Stephan J. LaPointe, DPM, PhD, FACFAS
An ingrown toenail is a common foot condition. It occurs as a result of the skin growing into the sides of the nail instead of over it. The symptoms that are generally associated with this ailment often include extreme tenderness, swelling, and is often painful. The big toe is typically affected by an ingrown toenail, although it can affect the other toes. In severe cases, the affected toe may produce a discharge, and can become infected. Ingrown toenails can happen for a variety of reasons. These can include wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, incurring a toe injury, or possibly from genetic reasons. Additionally, it may come from trimming the toenails incorrectly. Relief can come from soaking the toe in warm water, followed by gently pulling the skin away from the nail. If the ingrown toenail is severe, surgery may have to be performed that can remove part of the nail, or the entire nail. It is important to wear shoes that are comfortable, and fit correctly, and it is beneficial to refrain from wearing tight socks. If you are afflicted with an ingrown toenail, please consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can recommend the right treatment for you.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe of Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.
Causes
Prevention
Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
Foot pain in cycling is rarely discussed but it is more common than might be imagined. A main cause of foot pain is ill-fitting footwear. Shoes that are too tight or do not have enough room in the toe box will cause pain. Socks that are too thick and take up too much space in the shoe, as well as bulkier orthotics built for walking or standing, can cramp toes, restricting blood flow and nerve conduction in the feet. Another common cause of foot pain in cycling is when cleats are too far forward. They can put more pressure on the forefoot, causing the foot muscles to do more work to stabilize the foot. This forward position can also allow the toes to lean down, which can cause the foot to slide down in the shoe and jam up against the front of the shoe. With the toes pointing down, the quadriceps will also be activated more than the glutes and hip extensors. This can upset the balance of these muscle groups and the weight distribution between the hips and feet. Moving the cleat further back can allow these muscles to relax. If you are a cyclist experiencing foot pain, try different shoes and move the cleat back to relieve discomfort. If these simple fixes do not work, consult with a podiatrist who is in the best position to diagnose any foot problems and treat them.
Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe from Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Common Injuries
The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.
Treatment
Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Broken toes can be painful. There are 28 bones in the foot and 19 of them are toe bones. A toe fracture is a break in a toe bone. Toe fractures can either be traumatic or stress fractures. Traumatic toe fractures, also called acute fractures, are caused by a direct blow or impact, like badly stubbing a toe. These can be displaced, where the toe is broken in such a way that it changes position, or nondisplaced. When one has a traumatic toe fracture, there may be a sound when it breaks, the pain is typically at the site of impact, there may be a crooked or abnormal appearance to the toe, and it generally swells and bruises the next day. A stress fracture is a tiny, hairline break usually caused by repetitive stress to the toe. Athletes are often victims of toe stress fractures. They can be caused by an abnormal foot structure, osteoporosis, or improper footwear. These fractures cause pain with or after normal activity, pain at the site of the break when touched, and swelling but no bruising. Both types of toe fractures should be seen by a podiatrist who will provide a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe from Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is a Broken Toe?
A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Patients who have arthritis in their big toe may find relief by having toe surgery performed. A big toe fusion can help relieve stiffness, swelling, and inflammation that often accompanies arthritis. Some of the benefits that are associated with this type of surgery include a general feeling of well-being, permanent reduction in big toe pain, and stability due to the use of screws, wires, pins, and metals. Additionally, wearing shoes will gradually become a comfortable experience. Some patients refrain from having this type of surgery performed. This may be because of the inability to push off with the big toe while taking a step and the nerves can be affected which may cause numbness. A condition that is referred to as a malunion occurs when the toe heals in the wrong position. Despite the cons of having this type of joint replacement surgery performed, many patients are satisfied with the result. If you have arthritis in your big toe, please confer with a podiatrist who can determine if this surgery is right for you.
In certain cases, in which the patient suffers from extreme pain or damage in a joint, joint replacement surgery may be deemed useful. If you have constant pain in a foot joint, consult with Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe from Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Joint Replacement Surgery?
