Items filtered by date: April 2023

Research has shown that walking is one of the best low-impact activities that can help people who have arthritis in their feet. This condition can affect people of all ages, and it may be more prevalent among the elderly. Walking can also be beneficial for overall physical health, and many patients notice the positive feeling that is associated with walking. There are three main categories of arthritis, and these are referred to as osteo, rheumatoid, and post-traumatic arthritis. Walking can strengthen the bones in the feet, and stress on the joints may be reduced. It is beneficial to start out slowly, and steps can be increased as time progresses. Patients who have arthritis in their feet may reap the benefits of walking by stretching first, drinking plenty of water, and wearing shoes that fit correctly. Additionally, the range of motion in the ankle may be improved when specific stretches are performed. If you would like more information about how walking may help arthritis in the feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you manage this painful condition.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Peter C. Smith from Lancaster Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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

Weak muscles and lack of strength are one of the main causes of falling, especially among seniors whose lifestyle has become more sedentary. One way to prevent falling is to perform exercises that improve foot strength and balance. It’s a good idea to have someone with you while performing such exercises and to do them while lightly touching a wall, countertop, or chairback. Start with a few repetitions and gradually increase them as your muscles and confidence get stronger. Heel raises are specifically designed to build ankle strength, which is essential in keeping your balance. Raise the heels by rising up onto the ball of the feet and hold for a few seconds. Then slowly lower the heels. Repeat. Toe raises help to strengthen the muscles in the front of the foot, which is used when stepping over obstacles. Holding onto the chairback, raise the toes up as far as you can while also standing tall and keeping the stomach muscles tight. Lower and repeat. For more information on exercises to prevent falling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Peter C. Smith from Lancaster Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

A condition known as Sever’s disease is common among physically active children between the ages of 8 and 14. Luckily it is not really a disease and generally corrects itself as the child ages. However, in the meantime, the child may experience pain in the heel, but not the Achilles tendon or plantar fascia. Also known as calcaneal apophysitis, Sever’s disease results from inflammation of the growth plate at the back of the heel. This is because the muscles of the calf and the heel bone grow at different rates. Excessive running or jumping, particular to certain sports played by children, can aggravate the condition. Pain is worse during activity and generally lets up after rest. Another factor of Sever’s disease is wearing shoes that do not offer ample heel cushioning or arch support. By late adolescence, the child’s growth plates will have hardened and the pain abates. For more information, it is suggested that your child see a podiatrist who can examine the heel to properly diagnose the problem and offer options for treatment.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Peter C. Smith from Lancaster Podiatry. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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

One in three people, who are older experience some type of foot pain, stiffness, or aching feet. Some of these may simply be attributed to age and wear and tear. Another cause may be wearing ill-fitting shoes. Many older people wear shoes that are too narrow, too small, and have heels that are too high. Other changes to the feet, such as loss of padding, fallen arches, and joint stiffness contribute to foot pain in seniors. In addition, several underlying illnesses may be factors, including diabetes, arthritis, and neuropathy. Foot pain in seniors may also result from an injury, standing for long periods, walking on hard surfaces, and carrying extra weight. A podiatrist is a specially trained doctor who deals with problems of the ankles, toes, and feet. It is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who will evaluate the type and source of the foot pain and be able to direct you to a treatment plan that works for you.  

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Peter C. Smith from Lancaster Podiatry. 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 Lancaster, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.