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Tuesday, 09 January 2024 00:00
Melorheostosis, a Rare Bone Disorder
Melorheostosis is a rare, progressive disorder characterized by abnormal bone growth affecting both bone and soft tissues. It leads to functional limitations, chronic pain, joint contractures, and limb deformities. Symptoms can include irregular bone growth, unequal limb length, and soft tissue abnormalities. Additionally, joint issues, pain, stiffness, limb swelling, and vascular problems may accompany this rare foot condition. Generally, it affects one part of the arms and legs, such as the feet, and sometimes it can also affect the spine and skull. In children, it can cause differences in the length of their limbs or problems with their joints. In adults, it can lead to pain, stiffness, and body changes. Diagnosis is based on X-ray imaging, which reveals thickened bone resembling dripping candle wax. Treatment focuses on symptom management and may involve surgery and medications for pain relief. If you or your child have a rare foot or ankle disorder, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Rare Foot Conditions
The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist. Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care.
There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:
- Freiberg’s disease
- Kohler’s disease
- Maffucci syndrome
Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp.
Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.
Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking.
A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 08 January 2024 00:00
Heel Pain Can Be Treated!
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.
Tuesday, 02 January 2024 00:00
Foot Conditions Caused by Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a transformative journey, both physically and emotionally. While many anticipate changes in their bodies, some may not be aware of the potential foot conditions that can arise during this time. One common issue is edema, or swelling of the feet and ankles, which results from increased blood volume and the pressure on leg veins. This can cause discomfort, but it is often temporary. Another condition linked to pregnancy is flat feet. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect the ligaments in the feet, leading to a decrease in arch height. This can contribute to foot pain and discomfort. Additionally, weight gain can place added stress on the feet, often causing pain and fatigue. The expanding uterus may also shift the center of gravity, altering the gait and potentially causing problems like plantar fasciitis. Pregnancy can bring about various foot challenges, but with proper care, many of these issues can be managed or prevented. If you have developed any type of foot conditions during your pregnancy, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can monitor any foot pain or discomfort you may be experiencing.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.
How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?
- Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
- Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
- Wear shoes with good arch support
- Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
- Elevate feet if you experience swelling
- Massage your feet
- Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet
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.
Tuesday, 26 December 2023 00:00
Managing a Broken Foot
Managing a broken foot requires immediate attention and a structured treatment plan to ensure proper healing. Immobilization of the foot is often necessary to prevent further injury, and this may involve using splints, casts, or walking boots. The type of fracture dictates the specific immobilization method. Pain relief is an important aspect of management. In some cases, particularly for more complex fractures, surgery may be necessary to realign and stabilize the bones. Following immobilization, the patient usually needs to limit weight bearing on the injured foot, sometimes with the aid of crutches or a scooter. A podiatrist will establish a timeline for the gradual reintroduction of weight-bearing activities. If you have broken your foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible, and follow their instructions to prevent re-injury in addition to proper bone healing.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury.
Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:
- Bruising
- Pain
- Redness
- Swelling
- Blue in color
- Numbness
- Cold
- Misshapen
- Cuts
- Deformities
Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.
Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.
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.
Tuesday, 19 December 2023 00:00
Risk Factors of Sever’s Disease
Sever's disease, is a common cause of heel pain in growing children and adolescents, and particularly affects those between eight and 14 years old. It arises from inflammation of the growth plate in the heel, often linked to periods of rapid growth when the heel bone grows faster than the surrounding muscles and tendons, causing tension and stress. The primary risk factors include active participation in sports, especially those involving running and jumping, which increase stress on the heel. Overuse and repetitive strain from athletic activities can exacerbate the condition. Additionally, children with flat feet or high arches, those who are overweight or obese, and children who have a tight Achilles tendon are more susceptible to developing Sever's disease. Wearing shoes with poor cushioning or support can also contribute to the risk of developing Sever’s disease. If your child is complaining of heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a thorough evaluation and treatment.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.
Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.
Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.
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 injuries.
Tuesday, 12 December 2023 00:00
Recurrence of Toenail Fungus
Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the toenails. Successful treatment remains challenging, and the condition can have a significant impact on individuals. Effective management often requires months of treatment, and recurrence is common, affecting over half of successfully treated patients. Various factors contribute to the high recurrence rates. Patients with a genetic predisposition or belonging to susceptible populations, such as the elderly or diabetic people, are more likely to experience recurrence. Physical trauma can trigger recurrence in older people. Recurrence is also more common in children and may result from strong predisposing factors. Extending treatment durations beyond 48 weeks may offer better outcomes, allowing nails to grow out and eliminating nonviable fungal elements. If you have recurring toenail fungus, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide treatment and alleviate recurrence.
If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Symptoms
- Warped or oddly shaped nails
- Yellowish nails
- Loose/separated nail
- Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
- Brittle, broken, thickened nail
Treatment
If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.
Prevention
In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.
In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.
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.
Saturday, 09 December 2023 00:00
Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?
Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
Tuesday, 05 December 2023 00:00
Debridement of Diabetic Foot Wounds
Diabetic foot ulcers can lead to serious problems like amputations, infections, and a lower quality of life. These wounds take a long time to heal and can come back even after they seem better. Podiatrists often use a treatment called debridement to help. Several different debridement methods are employed to address these wounds effectively. Sharp surgical debridement involves the precise use of surgical instruments, such as scalpels, to skillfully remove dead or damaged tissue from the wound. Autolytic debridement harnesses the body's natural healing processes. It involves maintaining a moist wound environment using appropriate dressings. The body's own enzymes work to break down and liquefy dead tissue over time. Enzymatic debridement uses specialized ointments or gels containing enzymes applied to the wound. These enzymes actively break down necrotic tissue, aiding in its removal. Enzymatic debridement products are available by prescription. Other types of debridement exist. If you have a diabetic foot ulcer that needs extra care, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss debridement as a healing treatment and the precise type that would be best for your individual needs.
