Items filtered by date: April 2023

The toenails are easily ignored when thinking about basic healthcare, but there are many simple ways to keep them pain and problem free. Probably the two most common ailments are ingrown toenails and toenail fungus. An ingrown toenail is usually the result of the nail being cut incorrectly. It is suggested that cutting toenails straight across and not too short can prevent the nail from growing into the nail bed rather than over it. Fungal infections of the toenails can easily be spread in warm and moist areas, such as gym locker rooms and indoor swimming pools. Wearing protective foot coverings is a good way to prevent this annoying infection. Fungal toenail infections are extremely contagious, so it’s wise to keep from touching the infected area. If you have toenail fungal infections that recur, even after applying commercial anti-fungal remedies, it is a good idea to make an appointment with a podiatrist who can prescribe more powerful medication. In addition, trying to fix an ingrown toenail can lead to a bacterial infection. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can safely deal with the problem. 

For more information about treatment, contact Thomas Vail, DPM of Step Alive Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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

A heel spur is also known as a calcaneal spur and is a bony growth formed by calcium deposits on the underside of the foot. They can have a pointy, hooked, or shelf-like shape. Heel spurs are the body’s way of trying to protect the foot from another foot condition, such as plantar fasciitis. Heel spurs can also arise from arthritis, overuse, obesity, and improper footwear. These growths do not always cause pain but when they do, the heel can be tender, with dull or sharp pain when standing. Usually, it is the underlying condition that causes the pain. Women are more likely to get heel spurs than men. A diagnosis will consist of a visual examination of the foot and understanding where the pain arises with movement, as well as an X-ray, which will highlight the bony growth. If you have a heel spur that is causing you discomfort, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss treatment options of the spur itself or the underlying condition which may be causing it.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Thomas Vail, DPM from Step Alive Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Findlay, OH . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

A stress fracture in the ankle is a hairline crack in the bone, and although it is most often experienced by athletes, other people can have them. Such an injury is generally the result of continued high stress to the bone and develops over a period of time. An ankle stress fracture is considered to be a repetitive stress injury, usually caused by running and jumping. These actions can weaken the muscles, leaving them unable to withstand the shock or force. This leaves the bones to absorb the pounding, and after a while, cracks will develop. Stress fractures are also common among people with osteoporosis, flat feet, or rigid arches. Symptoms include extreme pain, tenderness, bruising, and swelling. A podiatrist can confirm the presence of a stress fracture in the ankle by conducting imaging tests, such as an MRI, an X-ray, or a bone scan. If you believe you have developed an ankle stress fracture, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment options. 

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Thomas Vail, DPM from Step Alive Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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

Most complaints of heel pain derive from plantar fasciitis, which involves inflammation of the band of tissue that runs under the feet from the toes to the heels. At first, plantar fasciitis starts as discomfort in the heel or arch, especially if your shoes have inadequate cushioning and an inflexible sole. Then the pain may also be felt when you first wake up, or after sitting or standing for long periods, but it generally fades as you become active again. Wearing shoes that do not fit properly and do not afford enough cushioning or arch support increases the chances of developing plantar fasciitis. Tightness in the calf muscles, another symptom of plantar fasciitis, is related to a problem with a tight Achilles tendon. Many pregnant women experience plantar fasciitis, as the result of gaining weight, retaining water, and increasing pressure on the feet. Long distance runners and soldiers, who may strike heel first while running, might be more prone to plantar fasciitis. If heel pain is a growing problem, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment options.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Thomas Vail, DPM  from Step Alive Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

Many people have professions that require working on the feet, which may lead to getting foot fatigue. Wearing shoes that do not fit correctly may cause foot pain. Common reasons for foot pain during the working day can include standing on hard or uneven surfaces or having existing medical conditions, such as poor circulation. Heel pain may indicate plantar fasciitis or a heel spur has developed, and may come from wearing shoes that lack adequate support. This may be temporarily relieved by wearing shoes with cushioned heels and adequate arch support. People who stand for the day may notice one foot is more painful than the other. This may be from standing unevenly throughout the day, which may possibly be caused by an abnormal foot structure. Additionally, people who favor one side of their body may move toward that side, and it is important to be mindful and to shift the weight. If you have developed foot pain from standing during the work day, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this problem.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Thomas Vail, DPM from Step Alive Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor 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 type 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 all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are 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.

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