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April 2024

Tuesday, 30 April 2024 00:00

Understanding Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful condition affecting the nerves in the ball of the foot, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. This condition is characterized by a thickening of the tissue surrounding a nerve, leading to compression and irritation. Morton's neuroma is often associated with stress or trauma to the foot, such as wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or participating in activities that involve repetitive impact on the forefoot. Additionally, foot deformities like bunions, hammertoes, or high arches can contribute to the development of Morton's neuroma by placing increased pressure on the nerves. Certain factors like foot structure, gait abnormalities, and genetic predisposition may also play a role. Individuals with Morton's neuroma typically experience symptoms such as sharp or burning pain in the ball of the foot, tingling or numbness, and a sensation of having a pebble in the shoe. It is beneficial to recognize the early symptoms of Morton’s neuroma which may help to increase the possibility of prompt relief. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can provide you with expert medical advice.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our doctors of Coral Desert Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

  • Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
  • Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
  • Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in St. George and Kanab, UT, and Mesquite, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Adults' and children's feet may appear similar at first glance, but they exhibit distinct characteristics and undergo unique developmental changes. Children's feet are more pliable, with softer cartilage and bones that are still growing and forming. As a result, their feet are more susceptible to deformities and structural abnormalities, such as flat feet or toe-walking. Additionally, children often have a higher arch and wider forefoot compared to adults. Over time, as children mature into adults, their feet undergo significant changes. The arches typically become more defined, and the foot structure stabilizes. Adults may also experience changes in foot size and shape due to factors like weight gain, pregnancy, or aging. Furthermore, adults are more prone to conditions like bunions, arthritis, and plantar fasciitis, which can affect foot function and mobility. Understanding these differences is essential for providing appropriate footwear, monitoring development, and addressing any potential issues early on to ensure optimal foot health throughout life. It is suggested that you schedule routine visits for your child with a podiatrist who can closely monitor the growth rate in their feet.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our doctors of Coral Desert Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

  • Make sure their shoes fit properly
  • Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
  • Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
  • Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
  • Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
  • Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
  • Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
  • Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in St. George and Kanab, UT, and Mesquite, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about How to Care for Your Child's Feet
Tuesday, 16 April 2024 00:00

Common Foot and Ankle Injuries in Golf

Playing golf, a sport known for its leisurely pace and precision, can unexpectedly subject players to a range of foot and ankle injuries. Among the most prevalent is plantar fasciitis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia due to repetitive stress on the foot during swings and walks across uneven terrain. Additionally, ankle sprains often occur from missteps or uneven footing, leading to ligament damage and instability. Golfer's toe, a form of trauma-induced bruising or bleeding beneath the toenail, is common among players who frequently strike the ground with considerable force. Overuse injuries such as Achilles tendonitis may also manifest due to repetitive swinging motions, resulting in pain and inflammation in the Achilles tendon. Implementing proper warm-up routines, wearing supportive footwear, and practicing correct swing techniques can help to manage the risk of these injuries. If you have endured any of the above foot and ankle injuries while playing golf, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you toward treatment solutions that are best for you.

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 one of our doctors from Coral Desert Foot & Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in St. George and Kanab, UT, and Mesquite, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Tuesday, 09 April 2024 00:00

Causes of Plantar Hyperhidrosis

Plantar hyperhidrosis, a condition characterized by excessive sweating of the feet, poses challenges for those affected, often leading to discomfort and embarrassment. Several factors contribute to this condition, including overactive sweat glands triggered by the sympathetic nervous system. Genetics play a significant role, as individuals with a family history of hyperhidrosis are more prone to developing the condition. Hormonal changes, such as those occurring during puberty or menopause, can also exacerbate sweating. Additionally, medical conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, and infections may contribute to plantar hyperhidrosis. Psychological factors like stress, anxiety, or nervousness can further amplify sweating episodes. Furthermore, wearing tight or poorly ventilated footwear, particularly in warm climates, can worsen symptoms. If you are affected by plantar hyperhidrosis, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can provide you with effective relief methods.

If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact one of our doctors of Coral Desert Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

Hyperhidrosis of the Feet

Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.

Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.

Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.

In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.

A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in St. George and Kanab, UT, and Mesquite, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Hyperhidrosis of the Feet

Constant care and regular evaluation are important for a foot or ankle fracture. If left untreated, foot or ankle fractures can worsen over time and create more serious problems.

Don't wait to be examined if you believe you've experienced a foot or ankle fracture.

Foot blood blisters are small pockets of fluid that form between the layers of skin in response to friction or pressure. They typically occur when blood vessels near the skin's surface rupture, causing blood to pool within the blister. These blisters can vary in size and may appear red, purple, or even black due to the presence of blood. Common causes of foot blood blisters include wearing ill-fitting shoes that rub against the skin, excessive friction from activities such as running or hiking, and repetitive trauma to the feet. Additionally, certain foot deformities like bunions or hammertoes can predispose individuals to developing blood blisters. Athletes and individuals who spend prolonged periods on their feet are also at increased risk. Preventing foot blood blisters involves wearing properly fitted shoes, using protective padding or bandages on areas prone to friction, and gradually increasing activity levels to allow the skin to adapt. Proper foot care and attention to footwear can go a long way in reducing the likelihood of developing these painful blisters. If you have developed a blood blister on your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can inspect and treat this foot condition.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our doctors of Coral Desert Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in St. George and Kanab, UT, and Mesquite, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Blisters
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