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Foot Trauma Can Happen Gradually or Suddenly
Injuries to the feet and ankles may occur as a result of gradual wear and tear, or from a sudden fall. Children who frequently participate in running and jumping activities may experience foot trauma from suddenly changing direction during soccer or football games. In older adults, muscle mass and bone strength can diminish, and their balance and vision may slowly deteriorate. Bruises can be common if an ankle sprain happens, and may be accompanied by severe pain and discomfort. A stress fracture is defined as a hairline crack in the bone, and can typically develop gradually from repetitive motion. If you have any type of pain in your feet or ankles, it is recommended that you confer with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose your condition and offer the correct treatment options.
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 one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. 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 office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Possible Causes of Bunions
The medical condition that is referred to as arthritis may contribute to the development of bunions. Additionally, bunions can occur due to genetic factors, or from wearing shoes that do not have enough room for the toes to move freely in. Bunions are defined as bony growths that form on the side of the big toe and can cause pain and discomfort. Mild relief may be found when a protective pad is worn over the bunion, and larger shoes may need to be purchased. An X-ray may be performed to determine the severity of the bunion, and if it is large, and affects daily activities, surgery may be necessary for permanent removal. If you have developed a bunion, please consult with a podiatrist who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.
If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact one of our podiatrists of Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. 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 office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?
Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.
What Is a Doppler Ultrasound Used For?
In podiatry, vascular testing is used to evaluate the circulation in your feet and ankles and to screen for peripheral artery disease, a condition that causes poor circulation to the lower limbs. Vascular testing is generally noninvasive and painless. One common tool that podiatrists use in vascular testing is a Doppler ultrasound. A Doppler ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to measure the amount of blood flow through your arteries and veins. During the test, a gel will be placed on a handheld device called a transducer, and your podiatrist will then move the device against the skin of your ankles and feet. The high-frequency sound waves emitted by the device allow it to create images of your blood flow on a computer, which are then examined to determine whether or not there are any problems with your circulation. To learn more about Doppler ultrasounds and other vascular tests, consult with a podiatrist today.
Vascular testing plays an important part in diagnosing disease like peripheral artery disease. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, or diabetes, consult with one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Vascular Testing?
Vascular testing checks for how well blood circulation is in the veins and arteries. This is most often done to determine and treat a patient for peripheral artery disease (PAD), stroke, and aneurysms. Podiatrists utilize vascular testing when a patient has symptoms of PAD or if they believe they might. If a patient has diabetes, a podiatrist may determine a vascular test to be prudent to check for poor blood circulation.
How Is it Conducted?
Most forms of vascular testing are non-invasive. Podiatrists will first conduct a visual inspection for any wounds, discoloration, and any abnormal signs prior to a vascular test.
The most common tests include:
- Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) examination
- Doppler examination
- Pedal pulses
These tests are safe, painless, and easy to do. Once finished, the podiatrist can then provide a diagnosis and the best course for treatment.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
What Is a Doppler Ultrasound Used For?
In podiatry, vascular testing is used to evaluate the circulation in your feet and ankles and to screen for peripheral artery disease, a condition that causes poor circulation to the lower limbs. Vascular testing is generally noninvasive and painless. One common tool that podiatrists use in vascular testing is a Doppler ultrasound. A Doppler ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to measure the amount of blood flow through your arteries and veins. During the test, a gel will be placed on a handheld device called a transducer, and your podiatrist will then move the device against the skin of your ankles and feet. The high-frequency sound waves emitted by the device allow it to create images of your blood flow on a computer, which are then examined to determine whether or not there are any problems with your circulation. To learn more about Doppler ultrasounds and other vascular tests, consult with a podiatrist today.
Vascular testing plays an important part in diagnosing disease like peripheral artery disease. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, or diabetes, consult with one of our podiatrists from Dr. Kane & Associates, P.C. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Vascular Testing?
Vascular testing checks for how well blood circulation is in the veins and arteries. This is most often done to determine and treat a patient for peripheral artery disease (PAD), stroke, and aneurysms. Podiatrists utilize vascular testing when a patient has symptoms of PAD or if they believe they might. If a patient has diabetes, a podiatrist may determine a vascular test to be prudent to check for poor blood circulation.
How Is it Conducted?
Most forms of vascular testing are non-invasive. Podiatrists will first conduct a visual inspection for any wounds, discoloration, and any abnormal signs prior to a vascular test.
The most common tests include:
- Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) examination
- Doppler examination
- Pedal pulses
These tests are safe, painless, and easy to do. Once finished, the podiatrist can then provide a diagnosis and the best course for treatment.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI.. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Vascular Testing in Podiatry
When Should I Replace My Running Shoes?
Whether you’re just starting out or are an experienced runner, it is important that you have the proper footwear for the style of running that you enjoy. Most running shoes can last about 400 miles, however if you’re running on rugged, uneven, or rough terrain, it is possible that they may experience wear and tear earlier on. Your particular type of running stride can also play a role in wearing down your running shoes. Tracking your miles while you run, and inspecting the state of your shoes before starting your activity, can help you to recognize if your shoes need to be replaced. You may also notice your knees and feet may ache after a run if your shoes are too used, and the support they once gave is now lacking. For more advice on caring for your running shoes and knowing when to replace them, please speak with a podiatrist.
