Achilles Tendonitis. Ankle Sprains- Instability

Transcription

1 Achilles Tendnitis Achilles Tendnitis typically develps as the tendn inflames due t increased activity. This trublesme cnditin affects the Achilles tendn, which is the strngest and largest tendn in the bdy and cnnects the leg t the ft as it stretches frm the lwer leg t the heel bne. This tendn is crucial t nrmal walking patterns as it allws the ft t rise up n the tes. Symptms: Achilles Tendnitis is mst cmmn experienced by painful swelling in the back f yur ft, just abve the heel. Pain can be experienced during r after activity. Typical Treatment Achilles Tendnitis is best treated early n. If yu are experiencing pain and/r swelling in this regin, a cnsultatin with ur experienced pdiatry prfessinals will give yu the best chance fr a full recvery. Ankle Sprains- Instability Ankle sprains are caused by an unnatural twisting r frce n the ankle bnes f the ft, which may result in excessive stretching r tearing f ne r mre ligaments n the utside f the ankle. The severity f the sprain can impact the degree f damage as well as the type and duratin f treatment. If nt prperly treated, ankle sprains may develp int lng-term prblems. Symptms: Primary symptms f ankle sprains are pain fllwing a twist r injury, swelling, and bruising. Typical Treatment includes resting and elevating the ankle and applying ice t reduce swelling. Cmpressive bandages als may be used t immbilize and supprt the injury during healing. Serius ankle sprains, particularly amng cmpetitive athletes, may require surgery t repair and tighten the damaged ligaments. There are fur key reasns why an ankle sprain shuld be prmptly evaluated and treated by a ft and ankle surgen: An untreated ankle sprain may lead t chrnic ankle instability, a cnditin marked by persistent discmfrt and a giving way f the ankle. Weakness in the leg may als develp. A mre severe ankle injury may have ccurred alng with the sprain. This might include a serius bne fracture that, if left untreated, culd lead t trubling cmplicatins. An ankle sprain may be accmpanied by a ft injury that causes discmfrt but has gne unnticed thus far. Rehabilitatin f a sprained ankle needs t begin right away. If rehabilitatin is delayed, the injury may be less likely t heal prperly. T prevent ankle sprains, try t maintain strength, balance, and flexibility in the ft and ankle thrugh exercising, stretching, and wearing well-fitted shes. Scherer- Mrgan DPM expressly disclaim all warranties and respnsibilities f any kind, whether express r implied, fr the accuracy r reliability f the cntent f any infrmatin cntained in this site, and fr the suitability, results, effectiveness r fitness fr any particular purpse f the cntent. Yu are slely respnsible fr yur use r reliance n such infrmatin and any freseeable r unfreseeable cnsequences arising ut f such use r reliance. In n event will Dr Scherer r Dr Mrgan be liable fr any damages resulting frm the use f r inability t use, the cntent, whether based n warranty, cntract, trt r ther legal thery, and whether r nt Ben Scherer DPM is advised f the pssibility f such damages.

2 Arthritic Ft & Ankle Care Rheumatid arthritis, therwise knwn as RA, is a chrnic disease. The disease causes inflammatin f the lining f the jints. This disease can lead t lng-term jint damage which in turns results in chrnic pain, lss f functin and disability. Currently, RA affects 1.3 millin Americans and the cause remains unknwn. RA advances thrugh three stages: The first stage causes swelling f the synvial lining, prducing pain, a warming sensatin, stiffness, redness and swelling arund the jint. The secnd stage causes rapid divisin and grwth f cells which causes the synvium lining t thicken. In the third stage, the inflamed cells release enzymes that may digest bne and cartilage, ften causing the infected jint t lse its shape and alignment. This als causes mre pain and sme lss f mvement. Symptms: Swelling f the synvial lining f the ft which prduces pain, a warming sensatin, stiffness, redness and swelling arund the jint. Typical Schedule a cnsultatin with ne f ur pdiatric prfessinals t determine the best curse f actin fr yur arthritis. The use f new drugs, exercise, jint prtectin techniques and self-management techniques are giving mre peple the pprtunity t lead happier and healthier lives. Athletes- Children and Adults Cmmn acute and chrnic sprts related injuries treated in ur clinic are: Ankle Sprains Rearft Sprains Midft Sprains Turf Te Ankle Fractures Talus Fractures Calcaneus Fractures Metatarsal Fractures Te Fractures Exertinal Cmpartment Syndrme Tendnitis Bursitis Shin Splints Stress Fractures Synvitis Supinatin Prnatin Maintain strength, balance, and flexibility in the ft and ankle thrugh exercising, stretching, and wearing well-fitted shes. Make an appintment with Dr Scherer tday t inquire abut custm inserts and rthtics. Inserts can and shuld be used Scherer- Mrgan DPM expressly disclaim all warranties and respnsibilities f any kind, whether express r implied, fr the accuracy r reliability f the cntent f any infrmatin cntained in this site, and fr the suitability, results, effectiveness r fitness fr any particular purpse f the cntent. Yu are slely respnsible fr yur use r reliance n such infrmatin and any freseeable r unfreseeable cnsequences arising ut f such use r reliance. In n event will Dr Scherer r Dr Mrgan be liable fr any damages resulting frm the use f r inability t use, the cntent, whether based n warranty, cntract, trt r ther legal thery, and whether r nt Ben Scherer DPM is advised f the pssibility f such damages.

