Items filtered by date: April 2024

Tuesday, 30 April 2024 00:00

When Do I Need to See a Podiatrist?

Foot problems can signal underlying health issues that can worsen if ignored. For instance, neuropathy, resulting from nerve damage, can lead to numbness in the feet and make it hard to detect injuries. Conditions like diabetes frequently result in neuropathy, but a podiatrist is medically trained to offer treatments to manage symptoms. Changes in foot color can signal underlying issues like infections or poor circulation, and identifying and addressing these issues early is essential for effective treatment. Bunions, a deformity of the big toe, can cause discomfort and reduce mobility, but a podiatrist can recommend suitable footwear and a variety of treatment options to alleviate discomfort. Whether from high-impact exercises or wearing improper footwear, foot soreness should not be ignored. Podiatrists can prescribe custom orthotics to help alleviate pain and improve gait problems. Various musculoskeletal disorders can cause foot pain, and podiatrists can provide medication, foot padding, and other treatments to manage symptoms and improve mobility. If you have foot problems that interfere with daily activities, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from Mt Rose Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

  • Physical therapy
  • Drugs
  • Orthotic inserts or soles
  • Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Reno, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 23 April 2024 00:00

Athlete’s Foot Types and Risk Factors

Athlete's foot, medically termed tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that appears in various forms, each with distinct characteristics and associated risks. Among these, interdigital infection stands out as the most prevalent, affecting the skin between the toes and causing redness, scaling, and persistent itching. Moccasin infection is found on the sole of the foot, often masquerading as eczema due to its dry, cracked appearance. Vesicular infection results in blisters filled with pus that can rupture into open sores, heightening the risk of secondary bacterial infections. Meanwhile, ulcerative infection presents the most discomfort, with painful, oozing sores between the toes, significantly increasing susceptibility to further complications. These variations stem from exposure to dermatophytes, which are fungi thriving in warm, moist environments. Athlete’s foot infections commonly spread in communal spaces such as locker rooms, swimming pools, and shared footwear. Risk factors for contracting athlete's foot include compromised immune function, genetic predisposition, and prolonged periods of wearing tight, non-breathable shoes. If you have a problematic case of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for advanced treatment options.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Mt Rose Foot & Ankle Specialists.  Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

  • Hydrate your feet by using lotion
  • Exfoliate
  • Buff off nails
  • Use of anti-fungal products
  • Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Reno, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 16 April 2024 00:00

Managing Peroneal Tendonitis

Peroneal tendonitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the tendons surrounding the ankle. It can cause pain and swelling, particularly in individuals who engage in activities like running, or physical labor that strains the ankles. Proper management of peroneal tendonitis involves addressing contributing factors, including wearing ill-fitting footwear that can increase the risk of foot injuries. Treatment typically includes anti-inflammatory measures such as heat therapy, massage, and medication to alleviate discomfort. Surgery is reserved for severe cases or when conservative treatments fail to yield improvement. Immobilization may be necessary in instances of ankle alterations or damage to minimize the risk of further injury. Consulting a podiatrist for personalized care and guidance for peroneal tendonitis is essential in managing this condition effectively and preventing long-term complications. If you are experiencing symptoms of peroneal tendonitis or have concerns about your foot health, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Mt Rose Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

  • Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
  • Ankle sprains
  • Broken ankles
  • Achilles tendinitis
  • Achilles tendon rupture
  • Stress fractures
  • Bursitis
  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome
  • Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Reno, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

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Wednesday, 10 April 2024 00:00

Heel Pain Can Be Treated!

Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.

Tuesday, 09 April 2024 00:00

Risk Factors for Lateral Ankle Sprains

Lateral ankle sprains can happen to anyone as the result of a sudden movement, such as stepping off a curb and landing the wrong way. Ankle sprains are particularly common among athletes who engage in sudden stops and starts, jumping, or sideways movements. The majority of sprained ankles happen when the outer, or lateral, ligaments are stretched too much. Factors such as gender, height, and foot anatomy can contribute to vulnerability, as do previous injuries and improper footwear choices. Women wearing high heels, for instance, may be at higher risk of ankle sprains. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of the sprain, identify underlying risk factors, and devise a personalized treatment plan for you. This foot doctor addresses both intrinsic and extrinsic factors of an ankle sprain. Treatment and a full recovery can help to minimize the risk of future ankle sprains. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from Mt Rose Foot & Ankle Specialists. 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 are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

  • Pain at the sight of the tear
  • Bruising/Swelling
  • Ankle area is tender to touch
  • In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
  • Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Reno, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Tuesday, 02 April 2024 00:00

Treatment Methods for Morton's Neuroma

Morton's Neuroma, a benign tumor that grows in the nerve cells between the third and fourth toe, can be a painful and debilitating condition. Fortunately, a number of effective treatment options are available to relieve discomfort from Morton's neuroma. Conservative measures include wearing shoes with adequate room across the ball of the foot or using foot pads and arch supports. Custom orthotics can provide relief by reducing pressure on the affected nerve. Steroid injections into the painful area also can help alleviate inflammation and pain. In more severe cases, surgical interventions may be considered. Nerve decompression therapy, which involves reducing pressure on the nerves by cutting tendons that press on the nerves, can be effective. In some cases, removal of the affected nerve may be necessary to stop the pain altogether. If you are enduring pain from Morton's neuroma, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to determine the most appropriate treatment based on the severity of your symptoms.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Mt Rose Foot & Ankle Specialists. 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 our office located in Reno, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Morton's Neuroma

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