Items filtered by date: March 2020

Elderly people may have difficulty in practicing daily foot care. This can be a result of the inability to bend, which can make properly trimming the toenails quite hard. Additionally, the skin generally loses cushioning as the aging process occurs, and this may lead to cracked heels. It is beneficial to keep the feet clean and dry, as this may help to prevent toenail fungus and athlete’s foot from developing. The feet typically feel better when a moisturizing lotion is frequently applied, and this can be done by a caregiver, if needed. Research has indicated the feet gradually change shape, which is why it is important to wear shoes that fit correctly. The proper size can be determined when the feet  are often measured, and shoes that are chosen have ample room for the toes to move freely in. If you would like additional information about how to care for elderly feet, it’s suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Richard T. Bauer from Summit Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

Elderly people may have difficulty in practicing daily foot care. This can be a result of the inability to bend, which can make properly trimming the toenails quite hard. Additionally, the skin generally loses cushioning as the aging process occurs, and this may lead to cracked heels. It is beneficial to keep the feet clean and dry, as this may help to prevent toenail fungus and athlete’s foot from developing. The feet typically feel better when a moisturizing lotion is frequently applied, and this can be done by a caregiver, if needed. Research has indicated the feet gradually change shape, which is why it is important to wear shoes that fit correctly. The proper size can be determined when the feet  are often measured, and shoes that are chosen have ample room for the toes to move freely in. If you would like additional information about how to care for elderly feet, it’s suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Richard T. Bauer from Summit Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

Research has indicated that ankle sprains account for approximately eighty-five percent of ankle pain. An ankle sprain is defined as tissues that become overstretched or torn, which may cause severe pain and discomfort. Sprains generally happen when the outside of the foot twists toward the ground, possibly as a result of suddenly stepping off of a curb. Typical symptoms of a sprain can include bruising, swelling, and difficulty walking. Patients may find mild relief when the affected foot is elevated, as well as when the ankle is wrapped in an elastic bandage. This may help to provide the support that is needed for recovery. If you have any type of ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible so a proper diagnosis can be determined.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Richard T. Bauer from Summit Foot & Ankle. Our doctor 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
• 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 Latham, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Patients who have a foot condition that is known as plantar fasciitis often experience pain and discomfort in the heel and arch areas of the foot. The pain may increase in the morning after arising, and it may be evident in patients who stand for the majority of the day. The plantar fascia is located on the sole of the foot, and connects the heel to the toes. It can become inflamed as a result of an injury, or may become damaged from frequently standing on hard surfaces. Additionally, it can occur from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, and moderate relief may be found if orthotics are consistently worn. If you have heel pain which causes difficulty in walking, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can recommend effective treatment techniques.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Richard T. Bauer from Summit Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

Patients who have a foot condition that is known as plantar fasciitis often experience pain and discomfort in the heel and arch areas of the foot. The pain may increase in the morning after arising, and it may be evident in patients who stand for the majority of the day. The plantar fascia is located on the sole of the foot, and connects the heel to the toes. It can become inflamed as a result of an injury, or may become damaged from frequently standing on hard surfaces. Additionally, it can occur from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, and moderate relief may be found if orthotics are consistently worn. If you have heel pain which causes difficulty in walking, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can recommend effective treatment techniques.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Richard T. Bauer from Summit Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.

An ingrown toenail is a painful condition that consists of the nail growing into the flesh of the toe. This can be incredibly painful, and may also make it difficult for someone with this condition to go about their daily activities. If an ingrown toenail is left untreated, it may run the risk of developing an infection. If this occurs, the affected area might start to bleed or drain pus. To help prevent an ingrown toenail from forming, it is recommended that you trim your toenails properly. To best do this, it’s important that you cut your toenails  straight across, instead of on an angle. It’s also advised not to trim your toenails too short, as doing so may also cause an ingrown toenail to develop. For more information on how to prevent and treat this condition, please consult with a podiatrist for professional care.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Richard T. Bauer of Summit Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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