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Monday, 04 March 2019 00:00

Identifying What Your Heel Pain Means

Heel pain is usually felt under the heel or behind it. There are various conditions that can cause heel pain, and the location of the pain is indicative of what the specific condition could be. One common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, which is inflammation of the plantar fascia-tissue that runs from the heel bone to the ball of the foot. Plantar fasciitis is usually caused by either high or low arches. Sever’s disease only affects children, usually between the ages of 7 and 15 years old, and is caused by overuse of the growth plates in the heel bone. This condition typically affects children that play sports because of the repetitive impact that the foot endures. These are just two of the many possible conditions that cause heel pain. If you have regular heel pain, it is strongly recommended you speak with a podiatrist to learn about the condition and receive the proper treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, 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.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

  • Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
  • Wearing non-supportive shoes
  • Weight change           
  • Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please 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 Heel Pain
Monday, 25 February 2019 00:00

Edema and Pregnancy

Women who are pregnant are aware of the changes that are occurring in their bodies. These may include pain in the feet while walking or standing. The reasons for this is due to the amount of weight gain that happens, and pressure is exerted near the arch of the foot and surrounding areas. The muscles of the feet may be strained as a result of change in gait, and this may happen to accommodate wider feet. This can lead to wearing shoes that are too tight, which may cause ingrown toenails to develop. Many pregnant women experience edema, which is known as swelling of the feet. Mild relief may be felt when the feet are resting, and elevated above heart level. Many women may find it beneficial to wear orthotics, and to incorporate a gentle foot exercise regime into their daily routine. If you are experiencing severe pain and discomfort in your feet as a result of pregnancy, it is suggested to speak to a podiatrist who can offer relief advice.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

  • Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
  • Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
  • Wear shoes with good arch support
  • Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
  • Elevate feet if you experience swelling
  • Massage your feet
  • Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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 Care for Pregnant Women
Monday, 18 February 2019 00:00

Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Those with diabetes are prone to foot ulcers and should make an active effort to check for them in order to avoid any further complications. People with diabetes can easily develop neuropathy, which makes them unable to feel if they have any wounds on their feet. So daily checks are vital in ensuring that no foot ulcers have formed. If a foot ulcer is found, then that wound should immediately be treated, so the healing process can begin. There are a few key components to keep in mind when caring for a foot ulcer. Taking pressure of the area, which is called “off-loading”, helps to keep blood flowing through the foot, so it can start to repair itself. Removing dead skin, then applying medication and dressing the wound will help fight infection. Preventing infection is one of the most important parts of caring for a foot ulcer, because an infection will make the wound much more complicated and dangerous. If you have a foot ulcer, then it is strongly recommended that you speak with a podiatrist to learn about how to properly care for it.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, 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.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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 Wound Care
Monday, 11 February 2019 00:00

What Causes Cracked Heels?

If you notice thickened skin in the heel area of your foot, you may have a condition that is known as cracked heels. This may typically cause severe pain and discomfort as cracks, or fissures form in the skin of the heel. There are reasons why this may occur, which may include standing for extended periods of time, or wearing shoes that have an open back which exposes the heel. Additionally, there may be medical conditions that can cause cracked heels, including diabetes, certain vitamin deficiencies, psoriasis, or fungal infections. Symptoms that many patients experience may include pain, or flaking skin. Mild relief may be found when a good moisturizer is applied frequently to the skin on the heels. If you are afflicted with cracked heels, it is suggested to consult with a podiatrist to discuss proper treatment methods that are correct for you.

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 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.