3 in every she (ie: wrk bts, wrk shes, high-heels, ski/snwbard bts, hiking bts, running shes, etc) Athletes Ft Blisters A chrnic infectin caused by varius types f fungus, Athlete's ft is ften spread in places where peple g bareft such as public shwers r swimming pls. Symptms: The cnditin ranges frm mild scaling and itching t painful inflammatin and blisters. It usually starts between the tes r n the arch and may spread t the bttm and sides f the ft. Depending n the type f infectin yu have, varius kinds f medicatin may be used in treating yur fungal prblem. Successful treatment usually invlves a cmbinatin f medicatin and self-care. If yu are experiencing the symptms f Athlete s ft, cntact us tday fr effective treatment ptins. Early treatment will lessen the risk f expsure t thers and alleviate the painful symptms assciated with this cnditin. Refrain frm walking bareft in lcker rms, public shwers, r swimming pls. Prperly fitting shes and bts are the single mst imprtant factr in preventin f blisters. Withut a snug (but nt t tight) and accurate fit, the pressure exerted by the cnstant frward mtin and lateral mvement f mst sprts and daily walking will surely result in discmfrt r injury. If bts and shes are t lse, tes quickly get irritated in the te bx. If they are t tight, pressure leads t blisters and abrasins that result in a hst f painful prblems and keep yu indrs r, wrse, cmprmise cntrl during an athletic activity and lead t an accident. Tight ftwear als may inhibit circulatin f the bld vessels f the lwer extremity and cause cld feet, which bth cmprmises perfrmance and presents danger in the cld. Causes f Blisters Ill-fitting shes Stiff shes Wrinkled scks against the skin Excessive misture Ft defrmities Symptms: The cnditin ranges frm mild scaling and itching t painful inflammatin and blisters. It usually starts between the tes r n the arch and may spread t the bttm and sides f the ft. Scherer- Mrgan DPM expressly disclaim all warranties and respnsibilities f any kind, whether express r implied, fr the accuracy r reliability f the cntent f any infrmatin cntained in this site, and fr the suitability, results, effectiveness r fitness fr any particular purpse f the cntent. Yu are slely respnsible fr yur use r reliance n such infrmatin and any freseeable r unfreseeable cnsequences arising ut f such use r reliance. In n event will Dr Scherer r Dr Mrgan be liable fr any damages resulting frm the use f r inability t use, the cntent, whether based n warranty, cntract, trt r ther legal thery, and whether r nt Ben Scherer DPM is advised f the pssibility f such damages.

4 If yu are in need f care fr yur blisters r are unsure hw t prperly care fr yur blisters, cntact us tday. Keep yur feet dry Always wear scks as a cushin between yur feet and shes Wear prperly fitting shes If a blister frms, d nt pen blister Treat an pen blister with mild sap and water' cver it with an antibacterial intment and prtective sft gel-type dressing t prevent infectin and speed up the healing Bunins A bunin is a bne grwth at the base and side f the big te, prtruding frm the side f the ft. Bunins are typically caused by an enlargement f the jint frm when the te mves ut f place. The enlargement and its prtuberance cause frictin and pressure as they rub against ftwear and ften vertime leads t irritatin r inflammatin. Symptms: Many peple with bunins suffer frm discmfrt and pain frm the cnstant irritatin, rubbing, and frictin f the enlargement against shes. The skin n the inside edge f the big te becmes red, tender, and smetimes callused. Because this jint flexes with every step, the bigger the bunin gets, the mre it hurts t walk. Over time, arthritis may set in, the skin n the bttm f the ft may becme thicker, and everyday walking may becme difficult all cntributing t chrnic pain. Cntact us tday t learn mre abut bunins and what type f treatment plan will be mst effective fr yu. Nn-Surgical: The first step t help relieve bunins in a nnsurgical matter is t relieve pressure and pain caused by the irritatins. This can be dne by Prtective padding, ften made frm felt material, t eliminate the frictin against shes and help alleviate inflammatin and skin prblems. Remval f crns and calluses n the ft Changing t carefully fitted ftwear designed t accmmdate the buin and nt cntribute tward its grwth Orthtic devices bth ver-the-cunter and custm made t help stabilize the jint and place the ft in the crrect psitin fr walking and standing. Exercises t maintain jint mbility and prevent stiffness r arthritis. Splints fr nighttime wear t help the tes and jint align prperly. This is ften recmmended fr adlescents with bunins, because their bne develpment may still be adaptable. Surgical: Depending n the size f the enlargement, misalignment f the te, and pain experienced, cnservative treatments may nt be adequate t prevent prgressive damage frm bunins. In these cases, bunin surgery, knwn as a buninectmy, may be advised t remve the bunin and excess tissue and realign the te t its prper psitin. Bunins cannt be prevented since they are caused by an inherited faulty mechanical ft structure. Ft injuries, neurmuscular prblems, flat feet, and Scherer- Mrgan DPM expressly disclaim all warranties and respnsibilities f any kind, whether express r implied, fr the accuracy r reliability f the cntent f any infrmatin cntained in this site, and fr the suitability, results, effectiveness r fitness fr any particular purpse f the cntent. Yu are slely respnsible fr yur use r reliance n such infrmatin and any freseeable r unfreseeable cnsequences arising ut f such use r reliance. In n event will Dr Scherer r Dr Mrgan be liable fr any damages resulting frm the use f r inability t use, the cntent, whether based n warranty, cntract, trt r ther legal thery, and whether r nt Ben Scherer DPM is advised f the pssibility f such damages.

