April is national foot health awareness month and what better way to celebrate than getting that nagging foot problem checked out. Whether it's pain or an unsightly fungus, April is the perfect month to put your best foot forward. The weather is getting warmer and we're starting to break out our sandals. If you're feet are anything like mine, they're happy to finally get some fresh air after being cooped up all winter. Give us a call to schedule an appointment to get your feet ready for spring.
P.S. Don't forget about our nutrient-rich nail polish that's free of harsh chemicals. Over the last few months, many of you have asked about when we would be ordering more colors. They're finally in! You've got to stop in and check them out.
For more information visit our website http://www.roanokefoot.com/
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Soles 4 Souls Helps You Help Japan
The earthquake and tsunami that devastated Japan last week have left many of us wondering how we can help. Soles 4 Souls is an organization put in place to do just that – give us a way to contribute to those less fortunate. It was formed in 2004 when its founder was inspired by footage of a single shoe floating ashore after the tsunami in the Indian Ocean. Soles 4 Souls has since donated gently used shoes to third world countries all around the world.
Their current focus is to provide those in Japan with shoes so that they may safely walk among the wreckage left behind by this brutal, natural disaster. For those who have lost everything, a simple pair of shoes can mean the world.
Please consider helping Soles 4 Soul’s effort in any way that you can. To find a participating location where you can drop off your new or gently used shoes, visit Soles 4 Souls Locations. Can’t find a location in your area? Helping is as simple as texting SHOES to 20222 to donate $5.00.
For more information about this effort and how you can get involved, please visit Soles 4 Souls Helps Earthquake Victims.
Their current focus is to provide those in Japan with shoes so that they may safely walk among the wreckage left behind by this brutal, natural disaster. For those who have lost everything, a simple pair of shoes can mean the world.
Please consider helping Soles 4 Soul’s effort in any way that you can. To find a participating location where you can drop off your new or gently used shoes, visit Soles 4 Souls Locations. Can’t find a location in your area? Helping is as simple as texting SHOES to 20222 to donate $5.00.
For more information about this effort and how you can get involved, please visit Soles 4 Souls Helps Earthquake Victims.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Roanoke Podiatrist Can Relieve Your Painful Ingrown Toenail
If your toenail is curved and growing into the skin; or if it is "digging in" at the borders of the nail, or it is causing pain, redness, warmth, and swelling in your toe you probably have an ingrown toenail.
As a Roanoke Virginia podiatrist, I want you to know that I see these every single day in my office and what most people tell me is that they’ve been suffering with them from for some time. They’ve tried to treat it themselves and usually, just made it a little worse. And I want you to know that I wish I could visit everyone who is suffering from this to tell them that they just don’t have to suffer. YOU don’t have to suffer. You don’t have to restrict your activities in any way because of this pain. I can’t visit you in your home but you can visit me in my office and we will solve this problem for you. Most people tell me, “Dr. Feeny, I wish I ‘d come in to see you a lot sooner because now I feel great!”
If you have an ingrown toenail, it's important to have a let us take a look at it. We can explain treatment options to ease your pain, but even more importantly, keep it from becoming infected. If an ingrown causes a break in the skin, it becomes easy for bacteria to enter the area and cause an infection. Look out for drainage and a foul odor - these can often be signs of infection. Even if there is no open wound, a curved nail may eventually progress to an infection, so pay close attention to your feet!
Dedicated to your healthy feet,
Dr. Jennifer Feeny
As a Roanoke Virginia podiatrist, I want you to know that I see these every single day in my office and what most people tell me is that they’ve been suffering with them from for some time. They’ve tried to treat it themselves and usually, just made it a little worse. And I want you to know that I wish I could visit everyone who is suffering from this to tell them that they just don’t have to suffer. YOU don’t have to suffer. You don’t have to restrict your activities in any way because of this pain. I can’t visit you in your home but you can visit me in my office and we will solve this problem for you. Most people tell me, “Dr. Feeny, I wish I ‘d come in to see you a lot sooner because now I feel great!”
If you have an ingrown toenail, it's important to have a let us take a look at it. We can explain treatment options to ease your pain, but even more importantly, keep it from becoming infected. If an ingrown causes a break in the skin, it becomes easy for bacteria to enter the area and cause an infection. Look out for drainage and a foul odor - these can often be signs of infection. Even if there is no open wound, a curved nail may eventually progress to an infection, so pay close attention to your feet!
Dedicated to your healthy feet,
Dr. Jennifer Feeny
Monday, January 24, 2011
Don't be like Brady!
You don't have to be a football fan to know that the New England Patriots are no longer contenders for the Super Bowl this year. News of their seven point, playoff loss to the New York Jets spread like wildfire. Not as widely known, however, is that Patriots quarter back Tom Brady was battling a stress fracture in his right foot all season. He played through the pain all year and only went in for surgery to repair the injury when Super Bowl XLV was out of the picture. In this way, Brady is so much like the rest of us whether we want to admit it or not. Love him or hate him, you're just like him because you probably postpone visiting the doctor until absolutely necessary.
