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Tuesday, 21 December 2021 00:00
Benefits of Wearing Custom Orthotics
Many people wear generic shoe inserts and insoles to alleviate minor discomfort in the feet while walking or exercising. But if you have frequent or chronic heel and foot pain, you may be a candidate for custom orthotics. These inserts fit the exact contours of your feet and target the cause of your pain. Orthotics can help to alleviate lower back pain, which often begins in your feet and travels upward. Orthotics also can correct alignment and improve your overall posture. Custom orthotics are designed to address not only your foot problems, but also to take into consideration your weight, height and pain history. If you have ongoing foot, leg, or back discomfort, seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can diagnose the problem, offer treatment options, and prescribe the proper shoe inserts for you.
If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Dr. Sheldon D. Simon from Kentucky . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Are Orthotics?
Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.
Over-the-Counter Inserts
Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.
Prescription Orthotics
If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.
If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Owensboro, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Thursday, 16 December 2021 00:00
Arthritis Can Cause Pain in the Feet and Ankles
If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.
Tuesday, 14 December 2021 00:00
Caring for Your Feet if You Have Peripheral Diabetic Neuropathy
If you are a diabetic, peripheral diabetic neuropathy makes any break in the skin of your feet potentially problematic. Peripheral diabetic neuropathy can cause nerve damage, which in turn, creates a lack of sensation. This disease is also responsible for circulation issues and other factors that contribute to a reduced capacity within your body to heal itself. Daily foot checks can help you detect and seek proper treatment for any developing wounds. Comfortable footwear and moisture wicking socks with no seams to rub against your foot may aide in wound prevention. It is also recommended to trim your nails regularly and keep your feet clean and dry. Regular check ups with a podiatrist should be an important component in your foot care and prevention plan.
Neuropathy
Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Dr. Sheldon D. Simon from Kentucky . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.
What Is Neuropathy?
Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.
Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:
- Numbness
- Sensation loss
- Prickling and tingling sensations
- Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
- Muscle weakness
Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.
Treatment
To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.
Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Owensboro, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Thursday, 26 April 2018 00:00
The Importance of Proper Foot Care
The feet are considered to be the foundation of the body, so it's important to learn about proper foot care. Research has shown that the overall health of the body is affected when the feet are taken for granted, and this can easily be avoided with correct foot care knowledge. Washing the feet, thoroughly drying, especially in between the toes, and following with a moisturizer will aid in softening the skin. It’s beneficial to alternate between shoes, which will allow each pair to have adequate time to air out. This can prevent fungus and bacteria from invading the shoes, which may be linked to athlete's foot. Certain foot conditions may be prevented by wearing shoes that are comfortable, including hammertoe, bunions, or corns. Shoes with little or no support, such as flip-flops, are suggested to be avoided, which can aid in helping to maintain support in the arch of the foot. Please consider scheduling a consultation with a podiatrist for additional information about proper foot care.
Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Sheldon D. Simon from Kentucky . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Everyday Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.
It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Owensboro, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Tuesday, 07 December 2021 00:00
Common Causes and Treatments for Heel Pain
Because heel pain can be both debilitating and affect your everyday routine, it is important to have a podiatrist assess your condition. There are a variety of different sources of heel pain, and the most common one is plantar fasciitis. This occurs when the plantar fascia, which is a band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot connecting the heel to the toes, becomes inflamed or torn. Other factors, such as arthritis, an Achilles tendon injury, a stress fracture, or fat pad atrophy, can all lead to heel pain as well. Common methods that a podiatrist may use to treat heel pain include ice, cortisone injections, anti-inflammatory drugs, orthotics, or even surgery. Patients who are struggling with heel pain should consult with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment plan.
Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Sheldon D. Simon of Kentucky . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Causes of Heel Pain
Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.
Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.
Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.
Why Might Heel Pain Occur?
- Wearing ill-fitting shoes
- Wearing non-supportive shoes
- Weight change
- Excessive running
Treatments
Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Owensboro, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Tuesday, 30 November 2021 00:00
Elderly Foot Care Basics
Helping take care of an elderly person’s feet is very important for their overall health and well being. Toenails should be trimmed and filed, and feet should be moisturized. A warm foot bath will not only be relaxing, but relieve achy feet and help increase blood flow. Be sure to keep any foot hygiene tools and equipment sanitized. Never share these tools and equipment with anyone. Socks and shoes need to fit properly, and never be too tight. Socks should always be washed after every use to avoid fungi or infections from developing. Feet should be checked daily for wounds, cracked skin, bleeding sores and discolored nails. These can all be indicators of an infection. A podiatrist should be part of any elderly person’s health care team, and regular check ups and examinations can help avoid problems in the future.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Sheldon D. Simon from Kentucky . 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 Owensboro, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Tuesday, 23 November 2021 00:00
All About Bunionectomies
A bunionectomy is a surgical procedure that is used to remove a bunion and bring the big toe (and any other affected structures in the foot) back into proper alignment. During the surgery, anesthesia is used to numb your foot. The surgeon then makes one or more incisions near the bunion to remove extra bone or tissue, realign the bones, or straighten the toe. In some cases, the toe joint may be operated on to rebuild or repair it. Bunionectomies are typically outpatient procedures, which means that you will get to go home the same day as your surgery. You may be given a toe spacer, post-surgical shoe, or mobility device to help hold your foot in the right position and keep weight off of it while you heal. It can take several months to fully recover. To learn more about bunion surgery and to find out if it’s the right treatment for you, please speak with a podiatrist.
