What is a Sports Podiatrist?
A sports podiatrist is a healthcare specialist focused on treating and preventing foot and lower limb issues in athletes and other active individuals. They have a deep understanding of how the feet and legs function during physical activities and the specific stresses different sports place on these body parts. The role of a sports podiatrist is vital in enhancing athletic performance and preventing injuries. Sports podiatrists conduct thorough assessments, including gait analysis and biomechanical evaluations, to understand an athlete's foot structure and movement patterns. They offer expert advice on appropriate footwear and can design custom orthotic devices to correct biomechanical imbalances, enhance performance, or prevent injuries. They also treat a range of sports-related foot and ankle problems, ranging from overuse injuries to acute traumas. While all podiatrists can treat sports injuries to some degree, a sports podiatrist offers a more focused expertise in managing and preventing injuries specifically in athletes and those engaged in regular physical activities. If you are an athlete and are experiencing foot or ankle problems, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who has experience with sports injuries for an evaluation.
If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to 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.
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 office located in Golden Valley, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
What is a Podiatrist?
A podiatrist is a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine who treats the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. If you are having any pain, injuries, or abnormalities in these areas, it is best that you seek help from a podiatrist.
Podiatrists complete four years of training in a podiatric medical school. Their training is like that of other physicians, and they may go on to complete a fellowship training after a residency training. Some podiatrists are board certified meaning they have advanced training, clinical experience, and have taken an exam to prove their skills. Certifying boards for podiatry are the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery and the American Board of Podiatric Medicine. Podiatrists may work in private practices, hospitals, clinics, or they may even become professors at colleges of podiatric medicine.
While in college, those who want to be podiatrists often take biology, chemistry, and physics classes in preparation for podiatry school. In podiatry school, students study how the bones, nerves, and muscles work together to help you move around. Additionally, they study injuries and how to properly diagnose and treat them. Admittance into podiatric medical school requires the completion of 90 semester hours of undergraduate study with a good grade point average, and acceptable scores on the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test)
Podiatrists treat many different conditions such as: aching feet, ankle pain, bunions, corns, hammertoes, fungus, ingrown toenails, plantar fasciitis, sprains and more. Common forms of treatment for these conditions are physical therapy, drugs, or surgery. Podiatrists may also recommend corrective shoe inserts, custom-made shoes, plaster casts, and strappings to correct deformities.
Even if you are someone whose feet are in generally good condition, you should still visit a podiatrist to have your feet properly exfoliated and maintained, or to make sure you are looking after your feet properly.
Cold Feet May Indicate Raynaud’s Phenomenon
Persistent cold feet can be more than just a response to chilly weather. It could be a sign of Raynaud's phenomenon, a condition that affects blood circulation to the feet and toes. When exposed to cold temperatures or heightened stress, this phenomenon can lead to a change in toe color, often turning them white or even blue as blood vessels react to reduced blood flow. Other symptoms can include pain, numbness, and a sensation of pins and needles. Even the skin may appear paler, irrespective of your natural skin tone. The exact cause of Raynaud's remains elusive, but it is associated with disruptions in blood circulation. Certain blood disorders, possibly involving excess platelets or red blood cells, may contribute to the condition. Additionally, heightened sensitivity of special receptors in the blood, regulating vessel narrowing, could play a role. While Raynaud's is typically not severe, ongoing symptoms warrant attention, as they may hint at an underlying issue. Managing Raynaud's symptoms focuses on keeping the toes warm, particularly in cold environments. Wearing warm socks can be effective in preventing and alleviating symptoms. If you suspect Raynaud's is affecting your toes, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnosis this condition, and offer appropriate treatment options.
Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Thomas E. Silver of Westwood Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Rare Foot Conditions
The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist. Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care.
There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:
- Freiberg’s disease
- Kohler’s disease
- Maffucci syndrome
Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp.
Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.
Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking.
A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Golden Valley, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Rare Foot Conditions
A podiatrist will be able to address a variety of rare foot conditions, particularly the ones that affect children. The most common are Kohler’s disease, Maffucci syndrome, and Freiberg’s disease. They can be properly diagnosed by having an X-ray taken, but in more serious cases an MRI may be needed. Kohler’s disease generally affects younger boys and bone deterioration may result from an interruption of blood supply. Children who have Kohler’s disease may find relief when the affected foot is rested, and a special boot is worn. Benign growths in the long bones of a child’s foot may lead to the development of bone lesions, and this is known as Maffucci syndrome. People who have this condition find mild relief when custom-made orthotics are worn. Freiberg’s disease targets the ball of the foot and can typically affect pre-teen and teenage girls. The metatarsal bone becomes deteriorated and flattened, and common symptoms include swelling and stiffness. A cast is often necessary to wear with this disease as it can help to reduce existing pain. Erythromelalgia is a rare foot condition, and its cause is unknown. Symptoms of this disease can include intense burning pain and the feet may appear red or feel warm. Relief may be found when the affected foot is immersed in ice water. It can also be beneficial to elevate the foot frequently. If your child complains of foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat rare foot conditions.