So many of us either try to work through pain or diagnose and treat ourselves. I can't tell you how many times I've found one reason or another to put off seeing my doctor about a health issue. All too often I hear "I don't have time to go to the doctor" or "I'd have to leave work early to get this looked at." It's scary how common this phenomenon is because our health isn't something that we should gamble with. Untreated injuries or illnesses can often develop into something much more serious than the original problem. That pesky ingrown can lead to a dangerous infection. That painful foot injury might need surgery but then again it might not. The point is that you won't know until you get it looked by a professional.
Make time. Leave work early. Schedule an appointment to see Dr. Feeny or Dr. Yeaman. Your feet will thank you for it and you'll save yourself a lot of grief in the long run.
So many of us either try to work through pain or diagnose and treat ourselves. I can't tell you how many times I've found one reason or another to put off seeing my doctor about a health issue. All too often I hear "I don't have time to go to the doctor" or "I'd have to leave work early to get this looked at." It's scary how common this phenomenon is because our health isn't something that we should gamble with. Untreated injuries or illnesses can often develop into something much more serious than the original problem. That pesky ingrown can lead to a dangerous infection. That painful foot injury might need surgery but then again it might not. The point is that you won't know until you get it looked by a professional.
Make time. Leave work early. Schedule an appointment to see Dr. Feeny or Dr. Yeaman. Your feet will thank you for it and you'll save yourself a lot of grief in the long run.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Fact or Fiction: There Is Nothing You Can Do For a Broken Toe?
Your alarm clock, conveniently located on the other side of your room, starts buzzing bright and early. No need to turn on the light…you know the way, BAM! You walk, barefoot, right into the dresser! Just like a cartoon character, you see stars. As your day continues, you can’t get past the throbbing pain. You know you have broken your toe.
Throughout the day your toe begins to bruise and swell. Wearing a shoe, or even walking, is excruciating, maybe even impossible. You know you need to call a doctor, but what did your mom always tell you? “There’s nothing you can do for a broken toe.” Will it be a waste of everyone’s time if you make an appointment with your podiatrist? Should you simply deal with the pain? But the pain is so bad…was your mom really right? Is the rumor true?
When people tell you nothing can be done for a broken toe they normally mean that a cast is not applied. A cast, made of plaster or fiberglass, is the most recognizable treatment for a broken bone. Does that mean if you don’t cast it, you’re not treating the broken bone? No!
The great toe has two bones in it, with all others having three. Although small, they are classified as long bones, just like an arm or leg. When any bone, especially a long bone, breaks, it is very important to make sure that it is not displaced; otherwise it will not heal properly.
During your appointment with us, we will take an X-ray and then be able to advise treatment. If the bone is not displaced, treatment can be as simple as applying a “buddy splint.” This is a splint that simply attaches the broken bone to an adjacent digit. This provides compression and stability.
If you have displaced the bone, most of the time we can realign the bone right here in the office. It involves numbing the toe and using traction to get the toe in a good position. In most severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
I know you may find it hard to believe but sometimes broken toes can become a medical emergency! Anyone who has poor circulation, such as a person with diabetes or peripheral artery disease, can end up with a spasm of the small arteries caused by the trauma, which can shut down the blood supply to the toes. If immediate care is sought, this can be reversed. If left untreated for even one day, however, amputation may be required.
So next time someone tries to argue that there is nothing you can do for a broken toe, let them know that the doctors at Shenandoah Podiatry informed you otherwise. The sooner you receive care, the quicker the pain and swelling will be reduced. Don’t be fooled by the popular rumor, call us right away!
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Are your “ugly” toenails embarrassing you?
Do your thick, discolored, unsightly toenails cause you too much embarassment? Do you find yourself refusing to wear your sandals in the summer? Are you nervous that the infection will spread? Don’t worry, we are here to help!
Fungal toenails, or onychomycosis, are one of the most common conditions a podiatrist sees. Fungus is a naturally occurring component on the skin and nails, especially in the foot. If ignored, the fungus can cause an infection. Infection is especially prone when there has been a trauma to the toenail.
Are you unsure if your toenail is fungal? If your toenail appears thickened, yellowish, and crumble, chances are you have a fungal infection. People who have some immune compromise, such as diabetics, are more likely candidates for fungal infections. These people are also at risk for more severe infections if the fungal infection is ignored.
How do you treat fungal infections? There are many over-the-counter medications and preparations available, as well as many popular home remedies, which provide no cure. Fortunately, the podiatrists here at Shenandoah Valley Podiatry can evaluate and treat fungal infections with various medications that provide complete cures. No more “ugly” toenails for you!
Whether it be a prescription topical medication or an oral medication, a cure is possible. Remember, the nail is slow to clear so make your appointment today. We will cure you of your infection AND your embarrassment!
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Custom Orthotics Save Giraffe's Life
Humans aren't the only creatures that need care for their feet.Hope, a baby giraffe born at the Topeka Zoo this July, has been given another chance at a full life, thanks to some clever work with some makeshift "custom orthotics". The giraffe was born with her fetlock joints bent at 90 degrees and dislocated.
