Items filtered by date: December 2024

Foot drop, also known as drop foot, is a condition where lifting the front part of the foot becomes difficult, causing it to drag while walking. It results from weakness or paralysis of the muscles that lift the foot, often due to nerve damage, muscle disorders, or brain and spinal cord conditions like stroke or multiple sclerosis. Common causes include peroneal nerve injury, herniated discs, diabetes, or neurological disorders. Anyone can develop foot drop, but it is more likely in those with conditions affecting the nerves or muscles. Symptoms include dragging the toes, difficulty walking, and a steppage gait, where the knee lifts higher than usual. Diagnosis involves a physical exam, imaging like an MRI scan, and nerve conduction studies. Treatments may include braces, targeted exercises, or surgery in severe cases. If you have this uncomfortable condition, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer a personalized approach to manage foot drop effectively.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Lakeside Foot and Ankle Center. Our practitioners 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 Leesburg and The Villages, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pickleball’s fast-paced nature and quick movements place significant physical demands on your body, making post-game recovery essential. After playing, a proper cool-down routine helps prevent stiffness and soreness. Light stretches targeting your calves, hamstrings, and ankles can improve flexibility and reduce muscle tension. A short, easy walk also aids circulation, helping your body recover more efficiently. Staying hydrated is critical, as sweating during gameplay can lead to fluid loss that affects muscle function and recovery. Allow your body time to rest, giving overworked muscles a chance to repair and rebuild. Persistent foot or ankle pain should never be ignored. If you are experiencing this, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist and address any foot or ankle injuries promptly.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Lakeside Foot and Ankle Center. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Leesburg and The Villages, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Sesamoiditis is an inflammation of the sesamoid bones which are small, round bones located beneath the big toe joint. These bones are essential for helping the big toe move properly during walking or running. Sesamoiditis typically results from repetitive pressure or overuse, particularly in athletes or individuals who engage in high-impact activities. Common symptoms include pain and swelling beneath the big toe that worsens with activities like running and jumping. There may also be tenderness when the area is touched and movement of the toe may become painful. Diagnosis is usually made through a physical examination and imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans to rule out other conditions. Relief typically involves rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and orthotics to relieve pressure on the affected area. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat sesamoiditis. 

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact one of our podiatrists of Lakeside Foot and Ankle Center. Our practitioners will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Leesburg and The Villages, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Seed corns, medically known as heloma miliare, are small, well-defined areas of thickened skin that typically form on the soles of the feet. These hard, circular spots are often caused by friction, pressure, or dry skin, and they may appear in clusters. Seed corns are distinct from calluses and plantar warts. Calluses are larger and irregularly shaped, while plantar warts disrupt the skin's natural lines and may include tiny dark dots. Though seed corns are typically painless, they can cause some discomfort, especially in weight-bearing areas of the foot. A podiatrist can diagnose seed corns through a foot examination and distinguish them from other conditions. Treatment includes safely trimming the thickened skin to reduce discomfort, as well as addressing underlying factors like wearing ill-fitting shoes or excessive pressure. Podiatrists also provide guidance on preventive measures, such as selecting proper footwear and using orthotic devices to minimize friction. If you have a problematic corn on your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for guidance.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Lakeside Foot and Ankle Center. Our practitioners will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

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

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our practitioners 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 Leesburg and The Villages, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Bone spurs on the feet are bony growths that form along joints, commonly in the heel. Repetitive pressure causes the body to produce extra bone tissue, forming spurs as a protective response. Symptoms may include sharp or aching pain, swelling, or tenderness, especially when walking or standing for long periods. People at higher risk include those with flat feet, high arches, or jobs that require prolonged standing. A podiatrist diagnoses bone spurs through a physical examination and imaging, such as X-rays. Treatment often involves anti-inflammatory medications, orthotic inserts, stretching exercises, or, in severe cases, surgery to remove the spurs. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can diagnose the cause, help you manage symptoms, and prevent further discomfort.

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 one of our podiatrists from Lakeside Foot and Ankle Center. Our practitioners 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 Leesburg and The Villages, FL . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.