Over time, joints wear down; this can be exacerbated by diseases and conditions. Joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is when a damaged joint is surgically removed and replaced with a prosthesis. Prostheses, which can be made of ceramic, plastic, or metal, act as joints in lieu of an actual joint. One of the most prevalent causes for joint replacement is arthritis.
Arthritis in the Foot
Arthritis can occur in any joint in the body, including in the feet. Common types of arthritis in the foot are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. The big toe is usually where arthritis occurs in the foot; this is known as hallux rigidus.
Joint Replacement Surgery in the Foot
The most common form of joint replacement in the foot is a first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint placement. MTP joint replacement surgery is designed to treat hallux rigidus. Surgery is not intensive, and recovery occurs within one to two months after the procedure has been done. Overall, joint replacement surgery is a safe and effective way to treat pain in the joint of the foot.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
The tarsal tunnel encases the tibial nerve, which is found in the ankle. It is surrounded by soft bone and tissue and can become damaged from consistent pressure. This condition is known as tarsal tunnel syndrome. It can be caused by existing medical conditions like flat feet, arthritis, diabetes, or from an ankle sprain. Patients can experience specific symptoms that include a burning sensation, shooting pain, or tingling. Diagnosis is made by performing Tinel’s test. This is accomplished by exerting pressure on the tibial nerve and observing if it produces pain. Relief may be found when the affected foot is elevated, and this may help to rest the foot and reduce swelling. In severe cases, surgery called the tarsal tunnel release may be a necessary option. This can be an effective method in relieving the nerve. If you have endured an ankle injury, and are experiencing pain, please consult with a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat tarsal tunnel syndrome.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe of Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.
Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
Many elderly people endure foot pain, which may impact mobility and completing daily activities. Research has shown there may be increased soft tissue stiffness in the foot, in addition to having a limited range of motion as one ages. With advanced age, the foot can lose overall strength and may become protonated as a result of reduced joint mobility. The risk of falling may increase, foot pain may develop, and it may be difficult to complete weight bearing activities. Approximately one in five people lose the ability to leave their house because of devastating foot pain. The skin may change thickness, and can add friction to the feet while walking. Recent reviews have confirmed the overall loss of elastin, which can result in thicker and dryer skin on the skin. In summation, the skin condition and foot structure may change in elderly feet, and may cause foot conditions that did not exist in their youth. If you would like more information about how the feet change as the aging process occurs, please consult with a podiatrist.
If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe from Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor 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
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 office located in Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
There are many facets to buying the correct running shoe, and the most important one is how comfortable the fit is. One of the first things to understand is the term pronation, and what it means. It is defined as how the foot rolls from heel to toe as running occurs. Overpronation happens when the inside of the foot rolls too much to the inside, and this can happen if there is little or no arch. When the foot rolls excessively to the outside, this is referred to as underpronation, and can occur with a particularly high arch. It is beneficial to determine what type of arch you have before purchasing a pair of running shoes. This can be done by wetting your feet, and placing them on a paper bag. You will easily see which type of arch you have by performing this test. There are several types of running shoes, including motion control shoes, stability shoes, and neutral cushioning shoes. It is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine what the best type of running shoe is for you.
If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe from Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type
To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
A number of conditions can cause your feet to itch. The first and probably most common cause is athlete’s foot, a fungal infection that is annoying but treatable. Symptoms of athlete’s foot include itching, redness, flaking skin between the toes or on the bottom of the feet. Another cause of itching feet is eczema, a type of skin condition that may resemble athlete’s foot but is not caused by a fungus. Instead it is thought to be caused by dry skin that is more vulnerable to irritation and allergens. Sometimes itchy and scaly skin can be caused by contact dermatitis, generally from an allergen or other irritant. Itchy feet may also be the result of psoriasis, an autoimmune disease that causes skin cells to regenerate too quickly. Hives, also known as urticaria, may cause itching, along with welts, burning or stinging. Food, medication, or a viral infection may set it off. Neuropathy, numbness caused by damaged nerves, also may result in itchiness as the body produces cytokines that can irritate the skin. If itchy feet become a serious or an ongoing problem, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an examination and diagnosis.
Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe from Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Everyday Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.
It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