Dr. Joseph P. Kamer, a local small animal practitioner, acted quickly at the time of the giraffe's birth and straightened the animal's joints. He put her rear hooves into hard casts within two hours of her birth. After consulting withe veterinarians at the zoo as well as some large animal specialists, Dr. Kamer decided to take the conservative approach and designed a corrective shoe of his own custom design for baby Hope.
The wooden shoes were glued to Hope's hooves using methylmethacrylate cement and polyethylene mesh reinforcement. Dr. Kramer fashioned artificial tendons out of nylon rope to resemble the flexor tendons and attached them to the shoe, then ran them along the leg in plastic tubing.
As the baby giraffe grew, the casts and shoes were changed to accommodate her size, and by late September she was out of the casts and no longer needed support for her left leg. "The animal can run - full bore - with these shoes on," said Dr. Kamer. "As long as I can keep the shoes on this animal for the next several months, then I think that's key." He is guardedly optimistic about Hope's chances of survival and adds that he hopes these podiatric techniques will help other giraffes that suffer from similar deformities.
Special thanks to a wonderful patient of ours for pointing out this article from JAVMA (Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association) by R. Scott Nolen! Article is from Vol. 237, No.9 Page 1002 on November 1, 2010. Photo courtesy of Topeka Zoo.
Monday, January 10, 2011
Stasis Dermatitis
Stasis dermatitis is an inflammatory skin disease that occurs on the lower extremities and is chronic in nature.
This condition is commonly seen in patients with chronic venous insufficiency. Venous insufficiency occurs as a result of loss of valvular function. Stasis dermatitis typically affects middle-aged and elderly patients and may be a precursor to lower leg venous ulcers.
History/Physical:
Differential diagnosis:
Work-up:
Treatment:
Topicals:
This condition is commonly seen in patients with chronic venous insufficiency. Venous insufficiency occurs as a result of loss of valvular function. Stasis dermatitis typically affects middle-aged and elderly patients and may be a precursor to lower leg venous ulcers.
History/Physical:
- The appearance of reddish-brown skin may represent an early sign of stasis dermatitis
- Stasis dermatitis is associated with brown deposits in the skin called hemosiderin
- The inner ankle is frequently involved
- Lower extremity edema (swelling) is often present
- The patient with stasis dermatitis may experience mild itching, pain, or even cramping
- Stasis dermatitis may present as red, scaling plaques with drainage, crusting, and possible superficial ulceration
Differential diagnosis:
- Eczema - A skin condition that may include dryness, rash, and inflammation
- Dermatitis (various types)
- Cellulitis - A skin infection
- Necrobiosis Lipoidica - A necrotizing skin condition
- Tinea Pedis - An infection of the skin caused by a fungus
Work-up:
- Venous doppler study may be used to reveal a deep venous thrombosis or valve damage
- Skin biopsy of stasis dermatitis may be indicated in rare instances.
Treatment:
- Compression therapy - Specialized compression stockings that have a controlled gradient of pressure. Compression can also be accomplished by the use of elastic wraps and Unna boots.
- Elevation of lower extremities frequently
Topicals:
- Corticosteroids - To reduce inflammation and itching
- Wet to damp gauze dressings for weeping lesions
- Open lesions are treated with topical antibiotics
- Leg ulcerations or lesions with with coexisting skin infections may also be treated with oral or IV antibiotics by the physician
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Winter Tips for Cold Feet
Brrr! Winter is in full force here in the valley and that means it’s COLD. During this time of the year we often pile on layers to protect our core but tend to forget about our extremities. If you’re looking for tips on how to keep your feet warm this winter, Shenandoah Podiatry can help.
Socks made from natural fibers – like wool – should be worn because they have moisture-wicking properties. This helps to prevent fungus which grows best in warm, damp places. Leather shoes can also keep your feet warm because leather has natural insulating properties. If you choose to wear insulated boots, be sure that they aren’t too tight as this can cause ingrown toenails. Avoid electric socks and other heated inserts because they can be dangerous especially if there’s an underlying reason for your cold feet.
Aside from winter weather, cold feet can be caused by a number of serious ailments that should be addressed right away. If our feet are cold year-round, we might be especially quick to write it off as normal during the winter. Unfortunately, cold feet can be indicative of a more serious problem and should never be ignored.
Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) or poor circulation is a common culprit. Blood helps to keep us warm and without proper circulation our bodies direct heat to our core and away from out feet. If you smoke or have diabetes, you have an increased risk of developing PVD which can make it harder for small cuts and ulcers to heal properly. This is why it’s so important to see a podiatrist right away if one of these sores develops.
Diabetes can also put you at risk for chilbains or ulcers of the toes and feet after cold exposure. If you experience redness and swelling in your toes after being outside and it doesn’t go away once they’ve warmed, make an appointment to see us right away.
We hope that you’ll follow these tips and be on the lookout for these possible conditions. If you do, you’ll find it easier to keep your feet warm this winter which is important because warm, dry, pain free feet are healthy feet.
