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.

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)

Like Us On Facebook
Follow Us On Twitter
Read More On Our Website

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)

Like Us On Facebook
Follow Us On Twitter
Read More On Our Website

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)

Like Us On Facebook
Follow Us On Twitter
Read More On Our Website

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)

Like Us On Facebook
Follow Us On Twitter
Read More On Our Website

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

Foot and Ankle Wellness Center - 780 488-4844 (Edmonton, AB, Canada)

Like Us On Facebook
Follow Us On Twitter
Read More On Our Website

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

Foot and Ankle Wellness Center - 780 488-4844 (Edmonton, AB, Canada)
Like Us On Facebook
Follow Us On Twitter
Read More On Our Website

Mitchell J. Wachtel Podiatry Blog: My Child Has Heel Pain. Is This Normal?

Great article about children and heel pain.

Mitchell J. Wachtel Podiatry Blog: My Child Has Heel Pain. Is This Normal?: "Heel pain in a child, contrary to popular belief, is not normal and should be evaluated by a podiatrist promptly. Heel pain in a child is ..."

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

Foot and Ankle Wellness Center - 780 488-4844 (Edmonton, AB, Canada)
Like Us On Facebook
Follow Us On Twitter
Read More On Our Website

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.

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.

For more information orthotics and how they can help you, please give us a call at: 780 488 4844

Foot and Ankle Wellness Center - 780 488-4844 (Edmonton, AB, Canada)
Like Us On Facebook
Follow Us On Twitter
Read More On Our Website

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.

Foot and Ankle Wellness Center - 780 488-4844 (Edmonton, AB, Canada)
Like Us On Facebook
Follow Us On Twitter
Read More On Our Website

Loosen up my Bunions Babe (Podiatry Humour)

Got bunions? Well you're not the only one. This group has an interesting way of combating the common foot problem.

3 Types of Shoes That Should NOT Be Worn During Pregnancy.

There are numerous changes women must make to their lifestyles once they have become pregnant, such as what to eat, specific exercises, what to wear, etc. Did you know that this includes changing the types of shoes worn? Here are three types of shoes to avoid during pregnancy.

1. Slippers.

Slippers with the non-slip sole function can lead to numerous injuries such as: twisted feet/ankles, fall down, and so on, seriously endangering the health of pregnant women, and can even lead to premature delivery, miscarriage, and other problems. Another health risk associated with slippers is dermatitis. During pregnancy women become, on average, 15 kg heavier, this quick increase of pressure on the feet can lead to increased activity by the woman's sweat glands. Once the plastic of rubber slippers have become sweaty feet may be become red and itchy, these are symptoms of Dermatitis.

2. Sports Shoes.

Sports and leisure shoes that are constructed from "non-airtight" materials, such as nylon and synthetic leather, will only increase the swelling of the feet. Pregnant women should also avoid wearing flat-shoes. These shoes are not able to able maintain the arch of the foot to absorb the shock and they can also lead to fatigue and muscle and ligament damage.

3. Leather Shoes.

Leather shoes have very poor ventilation, and with the increased activity of the sweat glands caused by pregnancy, the feet will become even more sweaty. These shoes are a good environment for reproduction and growth of anaerobic bacteria and mold.

Foot and Ankle Wellness Center - 780 488-4844 (Edmonton, AB, Canada)
Like Us On Facebook
Follow Us On Twitter
Read More On Our Website3 Types of Shoes That Should NOT Be Worn During Pregnancy.

Your Toe Nails Shouldn't Be Green...Even If It's St. Patrick's Day!

Happy St. Patrick's Day podiatrists, patients, and other online readers. Everyone who has forgotten to wear green today is making an effort to avoid getting pinched by our little leprechaun friends, but green toe nails just don't count!

Here are some tips to avoiding fungal nails:

Keeping the fungus under control will help prevent a fungal infection of the skin from reinfecting the nail. Before bed, thoroughly wash and dry your feet, and apply a non-prescription anti-fungal cream to the entire foot from the ankle down. Use the cream every night, then gradually apply it less often. Keep your feet dry. Dry feet are less likely to become infected. Apply powder to your dry feet after you take a shower or bath.

Other tips:

• Don't share nail clippers or nail files with others.
• Don't share shoes or socks with others.
• Try not to injure your nail, such as by cutting it too short (trauma to the nail may lead to infections).
• Wear dry cotton socks, and change them two or three times a day if necessary.
• Wear dry shoes that allow air to circulate around your feet (tight, enclosed, moist shoes contribute to fungal toenail infections).
• Wear shower sandals or shower shoes when you are at a public pool or shower.

Foot and Ankle Wellness Center - 780 488-4844 (Edmonton, AB, Canada)
Like Us On Facebook
Follow Us On Twitter
Read More On Our Website

Keeping Your Feet Dry During Winter/Spring Sports

Everyone knows that having numb feet isn't much fun, so here are some steps to keeping your feet dry during the wet, cold conditions of outdoor winter/spring sports.

Supplies: 3 pairs of socks (two pairs over the calf), 2 plastic bags, and a roll of duct tape.

Step #1: Wear two pairs of socks. The second pair going on top, should be longer (to the calf or knee).

Step #2: Grab two plastic bags (grocery bags are perfect) and a roll of duct tape. Place each foot in a bag and secure the bags to your legs using the duct tape. IMPORTANT: Do not tape on your skin, tape it to the sock. Also, be sure not to tape the bags too tight. If you legs feel tingly, it's TOO TIGHT.

Step #3: Put your final pair of socks over the bags on each foot and make sure they are pulled up to your calf (or knee if longer).

Things to keep in mind: This will keep your socks dry, but only if combined with the proper winter/spring footwear. (eg. Snow boots, rubber boots, soccer shoes, etc)

Foot and Ankle Wellness Center - 780 488-4844
Like Us On Facebook
Follow Us On Twitter
Read More On Our Website

How To Tell If You Have 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. Exposure to cold temperature can often bring on a vasospasm.

Raynaud's Disease has no known cause and is most common in young women. Staying warm and regular exercise to maintain healthy blood circulation throughout the body can help offset the disease.

You may have Raynaud's Disease:

1. If you notice that your hands or feet turn white or blue when you are either cold or under stress.

2. If you experience pain or tingling in your fingers or toes.

If you suspect you have Raynud's Disease, contact your doctor immediately. (The Foot and Ankle Wellness Center) 

To reduce the severity of Raynaulds - try to avoid the events that trigger the attacks. Wear loose fitting gloves and socks to reduce exposure to cold and to prevent restriction of the blood vessels. Wear gloves when retrieving food from the refrigerator. Try to reduce your stress levels, do not smoke, and try to reduce or eliminate your caffeine intake.

During the illness's active periods:

• Try to reduce the amount of physical stress on your extremities.
• Soak feet in warm salt water.
• Sit with your feet elevated.
• Put gloves on to warm your hands.
• Place your hands under your arms or in a bowl of warm water to warm them quickly.

Foot and Ankle Wellness Center - 780 488-4844
Like Us On Facebook
Follow Us On Twitter
Read More On Our Website

Don't take life lying down!

Regardless of your physical condition, walking is beneficial.