Items filtered by date: September 2019

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.

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.

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.

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.

Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.

Heel spurs, also known as calcaneal spurs or osteophytes, are bony outgrowths that can occur on the underside of a person’s foot. Heel spurs may be hooked, pointy, or shelf-like. There are many causes, but most often, heel spurs arise in patients with plantar fasciitis. This is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, the tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel to the toes. The heel can also become more vulnerable with age. The pads of the heel wear down and fail to provide shock absorption. The diagnosis of a heel spur is formally made when an X-ray reflects this bony protrusion. The first steps of treatment are rest, inflammation control, icing, stretching, and orthotics. If you are conflicted with this ailment, it is recommended to speak with your local podiatrist.

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 Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors 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 offices located in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.