Socks made from natural fibers – like wool – should be worn because they have moisture-wicking properties. This helps to prevent fungus which grows best in warm, damp places. Leather shoes can also keep your feet warm because leather has natural insulating properties. If you choose to wear insulated boots, be sure that they aren’t too tight as this can cause ingrown toenails. Avoid electric socks and other heated inserts because they can be dangerous especially if there’s an underlying reason for your cold feet.
Aside from winter weather, cold feet can be caused by a number of serious ailments that should be addressed right away. If our feet are cold year-round, we might be especially quick to write it off as normal during the winter. Unfortunately, cold feet can be indicative of a more serious problem and should never be ignored.
Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) or poor circulation is a common culprit. Blood helps to keep us warm and without proper circulation our bodies direct heat to our core and away from out feet. If you smoke or have diabetes, you have an increased risk of developing PVD which can make it harder for small cuts and ulcers to heal properly. This is why it’s so important to see a podiatrist right away if one of these sores develops.
Diabetes can also put you at risk for chilbains or ulcers of the toes and feet after cold exposure. If you experience redness and swelling in your toes after being outside and it doesn’t go away once they’ve warmed, make an appointment to see us right away.
We hope that you’ll follow these tips and be on the lookout for these possible conditions. If you do, you’ll find it easier to keep your feet warm this winter which is important because warm, dry, pain free feet are healthy feet.
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Happy New Year!
Wanna break out those sassy high heels for your New Year's celebrations? Ring in the New Year the healthy way with some tips (an quick fixes, so you don't have to miss the fun!) for happy feet, courtesy of the APMA:
http://www.apma.org/new-years-foot-fixes
Happy New Year from all of us at Shenandoah Podiatry!
http://www.apma.org/new-years-foot-fixes
Happy New Year from all of us at Shenandoah Podiatry!
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Corns
For more information visit our website http://www.roanokefoot.com/
Corns are hyperkeratotic papules of the skin. They are also known as clavi. These lesions can be painful.
They develop due to excess pressure on the bony prominences of the feet and toes.
Factors that contribute to the formation of corns include:
Abnormal foot mechanics
Foot Deformities
High Activity Levels
Peripheral Neuropathy
Corns are often seen in:
Athletes
Elderly Patients
Diabetic Patients
Types of Corns:
Hard Corn (Helloma Durum)- Commonly found over the joints of toes.
Soft Corn (Helloma Molle)- Found in interdigital locations and has a macerated texture.
Periungual Corn- Found near the edge of a nail.
Presentation:
Corns present with a growth on the foot or toes. Pain is associated with walking or wearing shoes.
Direct pressure generally cause pain to the affected area.
After debridement a corn may have a central plug of skin.
Intrinsic causes:
Foot deformities such as a bunion or a hammertoe
Extrinsic causes:
Activity
Poor fitting shoe gear
Work Up:
X-rays of the feet while weight-bearing can help identifying bony prominences.
Pressure studies- Can help locate the exact location of pressure.
After trimming the lesion the examiner can attempt to determine if the lesion is a corn, callus, or wart.
Treatment:
Hard corns- Pare or debulk the lesion utilizing a small blade. Removal of the centralized plug.
This should be performed regularly in high risked patients such as diabetics.
Regular debridement might decrease the risk of ulceration.
Soft corns- Hygiene is important to decrease the chance of infection. The patient should wear a pair of properly fitting shoes.
The use of an antifungal or antibacterial powder may be helpful.
Toe spacers can also be beneficial.
Other treatment:
Keratolytics such as salicylic acid, urea cream, or lactic acid cream may be prescribed by your doctor.
Good fitting shoe that match the length and width of the patient's feet.
The use of a pumice stone for careful debridement.
The use of good foot hygiene.
The use of a silicone sleeve.
Orthotics
Surgical care:
If conservative treatment fails surgery may be indicated to remove bony prominences.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
How is the Metrodome like a bunion pad?
An analogy from Dr. Andrew Schneider, a friend and colleague of Dr. Feeny's
This pas
t Sunday, football fans everywhere marveled when a blizzard caused the roof of the Metrodome, home of the Minnesota Vikings, to collapse. It was the fourth time in the stadium's 28 year history that the roof collapsed. As I was searching for the video on YouTube to show a friend of mine, I came across an article that compared the roof to a bunion pad.
An interesting comparison, don't you think? At first glance, you'd think they were made of similar materials. I learned that the roof was made of a fiberglass cloth that's 1/16" in thickness. Surprisingly a bunion pad is thicker than that!
What the article was referring to was both an air supported, inflatable roof and a bunion pad are cheap and unsophisticated methods of treating a complex problem. Let's face it...it's Minnesota...it really snows there...you really need a proper dome on your stadium!
Similarly, using a bunion pad to control the pain associated with a hallux valgus deformity is the easy way out. It is simply addressing the pressure on the bump on the side of the foot against the shoe. Nothing more. It doesn't address the function of the foot that caused the bunion to form in the first place and will cause it to continue to grow. It does not address the rotation of the metatarsal bone that is causing the bump to form. It's merely helping to cushion the bone today, to allow you to wear shoes today, hoping that it will feel better tomorrow, but it won't.
