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December 2019

Monday, 30 December 2019 00:00

What Causes Cracked Heels?

The uncomfortable condition that is known as cracked heels comes from excessively dry skin. It typically affects the outer edges of the heel, and can cause deep cracks to form. These cracks in the skin are known as fissures, and may cause severe pain and discomfort. There are common reasons why this condition may occur. These can include standing for an extended period of time throughout the day, as well as wearing shoes that have an open back. Additionally, existing medical conditions such as eczema or psoriasis may lead to the development of cracked heels. Treatment can begin with washing and drying the feet thoroughly, followed by using a good moisturizer several times per day. It may help to wear shoes that have significant cushioning in the heel area. If you are afflicted with cracked heels, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can help you to find relief.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Grobowski Foot & Ankle. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bellevue, Seattle, and Issaquah, WA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Solutions for Cracked Heels
Saturday, 28 December 2019 00:00

Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

Monday, 23 December 2019 00:00

Where Does a Plantar Wart Develop?

A plantar wart develops on the bottom of the foot, and is generally in the heel area. It grows into the heel as a result of pressure that is put on the foot as everyday activities are completed. The medical term for this type of wart is known as a verrucae wart, and it is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). This type of virus attacks the bottom of the feet, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. A common symptom of a plantar wart can include pain and tenderness while walking, and it may be more noticeable in the morning upon arising. There are a variety of ways to treat this type of wart. These can range from laser therapy, applying salicylic acid cream to the affected area, or possibly using essential oils. If you are afflicted with a plantar wart, it is strongly advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can guide you toward the proper treatment.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Grobowski Foot & Ankle. our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

  • Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
  • Hard or thick callused spots
  • Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
  • Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

  • Freezing
  • Electric tool removal
  • Laser Treatment
  • Topical Creams (prescription only)
  • Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bellevue, Seattle, and Issaquah, WA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about What Are Plantar Warts?

Many types of ankle pain can be caused by an injury, or from various medical conditions that can include arthritis. Research has indicated that ankle sprains are the most common causes of ankle pain. When your foot rolls to one side, the ligaments may become torn or stretched beyond their normal limits. This is known as a lateral sprain, and may take up to two weeks to properly heal. Patients have found that elevating the affected foot may reduce a portion of any existing swelling. Additionally, it is beneficial to wrap the ankle in an elastic bandage, which may provide the necessary support as the healing process takes place. After it is healed, practicing specific stretches can help to strengthen the overall foot. If you have ankle pain for any reason, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnosis and treat this type of pain.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Grobowski Foot & Ankle. our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

  • Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
  • Ankle sprains
  • Broken ankles
  • Achilles tendinitis
  • Achilles tendon rupture
  • Stress fractures
  • Bursitis
  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome
  • Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bellevue, Seattle, and Issaquah, WA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

Read more about Ankle Pain

Many diabetic patients are aware of the necessity of checking their feet on a daily basis. This is helpful in noticing if there are any cuts or scrapes so treatment can begin as quickly as possible. Research has indicated that a large percentage of diabetic patients suffer from neuropathy, which is also known as nerve damage. This is a result of elevated glucose levels in the bloodstream, which can cause a loss of feeling in the feet. To keep your feet as healthy as possible, it is important to maintain normal glucose levels, wear shoes that fit correctly, and trim your toenails properly. If you have diabetes, it is strongly encouraged that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can remove existing corns and calluses in addition to guiding you toward managing your diabetes.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Grobowski Foot & Ankle. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

  • Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
  • Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
  • Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bellevue, Seattle, and Issaquah, WA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Diabetic Foot Conditions
Monday, 02 December 2019 00:00

Contagious Athlete’s Foot

The uncomfortable condition that is known as athlete’s foot is considered to be contagious. The fungus that causes this ailment lives and thrives in warm and moist environments that often include communal shower rooms, locker rooms, and surrounding areas. The symptoms are often noticed between the toes, and on the soles of the feet. They can consist of severe itching, oozing blisters, and burning or stinging sensations. Additionally, the skin may also appear red. Mild relief may be found when an antifungal powder or cream is applied to the affected area. Athlete's foot may be prevented by washing and drying your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes, and wearing appropriate shoes while in public areas. If you have this condition, it is advised that you speak to a podiatrist who can prescribe the medication that is needed for relief.

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 Grobowski Foot & Ankle.  our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Bellevue, Seattle, and Issaquah, WA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Athlete’s Foot
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