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Possible Causes of Poor Circulation
Research has indicated that if you have poor circulation in your feet, it may be indicative of other medical conditions. These may include diabetes, heart conditions, and obesity. It is defined as restricted blood flow to the lower extremities, and there are often noticeable symptoms that are associated with this condition. These can consist of numbness, tingling, and muscle cramps, in addition to pain and discomfort. Nerve damage can possibly be caused by poor circulation, in addition to varicose veins and blood clots. Patients may find relief when specific exercises are performed, and compression stockings are worn that are designed for painful, swollen legs. If you feel you have symptoms of this condition, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist to learn about the best treatment options for you.
Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM of Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Poor Circulation in the Feet
Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.
Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.
Causes
Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:
- Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness
- Numbness or cramping in the legs
- Skin discoloration
- Slower nail & hair growth
- Erectile dysfunction
Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.
As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of Poor Blood Circulation in the FeetAre Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?
Symptoms Of An Achilles Tendon Injury
The Achilles tendon connects the heel to the calf muscles, and it is located in the back of the leg, directly above the heel. It is known to be the largest tendon in the body, and if it should become injured, it may be difficult to walk and run. This tendon enables the foot to point and flex, in addition to standing on tiptoe. There are noticeable symptoms that exist if an Achilles tendon injury has occurred. These can include severe pain in the back of the leg, the inability to bend the foot, and some patients may also notice the ankle is bruised and weak. As the aging process occurs, it is important to perform proper stretches that can keep the Achilles tendon strong, and this may be helpful in preventing a painful injury from occurring. It can become torn or injured if you suddenly step off of a curb, which may overstretch the tendon. Moderate relief may be found when the affected foot is elevated, and it may feel comforting if an elastic bandage is wrapped around the foot to provide additional support. If you have injured your Achilles tendon, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM of Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
- Inflammation
- Dull to severe pain
- Increased blood flow to the tendon
- Thickening of the tendon
Rupture Symptoms
- Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
- Total immobility
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
- Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
- Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Achilles Tendon InjuriesPossible Causes of Blisters
Friction is typically the principal cause of blisters on the feet. They can occur from wearing shoes that do not fit properly, which may cause rubbing against the heel or toes. Additionally, they can also form as an allergic reaction to an insect bite, or from severe sunburn or frostbite. They are defined as small bubble-like areas that are filled with clear fluid which protects the damaged skin. It generally drains naturally, as the skin heals and is replaced by new skin. If the blister should become infected, the fluid may be filled with pus or blood, and should be treated immediately. It is helpful to put a covering over the blister while wearing shoes, as this may help to protect the blister as much as possible while the healing process begins. If you frequently get blisters on the feet, it is advised that you speak to a podiatrist who can offer proper treatment options.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM of Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors 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 offices located in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about BlistersAre You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?
Why Does Foot Pain Occur?
Traumas, diseases, and injuries are among the common causes of foot pain. There are numerous muscles, joints, and ligaments each foot is comprised of, in addition to bands of tissue that absorb shock while walking or participating in sporting activities. The symptoms that are often associated with foot pain can include pain and discomfort in the ankle, difficulty in pointing and flexing the foot, and the foot may feel stiff and weak. There are many working parts to the foot, and the overall structure may be affected if part of the foot should become injured. When pain in the arch exists, it may be indicative of plantar fasciitis. This condition affects the portion of tissue that connects the heel to the toes. If pain is noticed in the top of the foot, Morton’s neuroma may exist. Pain in the big toe and surrounding area may be consistent with a form of arthritis that is known as gout. If you are experiencing any type of pain that affects the feet, it is strongly advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can diagnosis and treat foot pain.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Bunions
- Hammertoes
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Bone Spurs
- Corns
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Ingrown Toenails
- Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
- Flat Feet
- Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
- And more
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Foot PainMild and Severe Broken Toes
Many patients are aware they have broken their toe by the severe pain and discomfort they feel after something heavy is dropped on it. It may also become fractured if it has been stubbed against a piece of furniture. Additional symptoms can include either a numbing or burning feeling, bruising, and walking can become difficult. In serious fractures, the bone may protrude from the skin, and there may even be excessive bleeding. Broken toes can occur as a result of a medical condition such as osteoporosis, where the bones may already be fragile. After a proper diagnosis is performed, which typically consists of having an X-ray taken, treatment can begin. If the toe is mildly broken, it can be taped to the toe next to it, and this may be helpful in providing additional support. This method is referred to as buddy taping. It is strongly recommended that you consult with a podiatrist who can correctly treat broken toes.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What to Know About a Broken Toe
Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
- Throbbing pain
- Swelling
- Bruising on the skin and toenail
- The inability to move the toe
- Toe appears crooked or disfigured
- Tingling or numbness in the toe
Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.
Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about What to Know About a Broken ToeDo Your Child's Feet Hurt?
How Are Bunions Treated?
Patients who notice a bony lump that gradually develops on the side of the big toe may be aware it can be a bunion. It can form from genetic traits, or as a result of wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. The symptoms that are often associated with this condition can consist of a numbing or burning sensation on or around the affected area, and it may feel tender and appear red. Larger shoes may have to be purchased that can accommodate the size of the bunion. Some patients find it beneficial to wear cushions on the bunions or custom-made orthotics, and this may provide moderate relief. If the bunion is causing severe pain and discomfort, please consult with a podiatrist who can discuss proper treatment options, which may involve surgery for permanent removal.
If you are suffering from bunions, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM of Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Bunion?
A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.
Why Do Bunions Form?
Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary
Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions
How Are Bunions Diagnosed?
Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.
How Are Bunions Treated?
- Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
- Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
- Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
- Orthotics or foot inserts
- Surgery
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about What Are Bunions?Choosing Shoes For The Work Day
Many people experience uncomfortable foot conditions as a result from standing for long periods of time to complete their work day. Research has shown the importance of wearing proper shoes while working, and this may be beneficial in providing moderate relief. The feet, and overall body, will feel more comfortable when there is adequate room in the shoes for the toes to move freely in. It is helpful to choose shoes that have enough cushioning, and shoes that have a wide heel to provide ankle stability. If the feet become swollen during the work day, it is recommended to elevate them during designated breaks. If you would like additional information about how to protect your feet while working, please consult with a podiatrist.
While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors 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 offices located in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about How to Handle a Long Work Day on Your FeetMore...
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Sever’s Disease Typically Affects Teenagers
The medical condition that is known as Sever’s disease typically occurs in early teenage years. It affects the growth plate in the heel, and can be common in children who participate in sporting activities. Research has indicated the tendons and muscles in the feet grow at different speeds, and performing repetitive motions can affect the heel area. You may notice your child experiencing specific symptoms, which may include walking on tip toes, limping, and the heel may appear to be red and swollen. Moderate relief can be felt when the foot is elevated, followed by taking mild pain medication. Additionally, it may be helpful to wear orthotics as the healing process takes place, which may provide adequate support. Treatment may be accelerated when the activity is stopped that caused the injury, in addition to possibly wearing a walking boot. If your child has developed Sever’s disease, it is advised that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors 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 offices located in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
Read more about Sever's DiseasePossible Ways To Prevent Falling
Research has indicated that approximately one third of seniors in America will fall during the night. This can cause many injuries to occur, that may include painful foot ailments. There are methods that can be implemented which can help to reduce the risk of falling. These can consist of improving the lighting in the bedroom and hallways, removing worn carpeting, and installing grab bars in the shower and toilet areas. Many seniors find it beneficial to live in a home that has one level, and this can aid in preventing hazardous falls that may be caused by stairs. Additionally, it is helpful to incorporate a gentle exercise program into your daily routine. This can result in strengthening muscles which may also help to prevent falling. Please speak with a podiatrist if you would like more information on how falling may affect the feet.
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 Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors 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 offices located in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Falls Prevention