Wednesday 24 August 2011
Foot Deformities: Jackson Weiss Syndrome
Jackson-Weiss Syndrome (JWS) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by foot abnormalities. Symptoms include abnormally broad big toes, webbing of the skin between the second and third toes, an inward angling of the toes, and/or malformation or fusion of certain bones within the feet. Jackson-Weiss Syndrome is inherited and affects both sexes equally.
Wednesday 11 May 2011
Are Your Feet Healthy? Make Sure by Performing the "Foot Self-Exam"
- Balance. A good test for balance involves standing on one foot, with your arms out to the side and your eyes closed. If you are less than 30 years old, you should be able to balance for 15 seconds, 30 to 40 years old for 12 seconds, 40 to 50 years old for 10 seconds and over 50 years old for seven seconds. This can be improved with exercises.
- Circulation. Look at the color of your toes. Do they look like a normal nail color or are they leaning towards red, white, purple, or blue? Press down on the nail of your big toe until the color blanches. Now let go and allow the blood flow to return to your toe. The return of normal color should take 2 to 5 seconds in a person with average circulation.
- Flexibility. How flexible are your toes? Try to pick up a marble or a small dish towel with your toes. To test your ankle flexibility, hang your heel off of a stair. Now let the heel go below the level of the stair. If this causes pain, stop the test. If your heel goes below the level of the stair without causing strain in your calf, that is a good sign. If there is some strain, this can be improved with flexibility exercises.
- Pain. A healthy foot does not produce any pain.
- Sensation. Take a pencil eraser and lightly run it on the top, bottom, and both sides of your feet. The sensation should feel equal in all quadrants. It may tickle on the bottom of the feet. That is normal.
- Skin. Check your skin for calluses, blisters, or areas of irritation. Stand next to your shoes. Are they shaped like your feet or are they causing areas of constriction that may result in irritation? Put your hand inside your shoe. Are there seams, tacks, or rough places in the shoe that correspond to calluses or blisters on your feet?
Foot Deformities: Overlapping or Underlapping Toes
Overlapping toes are characterized by one toe lying on top of an adjacent toe. The fifth toe is the most commonly affected. Overlapping toes may develop in the unborn fetus.
Underlapping toes usually involve the fourth and fifth toes. (A special form of underlapping toes is called congenital curly toes). The cause of underlapping toes is unknown. It is speculated that they may be caused by an imbalance in muscle strength of the small muscles of the foot.
See the treatment options for overlapping and underlapping toes here.
Foot and Ankle Wellness Center - 780 488-4844 (Edmonton, AB, Canada)
Underlapping toes usually involve the fourth and fifth toes. (A special form of underlapping toes is called congenital curly toes). The cause of underlapping toes is unknown. It is speculated that they may be caused by an imbalance in muscle strength of the small muscles of the foot.
See the treatment options for overlapping and underlapping toes here.
Foot and Ankle Wellness Center - 780 488-4844 (Edmonton, AB, Canada)
Monday 9 May 2011
Cold Feet...In Summer?!?!
Even on the hottest days of summer, some people find themselves outside, under the scorching sun, walking around with cold feet. The cause of the cold sensation is a foot problem known as Raynaud's Disease.
Raynaud's Disease is a disorder that affects the hands and feet. It is caused by contraction of the smooth muscles controlling the small arteries supplying circulation into the hands and feet. This contraction, called a vasospasm, makes the arteries so small that they restrict blood flow.
How you can Raynaud's be fought, so your feet can feel warm again?
Raynaud's Disease is a disorder that affects the hands and feet. It is caused by contraction of the smooth muscles controlling the small arteries supplying circulation into the hands and feet. This contraction, called a vasospasm, makes the arteries so small that they restrict blood flow.
How you can Raynaud's be fought, so your feet can feel warm again?
- “Dry body brushing" may help increase circulation. Once a day, starting at the feet, rub the body with a washcloth in a circular motion up towards the heart; all body parts above the heart are rubbed downwards
- If you live in a place with seasons, wear a scarf, gloves or mittens and a good pair of socks and boots at all times during the colder months. A hat is also very important since the body loses a lot of heat through the head. Wear layered clothing and a warm coat with long cuffs.
