Items filtered by date: October 2023

Soccer is a physically demanding sport where foot and ankle injuries are prevalent. Three common injuries in soccer are plantar fasciitis, ankle sprains, and Achilles tendonitis. Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a tissue connecting the heel to the ball of the foot. It causes pain on the heel and along the arch of the foot and may result from playing on hard surfaces or due to anatomical factors like flat feet or weak muscles. Ankle sprains occur when the ankle ligaments are overstretched or torn. Symptoms can include pain, bruising, and swelling. These sprains are often caused by awkward landings or playing on uneven surfaces. Achilles tendonitis involves inflammation or rupture of the Achilles tendon, causing mild aches or stiffness in the leg. It can be triggered by a sudden change in exercise intensity or from wearing inappropriate footwear. If you or your child has an injured foot or ankle from playing soccer, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis, and treatment, in addition to learning about preventative measures that can be taken to make you more resilient against such injuries.

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 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.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

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 offices located in Leesburg and The Villages, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The key to comfortable footwear lies in getting the right fit. Ill-fitting shoes or boots can lead to a host of issues, including blisters, calluses, and chronic foot problems. To ensure your footwear provides the perfect fit, begin by measuring your feet regularly, as their size can change over time. Always try on both shoes and shop in the afternoon when your feet are slightly larger due to daily activities. Consider the type of socks you will be wearing with your shoes, as this can affect the fit. Pay attention to how the shoes or boots feel, ensuring there is enough space in the toe box, and that your heels do not slip. Walk around in them to test comfort and stability. Lastly, remember that sizes can vary between brands and styles, so rely more on the fit and feel than the size on the label. If you would like additional tips on how to buy shoes that fit properly, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you are seeking.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Lakeside Foot and Ankle Center. Our practitioners will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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.

Big toe arthritis, also known as hallux rigidus, is a condition that can cause significant discomfort and limitation in mobility. In the initial stage of big toe arthritis, patients may experience mild pain when bending the great toe joint. This discomfort might start as a dull ache, but pain may gradually intensify as the joint warms up. Some individuals may notice slight warmth and swelling after physical activity. As the condition progresses, the range of motion in the affected joint decreases due to cartilage loss. In advanced stages, the joint may become nearly immobile. Bone spurs and calcifications around the joint cause it to appear bulkier, leading to discomfort when wearing shoes. Some patients may experience a burning sensation, numbness, or tingling in the toe due to pressure on skin nerves between bone spurs and shoe wear. Definitive diagnosis of big toe arthritis requires standing X-rays of the feet. While X-rays don't directly show cartilage, they reveal narrowing or loss of joint space, bone spurs, and bone erosions, all indicative of arthritis. If you're experiencing persistent toe pain or suspect big toe arthritis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. 

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

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

Athlete's foot, a common fungal infection, can typically be recognized by a variety of telltale symptoms. It often starts with intense itching and burning sensations between the toes or on the soles of the feet. As the infection progresses, the affected skin may become red, cracked, and blistered. In severe cases, it can cause the infected skin to peel or become excessively dry. Recognizing these symptoms is important for timely intervention. Treatment generally involves antifungal creams, powders, or sprays that target the fungus responsible for the infection. Maintaining good foot hygiene, keeping the feet dry, and avoiding walking barefoot in communal areas can aid in both treatment and prevention. Understanding and addressing athlete's foot promptly can bring relief and restore foot health. If you have developed a stubborn case athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can prescribe advanced medication and offer permanent treatment solutions.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Lakeside Foot and Ankle Center.  Our practitioners will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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.

Peroneal pain is a common challenge arising from injuries or strain to the lower leg and foot peroneal muscles, often disrupting mobility and well-being. Multiwave Locked System, abbreviated MLS therapy is a groundbreaking technique that offers relief from this discomfort. MLS therapy addresses peroneal pain thoroughly by utilizing synchronized wavelengths of laser light. The continuous wavelength triggers the release of natural pain relievers, swiftly alleviating discomfort, while the pulsed wavelength encourages cellular repair and diminishes inflammation. This dual-pronged approach not only provides relief but also accelerates healing, enabling individuals to regain their stride sooner. The non-invasive nature of MLS therapy ensures minimal disruption to daily life, making it an attractive relief option for peroneal pain. If you have this type of pain, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can determine if this treatment is right for you.

MLS Laser Therapy is a successful alternative for treating any pain you may be experiencing related to certain podiatric conditions.  If you are interested in MLS Laser Therapy, 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.

MLS Laser Therapy

Multiwave Locked System (MLS) Laser Therapy is a patented, FDA-cleared technology that helps relieve pain and inflammation from a number of podiatric conditions, including:

• Heel Pain
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Sports Injuries
• Wounds
• Achilles Tendonitis
• Arthritis
• Neuropathy
• Neuromas

MLS Laser Therapy is an ideal alternative to surgery and prescription medication, as it has no negative side effects and encourages accelerated healing. Among its many clinical benefits, MLS Laser Therapy also:

• Reduces swelling due to bruising or inflammation
• Blocks pain
• Reduces formation of scar tissue
• Improves nerve function

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.