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 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 Solutions for Cracked Heels
Monday, 04 February 2019 00:00

Childrens Feet and Walking Barefoot

Children’s feet may just look like a smaller version of adult feet, despite the fact that there are many differences between them. The majority of babies are born with flat feet, and the arch will typically develop as the walking process begins. Additionally, at the time of birth, fat pads exist on the bottom of the feet, and these will gradually be replaced by strong bones. Children’s feet will benefit while walking barefoot indoors which may promote adequate muscle tone. Since a child’s foot rapidly grows, it is suggested to frequently measure the feet to determine the correct shoe size. When this occurs, shoes that are purchased should provide ample cushioning, flexibility, and stability. Research has indicated the average life of a pair of shoes is approximately four months, and this may decrease if the child participates in sporting activity. If you would like additional information about how to determine the size of your child’s foot, please consult with a podiatrist who can properly guide you.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, 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.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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 What to Do to Keep Your Child’s Feet Healthy
Monday, 28 January 2019 00:00

Possible Causes of Bunions

The medical term referred to as a bunion is considered to be a deformity of the big toe. The noticeable symptom is a bony protrusion on the side of the toe, and this typically occurs when the toe points inward. It may produce pain and discomfort as time progresses, in addition to a possible bump forming on the inside of the foot. Patients who are afflicted with bunions may find difficulty in wearing shoes, and may have to select larger shoes that can accommodate this condition. There are  reasons why bunions may develop, including genetics which can affect the structure of the foot, and wearing shoes that fit incorrectly or are tight. Some of these types of shoes may include high heels which may not provide adequate room for the toes to move freely. Additionally, enduring an injury may be the cause for a bunion to form. If you notice a bunion beginning to form, it is advised to seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, 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.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

  • Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
  • Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

  • Redness and inflammation
  • Pain and tenderness
  • Callus or corns on the bump
  • Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, 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 Bunions
Monday, 21 January 2019 00:00

Protecting Your Feet While Working

Many people are involved in jobs where standing is mandatory for most of the day. There may be methods that can alleviate any foot pain, which may be present while working, including using shoe inserts, standing on stress mats instead of hard flooring, or wearing compression stockings. Additionally, it may be beneficial to change positions frequently during the day, which may include sitting for short periods at a time and performing gentle stretches. Wearing shoes that are comfortable and fit well may aid in diminishing aches and pains the feet may endure. Research has shown it may be best to try shoes on after the work day is completed, and this may allow for any swelling that may be present. Properly taking care of your feet while completing the work day may help to prevent painful foot conditions, including plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis. If you would like additional information about the importance of protecting your feet while working, please consult with a podiatrist.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on 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.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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 Working on Your Feet
Monday, 14 January 2019 00:00

Is Athlete’s Foot Contagious?

A fungal infection of the skin that typically affects the feet is known as athlete’s foot. The name originated from people who are active in sports because their socks and shoes tend to be sweaty from participating in their chosen sport, despite the fact it can occur in anyone. There are several symptoms that are associated with this contagious foot condition, including mild to severe itching, redness, soreness, and a general uncomfortable feeling in the feet. The fungus that causes athlete’s foot lives and thrives in warm and moist places, and these may include public pools, locker rooms, showers and surrounding areas. If athlete’s foot is left untreated, it may lead to infection, and it’s important to know how this ailment may be prevented. This may be accomplished by wearing appropriate shoes in public areas, washing and drying the feet daily, and using anti-fungal powder frequently, which may help to eliminate or reduce excess sweat. If you are afflicted with this condition, it is suggested to consult with a podiatrist, so proper treatment can begin.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, 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 treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

  • Thoroughly washing and drying feet
  • Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
  • Using shower shoes in public showers
  • Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
  • Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

  • Redness
  • Burning
  • Itching
  • Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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 How to Deal with Athlete's Foot
Thursday, 10 January 2019 00:00

Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

Monday, 07 January 2019 00:00

Causes of Ingrown Toenails

If you have ever experienced an ingrown toenail, you may be familiar the pain and discomfort it may cause. It is defined as the result of the nail pushing into the skin as the growth process occurs. Many patients notice obvious symptoms that may accompany this condition, including swelling, redness and tenderness in the area surrounding the nail. Research has shown there may be several reasons why ingrown toenails may develop. These may consist of improperly trimming the toenails, wearing shoes and socks that may be too tight, or having a predisposed genetic trait. Moderate relief may be found in soaking the nail several times throughout the day, and this may ease the inflammation. If you have developed this ailment, it is important to seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly extract an ingrown toenail.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, 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.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

  • Bacterial infections
  • Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
  • Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
  • Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
  • Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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 Ingrown Toenails
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