- During the warmer months it is good to have a sweater handy as air conditioning can trigger an attack. If you are indoors, wear socks and lower the air conditioning at home; never walk around barefoot.
- Avoid taking cold beverages with your hands, washing vegetables with cold water and taking food from the freezer without gloves
- Don't smoke and avoid second-hand smoke as nicotine causes the skin temperature to drop
- Exercise frequently to improve circulation
- Learn relaxation techniques to reduce stress levels
- Keep away from using anything that vibrates as vibration may trigger an attack
- Do not engage in activities that put pressure on the fingertips (eg playing piano or guitar)
- Take care of your hands and feet as skin may become very dry from reduced circulation. Hydrate your skin with a lotion containing lanolin and use a soft and creamy soap. Keep your cuticles soft and hydrated.
Foot Deformities: Mallet Toes
Mallet toes are deformities caused by bone and muscle imbalances that become exaggerated in people with active lifestyles. Arthritis can also lead to mallet toes. Mallet toes can cause extreme discomfort and may be aggravated if restrictive or improperly fitting footwear is worn for a prolonged period of time.
Mitchell J. Wachtel Podiatry Blog: Is My Child's High Arch Normal?
RE-BLOGGED: Mitchell J. Wachtel Podiatry Blog: Is My Child's High Arch Normal?: "Children who are born with a high arch foot face many challenges. Cavus or high arch foot tends to have a c shaped foot. Over time cavus f..."
Foot and Ankle Wellness Center - 780 488-4844 (Edmonton, AB, Canada)
Foot and Ankle Wellness Center - 780 488-4844 (Edmonton, AB, Canada)
Thursday 5 May 2011
Blisters. Causes, Treatment, and Prevention.
What is a blister?
A local swelling of the skin that contains watery fluid and is caused by burning or irritation.
Causes:
Most blisters on the feet are caused by friction and do not require medical attention. New skin will form underneath the affected area and the fluid built up in the blister is simply absorbed back into the tissue.
Treatment:
You can soothe ordinary blisters with vitamin E ointment or an aloe-based cream.
Do not puncture a blister unless it is large, painful, or likely to be further irritated. If you have to pop a blister, use a sterilized needle or razor blade. Wash the area thoroughly, then make a small hole and gently squeeze out the clear fluid. Apply a dab of hydrogen peroxide to help protect against infection. Do not remove the skin over a broken blister. The new skin underneath needs this protective cover. Cover the area with a bandage and mild compression.
If the fluid is white or yellow, the blister is infected and needs medical attention.
Prevention:
You can prevent blisters by breaking in new shoes gradually, and putting petroleum jelly or an adhesive bandage on areas that take the rub—before the blister happens. Wear socks that have heels instead of tube socks (they bunch up and cause blisters). Acrylic and other synthetic-fiber socks are good choices. Be sure to wash and dry your feet daily to prevent bacterial infections, such as Athlete's Foot.
Foot and Ankle Wellness Center - 780 488-4844 (Edmonton, AB, Canada)
Wednesday 4 May 2011
Diabetes and Foot Health
Since May is National Diabetes Awareness Month, we only find it appropriate to post an article about Diabetes and it can affect the health of your feet.
The following is a great video clip taken from ABC TV, which has a foot expert touching on the subject.
Some general information:
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a disease that occurs when a person’s body doesn’t make enough of the hormone insulin or can’t use insulin properly. There are 2 types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes occurs when your body’s pancreas doesn’t produce any insulin. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the pancreas either doesn’t produce enough insulin or your body’s cells ignore the insulin. Between 90% and 95% of people who are diagnosed with diabetes have type 2 diabetes.
According to the American Diabetes Association, about 15.7 million people (5.9 percent of the United States population) have diabetes. Nervous system damage (also called neuropathy) affects about 60 to 70 percent of people with diabetes and is a major complication that may cause diabetics to lose feeling in their feet or hands.
Foot problems are a big risk in diabetics. Diabetics must constantly monitor their feet or face severe consequences, including amputation.