Treating the bunion requires, at the very least, good mechanical control to return stability and efficiency to the foot. This will stop the foot from deforming further and prevent the bunion from getting bigger. If a bunion is already painful in shoes, then surgery to correct the bunion may be the best option. It's better to address that sooner than later since the complexity of the procedure and recovery will change depending on how bad the bunion is.
It's not worth wasting time on a bandaid solution. In Minnesota, they'll patch the flimsy roof and reinflate it. But when it comes time to treat your painful bunion, take a smarter approach. If you haven't seen the collapse of the roof yet, watch it here!
Dr. Andrew Schneider is a podiatrist with Tanglewood Foot Specialists in Houston, TX.
This pas
t Sunday, football fans everywhere marveled when a blizzard caused the roof of the Metrodome, home of the Minnesota Vikings, to collapse. It was the fourth time in the stadium's 28 year history that the roof collapsed. As I was searching for the video on YouTube to show a friend of mine, I came across an article that compared the roof to a bunion pad.An interesting comparison, don't you think? At first glance, you'd think they were made of similar materials. I learned that the roof was made of a fiberglass cloth that's 1/16" in thickness. Surprisingly a bunion pad is thicker than that!
What the article was referring to was both an air supported, inflatable roof and a bunion pad are cheap and unsophisticated methods of treating a complex problem. Let's face it...it's Minnesota...it really snows there...you really need a proper dome on your stadium!
Similarly, using a bunion pad to control the pain associated with a hallux valgus deformity is the easy way out. It is simply addressing the pressure on the bump on the side of the foot against the shoe. Nothing more. It doesn't address the function of the foot that caused the bunion to form in the first place and will cause it to continue to grow. It does not address the rotation of the metatarsal bone that is causing the bump to form. It's merely helping to cushion the bone today, to allow you to wear shoes today, hoping that it will feel better tomorrow, but it won't.
Treating the bunion requires, at the very least, good mechanical control to return stability and efficiency to the foot. This will stop the foot from deforming further and prevent the bunion from getting bigger. If a bunion is already painful in shoes, then surgery to correct the bunion may be the best option. It's better to address that sooner than later since the complexity of the procedure and recovery will change depending on how bad the bunion is.
It's not worth wasting time on a bandaid solution. In Minnesota, they'll patch the flimsy roof and reinflate it. But when it comes time to treat your painful bunion, take a smarter approach. If you haven't seen the collapse of the roof yet, watch it here!
Dr. Andrew Schneider is a podiatrist with Tanglewood Foot Specialists in Houston, TX.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
What is Athlete's Foot?
No, it's not just something athletes get. Athlete's foot is a skin disease caused by a fungus that can occur on the feet and between the toes. The term "athlete's foot" became popular because athletes who used these facilities would develop the fungal infection. Some symptoms of Athlete's foot are dry skin, itching, burning, scaling, inflammation, blisters, and pain.
Athlete's foot can happen to anyone, and the fungi grow abundantly in many common places. Shoes create a warm, dark, and humid environment, the ideal environment for the growth of a fungus, which is why a the feet are a common spot for a fungus to attack. Breeding grounds for fungi can also be found around swimming pools, showers, and locker rooms.
Athlete's foot can happen to anyone, and the fungi grow abundantly in many common places. Shoes create a warm, dark, and humid environment, the ideal environment for the growth of a fungus, which is why a the feet are a common spot for a fungus to attack. Breeding grounds for fungi can also be found around swimming pools, showers, and locker rooms.
You can prevent Athlete's foot by practicing good foot hygiene and washing your feet daily with soap and water. Be sure to dry your feet well, especially between the toes, and try to change your shoes and socks often to decrease the moist environment. You can also decrease excess perspiration by using a talcum powder. If you are in an environment where a fungus can be found - such as a pool, locker room, public shower, or dressing room - avoid walking barefoot and wear shower shoes when rinsing off.
If treatment does not respond to good hygiene or self treatment, make an appointment with a podiatrist. The podiatrist will determine if the condition is a fungus or some other problem and determine a plan of treatment, which may involve topical and oral antifungals.
If treatment does not respond to good hygiene or self treatment, make an appointment with a podiatrist. The podiatrist will determine if the condition is a fungus or some other problem and determine a plan of treatment, which may involve topical and oral antifungals.
Friday, December 10, 2010
A Shoe For Every Sport
Shoes, shoes, and more shoes. There seems to be a shoe designed for every sport out there. But
there’s a method to the madness. Sport-specific shoes really can change your game. See the tips
from the APMA below to learn why the shoe you choose could make or break your day on the court or field.
• High ankle construction supports the ankle during quick changes in direction. A basketball shoe should have the strongest support on either side of the ankle.
Racquetball/Tennis
On the surface, court shoes for tennis and racquetball may look like any other athletic sneaker, but it’s what’s on the inside that makes the difference.