5 prnated feet can cntribute t their frmatin. Wearing well-fitted shes and using an insle r rthtic can ften help alleviate the symptms as well as reduce the risk f develping bunins. Calluses/Crns Crns and calluses are prtective layers f cmpacted, dead skin cells that develp when the ft in subjected t excessive frictin and pressue. They are caused by repeated frictin frm skin rubbing against bny areas r against an irregularity in a she. Crns rdinarily frm n the tes and calluses n the sles f the feet. Symptms: The frictin and pressure can burn r therwise be painful and may be relieved by mleskin r padding n the affected areas. Remval f the crns/calluses by a pdiatrist. Nte: Never cut crns r calluses with any instrument, and never apply hme remedies, except under a pdiatrist's instructins. Cntact us at Scherer-Mrgan tday t learn mre abut calluses and what yu can d t manage them. Calluses can be easily managed with a daily rutine f exfliatin and misturizing. Wear well-fitted shes as well as insles r rthtics. Children Related Issues Pain in a child s ft r ankle is never nrmal. There is n such thing as grwing pains. Any pain that lasts mre than a few days, r that is severe enugh t limit the child s walking, shuld be evaluated by a ft and ankle surgen. Ft prblems cmmnly experienced by children: Pediatric Flatft - Mst children with flat feet have n symptms. Hwever, smetimes they may have truble participating in physical activities r sprts, r appear t walk r run awkwardly. Sme cmplain f pain r cramping in their feet, legs r knees. Any pain r difficulty with a child s feet shuld be evaluated. Calcaneal Apphysitis (Sever's Disease) - Calcaneal apphysitis is a painful inflammatin f the heel s grwth plate. It typically affects children between the ages f 8 and 14 years ld, because the heel bne (calcaneus) is nt fully develped until at least age 14. Until then, new bne is frming at the grwth plate (physis), a weak area lcated at the back f the heel. When there is t much repetitive stress n the grwth plate, inflammatin can develp. Ingrwn Tenails - Tight shes r scks, r incrrect nail trimming are the mst cmmn cause f ingrwn tenails in children, althugh smetimes the tendency fr nails t curve inward is inherited. When the nail breaks the skin, serius infectins can result. Parents shuld never try t dig the nail ut at hme; treatment by a dctr is advised. Plantar Wart - Warts can develp anywhere n the ft, but typically they appear n the bttm (plantar side) f the ft. Plantar warts, which are caused by the human papillma virus, the same virus that causes warts n ther parts f the Scherer- Mrgan DPM expressly disclaim all warranties and respnsibilities f any kind, whether express r implied, fr the accuracy r reliability f the cntent f any infrmatin cntained in this site, and fr the suitability, results, effectiveness r fitness fr any particular purpse f the cntent. Yu are slely respnsible fr yur use r reliance n such infrmatin and any freseeable r unfreseeable cnsequences arising ut f such use r reliance. In n event will Dr Scherer r Dr Mrgan be liable fr any damages resulting frm the use f r inability t use, the cntent, whether based n warranty, cntract, trt r ther legal thery, and whether r nt Ben Scherer DPM is advised f the pssibility f such damages.