With a diabetic foot, a wound as small as a blister from wearing a shoe that's too tight can cause a lot of damage. Diabetes decreases blood flow, so injuries are slow to heal. When your wound is not healing, it's at risk for infection. As a diabetic, your infections spread quickly. If you have diabetes, you should inspect your feet every day. Look for puncture wounds, bruises, pressure areas, redness, warmth, blisters, ulcers, scratches, cuts and nail problems. Get someone to help you, or use a mirror.
Here's some basic advice for taking care of your feet:
Always keep your feet warm.
Don't get your feet wet in snow or rain.
Don't put your feet on radiators or in front of the fireplace.
Don't smoke or sit cross-legged. Both decrease blood supply to your feet.
Don't soak your feet.
Don't use antiseptic solutions, drugstore medications, heating pads or sharp instruments on your feet.
Trim your toenails straight across. Avoid cutting the corners. Use a nail file or emery board. If you find an ingrown toenail, contact our office.
Use quality lotion to keep the skin of your feet soft and moist, but don't put any lotion between your toes.
Wash your feet every day with mild soap and warm water.
Wear loose socks to bed.
Wear warm socks and shoes in winter.
When drying your feet, pat each foot with a towel and be careful between your toes.
Buy shoes that are comfortable without a "breaking in" period. Check how your shoe fits in width, length, back, bottom of heel, and sole. Avoid pointed-toe styles and high heels. Try to get shoes made with leather upper material and deep toe boxes. Wear new shoes for only two hours or less at a time. Don't wear the same pair everyday. Inspect the inside of each shoe before putting it on. Don't lace your shoes too tightly or loosely.
Choose socks and stockings carefully. Wear clean, dry socks every day. Avoid socks with holes or wrinkles. Thin cotton socks are more absorbent for summer wear. Square-toes socks will not squeeze your toes. Avoid stockings with elastic tops.
When your feet become numb, they are at risk for becoming deformed. One way this happens is through ulcers. Open sores may become infected. Another way is the bone condition Charcot (pronounced "sharko") foot. This is one of the most serious foot problems you can face. It warps the shape of your foot when your bones fracture and disintegrate, and yet you continue to walk on it because it doesn't hurt. Diabetic foot ulcers and early phases of Charcot fractures can be treated with a total contact cast.
The shape of your foot molds the cast. It lets your ulcer heal by distributing weight and relieving pressure. If you have Charcot foot, the cast controls your foot's movement and supports its contours if you don't put any weight on it. To use a total contact cast, you need good blood flow in your foot. The cast is changed every week or two until your foot heals. A custom-walking boot is another way to treat your Charcot foot. It supports the foot until all the swelling goes down, which can take as long as a year. You should keep from putting your weight on the Charcot foot. Surgery is considered if your deformity is too severe for a brace or shoe.
Foot and Ankle Wellness Center - 780 488-4844 (Edmonton, AB, Canada)
The following is a great video clip taken from ABC TV, which has a foot expert touching on the subject.
Some general information:
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a disease that occurs when a person’s body doesn’t make enough of the hormone insulin or can’t use insulin properly. There are 2 types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes occurs when your body’s pancreas doesn’t produce any insulin. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the pancreas either doesn’t produce enough insulin or your body’s cells ignore the insulin. Between 90% and 95% of people who are diagnosed with diabetes have type 2 diabetes.
According to the American Diabetes Association, about 15.7 million people (5.9 percent of the United States population) have diabetes. Nervous system damage (also called neuropathy) affects about 60 to 70 percent of people with diabetes and is a major complication that may cause diabetics to lose feeling in their feet or hands.
Foot problems are a big risk in diabetics. Diabetics must constantly monitor their feet or face severe consequences, including amputation.
With a diabetic foot, a wound as small as a blister from wearing a shoe that's too tight can cause a lot of damage. Diabetes decreases blood flow, so injuries are slow to heal. When your wound is not healing, it's at risk for infection. As a diabetic, your infections spread quickly. If you have diabetes, you should inspect your feet every day. Look for puncture wounds, bruises, pressure areas, redness, warmth, blisters, ulcers, scratches, cuts and nail problems. Get someone to help you, or use a mirror.
Here's some basic advice for taking care of your feet:
Always keep your feet warm.