• A court shoe supports both sides of the foot because of all
the quick lateral movements and weight shifts in court sports.
• It provides a flexible sole for fast changes of direction.
• It has less shock absorption than a running or basketball shoe.
Running
The running shoe is perhaps the most personal and intricate
of all athletic shoes. Every runner has different needs and there
are a multitude of choices out there.
• A running shoe must provide maximum shock absorption to help
runners avoid ailments such as shin splints and knee pain.
• The shoe should control the way your heel strikes the ground, so
the rest of your foot can fall correctly.
• Know your foot type (high, medium, low arch) so you can get the
shoe with the right support for your foot.
“Generally, you want to go with the sport-specific shoe if you are participating
in a sport on a regular basis (2-3 times a week). Make sure the shoe fits correctly. Fit is just as important as the right type of shoe,” says APMA Director of Scientific Affairs Dr. Jim Christina.
To read more articles about shoes and your feet, check out the Footnotes link on our website at http://www.roanokefoot.com/.
there’s a method to the madness. Sport-specific shoes really can change your game. See the tips
from the APMA below to learn why the shoe you choose could make or break your day on the court or field.
Basketball
Whether you’re making the perfect pass or finishing off the high-flying dunk, basketball shoes have several features that will help you prevent injury.
• A thick, stiff sole gives support while running and landing from jumps.
• High ankle construction supports the ankle during quick changes in direction. A basketball shoe should have the strongest support on either side of the ankle.
Racquetball/Tennis
On the surface, court shoes for tennis and racquetball may look like any other athletic sneaker, but it’s what’s on the inside that makes the difference.
• A court shoe supports both sides of the foot because of all
the quick lateral movements and weight shifts in court sports.
• It provides a flexible sole for fast changes of direction.
• It has less shock absorption than a running or basketball shoe.
Running
The running shoe is perhaps the most personal and intricate
of all athletic shoes. Every runner has different needs and there
are a multitude of choices out there.
• A running shoe must provide maximum shock absorption to help
runners avoid ailments such as shin splints and knee pain.
• The shoe should control the way your heel strikes the ground, so
the rest of your foot can fall correctly.
• Know your foot type (high, medium, low arch) so you can get the
shoe with the right support for your foot.
“Generally, you want to go with the sport-specific shoe if you are participating
in a sport on a regular basis (2-3 times a week). Make sure the shoe fits correctly. Fit is just as important as the right type of shoe,” says APMA Director of Scientific Affairs Dr. Jim Christina.
To read more articles about shoes and your feet, check out the Footnotes link on our website at http://www.roanokefoot.com/.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Running for Women: An Uphill Trend
However, money isn't the only reason for this increase. Many women run for the social aspect. "There's about 10 of us that will travel somewhere in the US. We'll say, 'This is where we're gonna go,' and we all pitch in and we get hotel rooms for all of us," says runner Hillary Mancuso.
Running is an excellent, inexpensive, effective form of exercise. So grab a pair of well-fitted and supportive running shoes, fill up a water bottle, stretch and warm up your muscles, and most of all have fun!
To read more, visit the article from WRCBtv Chattanooga News at http://www.wrcbtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=13628789.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Your Feet...Out on the Town
According to a survey in British newspaper The Telegraph, it only takes an average of 34 minutes for a woman wearing high heels to start feeling pain in their feet from high-heeled shoes. Four out of ten women surveyed stated that they carry a spare pair of pumps in case their first pair starts to rub throughout the night. More than fifty percent admitted to walking home barefoot after a night out on the town. The survey also showed that the average British woman owns 18 pairs of high heels.
The survey included 4,000 women between the ages of 18 and 65. Click here to read more.
Just remember that while your high heels may look fabulous, it's wise to listen to your feet when they hurt! Change into more comfortable shoes (not another pair of stilettos!) or take a seat and let your tootsies rest. And we don't recommend walking home barefoot - broken glass and rocks are just a few of the possible hazards you could stumble upon.
And if your feet keep hurting, please come see us - we can help! Visit our website or give us a call at (540) 904-1458 to have all your questions answered.
The survey included 4,000 women between the ages of 18 and 65. Click here to read more.
Just remember that while your high heels may look fabulous, it's wise to listen to your feet when they hurt! Change into more comfortable shoes (not another pair of stilettos!) or take a seat and let your tootsies rest. And we don't recommend walking home barefoot - broken glass and rocks are just a few of the possible hazards you could stumble upon.
And if your feet keep hurting, please come see us - we can help! Visit our website or give us a call at (540) 904-1458 to have all your questions answered.