6 bdy, cmmnly ccur in children and adlescents. These warts grw deep int the skin, and can make walking r standing painful. Athletic children wh "play thrugh the pain," ignre injuries, cut rehab shrt r skip it altgether culd face repeated injuries and instability in their feet and ankles well int their teen years and adulthd. Lng-term prblems can include stearthritis and chrnic ankle instability. Peple with untreated chrnic ankle instability may suffer activity limitatins, arthritis, and tendn prblems. The Staff at Scherer- Mrgan DPM have been trained specifically and extensively in the diagnsis and treatment f all manners f ft cnditins. This training encmpasses all f the intricately related systems and structures f the ft and lwer leg, including neurlgical, circulatry, skin, and the musculskeletal system, which includes bnes, jints, ligaments, tendns, muscles, and nerves. Diabetic Ft Care Diabetes is a lifelng chrnic disease that is caused by high levels f sugar in the bld. It can als decrease yur bdy s ability t fight ff infectins, which is especially harmful in yur feet. When diabetes is nt prperly cntrlled, damage can ccur t the rgans and impairment f the immune system is als likely t ccur. With damage t yur nervus system, yu may nt be able t feel yur feet prperly. Nrmal sweat secretin and il prductin that lubricates the skin f the ft is impaired, which can lead t an abnrmal pressure n the skin, bnes, and jints f the ft during walking and ther activities. This can even lead t the breakdwn f the skin f the ft, which ften causes sres t develp. If yu have diabetes, it is imprtant t prevent ft prblems befre they ccur, recgnize prblems early, and seek the right treatment when a prblem des happen. Symptms: Nt being able t feel yur feet prperly r sense minr injuries such as cuts, scrapes, and blisters. Other signs f pr ft health are preexisting diabetes diagnsis, pr circulatin, existing trauma t the ft, infectins, and smking. When it cmes t yur feet, there are several risk factrs that can increase yur chances f develping ft prblems and diabetic infectins in the legs and feet. First f all, prly fitting shes are ne f the biggest culprits f diabetic ft cmplicatins. If yu have red spts, sre spts, blisters, crns, calluses, r cnsistent pain assciated with wearing shes, new prper fitted shes must be btained immediately. Additinally, if yu have cmmn ft abnrmalities such as flat feet, bunins, r hammertes, prescriptin shes r rthtics frm yur pdiatrist may be necessary t further prtect yur feet frm ther damage. Cntact us tday t schedule an appintment t discuss the best way t manage yur diabetic ft issues. Diabetes can be dangerus t yur feet, s take precautins nw. Yu can avid serius prblems such as lsing a te, ft, r leg by fllwing prper preventin techniques ffered by yur pdiatrist. Remember, preventin is the key t saving yur feet and eliminating pain. Scherer- Mrgan DPM expressly disclaim all warranties and respnsibilities f any kind, whether express r implied, fr the accuracy r reliability f the cntent f any infrmatin cntained in this site, and fr the suitability, results, effectiveness r fitness fr any particular purpse f the cntent. Yu are slely respnsible fr yur use r reliance n such infrmatin and any freseeable r unfreseeable cnsequences arising ut f such use r reliance. In n event will Dr Scherer r Dr Mrgan be liable fr any damages resulting frm the use f r inability t use, the cntent, whether based n warranty, cntract, trt r ther legal thery, and whether r nt Ben Scherer DPM is advised f the pssibility f such damages.

7 Fibrmas Flat Feet A fibrma is a benign fibrus tissue tumr r grwth that can ccur anywhere in the bdy, fr example in the uterus they're called fibrids. On the plantar, r bttm surface f the ft, they are called plantar fibrmas. Unlike plantar warts, which grw n the skin, these grw deep inside n a thick fibrus band called the plantar fascia. Symptms: Pressure n the Fibrma lump can lead t pain in the arch when walking r standing. Schedule an appintment with Dr Scherer t find ut what treatment plan is mst effective fr yu. Custm rthtics are used t decrease tensin n the plantar fascia and decrease pressure n the lump in yur arch. Injectins can be used t help shrink the fibrma in sme patients. Surgery is an ptin cnservative treatments d nt help the issue. Custm rthtics are the mst effective preventative plan. Orthtics supprt the ft and prevent increased pressure n the arch f the ft. Flat feet are a cmmn cnditin f the ft structure. In infants and tddlers, prir t walking, the lngitudinal arch is nt develped, and flat feet are nrmal. Mst feet are flexible and an arch appears when children begin standing n their tes. The arch cntinues t develp thrughut childhd, and by adulthd mst peple have develped nrmal arches. Flat feet are generally assciated with prnatin, a leaning inward f the ankle bnes tward the center line. Shes f children wh prnate, when placed side by side, will lean tward each ther (after they have been wrn lng enugh fr the ft psitin t remdel their shape). Many peple with flat feet d nt experience pain r ther prblems. When pain in the ft, ankle, r lwer leg des ccur, especially in children, the feet shuld be evaluated. Symptms: Painful prgressive flatft refers t inflammatin f the tendn f the tibialis psterir. This cnditin arises when the tendn becmes inflamed, stretched, r trn. Left untreated, it may lead t severe disability and chrnic pain. Peple are predispsed t tibialis psterir tendnitis if they have flat feet r an abnrmal attachment f the tendn t the bnes in the midft. Nn-Surgical: Anti-inflammatry medicatins, icing, physical therapy, supprtive taping, bracing, and rthtics are cmmn treatments fr painful prgressive flatft. Nte: Please cnsult yur physician befre taking any medicatins. Surgical: If cnservatin treatment fails r in severe cases, a surgery may need t be perfrmed t repair a trn r damaged tendn and restre nrmal functin. In the mst severe cases, surgery n the midft bnes may be necessary t treat the assciated flatft cnditin. Wear well-fitted shes and insles r rthtics fr arch supprt. Cntact us tday t discuss hw we can help yu take the right measures t prevent flat feet. Scherer- Mrgan DPM expressly disclaim all warranties and respnsibilities f any kind, whether express r implied, fr the accuracy r reliability f the cntent f any infrmatin cntained in this site, and fr the suitability, results, effectiveness r fitness fr any particular purpse f the cntent. Yu are slely respnsible fr yur use r reliance n such infrmatin and any freseeable r unfreseeable cnsequences arising ut f such use r reliance. In n event will Dr Scherer r Dr Mrgan be liable fr any damages resulting frm the use f r inability t use, the cntent, whether based n warranty, cntract, trt r ther legal thery, and whether r nt Ben Scherer DPM is advised f the pssibility f such damages.