Don't get your feet wet in snow or rain.
Don't put your feet on radiators or in front of the fireplace.
Don't smoke or sit cross-legged. Both decrease blood supply to your feet.
Don't soak your feet.
Don't use antiseptic solutions, drugstore medications, heating pads or sharp instruments on your feet.
Trim your toenails straight across. Avoid cutting the corners. Use a nail file or emery board. If you find an ingrown toenail, contact our office.
Use quality lotion to keep the skin of your feet soft and moist, but don't put any lotion between your toes.
Wash your feet every day with mild soap and warm water.
Wear loose socks to bed.
Wear warm socks and shoes in winter.
When drying your feet, pat each foot with a towel and be careful between your toes.
Buy shoes that are comfortable without a "breaking in" period. Check how your shoe fits in width, length, back, bottom of heel, and sole. Avoid pointed-toe styles and high heels. Try to get shoes made with leather upper material and deep toe boxes. Wear new shoes for only two hours or less at a time. Don't wear the same pair everyday. Inspect the inside of each shoe before putting it on. Don't lace your shoes too tightly or loosely.
Choose socks and stockings carefully. Wear clean, dry socks every day. Avoid socks with holes or wrinkles. Thin cotton socks are more absorbent for summer wear. Square-toes socks will not squeeze your toes. Avoid stockings with elastic tops.
When your feet become numb, they are at risk for becoming deformed. One way this happens is through ulcers. Open sores may become infected. Another way is the bone condition Charcot (pronounced "sharko") foot. This is one of the most serious foot problems you can face. It warps the shape of your foot when your bones fracture and disintegrate, and yet you continue to walk on it because it doesn't hurt. Diabetic foot ulcers and early phases of Charcot fractures can be treated with a total contact cast.
The shape of your foot molds the cast. It lets your ulcer heal by distributing weight and relieving pressure. If you have Charcot foot, the cast controls your foot's movement and supports its contours if you don't put any weight on it. To use a total contact cast, you need good blood flow in your foot. The cast is changed every week or two until your foot heals. A custom-walking boot is another way to treat your Charcot foot. It supports the foot until all the swelling goes down, which can take as long as a year. You should keep from putting your weight on the Charcot foot. Surgery is considered if your deformity is too severe for a brace or shoe.
Foot and Ankle Wellness Center - 780 488-4844 (Edmonton, AB, Canada)
Tuesday 3 May 2011
Keeping Feet Fit! Are Your Feet Ready for Spring?
It's no secret that most of us don't find it necessary to pay attention to our feet, until they hurt. If you want to prepare your feet for the outdoor activities that the spring and summer months hold and avoid likely injuries to your feet, you must "Get to know your feet."
Common injuries that pop up around this time every year are:
Achilles Tendonitis (Running, Walking, Jogging)
Plantar Fasciitis (Commonly caused by running in improper footwear)
Another injury to protect against are infections of the foot. Lacerations, punctures, or insect bites from walking outside can open up doors to foot fungus problems, such as:
Athlete's Foot (Tinea Pedis)
Fungal Nails
Remember to protect your feet this spring by wearing proper foot wear and slowly easing yourself into your spring/summer workout routines.
Foot and Ankle Wellness Center - 780 488-4844 (Edmonton, AB, Canada)
Tuesday 26 April 2011
"How High is too High?" Guide to High Heels (Video)
Dr. Suzanne Levine talks high heels and foot care tips on The Today Show.
Foot and Ankle Wellness Center - 780 488-4844 (Edmonton, AB, Canada)
Foot and Ankle Wellness Center - 780 488-4844 (Edmonton, AB, Canada)
Thursday 21 April 2011
Plantar Fasciitis Heel Pain Stretches - (VIDEO)
Some great foot exercises and stretches are demonstrated the above video. A definite "must-watch" for any suffering from Plantar Fasciitis.
If you are suffering from Plantar Fasciitis, come in and see us today! 780 488 4844
Wednesday 20 April 2011
Request Your FREE Book Today.
You can now request your free copy of "Your Foot Health" by Dr. S Chaudhry of the Foot and Ankle Wellness Center.
Click the picture below and get your copy today!