Causes and Symptoms of Gout
Gout, a form of inflammatory arthritis, arises from an excess of uric acid in the bloodstream, resulting in the formation of urate crystals within the body's tissues. These crystals, mainly concentrated in joints, trigger inflammation and lead to pain, redness, heat, and swelling. Gout symptoms occur suddenly and primarily affect a single joint, such as the big toe. The pain is intense, with heightened sensitivity to touch. Many factors can contribute to heightened uric acid levels, including genetics, obesity, and specific medications like diuretics. High blood pressure, surgery, trauma, dehydration, and kidney disease may also elevate the risk of developing gout. Surprisingly, even medications aimed at lowering uric acid levels may initiate gout flares. Tophi, hard nodules of uric acid beneath the skin, signify prolonged elevated uric acid levels. The presence of tophi demands immediate attention from a podiatrist. Left untreated, gout can result in joint damage, physical deformities, and kidney stones. If you suspect gout, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an examination and a personalized treatment plan.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Thomas E. Silver from Westwood Foot Clinic. 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 office located in Golden Valley, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Gout
Gout is a form of arthritis that is caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. This considered to be one of the most frequently recorded medical illnesses throughout history. Gout occurrences in the US have risen within the past twenty years and the condition now affects 8.3 million people which is 4% of all Americans. Researchers have found that gout affects men more than women and African-American men more than white men.
Symptoms of gout are warmth, swelling, discoloration, and tenderness in the affected joint area. The small joint on the big toe is the most common place for a gout attack to occur.
People who are obese, gain weight excessively, drink alcohol heavily, have high blood pressure, or have abnormal kidney function are more likely to develop gout. Furthermore, certain drugs and diseases are likely to increase levels of uric acid in the joints which eventually leads to gout. You are also more likely to develop gout if you eat a lot of meat and fish.
Many who experience gout attacks will experience repeated attacks over the years. Some people who have gout symptoms, may never have them again, but others may experience them several times a year. If you have gout symptoms throughout the year, you may have recurrent gout. Those who have gout should also be careful about their urate crystals collecting in their urinary tract, because this may lead to kidney stones.
Diagnosis for gout is done by checking the level of uric acid in the joints and blood. Your podiatrist may also prescribe medicine to reduce uric acid buildup in the blood, which will help prevent any gout attacks.
To treat gout, your podiatrist may also prescribe you Anti-inflammatory medication (NSAIDs) which will relieve the pain and swelling of a gout episode and it can also shorten a gout attack. Maintaining a healthy diet is also a proven method to prevent gout attacks.
Difference Between Sprains and Strains
When it comes to foot and ankle injuries, understanding the distinction between a sprain and a strain is important for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Both share similarities in symptoms, but they affect different parts of the body. A sprain involves the ligaments, which are tough bands connecting bones to joints. This type of injury occurs when a joint is forcefully pushed beyond its normal range of motion. It often leads to pain, swelling, and bruising. However, a strain pertains to an overstretching or tearing of muscles or tendons. The muscles, responsible for movement, can be strained through overuse or abrupt exertion. In the realm of podiatry, ligaments around the ankle are more often affected by sprains. When injured, these ligaments cause inflammation, swelling, and bruising, making joint movement painful. Identifying whether an injury is a sprain or a strain is essential for tailored treatment plans. While both injuries cause pain and discomfort, distinguishing between the two ensures proper care. If you suspect a foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a thorough examination, diagnosis, and personalized treatment plan.
Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with Dr. Thomas E. Silver from Westwood Foot Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:
- Broken bones
- Muscle strains
- Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
- Stress fractures
Symptoms
Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:
- Bruising
- Inflammation/ Swelling
- Pain
Diagnosis
To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.
Treatment
Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.
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.
Foot and Ankle Fractures
When the foot or ankle experiences trauma, a fracture may occur. Causes of foot and ankle fractures can vary; in some cases, an obvious impact to the foot or a fall can be behind a fracture. Alternatively, fractures can also occur because of increased stress on the bone over time. The location of the fracture can often give your podiatrist information on how the fracture occurred.
Pain, especially when bearing weight, is a telltale sign of a fracture. Limping due to this pain is a further sign of a foot or ankle fracture. Other symptoms include inflammation, bruising, deformity, and tenderness. A deformity may occur due to a shift in bone alignment or a joint dislocation near the fracture. While pain is a significant symptom of breakage, a patient who has nerve damage or who has diabetes may not feel this pain. In this instance, your podiatrist will look for additional signs to determine whether a fracture has occurred.
If you are experiencing severe pain, cannot walk without limping, have an open wound near the suspected break, or have numbness or tingling in the toes, you should see your podiatrist.
Arthritis Can Cause Pain in the Feet and Ankles
If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.
Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel and arch pain, arises from repeated micro-tears in the plantar fascia fibers, primarily at the point where the fascia connects to the heel bone. Stretching exercises are a vital treatment for plantar fasciitis. These exercises should focus on both the calf and the plantar fascia to yield maximum effectiveness, as tight calf muscles are a frequent cause of plantar fasciitis. Strengthening exercises that target intrinsic foot muscles and the calf muscles offer significant relief by stabilizing and supporting the foot and heel. Shoe inserts, such as gel heel pads or orthotics, are another simple, yet effective treatment. These aids vary from basic heel pads or cups that offer cushioning for the heel to custom-made orthotics prescribed by a podiatrist that correct abnormal foot positions, such as fallen arches. They reduce tension on the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia, providing much-needed comfort. Choosing the right footwear is an important way to manage plantar fasciitis. Opt for shoes that provide excellent cushioning and support, especially for the medial arch of the foot. Wearing shoes throughout the day, rather than walking barefoot, ensures continuous support and cushioning for the feet. If you are experiencing symptoms of plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can safely guide your treatment and recovery.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Excessive running
- Non-supportive shoes
- Overpronation
- Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
How Can It Be Treated?
- Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
- Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
- Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
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.