8 Fungal Tenails Overview/Symptms: Nail fungus is an infectin caused by micrscpic fungi. The infectin can affect just ne nail r all ten at nce, depending n hw serius the cnditin has becme. The rganism that causes the prblem exists n its wn in nature, breeding rapidly in warm, damp places. Anyne wh is expsed t the pathgen can ptentially develp an infectin, thugh sme peple are mre susceptible t it than thers. Once n yur nails, the fungus settles spreads thrughut the nails, creating difficulties in cmpletely eradicating it. As it festers, the fungus breaks dwn the nail tissue, creating an unsightly and ptentially uncmfrtable prblem. Nails becme thickened, brittle, and disclred. They may smell smewhat ful, crack, r separate frm the nail bed as well. The thickened nails can create discmfrt whenever yu wear shes, as well as pen yur bdy up t additinal infectins frm bacteria. Patients with a weakened immune system respnse, as with diabetes, are particularly at risk. Treatment and Depending n the severity, treatments can include tpical antifungal medicatins, ral medicatins, r laser treatment. If yu are suffering frm unsightly and uncmfrtable tenails, yu d nt have t live with the prblem. Fungal nail infectins are cmmn and highly treatable, especially if yu catch the cnditin early. Allwing the prblem t prgress risks unpleasant cmplicatins and additinal infectins. Instead, cntact ur dctrs at Scherer- Mrgan DPM t eliminate the infectin quickly. Geriatric Ft Care Yur feet age alng with the rest f yur bdy. As yu get lder, yur lwer limbs becme mre susceptible t injuries and infectins. The daily wear and tear f the many years n yur feet catches up t yu as well. All f this cmes tgether t develp geriatric ft prblems. Pain is cmmn, s yu have t be mre intentinal abut yur ft care as yu get lder. Symptms: With all yur bdy changes ver the years, geriatric ft prblems can range frm small aggravatins t debilitating issues. Cnditins like crns, calluses, and ingrwn tenails are mre cmmn. This is especially true if yur ftwear desn t fit prperly. Yu re als mre likely t develp prblems like athlete s ft and fungal nails, since yur immune system may have mre truble managing pathgens. As yur feet flatten ut smewhat because f lser cnnective tissues, yu may develp issues like plantar fasciitis r tendnitis. Cmpressed natural padding in the sles f yur feet means yu have a thinner prtective layer between yur bnes and the grund, increasing yur chances fr metatarsalgia and neurmas. Smetimes, the pressure n yur lwer limbs is enugh t create issues like hammertes r bunins. If yu have arthritis, yur jints will nly wear dwn with time and age. It may becme hard t use certain digits, especially if yur cnditin hasn t been addressed. Advanced arthritis culd actually defrm yur lwer limbs and cmprmise yur mbility. Circulatry and diabetic prblems are mre cmmn in an lder ppulatin as well. They can take a serius tll n yur limbs, since they affect yur nerves and yur immune system. Withut prper care, yu culd develp cmplicatins that permanently damage yur feet and ankles. Scherer- Mrgan DPM expressly disclaim all warranties and respnsibilities f any kind, whether express r implied, fr the accuracy r reliability f the cntent f any infrmatin cntained in this site, and fr the suitability, results, effectiveness r fitness fr any particular purpse f the cntent. Yu are slely respnsible fr yur use r reliance n such infrmatin and any freseeable r unfreseeable cnsequences arising ut f such use r reliance. In n event will Dr Scherer r Dr Mrgan be liable fr any damages resulting frm the use f r inability t use, the cntent, whether based n warranty, cntract, trt r ther legal thery, and whether r nt Ben Scherer DPM is advised f the pssibility f such damages.