Click the picture below and get your copy today!
Tuesday 19 April 2011
Achilles Surgery - At the Foot and Ankle Wellness Center
This is a brief description of the surgical procedure we can offer to patient's with a torn Achilles Tendon.
Surgery to repair a torn (ruptured) Achilles tendon is conducted on an outpatient basis using a local anesthetic. It involves making an incision or cut in the back of the leg above the heel to access the torn tendon. The tendon is then sewn back together. Surgery may be delayed for about one week after the rupture to let the swelling go down.
After surgery, a cast or walking boot is usually worn for six to 12 weeks. At first, the cast or boot is positioned to keep the foot pointed downward as the tendon heals. The cast or boot is then adjusted gradually to put the foot in a neutral position (not pointing up or down).
Specific gentle exercises (restricted motion) after surgery can shorten the time needed in rehabilitation.
For more information on our surgical procedures or appointment bookings, please give us a call at: 780 488 4844
Mitchell J. Wachtel Podiatry Blog: My Child Has Heel Pain. Is This Normal?
Great article about children and heel pain.
Wednesday 13 April 2011
When it Comes to Foot Health, Flip Flops, FLOP!
Now that it's starting to warm up and people are getting into the summer state of mind, the shorts and beloved thong sandals (flip flops) are making the first appearances of the season. Many people think that by wearing these light, flimsy sandals they're giving their feet a break, when it in fact it's quite the opposite.
"Flip-flops have a spongy sole, so when the foot hits the ground, it roles inward and the sponge allows it to roll even more than usual," says Dr. John E. Mancuso, a podiatrist at the Manhattan Podiatry Associates in New York. "This is called pronation, and it causes many problems in the foot."
The flip flop don't offer the kind of support our feet need. As a result, many ankle sprains are caused by stumbling or tripping while wearing the sandals. Flip flops do not need to be cut out of your summer completely, they are still great to have at the pool or the beach. The important thing to remember is that that are not a shoe replacement and should not be worn the entire day.
For more information on proper foot care or appointment bookings, please give us a call at: 780 488 4844
Friday 8 April 2011
Orthotics
Orthotics, also known as orthoses, refers to any device inserted into a shoe, ranging from felt pads to custom-made shoe inserts that correct an abnormal or irregular, walking pattern. Sometimes called arch supports, orthotics allow people to stand, walk, and run more efficiently and comfortably. While over-the-counter orthotic are available and may help people with mild symptoms, they normally cannot correct the wide range of symptoms that prescription foot orthoses can since they are not custom made to fit an individual's unique foot structure.
Orthotic devices come in many shapes, sizes, and materials and fall into three main categories: those designed to change foot function, those that are primarily protective in nature, and those that combine functional control and protection.
Rigid Orthotics
Rigid orthotic devices are designed to control function and are used primarily for walking or dress shoes. They are often composed of a firm material, such as plastic or carbon fiber. Rigid orthotics are made from a mold after a podiatrist takes a plaster cast or other kind of image of the foot. Rigid orthotics control motion in the two major foot joints that lie directly below the ankle joint and may improve or eliminate strains, aches, and pains in the legs, thighs, and lower back.
Rigid Orthotics
Rigid orthotic devices are designed to control function and are used primarily for walking or dress shoes. They are often composed of a firm material, such as plastic or carbon fiber. Rigid orthotics are made from a mold after a podiatrist takes a plaster cast or other kind of image of the foot. Rigid orthotics control motion in the two major foot joints that lie directly below the ankle joint and may improve or eliminate strains, aches, and pains in the legs, thighs, and lower back.
Soft Orthotics
Soft orthotics are generally used to absorb shock, increase balance, and take pressure off uncomfortable or sore spots. They are usually effective for diabetic, arthritic, and deformed feet. Soft orthotics are typically made up of soft, cushioned materials so that they can be worn against the sole of the foot, extending from the heel past the ball of the foot, including the toes. Like rigid orthotics, soft orthotics are also made from a mold after a podiatrist takes a plaster cast or other kind of image of the foot.