Diabetic Ulcers
Contributing Factors :- Mechanical changes in conformation of the bony architecture of the foot
- Peripheral Neuropathy
- Peripheral Arterial Disease
- Glycosilation - Predisposes ligaments to stiffness
Diabetic Facts:
- 12-24% of individuals with ulceration require amputation
- Half of all non-traumatic amputations are the result of diabetic foot complications
- The 5-year risk of needing an amputation on the other extremity is 50%
Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy results in:
- Loss of sensation in the foot
- Injuries and fractures
- Structural foot deformities
- Hammertoes
- Bunions
- Metatarsal Deformities
- Charcot Foot
- Tissue Breakdown
Peripheral Arterial Insufficiency Results In:
- Intermittent claudication
- Pain at rest
- Non-healing ulceration of the foot
- Ischemia of the foot - Inadequate blood supply
- Non-healing ulceration of the foot
- Ischemia of the foot - Inadequate blood supply
Examination:
Diabetic Ulcers tend to occur in the following areas:
- Heel
- Metatarsal Heads
- The tops and ends of hammertoes
Lab Studies:
- A complete blood count may signal an abscess or infection
- Non invasive vascular studies to assess circulation deficiencies
- Infection markers such as the sedimentation rate
Imaging (to evaluate the presence of osteomyelitis):
- Plain Radiographs
- CT
- MRI
- Bone Scans
Treatments:
- Treat infections with appropriate antibiotics
- Offloading the area of the ulcer
- Wound care
- Application of a Wound Vac - Negative pressure under an occlusive wound dressing for deep cavity wounds
- Heel
- Metatarsal Heads
- The tops and ends of hammertoes
Lab Studies:
- A complete blood count may signal an abscess or infection
- Non invasive vascular studies to assess circulation deficiencies
- Infection markers such as the sedimentation rate
Imaging (to evaluate the presence of osteomyelitis):
- Plain Radiographs
- CT
- MRI
- Bone Scans
Treatments:
- Treat infections with appropriate antibiotics
- Offloading the area of the ulcer
- Wound care
- Application of a Wound Vac - Negative pressure under an occlusive wound dressing for deep cavity wounds
- Surgical Debridement - Surgical management is indicated for debridement of non viable and infected tissue from the ulceration
- Debridement of infected bone
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic systemic inflammatory disease of unknown cause that primarily affects the peripheral joints in a symmetric pattern.
RA causes joint destruction and thus often leads to considerable morbidity and mortality.
Why do people Get RA ?
- An infectious etiology has been speculated
- Associated with a number of autoimmune responses
- Whether autoimmunity is a secondary or primary event is still unknown
- RA has a significant genetic component
Frequency :
The worldwide incidence of RA is approximately 3 cases per 10,000 population
Mortality/Morbidity:
- Daily living activities are impaired in most patients
- Life expectancy for patients with RA is shortened by 5-10 years
Signs and Symptoms:
- Morning stiffness
- Arthritis of 3 or more joint areas
- Arthritis of hand joints - At least one swollen area
- Symmetric arthritis with simultaneous involvement
- Rheumatoid nodules
Progression of RA :
Stage 1 (early RA)
- No destructive changes observed on x-ray
- Radiographic evidence of osteoporosis possible
Stage II (moderate progression)
- Radiographic evidence of periarticular osteoporosis with or without slight subchondral bone destruction
- Slight cartilage destruction possible
- Joint mobility possibly limited; no joint deformities observed
- Adjacent muscle atrophy
- Extra-articular soft tissue lesions (eg, nodules, tenosynovitis)
Stage III (severe progression)
- Radiographic evidence of cartilage and bone destruction in addition to periarticular osteoporosis
- Joint deformity
- Extensive muscle atrophy
Stage IV (terminal progression)
- Criteria of stage III
- Fibrous or bony ankylosis - stiffness of a joint due to abnormal adhesion and rigidity of the bones of the joint
Remission:
Remission of RA - Five or more of the following conditions present for at least 2 consecutive months:
- Duration of morning stiffness not exceeding 15 minutes
- No fatigue
- No joint pan
- No joint tenderness or pain with motion
- No soft tissue swelling in joints or tendon sheaths
- ESR of less than 30 mm/h for a female or less than 20 mm/h for a male
Lab Studies:
No pathognomonic test is available to help confirm the diagnosis of RA. The diagnosis is made using clinical, laboratory, and imaging features. Clinicians will analyze the following:
- Markers of inflammation, such as ESR and CRP
- Synovial fluid analysis
- Rheumatoid factor - Present in approximately 60-80% of patients with RA over the course
- Antinuclear antibodies - These are present in approximately 40% of patients with RA
Treatments:
Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs:
- Leflunomide (Arava)
- Methotrexate
- Sulfasalazine
- Etanercept (Enbrel)
- Infliximab (Remicade)
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Analgesics
Glucocorticoids
Immunomodulators:
- Anakinra (Kineret)
- Abatacept (Orencia)
RA causes joint destruction and thus often leads to considerable morbidity and mortality.
Why do people Get RA ?