9 Treatment and Frtunately, investing in gd care can make a significant difference fr mst ft prblems in the elderly. Our dctrs can help yu manage any discmfrt that yu have and establish care habits t prevent future issues. Yu ll need a thrugh examinatin s that ur expert staff can identify the surce f yur discmfrt and mre accurately treat it. Shes are ne f the mst imprtant factrs in yur ft cmfrt, especially as yu age. Make sure yur shes fit crrectly. Ftwear that is t narrw, t tight, r nt supprtive enugh can cntribute t lwer limb pain. Yu need shes that dn t rub against yur skin r squeeze yur tes. Chse mdels that have wide te bxes, arch supprt, and sufficient cushining thrugh the sle t help yu absrb shck. Wear fitted, misture-wicking scks that aren t t tight, either. Yu may still need custm rthtics t stabilize yur lwer limbs. Yu ll need t clean and inspect yur feet every day, t. Wash yur lwer limbs with warm water and sap, then pat them dry. If yu struggle with dry skin, apply misturizer all ver, except between the tes. Keep yur nails clipped straight acrss and nt t lng. While yu re cleaning yur feet, check them fr any unusual changes in clr, cuts r strange bruises, nail distrtins, and dd bumps then have thse changes evaluated. Geriatric ft prblems dn t have t keep yu frm enjying yur glden years. Lwer limb pain can ruin yur mbility and decrease yur independence, s yu shuld never ignre it. Instead, invest in yur fundatin and maintain healthy feet. If yu are lking t imprve yur verall health, starting with yur feet is a gd plan. T make an appintment with ne f ur skilled dctrs, simply call ur ffices where ur friendly staff is waiting t help yu. Hammertes Hammerte is a defrmity f the secnd, third, r furth tes. In this cnditin, the te is bent at the middle jint, causing it t resemble a hammer. Left untreated, hammertes can becme inflexible and require surgery. Symptms: Peple with hammerte may have crns r calluses n the tp f the middle jint f the te r n the tip f the te. They may als feel pain in their tes r feet and have difficulty finding cmfrtable shes. Nn-Surgical: Treatment fr the cnditin typically invlves wearing shes with sft, rmy te bxes and te exercises t stretch and strengthen the muscles. Cmmercially available straps, cushins, r nn-medicated crn pads may als relieve symptms. Surgical: If cnservative treatments fail r in severe cases, hammerte surgery may be recmmended. Hammertes cannt be prevented since they are usually caused by a muscle imbalance frm an unnatural walk r a genetic predispsitin. Scherer- Mrgan DPM expressly disclaim all warranties and respnsibilities f any kind, whether express r implied, fr the accuracy r reliability f the cntent f any infrmatin cntained in this site, and fr the suitability, results, effectiveness r fitness fr any particular purpse f the cntent. Yu are slely respnsible fr yur use r reliance n such infrmatin and any freseeable r unfreseeable cnsequences arising ut f such use r reliance. In n event will Dr Scherer r Dr Mrgan be liable fr any damages resulting frm the use f r inability t use, the cntent, whether based n warranty, cntract, trt r ther legal thery, and whether r nt Ben Scherer DPM is advised f the pssibility f such damages.

10 Infectins Dealing with infectins is a nrmal part f life and the cmmn understanding is that mst peple with healthy immune systems are able t fend ff cmmn infectins withut the help f medical treatment. While this may be true fr mst parts f the bdy, infectins f the feet can present anther set f prblems. Because feet are cnsistently in cntact with dirt and ther materials that may wrsen the infectin, it is necessary t be practive when tending t ft infectins. There are many available treatment ptins fr infectins f the ft. The recmmended curse f treatment will vary depending upn the lcatin, type and severity f the infectin. If yu are suffering frm a ft infectin, please see a pdiatrist immediately t ensure that the infectin des nt spread and is healed as quickly and painlessly as pssible. Ingrwn Tenails Ingrwn tenails typically start as a small nuisance, but can becme a real issue if left untreated. Sme peple are prne t ingrwn tenails and thers are caused by imprper nail trimming techniques (ie Nail Salns). Ingrwn tenails can als be caused by trauma frm repeated impact r stubbing the te. Symptms: Caused by a segment f the tenail that embeds in the skin arund the nail, an ingrwn tenail is characterized by pain, swelling, redness and a feeling f warmth in the affected te. If physician care is necessary, antibitics may be prescribed t manage the infectin and an utpatient surgery may be necessary t remve the ffending nail. If yu are in need f care fr yur ingrwn tenail r are unsure hw t prperly care fr yur tenails, cntact us tday. Ingrwn tenails can be maintained by seeing ne f ur pdiatric prfessinals fr trimmings n a regular basis. Injuries- Wrk Related Cntact ur pdiatry prfessinals tday t set up an appintment t discuss yur symptms, btain a cmprehensive diagnsis and find the treatment ptin that is right fr yu. Scherer- Mrgan DPM expressly disclaim all warranties and respnsibilities f any kind, whether express r implied, fr the accuracy r reliability f the cntent f any infrmatin cntained in this site, and fr the suitability, results, effectiveness r fitness fr any particular purpse f the cntent. Yu are slely respnsible fr yur use r reliance n such infrmatin and any freseeable r unfreseeable cnsequences arising ut f such use r reliance. In n event will Dr Scherer r Dr Mrgan be liable fr any damages resulting frm the use f r inability t use, the cntent, whether based n warranty, cntract, trt r ther legal thery, and whether r nt Ben Scherer DPM is advised f the pssibility f such damages.

