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Monday, 31 August 2020 00:00

What Causes Ingrown Toenails?

Ingrown toenails occur when the nail grows into the skin surrounding it. While they generally occur on the big toe, they can affect any toe. One common cause of ingrown toenails is the shape of the nail. This can be hereditary. Nails that become more broad at the top of the toes or nails that are naturally curly have a tendency to push into the skin. Trauma to the toenail or wearing shoes that are too tight can also lead to ingrown toenails. Signs of an ingrown toenail include redness around the side of the toe near the nail, swelling of the toe, and liquid seeping from the side of the nail. Because ingrown toenails are prone to infection, it is important to visit a podiatrist especially if an ingrown toenail persists.   

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Julie Jurd-Sadler, DPM of Progressive Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

  • Improper toenail trimming
  • Genetics
  • Improper shoe fitting
  • Injury from pedicures or nail picking
  • Abnormal gait
  • Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Ijamsville and Mouth Airy, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Ingrown Toenails
Monday, 17 August 2020 00:00

What to Eat to Help Manage Gout

Gout is a type of arthritis that causes sudden pain, swelling and inflammation of the joints, typically in the big toes. Gout attacks are caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. Fortunately, you may be able to minimize the occurrence of gout attacks by altering your diet. To lower the levels of uric acid in your blood, it is recommended that you avoid consuming organ meats, game meats, fish and other seafoods, foods that contain added sugars or yeasts, and sweet beverages such as fruit juices and soda. Foods that are safer for people who suffer from gout include fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds, whole grains, low-fat dairy, eggs, coffee, tea, herbs, spices, and plant-based oils. For more information about gout, and for treatment and prevention options, consult with a podiatrist today.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Julie Jurd-Sadler, DPM from Progressive Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Ijamsville and Mouth Airy, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Gout
Friday, 14 August 2020 00:00

Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

Monday, 10 August 2020 00:00

Sever’s Disease: An Overuse Injury

Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is not a disease at all, but rather an overuse injury. This condition affects the growth plate of the heel bone and is therefore most common in children and teenagers who are still rapidly growing. Sever’s disease causes inflammation in the heel, stiffness in the foot, and pain when standing, walking, running or jumping that usually improves with rest. Children who are involved in sports are the most at risk for developing Sever’s disease because they put frequent, repetitive pressure on the heel. Other risk factors for developing this condition include wearing ill-fitting shoes, having flat arches or pronated feet, and obesity. If your child is experiencing heel pain and stiffness, it is recommended that you take them to a podiatrist for treatment.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Julie Jurd-Sadler, DPM from Progressive Podiatry. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

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

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

Symptoms

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

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

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Ijamsville and Mouth Airy, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

Read more about Sever's Disease
Monday, 03 August 2020 00:00

What Are Corns?

A corn is a type of callus or hardened skin that develops on the toes and feet due to consistent friction and pressure. Corns appear as raised hard bumps surrounded by dry flaky skin, and they may be tender and painful to the touch. Since corns are typically caused by friction and pressure, the first step in both prevention and treatment, is to wear comfortable properly-fitted shoes that do not irritate or squeeze your foot. Wearing shoe inserts or custom orthotics can provide cushioning and support for the feet. It is said that soaking and moisturizing the feet may relieve some of the pain caused by corns. However, some painful corns do not improve with at home remedies and need to be examined by a doctor. If you have painful corns on your feet it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist.  

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Julie Jurd-Sadler, DPM of Progressive Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

  • Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
  • Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
  • Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Ijamsville and Mouth Airy, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Corns and Calluses
Monday, 27 July 2020 00:00

Improving Poor Circulation

Poor circulation, or inadequate blood flow to the lower extremities, is common in people with underlying health conditions, such as peripheral artery disease, and for the elderly. Common causes of poor circulation to the lower limbs include obesity, varicose veins, and blood clots. Fortunately, there are things that you can do to improve circulation to your legs and feet. Walking is a low impact exercise that you can do daily to increase blood flow to the legs. If you are a smoker, quitting can reduce damage to your blood vessels, thereby improving circulation. Finally, eating a balanced diet and staying hydrated can improve overall health, including the health of your circulatory system. If you have poor circulation to your legs and feet, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist, who can help you treat, manage and prevent complications associated with poor circulation.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Julie Jurd-Sadler, DPM of Progressive Podiatry. Our doctor 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 Ijamsville and Mouth Airy, MD . 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 Feet

The definition of a blister is a small pocket that is filled with fluid. This can develop as a result of consistent friction that can come from wearing shoes and socks that do not fit correctly. It is the body’s natural healing response to skin that has become damaged. When new skin has formed under the blister, it will gradually drain, and is no longer needed. It may be helpful to protect the blister with a protective covering while daily activities are being completed. It is beneficial to remove the covering or bandage while sleeping as this may help to accelerate the healing process. Blisters may be prevented by wearing shoes and socks that fit correctly, and this can be accomplished when they are purchased in the afternoon, when the feet are at their largest. If you would like additional information on how to treat and prevent blisters from developing on the feet, please speak with a podiatrist.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Julie Jurd-Sadler, DPM of Progressive Podiatry. Our doctor 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 Ijamsville and Mouth Airy, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Blisters
Wednesday, 15 July 2020 00:00

Heel Pain Can Be Treated!

Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.

Patients who are diabetic may be fearful of losing a toe or foot due to their condition. Foot complications can occur as a result of elevated blood sugar levels and can cause the feet to feel numb or minimal sensation. This may lead to the inability to feel existing cuts or bruises on the feet, and diabetic ulcers may develop. It is beneficial to implement a daily foot care routine. This can consist of washing the feet every day, properly trimming the toenails, and maintaining steady blood circulation. It is helpful to smooth corns and calluses by utilizing a pumice stone, and this can aid in preventing foot infections from developing. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper management techniques.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Julie Jurd-Sadler, DPM from Progressive Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

  • Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
  • Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
  • Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Ijamsville and Mouth Airy, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Diabetic Foot Care
Monday, 06 July 2020 00:00

Possible Treatment of a Broken Foot

A common reason a broken foot may occur can be from falling off of a ladder, or it may become injured from participating in sporting events. The bones that are located between the toes and the ankle are referred to as the metatarsals. They can be prone to stress fractures, which typically happen from overuse. The average healing time for a broken foot is generally six to twelve weeks. Many daily activities are able to be completed as the healing process occurs when a walking boot or cast is worn. For more severe fractures, it may take longer if surgery is required. If you have pain in your feet as a result of either a fall or something else, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Julie Jurd-Sadler, DPM from Progressive Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

  • Bruising
  • Pain
  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Blue in color
  • Numbness
  • Cold
  • Misshapen
  • Cuts
  • Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Ijamsville and Mouth Airy, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment for a Broken Foot
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