foot-care6Callum Brown, a school boy from Seaton Sluice recently had to travel to the United States for an operation that would get him walking again. Brown has suffered from cerebral palsy causing him to be wheelchair bound since the cords of his heels were consistently collapsing. Surgeons suggested wearing breaking his outer foot bones in order to add a piece making it longer than the cords. This procedure creates a foundation for his feet that will allow him to walk without any aids.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to fix a foot ailment. If you have any concerns about your foot and ankle needs contact Dr. Sharon L. Pletcher of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to help with the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary are:

  • Removing foot deformities like bone spurs and bunions
  • Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
  • Cosmetic reconstruction
  • Bunionectomy for painful bunions
  • Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
  • Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about foot surgery.

Monday, 14 September 2015 00:00

New Zealand Study Finds Tomatoes Trigger Gout

feet5According to a research conducted in New Zealand, where there is the most gout cases compared to anywhere else in the world, tomatoes may trigger gout attacks. In a survey consisting of 2,051 New Zealand citizens it was noted that tomatoes along with seafood, alcohol, and red meat are consistent triggers of gout. N. Lawrence Edwards, MD who was not directly involved with the research states that although this knowledge helps gout sufferers control their attacks, food is just one factor in gout management. “People can’t go on a restrictive enough diet so that their uric acid will be lowered to the point that they’re not at risk for gout flares,” he mentions.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you have any concerns regarding gout, consult with Sharon L. Pletcher from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

What is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

Read more about Gout

toenail-fungus7Robert P. Thompson, executive director of non-profit Institute of Preventative Foot Health recently spoke at the American Association of Diabetics Ecuador Annual Meeting 2015 where he stressed the importance of diabetic foot checkups. Thompson stated that medical professionals should do routine checkups on diabetic feet every visit and patients suffering from diabetes should keep an eye on their own feet twice a day. Regular foot checks are a major component of diabetes management where reducing the odds of neuropathy, inability to feel pain, slow wound healing, infection, ulcers, and amputation are reduced.

If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Sharon L. Pletcher of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will diagnose and treat your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. Diabetes can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, including the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

  • Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
  • Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
  • Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels because blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Read more about diabetic foot care

corns2Catherine Linthicum recently underwent a new form of surgery to fix the pain caused by her hammertoes. With the help of a new device called Hammerlock 2, a clip is inserted into the toe and nitinol expands and fixes the downward bent position of the toes. Accordingly the new implants lessen the risk of something moving out of place while the standard surgical hammertoe methods have a common risk of swelling and infection.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. If you are suffering from hammertoes, contact Dr. Sharon L. Pletcher of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

  • Pain in the affected toes
  • Development of corns or calluses due to friction
  • Inflammation
  • Redness
  • Contracture of the toes

Causes

  • Genetics – people who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible
  • Arthritis – because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur
  • Trauma – direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe
  • Ill-fitting shoes – undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

  • Orthotics – custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it
  • Medications – oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used
  • Surgery – in more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

If you have any questions please contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read More about Hammertoes

fungal-toenail2Barefoot running is most often popularized as a recreational sport; however, many professional runners have rightfully competed in races without proper footwear. Before deciding to compete in a race while running barefoot, it is best to train barefoot first to reduce injury. Professional runners such as Abebe Bikila, Zola Budd, P.C. Suppiah, and Tegla Loroupe have all ran barefoot in competitions, but because they either trained barefoot or at the time, did not have access to shoes. Additionally, distance running is the only competition where running barefoot seems feasible since there are no jumps or sprints that could cause detrimental injury to the lower extremities.

Barefoot running has its own share of benefits and disadvantages. To learn more about this trend, consider speaking to Dr. Sharon L. Pletcher of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will explain the facts of barefoot running and help you decide if it’s a practice you’d like to take up.

Barefoot Running

The Impact of Barefoot Running
-Running without shoes changes the motion of your running, as most running is done by landing on the heel of the feet.
-Running barefoot requires a different way of running; the landing is done on the front part of the feet.

The Advantages of Barefoot Running
-When running and landing on the front feet, the impact on the feet and ankle is reduced, this can reduce stress injuries.
-It strengthens muscles in the feet and ankles and the lower legs.
-Balance of the body is improved and there is a greater sensory input from the feet to the rest of the body.

The Drawbacks of Barefoot Running
-No protection while running, makes it likely that runners will land on sharp objects and scrapes, bruises and cuts on the feet will result.
-Blisters may form.
-Possibility of plantar fascia problems.
-Risk of getting Achilles tendonitis.

