Items filtered by date: May 2021

Corns are hard bumps of skin that form on the feet in response to pressure. There are two types of corns - hard and soft. Hard corns typically form on the tops of the toes or on the sides of the pinky toes, where soft corns generally form between the toes. One of the most common causes of corns is wearing shoes that do not fit properly, as well as uneven pressure distributed between the feet. Pressure and friction from shoes rubbing against the skin irritates it, creating hardened layers of rough, tough, lumpy, and sometimes discolored skin. People who have foot deformities like hammertoes or bunions may be more prone to developing corns. If you have corns on your feet that are causing you pain or discomfort, please see a podiatrist for treatment.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Thomas E. Silver of Westwood Foot Clinic. Our doctor 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 doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Golden Valley, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments that connect the bones become overstretched or torn. Sprains are one of the most common injuries in sports, and they usually occur when the ankle twists or rolls. Athletes who play sports with a variety of quick changes and directions, such as soccer, football, and basketball, are at a higher risk for developing sprained ankles. Athletes who have previously sprained their ankle are also at a higher risk of re-spraining their ankle as well. Ankle sprains are usually indicated by a “snap” or “crack” at the moment of injury, and bruising and swelling can be present as well. If the sprain is severe, walking and putting weight on the ankle will be difficult.  Because an ankle sprain and a fracture can appear similar, patients who believe they have sprained their ankle should consult with a podiatrist to check the extent of their injury. A podiatrist will be able to prescribe medications to reduce the pain as well as provide treatment options in order to allow the ankle to heal. 

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Thomas E. Silver from Westwood Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Golden Valley, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

Injuries that happen as a result of falling is a common occurrence. They can be severe, and can cause broken bones in the feet, which can inhibit completing daily activities. There are methods that can be implemented which can help to prevent unnecessary falls. These can include performing simple stretches that can strengthen the body, and improving lighting in the living environment. Additionally, it is beneficial to have regular physical examinations, as this is helpful in monitoring existing medications. Many patients have installed grab bars in the shower and toilet areas, and using a bathmat can lessen the fear of falling while showering. If you would like more information about how falling can impact the feet, and effective preventive techniques, please consult with a podiatrist.

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 Dr. Thomas E. Silver from Westwood Foot Clinic. Our doctor 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 office located in Golden Valley, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

While high heels are commonly worn by many women, they can have long term effects on the feet. High heel wearers can walk with shorter and more forceful strides, and their toes are usually in a flexed position. This can put more strain on the muscles since the calf muscles have shortened. Additionally, once a regular high heel wearer goes back to more comfortable shoes like sneakers or flip flops, they are at a greater risk of developing an injury because they are putting their injured feet into a new environment. Ultimately, wearing high heels on a daily basis can lead to issues such as hammertoes, bunions, sprained ankles, fractures and ligament tears. If you are suffering from injuries due to wearing high heels, or you would like tips on how to prevent injuries while wearing high heels, consulting with a podiatrist is recommended. A podiatrist will be able to treat your foot and ankle problems and offer advice on how to prevent future injuries.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Thomas E. Silver from Westwood Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Golden Valley, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.