11 Neurmas Neurmas mst frequently ccur between the secnd and third metatarsal heads as well as between the third and furth. The nerves are traumatized by the cmpressin f the metatarsal heads pinching the nerve. Symptms: Pain is typically increased when the patient elevates n the ball f the ft r wears tight shes. Nn-Surgical: Cmbinatin f injectins, rthtics, r mdificatin f she gear and activity. Surgical: If cnservatin treatments fail, surgical excisin f the neurma is recmmended. Wear well-fitted shes and insles r rthtics fr supprt. If yu wear high-heeled shes, it s best t wear a special high-heeled insert. Make an appintment at yur lcal pdiatrist t explre preventative ptins. Pediatric Ft Care Pain in a child s ft r ankle is never nrmal. There is n such thing as grwing pains. Any pain that lasts mre than a few days, r that is severe enugh t limit the child s walking, shuld be evaluated by a ft and ankle surgen. Ft prblems cmmnly experienced by children: Pediatric Flatft - Mst children with flat feet have n symptms. Hwever, smetimes they may have truble participating in physical activities r sprts, r appear t walk r run awkwardly. Sme cmplain f pain r cramping in their feet, legs r knees. Any pain r difficulty with a child s feet shuld be evaluated. Calcaneal Apphysitis (Sever's Disease) - Calcaneal apphysitis is a painful inflammatin f the heel s grwth plate. It typically affects children between the ages f 8 and 14 years ld, because the heel bne (calcaneus) is nt fully develped until at least age 14. Until then, new bne is frming at the grwth plate (physis), a weak area lcated at the back f the heel. When there is t much repetitive stress n the grwth plate, inflammatin can develp. Ingrwn Tenails - Tight shes r scks, r incrrect nail trimming are the mst cmmn cause f ingrwn tenails in children, althugh smetimes the tendency fr nails t curve inward is inherited. When the nail breaks the skin, serius infectins can result. Parents shuld never try t dig the nail ut at hme; treatment by a dctr is advised. Plantar Wart - Warts can develp anywhere n the ft, but typically they appear n the bttm (plantar side) f the ft. Plantar warts, which are caused by the human papillma virus, the same virus that causes warts n ther parts f the bdy, cmmnly ccur in children and adlescents. These warts grw deep int the skin, and can make walking r standing painful. Scherer- Mrgan DPM expressly disclaim all warranties and respnsibilities f any kind, whether express r implied, fr the accuracy r reliability f the cntent f any infrmatin cntained in this site, and fr the suitability, results, effectiveness r fitness fr any particular purpse f the cntent. Yu are slely respnsible fr yur use r reliance n such infrmatin and any freseeable r unfreseeable cnsequences arising ut f such use r reliance. In n event will Dr Scherer r Dr Mrgan be liable fr any damages resulting frm the use f r inability t use, the cntent, whether based n warranty, cntract, trt r ther legal thery, and whether r nt Ben Scherer DPM is advised f the pssibility f such damages.

12 Athletic children wh "play thrugh the pain," ignre injuries, cut rehab shrt r skip it altgether culd face repeated injuries and instability in their feet and ankles well int their teen years and adulthd. Lng-term prblems can include stearthritis and chrnic ankle instability. Peple with untreated chrnic ankle instability may suffer activity limitatins, arthritis, and tendn prblems. The Staff at Scherer- Mrgan DPM have been trained specifically and extensively in the diagnsis and treatment f all manners f ft cnditins. This training encmpasses all f the intricately related systems and structures f the ft and lwer leg, including neurlgical, circulatry, skin, and the musculskeletal system, which includes bnes, jints, ligaments, tendns, muscles, and nerves. Plantar Fasciitis/Heel Spurs Plantar fasciitis is the term cmmnly used t refer t heel and arch pain traced t an inflammatin n the bttm f the ft. Mre specifically, plantar fasciitis is an inflammatin f the cnnective tissue, called plantar fascia, that stretches frm the base f the tes, acrss the arch f the ft, t the pint at which it inserts int the heel bne. Overprnatin is the mst cmmn cause f plantar fasciitis. As the ft rlls inward excessively when walking, it flattens the ft, lengthens the arch, and puts added tensin n the plantar fascia. Over time, this causes inflammatin. Symptms: Straining yur plantar fascia results in weakness, swllenness, inflammatin and irritatin as well as pain n the bttm f ne r bth feet when standing r walking. If yu are experiencing heel pain, visit with ne f ur pdiatry specialists t learn if yu may be suffering frm plantar fasciitis. Nn-Surgical: Anti-inflammatry medicatins, ice packs, stretching exercises, rthtic devices, and physical therapy can help reduce discmfrt. Nte: Please cnsult yur physician befre taking any medicatins. Surgical: If cnservatin treatments fail, surgical ptins may be discussed. Wear well-fitted shes and insles r rthtics fr supprt. Maintain a healthy weight Limit time n yur feet r walking, standing and running n hard surfaces fr lng perids f time. Tendnitis Tendnitis typically develps as the tendn inflames as a result f a sudden increase f an activity that invlves thse tendns. The tendns in the ft are crucial t nrmal walking patterns as it allws the ft t rise up n the tes. Achilles tendnitis and tendnitis are als cmmn in individuals whse wrk puts stress n their ankles and feet, such as labrers, as well as in weekend warrirs Scherer- Mrgan DPM expressly disclaim all warranties and respnsibilities f any kind, whether express r implied, fr the accuracy r reliability f the cntent f any infrmatin cntained in this site, and fr the suitability, results, effectiveness r fitness fr any particular purpse f the cntent. Yu are slely respnsible fr yur use r reliance n such infrmatin and any freseeable r unfreseeable cnsequences arising ut f such use r reliance. In n event will Dr Scherer r Dr Mrgan be liable fr any damages resulting frm the use f r inability t use, the cntent, whether based n warranty, cntract, trt r ther legal thery, and whether r nt Ben Scherer DPM is advised f the pssibility f such damages.