If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Dr. Sheldon D. Simon of Kentucky . Our doctor 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 Owensboro, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Tuesday, 16 November 2021 00:00
Don’t Pop a Blister
Blisters are small, fluid-filled pockets that form on the skin in response to trauma. Blisters on the feet are typically caused by friction from wearing ill-fitting shoes or exercising, but are also commonly caused by warts, athlete’s foot, and allergic reactions. If you have a blister, it is best to avoid popping it. The fluid inside the blister protects the raw skin underneath it, helping it heal from damage. When a blister is popped, it can be very painful and is more likely to become infected. If your blister has popped on its own, don’t peel off the top layer of skin. Leave it there and cover the blister with a clean bandage to protect it. If your blister is very painful, showing signs of infection, or leaking pus, please seek the care of a podiatrist.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Sheldon D. Simon of Kentucky . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
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 assistance from a podiatrist.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Owensboro, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Tuesday, 16 November 2021 00:00
Gout Pain Can Be Managed
Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.
Tuesday, 09 November 2021 00:00
Benefits of the Broken Toe Pose
While the broken toe pose in yoga sounds painful, it actually is used to alleviate foot and ankle pain. This pose can be especially helpful for anyone who walks, runs, or stands on their feet for long periods of time. It is easy to do, but there are a few things to remember before getting started. It can be helpful to grab a yoga mat or other kind of cushion for comfort and balance. To perform this pose, first start by kneeling with the bottom of your toes on the mat. Next, sit back on your heels, putting the weight on the balls of your feet and placing your hands on your thighs. Keep your back straight and hold the pose for a few seconds. This will help loosen up any tight muscles, strengthen the feet, and improve mobility. For more information on other helpful foot pain stretches, speak with a podiatrist today.
Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Dr. Sheldon D. Simon from Kentucky . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Stretching the Feet
Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.
Great ways to stretch your feet:
- Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
- Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
- Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle
Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Owensboro, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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Monday, 04 June 2018 00:00
A Podiatrist Can Help to Care For Diabetic Feet
If you are diabetic, it’s important to perform an inspection of your feet on a daily basis. Minor cuts or abrasions on the feet may lead to infections despite the fact they may appear insignificant. Effective measures of properly taking care of your feet may include wearing shoes and socks as often as possible, washing and drying the feet thoroughly and elevating your feet which may improve blood circulation. A podiatrist can trim the toenails properly which may prevent uncomfortable foot conditions such as ingrown toenails from developing. If a mild exercise practice is implemented into your daily routine, the muscles may become stronger and may benefit the overall health of the foot. If you would like additional information and would like to learn about effective methods on how to care for diabetic feet, please consult a podiatrist.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Sheldon D. Simon from Kentucky . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially 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, as 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 located in Owensboro, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 27 August 2018 00:00
The Causes of Hammertoe
Research has shown the main cause for developing the foot condition known as hammertoe originates from wearing poorly fitting shoes. Shoes that have little or no arch may cause the middle joint in the toe to bend downward abnormally, and this may cause the bent toe to resemble a hammer. This condition typically causes severe pain and discomfort, and may affect the surrounding muscles that are used to keep the toe straight. There may be several reasons why this muscle imbalance occurs, including wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move about, having specific diseases such as diabetes or arthritis, or genetic factors. Some of the symptoms that may accompany this ailment may include redness and swelling, open sores on the affected toe, and noticeable pain and discomfort. Certain measures are typically taken to treat hammertoe, and these may include performing gentle foot exercises that incorporate the muscles of the toes, in addition to choosing proper footwear. It’s important to speak with a podiatrist who can determine a treatment plan that is best for you as quickly as possible.
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Sheldon D. Simon of Kentucky . Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.
Symptoms
- Painful and/or difficult toe movement
- Swelling
- Joint stiffness
- Calluses/Corns
- Physical deformity
Risk Factors
- Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
- Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
- Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
- Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe
Treatment
If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Owensboro, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Monday, 08 October 2018 00:00
Are Plantar Warts Painful?
The majority of warts can be unsightly and painful, and a plantar wart is no exception. This type of wart develops on the heel of the foot and will grow inward as a result of the pressure the feet endures on a daily basis. It is known to be caused by the human papillomavirus, which is also referred to as HPV, and may be more prevalent in children and people who have compromised immune systems. This contagious virus can be transmitted by direct contact with a person who may carry the germ or from an object that may have been contaminated. Some of the symptoms that might be associated with plantar warts may include a small area that may be rough in texture on the heel of the foot. Additionally, there may be tiny black dots in the center of the wart, and you may experience pain while walking or standing. If you are afflicted with plantar warts, it’s suggested to speak with a podiatrist who can offer correct treatment options that may include removal of the wart.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Sheldon D. Simon from Kentucky . Our doctor will assist you with all of 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
- Lesions 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
Treatment
- Freezing
- Electric tool removal
- Laser Treatment
- Topical Creams (prescription only)
- Over-the-counter medications
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, can 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 Owensboro, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 10 December 2018 00:00
Simple Steps to Implement Proper Foot Care
The importance of implementing daily foot care may be crucial to the overall health of the body. It may be easy to overlook the simple care the feet desire when poorly fitting shoes are worn, in addition to the feet possibly being enveloped in tight and sweaty socks for most of the day. The feet endure the weight from the entire body and may become injured as a result of the impact from daily walking. Research has shown the feet will generally feel better when they are washed and dried daily, followed by utilizing a good moisturizer, especially in the winter months. Shoes that are chosen should feel comfortable when they are initially tried on and shoes that do not have adequate arch support should be avoided. Additionally, there are conditions that may affect your feet, including diabetes, pregnancy, and the aging process and it is beneficial to consult with a podiatrist to discuss the changes in foot structure that may occur.
Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Sheldon D. Simon from Kentucky . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Everyday Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.
It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Owensboro, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