If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type
To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.
- Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
- Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
- Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
When Should I Replace My Running Shoes?
Whether you’re just starting out or are an experienced runner, it is important that you have the proper footwear for the style of running that you enjoy. Most running shoes can last about 400 miles, however if you’re running on rugged, uneven, or rough terrain, it is possible that they may experience wear and tear earlier on. Your particular type of running stride can also play a role in wearing down your running shoes. Tracking your miles while you run, and inspecting the state of your shoes before starting your activity, can help you to recognize if your shoes need to be replaced. You may also notice your knees and feet may ache after a run if your shoes are too used, and the support they once gave is now lacking. For more advice on caring for your running shoes and knowing when to replace them, please speak with a podiatrist.
If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Dr. Kane & Associates, P.C. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type
To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.
- Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
- Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
- Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI.. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot TypeWhat Are the Risk Factors for Fungal Nail Development?
A fungal nail infection, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that affects up to 10% of all Americans. There are several risk factors for developing this condition. Wearing tight footwear can crowd the toes and cause them to become moist and warm. This creates the perfect conditions for fungus to thrive in, so try to avoid this by wearing wider, open-toed shoes. Exercise might cause repetitive minor trauma to the nail, allowing fungus to invade. Communal showers and other public areas like locker rooms and pools increase your risk of exposure to fungus, so make sure to not walk barefoot in these places. Finally, various diseases, such as diabetes and AIDS that can weaken the immune system, make it easier for fungal nail infections to occur. If you have a fungal nail infection, it is recommended that you seek medical treatment from a podiatrist.
For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Dr. Kane & Associates, P.C. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.
Antifungals & Deterrence
Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.
Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI.. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Toenail FungusAre You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?
If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!
Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?
If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!
More...
What Are the Risk Factors for Fungal Nail Development?
A fungal nail infection, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that affects up to 10% of all Americans. There are several risk factors for developing this condition. Wearing tight footwear can crowd the toes and cause them to become moist and warm. This creates the perfect conditions for fungus to thrive in, so try to avoid this by wearing wider, open-toed shoes. Exercise might cause repetitive minor trauma to the nail, allowing fungus to invade. Communal showers and other public areas like locker rooms and pools increase your risk of exposure to fungus, so make sure to not walk barefoot in these places. Finally, various diseases, such as diabetes and AIDS that can weaken the immune system, make it easier for fungal nail infections to occur. If you have a fungal nail infection, it is recommended that you seek medical treatment from a podiatrist.
For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.
Antifungals & Deterrence
Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.
Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Common vs. High Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries that occur in the United States, and they are caused by a strain or tear in the ligaments that support the ankle. A common ankle sprain occurs to the ligaments that connect the end of the fibula to the talus bones on the outer side of the ankle. Symptoms include swelling, pain and a limited range of motion in the ankle. A high ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments above the ankle joint and between the tibia and fibula are damaged. Symptoms of a high ankle sprain usually involve a painful feeling coming from the ankle and going up the leg, but there is generally not a lot of swelling or bruising. If you believe that you are suffering from an ankle sprain, it is important to visit a podiatrist for proper treatment.
Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Dr. Kane & Associates, P.C. 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 take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.
What Are the Symptoms?
- Mild to moderate bruising
- Limited mobility
- Swelling
- Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)
Preventing a Sprain
- Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
- Stretching before exercises and sports
- Knowing your limits
Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.
If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI.. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Ankle SprainsCommon vs. High Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries that occur in the United States, and they are caused by a strain or tear in the ligaments that support the ankle. A common ankle sprain occurs to the ligaments that connect the end of the fibula to the talus bones on the outer side of the ankle. Symptoms include swelling, pain and a limited range of motion in the ankle. A high ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments above the ankle joint and between the tibia and fibula are damaged. Symptoms of a high ankle sprain usually involve a painful feeling coming from the ankle and going up the leg, but there is generally not a lot of swelling or bruising. If you believe that you are suffering from an ankle sprain, it is important to visit a podiatrist for proper treatment.
Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. 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 take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.
What Are the Symptoms?
- Mild to moderate bruising
- Limited mobility
- Swelling
- Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)
Preventing a Sprain
- Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
- Stretching before exercises and sports
- Knowing your limits
Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.
If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Exercise May Help Prevent and Treat Peripheral Artery Disease
Regular exercise is important for maintaining cardiovascular health. It helps strengthen the heart and eliminates extra cholesterol from the bloodstream, while also helping to reduce excess fat and blood pressure. Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a condition that causes poor circulation to your lower limbs due to plaque buildup in your arteries. PAD often leads to leg pain, especially during physical activity. Fortunately, if you have PAD or are at an increased risk of developing this condition, exercise can help prevent or reverse it. The recommended form of exercise for improving cardiovascular health is aerobic exercise, which includes activities like walking, running, biking, swimming, or taking aerobics classes. Start with low-impact activities and stay consistent for best results. If you have PAD, it is also recommended that you are under the care of a podiatrist, who can monitor your condition and provide treatment to keep you on your feet.
Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.
Symptoms
Symptoms of PAD include:
- Claudication (leg pain from walking)
- Numbness in legs
- Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
- Paleness of the skin
- Erectile dysfunction
- Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
- Coldness in one leg
It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.
Diagnosis
While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.
Treatment
Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