Semi-Rigid Orthotics
Semi-rigid orthotics provide foot balance for walking or participating in sports. The typical semi-rigid orthotic is made up of layers of soft material, reinforced with more rigid materials. Semi-rigid orthotics are often prescribed for children to treat flatfoot and in-toeing or out-toeing disorders. These orthotics are also used to help athletes mitigate pain while they train and compete.
Soft orthotics are generally used to absorb shock, increase balance, and take pressure off uncomfortable or sore spots. They are usually effective for diabetic, arthritic, and deformed feet. Soft orthotics are typically made up of soft, cushioned materials so that they can be worn against the sole of the foot, extending from the heel past the ball of the foot, including the toes. Like rigid orthotics, soft orthotics are also made from a mold after a podiatrist takes a plaster cast or other kind of image of the foot.
Semi-Rigid Orthotics
Semi-rigid orthotics provide foot balance for walking or participating in sports. The typical semi-rigid orthotic is made up of layers of soft material, reinforced with more rigid materials. Semi-rigid orthotics are often prescribed for children to treat flatfoot and in-toeing or out-toeing disorders. These orthotics are also used to help athletes mitigate pain while they train and compete.
For more information orthotics and how they can help you, please give us a call at: 780 488 4844
Friday 1 April 2011
Bone Spurs
Bone spurs are a very common foot problem. In the feet, they develop most frequently in the heel, near the toes, and on top of the big toe joint. The spurs are small outgrowths of bone. In and of themselves, they are generally harmless. However, their location may cause friction or irritation from shoes or other foot structures, which can lead to other foot problems.
Heel spurs refer specifically to bone spurs in the heel. Heel spurs are growths of bone on the underside, forepart of the heel bone and occur when the plantar fibrous band pulls at its attachment to the heel bone. This area of the heel later calcifies to form a spur. With proper warm-up and the use of appropriate athletic shoes, strain to the ligament can be reduced.
Monday 28 March 2011
Turf Toe!
Big toe injuries, known as turf toe, result from hyperextension of the big toe joint as the heel is raised off the ground. An external force is placed on the big toe, and the soft tissue structures that support the big toe on the top are torn or ruptured.
Turf toe often arises from participation in team sports. Symptoms include pain, tenderness, and swelling of the toe joint. There is often a sudden acute onset of pain during a push-off phase of running. Usually, the pain is not enough to keep the athlete from physical activities or finishing a game. This causes further injury to the big toe and can dramatically increase the healing time required.
Full treatment for Turf Toe can be read on our website.
Foot and Ankle Wellness Center - 780 488-4844 (Edmonton, AB, Canada)
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Thursday 24 March 2011
Arthritis Foot Care Tips
Home Feet Home
Regardless if you have arthritis or not, the best thing you can do for your feet is find shoes that fit and feel comfortable. Here are some tips for finding the perfect pair for your feet.
- Buy a pair shaped like your feet. To find out if your current shoes are causing problem, outline them on a piece of tracing paper. Then outline your bare feet on top of those tracings. If your feet are outside of the shoe tracing, you have problems. Look at buying shoes that are square or rounded at the toe. These shoes will give your feet more room to move.
- Get the support you need. Find shoes with good arch support and an additional layer of support on top of the shoe. These qualities are most common in athletic shoes.
- Rubber soles are key! The rubber material will provide more cushioning for your foot. When trying on, be sure to check the flexibility of the shoe near the ball of your foot.
- Say no to heels! Heels increase the amount of stress on your feet and restrict your toes ability to move.
Stretch Your Self, Before You Wreck Yourself
Well-exercised and fit feet, may not be as noticeable as biceps, but they are just as important when comes to keeping your body healthy and pain-free. Be sure to consult us before starting a routine foot exercise regime.
- Achilles stretch. Lean against a wall, palms flat on the wall, one foot forward, one foot back. Leave the heel on the floor and lean forward, feeling the pull in your Achilles tendon and calf. Do three times, holding for 10 seconds each time.
- Big-toe stretch. Loop one thick rubber band around your big toes and pull the big toes away from each other and toward your other toes. Hold for five seconds. Repeat 10 times.
- Toe pull. Put a rubber band around the toes of each foot and spread your toes. Hold for five seconds. Repeat 10 times.
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