- An infectious etiology has been speculated
- Associated with a number of autoimmune responses
- Whether autoimmunity is a secondary or primary event is still unknown
- RA has a significant genetic component
Frequency :
The worldwide incidence of RA is approximately 3 cases per 10,000 population
Mortality/Morbidity:
- Daily living activities are impaired in most patients
- Life expectancy for patients with RA is shortened by 5-10 years
Signs and Symptoms:
- Morning stiffness
- Arthritis of 3 or more joint areas
- Arthritis of hand joints - At least one swollen area
- Symmetric arthritis with simultaneous involvement
- Rheumatoid nodules
Progression of RA :
Stage 1 (early RA)
- No destructive changes observed on x-ray
- Radiographic evidence of osteoporosis possible
Stage II (moderate progression)
- Radiographic evidence of periarticular osteoporosis with or without slight subchondral bone destruction
- Slight cartilage destruction possible
- Joint mobility possibly limited; no joint deformities observed
- Adjacent muscle atrophy
- Extra-articular soft tissue lesions (eg, nodules, tenosynovitis)
Stage III (severe progression)
- Radiographic evidence of cartilage and bone destruction in addition to periarticular osteoporosis
- Joint deformity
- Extensive muscle atrophy
Stage IV (terminal progression)
- Criteria of stage III
- Fibrous or bony ankylosis - stiffness of a joint due to abnormal adhesion and rigidity of the bones of the joint
Remission:
Remission of RA - Five or more of the following conditions present for at least 2 consecutive months:
- Duration of morning stiffness not exceeding 15 minutes
- No fatigue
- No joint pan
- No joint tenderness or pain with motion
- No soft tissue swelling in joints or tendon sheaths
- ESR of less than 30 mm/h for a female or less than 20 mm/h for a male
Lab Studies:
No pathognomonic test is available to help confirm the diagnosis of RA. The diagnosis is made using clinical, laboratory, and imaging features. Clinicians will analyze the following:
- Markers of inflammation, such as ESR and CRP
- Synovial fluid analysis
- Rheumatoid factor - Present in approximately 60-80% of patients with RA over the course
- Antinuclear antibodies - These are present in approximately 40% of patients with RA
Treatments:
Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs:
- Leflunomide (Arava)
- Methotrexate
- Sulfasalazine
- Etanercept (Enbrel)
- Infliximab (Remicade)
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Analgesics
Glucocorticoids
Immunomodulators:
- Anakinra (Kineret)
- Abatacept (Orencia)
Monday, November 22, 2010
Shoe Advice from the APMA
A Shoe for Every Sport
Shoes, shoes, and more shoes. There seems to be a shoe designed for every sport out there. But there’s a method to the madness. Sport-specific shoes really can change your game. See the tips below to learn why the shoe you choose could make or break your day on the court or field.
Basketball — Whether you’re making the perfect pass or
finishing off the high-flying dunk, basketball shoes have
several features that will help you prevent injury.
• A thick, stiff sole gives support while running and landing
from jumps.
• High ankle construction supports the ankle during
quick changes in direction. A basketball shoe should
have the strongest support on either side of the ankle.
Racquetball/Tennis — On the surface, court shoes for tennis and
racquetball may look like any other athletic sneaker, but it’s
what’s on the inside that makes the difference.
• A court shoe supports both sides of the foot because of all
the quick lateral movements and weight shifts in court sports.
• It provides a flexible sole for fast changes of direction.
• It has less shock absorption than a running or basketball
shoe.
Running — The running shoe is perhaps the most personal and intricate of all athletic shoes. Every runner has different needs and there
are a multitude of choices out there.
• A running shoe must provide maximum shock absorption to help
runners avoid ailments such as shin splints and knee pain.
• The shoe should control the way your heel strikes the ground, so
the rest of your foot can fall correctly.
• Know your foot type (high, medium, low arch) so you can get the
shoe with the right support for your foot.
Shoes, shoes, and more shoes. There seems to be a shoe designed for every sport out there. But there’s a method to the madness. Sport-specific shoes really can change your game. See the tips below to learn why the shoe you choose could make or break your day on the court or field.
Basketball — Whether you’re making the perfect pass or
finishing off the high-flying dunk, basketball shoes have
several features that will help you prevent injury.
• A thick, stiff sole gives support while running and landing
from jumps.
• High ankle construction supports the ankle during
quick changes in direction. A basketball shoe should
have the strongest support on either side of the ankle.
Racquetball/Tennis — On the surface, court shoes for tennis and
racquetball may look like any other athletic sneaker, but it’s
what’s on the inside that makes the difference.
• A court shoe supports both sides of the foot because of all
the quick lateral movements and weight shifts in court sports.
• It provides a flexible sole for fast changes of direction.
• It has less shock absorption than a running or basketball
shoe.
Running — The running shoe is perhaps the most personal and intricate of all athletic shoes. Every runner has different needs and there
are a multitude of choices out there.
• A running shoe must provide maximum shock absorption to help
runners avoid ailments such as shin splints and knee pain.
• The shoe should control the way your heel strikes the ground, so
the rest of your foot can fall correctly.
• Know your foot type (high, medium, low arch) so you can get the
shoe with the right support for your foot.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Free Foot Care for Poor and Homeless in Syracuse
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Your feet mirror your general health - everyone needs to take care of their feet, regardless of income level.
To read more about this past week's Amaus free foot care clinic, click here.
For more information about how we can help you take care of your feet, visit our website www.roanokefoot.com.
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