13 thse wh are less cnditined and participate in athletics nly n weekends r infrequently. In additin, peple with excessive prnatin (flattening f the arch) have a tendency t develp Achilles tendnitis and tendnitis due t the greater demands placed n the tendn when walking. If these individuals wear shes withut adequate stability, their ver-prnatin culd further aggravate the Achilles tendn. Symptms: The symptms assciated with Achilles tendnitis and tendnitis include: Pain aching, stiffness, sreness, r tenderness within the tendn. This may ccur anywhere alng the tendn s path, beginning with the tendn s attachment directly abve the heel upward t the regin just belw the calf muscle. Often pain appears upn arising in the mrning r after perids f rest, then imprves smewhat with mtin but later wrsens with increased activity. Tenderness, r smetimes intense pain, when the sides f the tendn are squeezed. There is less tenderness, hwever, when pressing directly n the back f the tendn. Typical Treatment Achilles Tendnitis is best treated early n. Treatment appraches fr Achilles tendnitis r tendnitis are selected n the basis f hw lng the injury has been present and the degree f damage t the tendn. If yu are experiencing pain and/r swelling in this regin, a cnsultatin with ur experienced pdiatry prfessinals will give yu the best chance fr a full recvery. Warts Plantar warts can ccur when the human papillma virus (HPV) invades the bdy thrugh the skin n the bttm f the feet typically thrugh cuts r breaks. The virus ften is present n cntaminated surfaces, such as the tile flrs f public lcker rms, shwers, and swimming pls. Symptms: Plantar warts are benign (nncancerus) grwths that ccur n the sle, heel, r ball f the ft. Mst plantar warts are diagnsed based n their appearance. They are generally rugh and spngy, and mst are gray, brwn, r yellw with dark pinpints these are typically tiny capillaries that supply bld t the wart. There are many treatment ptins available depending n the severity f the wart. If yu suffer frm plantar warts, visit ne f ur pdiatry prfessinals t find effective treatment ptins fr yu. Refrain frm walking bareft in lcker rms, public shwers, r swimming pls. Scherer- Mrgan DPM expressly disclaim all warranties and respnsibilities f any kind, whether express r implied, fr the accuracy r reliability f the cntent f any infrmatin cntained in this site, and fr the suitability, results, effectiveness r fitness fr any particular purpse f the cntent. Yu are slely respnsible fr yur use r reliance n such infrmatin and any freseeable r unfreseeable cnsequences arising ut f such use r reliance. In n event will Dr Scherer r Dr Mrgan be liable fr any damages resulting frm the use f r inability t use, the cntent, whether based n warranty, cntract, trt r ther legal thery, and whether r nt Ben Scherer DPM is advised f the pssibility f such damages.

14 Wund Care If yu are cncerned with a wund, it is imprtant t seek the pinin f a prfessinal as sn as pssible. Cntact ur pdiatry prfessinals tday t set up an appintment t discuss yur symptms, btain a cmprehensive diagnsis and find the treatment ptin that is right fr yu. If yur wund is serius, please visit yur lcal emergency rm as sn as pssible. Xersis Overview/Symptms: Skin n yur feet have been becming increasingly dry. Skin and heels may becme cracked. Xersis is fairly cmmn and shuldn t cause alarm. There are many misturizers and treatment ptins available depending n the severity. If yu suffer frm severely dry skin, visit ne f ur pdiatry prfessinals t find an effective treatment ptin fr yu. Apply ltin ften and refrain frm the fllwing: Bathing r shwering habitually mre than nce a day Using nn-misturizing saps Using excessively ht water when shwering r bathing Scherer- Mrgan DPM is a certified Pdiatrist specializing in Pediatric Ft Care, Diabetic Ft Care, rthpedic, pain, diabetes, bunins and much mre in Mnterey Park, CA. We als d Achilles Tendnitis, Allergic Cntact Dermatitis, Athlete's Ft, Brachymetatarsia, Bunins, Calluses, Diabetic Ft Care, Flatft (Fallen Arches), Ganglins, Haglund's Defrmity, Hallux Rigidus, Hammertes, Heel Pain/Fasciitis, Infectins, Injuries, Ingrwn Tenails, Metatarsalgia, Mrtn's Neurma, Onychmycsis, Ostearthritis, Pediatric Ft Care, Plantar Warts, Plantar Fasciitis, Psterir Tibial Dysfunctin, Rheumatid Arthritis, Running Injuries, Sesamiditis, Sprains/Strains, Tarsal Tunnel Syndrme, Tailr's Bunin, Tendnitis, Te Defrmities, Xersis and all wrk related in the area and surrunding areas in Mnterey Park and the San Gabriel Valley Scherer- Mrgan DPM expressly disclaim all warranties and respnsibilities f any kind, whether express r implied, fr the accuracy r reliability f the cntent f any infrmatin cntained in this site, and fr the suitability, results, effectiveness r fitness fr any particular purpse f the cntent. Yu are slely respnsible fr yur use r reliance n such infrmatin and any freseeable r unfreseeable cnsequences arising ut f such use r reliance. In n event will Dr Scherer r Dr Mrgan be liable fr any damages resulting frm the use f r inability t use, the cntent, whether based n warranty, cntract, trt r ther legal thery, and whether r nt Ben Scherer DPM is advised f the pssibility f such damages.