cuboid syndrome.
Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, 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.
Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.
Causes
The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:
- Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
- Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
- Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.
Symptoms
A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.
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.
Read more about Cuboid Syndrome
When to Visit a Podiatrist for Foot & Ankle Trauma
The feet and ankles can have a variety of issues that may lead to symptoms such as pain, swelling, or stiffness. These injuries can be caused by simple wear and tear on the body as we age or from incidents like tripping or falling. While most injuries can be helped over time by staying active, there are a few key signs that the care of a podiatrist may be necessary. If there has been significant trauma from a situation such as a fall or a direct blow, a medical professional should examine the injury. Other signs that a podiatrist’s care may be necessary include a misshapen ankle or foot, a hot/tender feeling (especially in the calf), continuous pain, or an inability to bear weight on your legs or feet. Upon your visit, a podiatrist will be able to provide a proper diagnosis and treatment method for your injury.
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.
Read more about Foot and Ankle TraumaHeel 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.
Simple Foot Stretches to Help Build Strength and Flexibility
Doing some simple foot stretches in the safety of your own home may help you keep your feet strong and flexible, while improving movement and posture. Start in a seated position, with bare feet. Lift your foot, circling your ankle slowly 3-5 times. Then repeat in the opposite direction. Point and flex each foot 3-5 times. End by wiggling and then spreading your toes. Repeat on the other foot. In this next exercise, you’ll start in a seated position again. Keeping all other toes on the floor, lift your big toe. Then, put your big toe down and leave it there as you lift the other four toes. Repeat this on each foot, ten times. To stretch your arches, start once more from a seated position and lift just the heel, while pressing the ball of the foot down and flexing your toes. Lift the heel higher and hold this position for 5-10 seconds. Put your heel down and repeat this on the other foot, alternating feet up to three times. Check with a podiatrist who can offer more advanced foot stretches and other ways to strengthen your feet and improve mobility.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. 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 can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Exercise for Your Feet
Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.
Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctors to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual.
Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.
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.
Read more about Exercise for Your FeetGradually Increasing Speed and Mileage May Help to Prevent Running Injuries
People who enjoy running may overlook foot pain, which in turn can develop into serious foot conditions. Research has indicated it is beneficial to practice proper warm-up and cool down routines, as this may be helpful in preventing running injuries. Patients who are new to the sport of running are advised to start slowly, and gradually increase their speed and mileage. Additionally, it is beneficial to alternate running shoes, which may be helpful in prolonging shock absorption. If you would like more information about how running injuries can affect the feet and how to prevent them, please consult with a podiatrist.
All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM of Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.
More Tips for Preventing Injury
- Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
- Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
- “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
- Cross-Training is Crucial
- Wear Proper Running Shoes
- Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury
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.
Read more about Preventing Running InjuriesReminder: 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!
Symptoms Associated With Ankle Pain
Ankle pain can be the result of an injury or inflammation to any of the bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, or tendons found in the ankle. It is often accompanied by swelling, bruising, redness, numbness, tingling, stiffness, weakness, ankle instability, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected ankle. The symptoms that you might experience in addition to ankle pain will vary depending on the underlying cause. Those who have sprained or broken their ankles might notice swelling and bruising. Those who may have arthritis will likely experience joint stiffness and inflammation. If you have pain or any other unusual symptoms in your ankle, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist, who can diagnose and 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 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.
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 tendinitis
- 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 offices located in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Ankle Pain
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What Is Cryotherapy for Foot Warts?
Warts that pop up on the bottom of the feet are known as plantar warts. One of many potential treatments for this condition is cryotherapy, in which the wart is frozen using liquid nitrogen. During this procedure, your doctor may first trim the wart. Sometimes, a local anesthetic may be injected into the area to reduce pain. Then, the doctor applies liquid nitrogen to the wart using a probe, cotton swab, or by spraying it directly onto the wart. Most warts require one to four cryotherapy treatments, with up to three weeks between treatments, to get full results. The area usually heals within one to two weeks with minimal or no scarring. If you suffer from plantar warts, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to discuss treatment options.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
About Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.
While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.
Symptoms
- Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
- Hard or thick callused spots
- Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
- Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing
Treatment
- Freezing
- Electric tool removal
- Laser Treatment
- Topical Creams (prescription only)
- Over-the-counter medications
To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.
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.
Read more about Plantar WartsStretching the Feet Before and After Running
If you are a runner, stretching the feet helps strengthen them, improve their flexibility, and prevent foot injuries. There are several simple foot stretches that you can do prior to and after running. One exercise that can help stretch the plantar fascia ligament that runs along the bottom of your foot is the foot flex. You can do this stretch by sitting down in a chair with one foot placed on top of your knee. Use your hands to gently press your foot into a pointed position and hold for several seconds. Then gently pull your foot into a flexed position and hold for several seconds. Repeat 10 times on each foot. For more information about the benefits of stretching your feet, please speak with a podiatrist.
Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet 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.
Stretching the Feet
Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.
- Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
- Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
- Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
- Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.
It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.
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.
Read more about Stretching Your FeetWhy 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.
Can I Still Exercise if I Have Sprained My Ankle?
Ankle sprains are a common injury that occurs when the ligaments in the ankle are overstretched or torn. Whether or not you can continue to engage in physical activity and exercise shortly after sustaining your injury will depend on the severity of your sprain. With a mild sprain, simple stretches and light activities like walking or swimming may be tolerable. With more severe sprains, walking or bearing weight on the affected ankle can be very difficult and might limit your workout options. Regardless of the severity of the sprain, it is suggested that you speak with your podiatrist to determine whether or not you should continue to exercise shortly after enduring an ankle sprain.
Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, 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.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.
What Are the Symptoms?
- Pain at the sight of the tear
- Bruising/Swelling
- Ankle area is tender to touch
- In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
- Skin discoloration
Preventing a Sprain
- Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
- Stretching before exercises and sports
- Knowing your limits
Treatment of a Sprain
In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.
It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.
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.
Read more about Ankle Sprains