So what can runners do to make barefoot running safe? It’s best to make a slow transition from running shoes to barefoot running. Once the feet begin to adjust, try walking, then jogging and gradually increasing the distance. Minimalist running shoes may also be an option.

If you have any questions, please contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Barefoot Running

Monday, 17 August 2015 00:00

Managing Plantar Warts in Children

childrens-feet15When a plantar wart becomes visible on a child, the treatment depends on the severity of the wart. Plantar warts have been known to cause pain in children when they walk or run, especially if the child is involved with sports. Your podiatrist may need to inspect the area or remove interfering dead skin before the wart’s removal process begins. Additionally, warts can be removed with the help of medicines, laser therapy, cryosurgery or freezing surgery, as well as immunotherapy. While most warts will disappear on their own, parents should keep an eye on the size of the wart, monitor irritation of topical treatments, and should not try to remove the wart by cutting or burning the skin at home.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you have any concerns with plantar warts on your feet contact Dr. Sharon L. Pletcher of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

  • Legions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
  • Hard or thick callused spots
  • Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
  • Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing
  • Freezing
  • Electric tool removal
  • Laser Treatment
  • Topical Creams (prescription only)
  • Over-the-counter medications

Treatment

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, will help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about plantar warts.

broken-foot4Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center surgeon, Dr. Timothy Miller, recently streamed an Achilles tendon surgery on the video-streaming appPeriscope. Dr. Miller is one of the first among many surgeons using the app hoping that it will help advance medical education. In this day and age of medical education, students and residents are all equally busy which makes the viewing of cases like these increasingly difficult. The streaming session reeled in nearly 170 live viewers, was viewed more than 800 times after during the 24 hours Periscope archived the surgery, and with the help of an assistant in the operating room, five to six questions were answered during the procedure.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns contact Dr. Sharon L. Pletcher, DPM of Pennsylvania. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can cause severe difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What are the symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

- Inflammation

- Dull to Severe Pain

- Increased blood flow to the tendon

- Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

- Extreme pain and swelling in the foot

- Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

- Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise

- Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Achilles tendon injuries.

fungal-toenail2Although the Australian Women’s National soccer team did not win the Women’s World Cup, the Matildas have complained that the switch from real grass to synthetic turf is becoming problematic. The turf produces extreme heat that causes blisters on the feet and other foot ailments. Since the turf is made out of rubber, it absorbs heat faster than grass. Due to a sport sponsorship issue, the Matilda’s were not allowed to wear specific socks that would reduce blisters since the branding would still be visible. Striker Michelle Heyman states, “It’s like you can’t really get grip on your feet and your feet just keep sliding around in your boots...It’s like walking on hot coal with your skin blistering and cracking.”

Blisters on the feet are very pain and can become problematic if not treated properly. If you have any concerns about your foot and ankle needs contact Dr. Sharon L. Pletcher of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

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 attention from a doctor.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about blisters on the feet.

hammertoe4According to a study commissioned by the Public Health England and the Active Working Community Interest Company, standing on your feet for more than half of the day can reduce the risk of heart attacks, cancer, and diabetes. The study states that employers should allow their workers to stand for at least two hours of the day or provide standing desks to significantly reduce the changes or cardio metabolic diseases or premature mortality. The change in work behavior may be uncomfortable at first, but the change in habits is better for long term health benefits.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet contact Dr. Sharon L. Pletcher, DPM of Pennsylvania. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – choosing this shoe places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – our feet were not designed to be enclosed for hours, or all day. Try allowing yourself to expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and stretches is beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – stretching the foot out flat on the floor, will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen.

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

Keep your feet healthy and your body will thank you for it.

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

Read more about working on your feet.

broken-foot4UFC fighter Rory MacDonald suffered a fractured foot and other injuries after losing to Robbie Lawler. According to MacDonald’s manager Firas Zahabi, the injuries occurred quickly after the first round. The welterweight fighter posted a photo to his twitter account stating, “Broken nose broken foot, but I’ll be back.” Although MacDonald’s injuries were extreme, many are calling it one of the best fights of the year due to his admirable efforts despite losing.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you are seeking treatment for a broken foot, visit Dr. Sharon L. Pletcher of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will assess your injury and provide you with quality treatment.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury.

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

  • Bruising
  • Pain
  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Blue (foot)
  • Numbness
  • Cold
  • Misshapen
  • Cuts
  • Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Broken Feet

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