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 Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor 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 Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Tuesday, 28 November 2023 00:00
Unveiling the Secrets to Choosing the Perfect Running Shoe
Embarking on a journey to find the ideal running shoe is not just about style, it is a vital step toward enhancing performance and preventing potential injuries. Begin by understanding your foot type, and this can range from neutral, overpronated, or underpronated. Consider the terrain you'll be covering, as different shoes cater to road running, trail running, or a mix of both. The right fit is paramount, and your toes should have room to wiggle, while the shoe provides ample support without feeling too tight. Arch protection and cushioning are vital factors, ensuring your feet are comfortable throughout your run. Weight, flexibility, and breathability of the shoe also contribute to a satisfying running experience. When you are ready to purchase the right type of running shoe for your needs, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can guide you toward making the right choice.
If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. 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.
- Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
- Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
- Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.
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.
Monday, 24 May 2021 00:00
Two Categories of Gout
Swelling and joint pain in the big toe and surrounding areas are common symptoms of a condition that is known as gout. There are two categories of gout that many patients can experience. Acute gout encompasses one to three affected joints, and the pain and discomfort may last up to a week. When multiple gout attacks occur, this condition is referred to as chronic gout, and can lead to permanent joint damage and deformity. Gout occurs as a result of excess uric acid in the blood, and can develop due to genetics, or from eating foods that have high levels of purines. These types of foods include red meat, shellfish, or drinks with a large sugar content. If you are experiencing gout attacks, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
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.
More...
Tuesday, 27 July 2021 00:00
Ankle-Brachial Index and PAD
The ankle-brachial index test is a relatively quick, painless, and non-invasive screening measure used to test for the presence of peripheral artery disease (PAD). PAD is a condition in which circulation in the lower limbs is reduced, typically due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries that can cause them to narrow and harden, thereby impeding blood flow. Symptoms of PAD may include leg cramps, numbness, muscle weakness, and difficulty walking, but in its earlier stages, this condition is often asymptomatic. For this reason, it is important to get tested for PAD. People who are older and those who have a history of cardiovascular disease are especially at risk and can be tested by their podiatrist. During the ankle-brachial index test, the podiatrist measures the blood pressure at the upper arm and at the ankle, comparing the resulting numbers to form a ratio that predicts the likelihood of you having PAD. A high ankle-brachial index score can predict not only PAD, but also cardiovascular events, such as a heart attack or stroke. If you are at risk of PAD or are experiencing any symptoms, talk to your podiatrist about vascular testing today.
Vascular testing plays an important part in diagnosing disease like peripheral artery disease. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, or diabetes, consult with Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Vascular Testing?
Vascular testing checks for how well blood circulation is in the veins and arteries. This is most often done to determine and treat a patient for peripheral artery disease (PAD), stroke, and aneurysms. Podiatrists utilize vascular testing when a patient has symptoms of PAD or if they believe they might. If a patient has diabetes, a podiatrist may determine a vascular test to be prudent to check for poor blood circulation.
How Is it Conducted?
Most forms of vascular testing are non-invasive. Podiatrists will first conduct a visual inspection for any wounds, discoloration, and any abnormal signs prior to a vascular test.
The most common tests include:
- Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) examination
- Doppler examination
- Pedal pulses
These tests are safe, painless, and easy to do. Once finished, the podiatrist can then provide a diagnosis and the best course for treatment.
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.
Tuesday, 21 November 2023 00:00
When Treatment May Be Needed for Flat Feet in Children
Pes planus, commonly known as flat feet, occurs when the foot's arch does not develop or collapses, leading to the entire sole touching the floor. Children typically have flat feet, and their arch develops as they grow into toddlerhood. It usually suffices for podiatrists to provide shoe advice for the majority of kids who have this condition. However, for kids with hypermobility or hypotonia, further intervention might be required. Flat feet typically emerge as the infant's fat pad recedes and motor skills progress, but sometimes arch development is impeded by factors such as calf muscle tightness or ligament hypermobility. While flat feet often do not trouble children, they can eventually cause gait changes, clumsiness, or pain. Early treatment is important to prevent these types of issues. If your child has flat feet that are causing problems, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Are Flat Feet?
Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms
- Pain around the heel or arch area
- Trouble standing on the tip toe
- Swelling around the inside of the ankle
- Flat look to one or both feet
- Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
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.
Tuesday, 14 November 2023 00:00
A Comprehensive Overview of Heel Spurs
Heel spurs, a common foot condition, are bony outgrowths that form on the underside of the heel bone. They often develop in response to long-term strain on the foot's ligaments and muscles. While many individuals have heel spurs, not all experience pain. When pain does occur, it is generally due to the inflammation of the surrounding tissues, a condition known as plantar fasciitis. The symptoms of heel spurs can include sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, especially while walking or standing after periods of rest. The pain tends to improve as the foot warms up but may return after prolonged activity. Risk factors for heel spurs include obesity, wearing poor-fitting or worn-out shoes, and activities that place excessive strain on the feet, such as running and prolonged standing. Diagnosis and treatment may involve having X-rays taken to confirm the presence of a heel spur. Understanding heel spurs and their management options is vital for individuals seeking relief from this often painful condition. If you have developed a heel spur, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if it is mild or severe, and offer treatment options that are right for you.
Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.
Heels Spurs
Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.
Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.
Pain
The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.
Treatments
There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our offices located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Thursday, 09 November 2023 00:00
Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!
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!
