Items filtered by date: August 2023

Arthritis, defined as joint inflammation, can lead to stiffness, swelling, and pain in affected joints. Among the 100 or more types of arthritis, studies have shown that three significantly impact the foot and ankle. Osteoarthritis, the most common, stems from joint cartilage wear and tear over time. Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is an autoimmune disease, that affects joints throughout the body, with women being twice as susceptible. RA involves the immune system attacking and damaging the cartilage. Post-traumatic arthritis, akin to osteoarthritis, can emerge years after fractures or injuries. Gout, another inflammatory condition, arises from uric acid crystal deposits that are near or within the connective tissue of the joints and is particularly common in the big toe. Psoriatic arthritis can produce symptoms that are similar to RA and is linked to psoriasis, a skin disorder causing scaling and flakiness. Understanding these types of arthritis can empower individuals to manage their foot health amidst arthritis challenges. If you believe you have developed a form of arthritis that is affecting your feet or ankles, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, 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.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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.

Podiatry, a medical field focusing on foot and lower leg conditions, is an option that appeals to those interested in patient care without a traditional medical school. To determine if podiatry suits you, it is important to understand its benefits and the skills needed. Podiatrists diagnose, treat, and perform procedures, such as setting broken bones and prescribing medications. They have distinct educational paths and professional organizations, offering flexible work arrangements in private practices or hospitals. Reasons to consider podiatry include work-life balance, impact on patients' lives, and diverse specializations, such as sports medicine or surgery. In addition, this profession offers varied patient populations, high demand, innovation, good pay, job stability, independence, and favorable work environments. Skills like interpersonal communication, critical thinking, dexterity, and research are vital for effective podiatry practice. If you are considering pursuing podiatry as a career choice, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a practicing podiatrist to see what it is really like to perform this role.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to 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.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

• Physical therapy
• Drugs
• Orthotic inserts or soles
• Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

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.

Custom shoe orthotics offer numerous benefits for people who are seeking enhanced foot comfort and overall well-being. First, they provide personalized support, catering to specific foot anatomy and addressing individual concerns such as arch height, overpronation, or plantar fasciitis. By promoting proper alignment, orthotics can help to alleviate foot and lower body pain, reducing strain on muscles and joints. Additionally, they enhance shock absorption, making daily activities and sports more comfortable with less impact on the feet. Custom orthotics can also improve posture and balance, reducing the risk of injuries related to misalignment. Moreover, they can correct gait issues, making walking and running more efficient and reducing fatigue. Additionally, custom orthotics can prevent and help to correct various foot conditions, making them a valuable investment for those seeking long-term foot health and improved quality of life. If you are seeking more information about custom orthotics, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, 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.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please 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.

Flip flops are a staple during the warmer months, offering ease and convenience. However, beneath their carefree appeal lies a hidden danger to foot health. Most flip-flops lack support, which may lead to overpronation, causing strain on the feet and ankles. Additionally, the toes constantly grip the flip-flops to keep them on the feet, leading to muscle imbalance and painful conditions like plantar fasciitis. The flimsy structure of flip-flops may also lead to accidents or injuries. Many people have found their gait, or walking pattern, has been altered by wearing flip flops, which may lead to calluses forming on the soles of the feet. While occasional use may be okay, prolonged wear of flip-flops is said to be detrimental to foot health. More supportive footwear can protect your feet and maintain their well-being. It is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist if you would like additional information about the negative impact of wearing flip-flops.

Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Julie Jurd-Sadler, DPM from Progressive Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

Flip-flops have managed to become a summer essential for a lot of people. While the shoes may be stylish and easy to slip on and off, they can be dangerous to those who wear them too often. These shoes might protect you from fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, but they can also give you foot pain and sprained ankles if you trip while wearing them.

When Are They Okay to Wear?

Flip-flops should only be worn for very short periods of time. They can help protect your feet in places that are crawling with fungi, such as gym locker rooms. Athlete’s foot and plantar warts are two common fungi that flip-flops may help protect your feet against.

Why Are They Bad for My Feet?

These shoes do not offer any arch support, so they are not ideal for everyday use. They also do not provide shock absorption or heel cushioning which can be problematic for your feet. Additionally, you may suffer from glass cuts, puncture wounds, and stubbed toes since they offer little protection for your feet.

More Reasons Why They Are Bad for Your Feet

• They Slow You Down
• May Cause Blisters and Calluses
• Expose Your Feet to Bacteria

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.

Studies show that many workman compensation cases involve the feet. The various injuries targeting the feet and ankles can be classified into two groups. Mishaps that happen from punctures, lacerations, and crushing is one category, while the other group results from slips, trips, and falls. Common injuries that happen can be crushed or broken feet as a result of falling objects or moving vehicles, and punctures on the bottom of the feet caused by sharp metal or glass objects. Wearing appropriate shoes may help to prevent many of these types of injuries. It is beneficial for employers to educate their employees about foot injury prevention policies. This can include the types of shoes that should be worn for the specific job. If you would like more information about additional foot protection while working, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide you with helpful tips.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Julie Jurd-Sadler, DPM from Progressive Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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