Items filtered by date: March 2024

Flat feet, or pes planus, is a condition where the arches of the feet collapse, resulting in the entire sole of the foot being in contact with the ground. This can lead to various issues such as foot pain, arch strain, heel pain, and even knee, hip, and lower back problems due to altered biomechanics. Custom-made orthotics are often prescribed as a solution for flat feet. These orthotic devices are tailored to the individual's foot structure and biomechanics, providing support and alignment to address the underlying causes of flat feet. There are different types of orthotics available, including rigid orthotics that offer maximum support and control, semi-rigid orthotics that provide a balance between support and flexibility, and soft orthotics that offer cushioning and shock absorption. By correcting foot alignment and redistributing pressure, custom orthotics can alleviate symptoms associated with flat feet, improve foot function, and prevent or minimize the risk of further complications. If you have flat feet and they are interfering with your quality of life, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to see if orthotics can help provide correction and relief.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, 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.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please 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.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a compressive neuropathy condition that results from the entrapment of the posterior tibial nerve as it passes through the tarsal tunnel, a narrow passageway located on the inner side of the ankle. This entrapment leads to many symptoms, most notably pain, tingling, and burning in the foot and heel, which sometimes extends into the toes and lower leg. Many things can cause tarsal tunnel syndrome, such as injuries to the ankle, swelling from other health problems like diabetes, or just by repeating the same movements that irritate the area. Treatment strategies are tailored to the severity and underlying cause of the syndrome. Conservative measures include anti-inflammatory medications and orthotic devices to alleviate pressure on the nerve. More invasive options include surgical decompression to relieve the nerve entrapment. Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be hard to diagnose because its symptoms overlap with other nerve-related conditions. Podiatrists, or foot doctors, can do comprehensive evaluations to properly diagnose tarsal tunnel syndrome. If you have foot pain, or suspect tarsal tunnel syndrome, it is suggested that you seek treatment from a podiatrist who can properly diagnose this condition and offer a personalized treatment plan. 

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, 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.

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

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the 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 offices located in Leesburg and The Villages, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Healing wounds properly involves cells moving and tissue rebuilding in a coordinated way. But in some wounds, like those in diabetes, this process does not work well due to various issues like poor blood flow, infections, and ongoing damage. There's hope for treating such wounds better. By understanding and fixing these issues, following proper care, and using new medical technology, there can be improvement for people with stubborn wounds. If you are diabetic and have chronic foot wounds, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss any new medical technology that might be applied to your case and provide you with relief.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, 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.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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.

Foot related issues are frequently encountered in older adults. Because of this, foot care is important for enhancing the overall health and well-being of this population. Various foot problems commonly seen in older individuals include bunions, corns, calluses, and issues related to toenails. These types of foot conditions can negatively impact mobility, independence, and quality of life in elderly people. Regular foot care routines in older adults include keeping the feet clean and dry, wearing properly fitting shoes, and examining the feet regularly. If you are an older adult, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist on your healthcare team. Finding and addressing foot problems early is valuable to prevent more serious issues, in addition to enhancing overall quality of life.

If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists of Lakeside Foot and Ankle Center. Our practitioners will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

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.