Items filtered by date: September 2023

Tendinopathy involves inflammation in and around tendons, often resulting from injury. Low-level laser therapy, which uses monochromatic, coherent, short-wavelength light, has been used since the 1960s to treat tendon injuries. Though investigations are ongoing, some researchers exploring the success of this type of therapy for tendinopathy found that low-level laser therapy consistently shows promise in treating tendinopathy. Patients report improvements in pain, range of motion, and motor function. Combining laser therapy with exercise programs also yielded positive results. If you suffer from tendon pain in your feet or ankles, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to see if this type of treatment can help 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 Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor 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 Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The feet, ankles, and toes are intricate structures that bear the brunt of your daily activities. Unfortunately, injuries in these areas are not uncommon and can be quite painful. Ankle sprains often occur due to missteps or awkward landings, causing ligaments to stretch or tear. Stress fractures in the feet, often seen in runners, result from repetitive impact on the bones. Additionally, Achilles tendonitis can afflict the back of the ankle, causing pain and inflammation. Toes are not exempt, as stubbing or jamming them can lead to fractures or dislocations. Relief may come from getting adequate rest, and using compression and elevation may help to reduce existing swelling. For more severe injuries, seeking medical attention is essential for proper healing and to prevent long-term issues. Wearing proper footwear, performing warm up exercises, and being mindful of your surroundings can also reduce the risk of these injuries, allowing you to keep moving comfortably. If you have injured your foot, toe or ankle, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat these types of foot conditions. 

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. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. 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 offices located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis, a common and often debilitating foot condition, can bring your daily life to a halt due to severe heel pain. Fortunately, various treatment options are available to help you regain your comfort and mobility. Conservative measures like rest and taking anti-inflammatory medications can help to alleviate discomfort. Wearing supportive footwear with proper arch support and cushioning can significantly reduce strain on the plantar fascia. Stretching exercises that target the calf muscles and Achilles tendon can also provide relief by loosening tight structures around the foot. Custom orthotics may be recommended to support the arch and distribute pressure evenly. In rare cases, when conservative treatments are not sufficient, medical interventions such as cortico-steroid injections or surgery may be considered. Plantar fasciitis can be challenging, but with the right approach and patience, you can overcome it and return to a pain-free, active lifestyle. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin  from Florida. 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 offices located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Bunions, or hallux valgus, is a foot deformity where the big toe tilts toward the second toe, causing a bony lump on the side of the foot. Symptoms include pain, swelling, callused skin, and changes in foot shape. Contrary to popular belief, fashion shoes such as high heels do not directly cause bunions. Bunions are primarily the result of a genetic predisposition and the mechanical structure of the foot. However, wearing shoes that squeeze the forefoot and crowd the toes can worsen an existing condition and lead to pain and joint deformity. Bunions can also develop due to factors such as age, arthritis, or sports activities. Preventing bunions involves choosing sensible, well fitting footwear with ample toe room. Avoiding pointed shoes and excessive heels can be helpful. Proper footwear, non surgical treatments and wearing orthotics are initial choices. Surgery is typically the last option for bunions causing significant pain. This involves removing the bony lump and realigning the big toe, ultimately improving foot function and comfort. If you have a bunion that is causing discomfort, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to have it evaluated and obtain appropriate treatment.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.