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Tuesday, 28 March 2023 00:00

Stylish but Painful High Heels

High heels can be stylish, and many women enjoy wearing them to enhance the appearance of their feet and legs, despite the pain they may cause. Research has shown it takes approximately one hour to feel the discomfort from wearing high heels, and a small percentage of people start to feel pain within minutes. There are several tendons, muscles and ligaments that are found in the feet and toes, and it is beneficial to stretch and strengthen the feet before wearing high heels.  Choosing a shoe that has a lower heel may help to reduce any discomfort, while improving flexibility. Many women put insoles inside of their shoes, which can make the feet feel more comfortable. If you have questions about why you may have foot pain from wearing high heels, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can address any concerns you may have. 

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Sheldon D. Simon from Kentucky . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

  • Ankle Joints
  • Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
  • Balls of the Feet
  • Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
  • Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

  • Corns
  • Calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Morton’s Neuroma
  • Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Owensboro, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Why High Heels Are Not Ideal for Healthy Feet
Tuesday, 21 March 2023 00:00

What Is a Tarsal Tunnel?

The tarsal tunnel is a narrow space that runs behind and below the medial malleolus or the largest of the three bones that form the ankle. The tarsal tunnel contains important tendons, nerves, and blood vessels that help provide movement and flexibility in the foot. Tarsal tunnel syndrome is also known as tibial nerve dysfunction or posterior tibial nerve neuralgia. It is a type of neuropathy that is associated with the compression of nerves in the tarsal tunnel. It is like the more well-known and common condition that affects the wrists called carpal tunnel syndrome. Tarsal tunnel syndrome can result from flat feet, a sprained ankle, or underlying conditions, such as arthritis or diabetes. It can cause pain, tingling, or numbness in the foot. If you suffer from foot pain, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist at your earliest convenience to obtain a correct diagnosis and treatment plan.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Dr. Sheldon D. Simon of Kentucky . Our doctor 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 office located in Owensboro, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Treating Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tuesday, 14 March 2023 00:00

Ways of Treating Plantar Warts

Warts on the skin are caused by coming in contact with a virus called the human papillomavirus, or HPV. Plantar warts are a specific type of wart that grows on the bottom of the foot. A plantar wart may start as a small round area of tough skin but may increase in size. Tiny clogged blood vessels that appear as small black dots may appear on the site of the wart. It may take as long as six months for a wart to appear after the foot is exposed to the virus. A podiatrist can examine the plantar wart and determine the best treatment options, which may include cryotherapy by liquid nitrogen, which is generally used on adults or older children. Other methods of treatment involve scraping the wart off the foot, injections of antiviral medication, and laser therapy. Treatment for plantar warts varies and unfortunately, warts can come back even after treatment is completed. If you have a plantar wart that is growing very quickly, or one that is bleeding or appears to be infected, it is strongly suggested that you seek help from a podiatrist, who is specially trained to deal with foot problems.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Sheldon D. Simon from Kentucky . Our doctor 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 our office located in Owensboro, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Plantar Warts
Sunday, 12 March 2023 00:00

It's Time for Beautiful Feet

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

Tuesday, 07 March 2023 00:00

Painful Gout

There is no mistaking the cause of pain when it comes to having gout, a form of arthritis that affects the joints in the big toe. Eating foods that have high levels of purines may lead to getting gout. The purines break down into uric acid, and an excess of this can build up in the foot in the form of crystals. These can lodge in specific joints, such as the big toe, and can cause debilitating pain. These types of foods can include shellfish, red meat, and drinks that are made with large amounts of sugar. Research has shown that having a family history or being obese can make some patients prone to getting gout. Common symptoms can include redness, the affected joints may be swollen, and it can be warm when touched. Relief may be found when healthy eating habits are implemented. This can consist of drinking plenty of water daily, and consuming fruits and vegetables. If you suffer from gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you with relief tactics and provide helpful prevention tips.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Sheldon D. Simon from Kentucky . 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 office located in Owensboro, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Everything You Need to Know About Gout
Tuesday, 28 February 2023 00:00

Proper Wound Care Begins With Clean Hands

A wound can happen from a surgical cut that is made through the skin, or it can happen for other reasons. Proper wound care starts with washing and drying the hands, followed by gently cleaning the wound. This can be done by using a saline solution or soapy water. It is crucial to remove any dried blood that has accumulated, which can aid in the healing process. When applying the dressing, it is important to cover the entire wound, in addition to changing it daily. If the wound is on the foot, it generally needs prompt medical attention. Diabetic patients can easily have wounds on their feet as a result of neuropathy, which is the inability to feel cuts or scrapes. Wounds can form from existing cuts in people who are diabetic, which can possibly prompt critical health hazards to develop. If you have a wound on your foot, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can accelerate the healing process with proper treatment.

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. Sheldon D. Simon from Kentucky . 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 office located in Owensboro, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Wound Care
Tuesday, 21 February 2023 00:00

How Wide Feet Can Cause Pain

If you notice shoes that previously fit your feet seem tighter and more uncomfortable, especially in the midfoot area, you may have developed a splay foot. This condition is simply a widening of the feet as the metatarsals spread out. Wider feet can then contribute to fallen arches, resulting in pain. A simple way to find out if you have a splay foot is to look at your feet. One may also feel increased pain when walking or standing and a tendency to walk on the outside of the feet. This gait change may cause calluses because of the shift in weight distribution. A splay foot can also be noticed by a wearing down of the shoes on the outside edge. In some cases, hammertoes and other toe deformities may begin to appear. The exact cause of splay foot is up for debate, but many experts believe that obesity, the long-term wearing of high heels, and aging may be factors. Finding shoes that fit wider feet can help to reduce the effects of a splay foot. In addition, foot-strengthening exercises are thought to be the best way to overcome the symptoms. Please visit a podiatrist for more information and to learn the treatment option that is best for you.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Sheldon D. Simon from Kentucky . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Owensboro, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Foot Pain
Tuesday, 14 February 2023 00:00

Possible Relief From Cracked Heels

People who have cracked heels are often aware of how their feet look in flip flops, or other types of backless shoes. This condition can be unsightly, and it affects approximately 20 percent of people across the country. There are various reasons why cracked heels can develop. These can include standing on hard surfaces for much of the day and wearing shoes that do not support the heels. Additionally, there are certain medical ailments that may promote getting cracked heels, consisting of fungal infections and thyroid disorders. People who have psoriasis or specific vitamin deficiencies may be prone to getting this condition, and there are methods that can be implemented, which may help to prevent them. It is beneficial to wash and dry the feet thoroughly, followed by applying a good moisturizer on them. Wearing shoes that have a back may also help to stop the onset of cracked heels. For mildly cracked heels, some patients use a pumice stone that can exfoliate the dead skin. Severely cracked heels often require the expert advice of a podiatrist. If you have this condition, please contact this type of doctor who can prescribe medication for relief, if necessary.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Sheldon D. Simon from Kentucky . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

  • Invest in a good foot cream
  • Try Using Petroleum Jelly
  • Ease up on Soaps
  • Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

  • Moisturize After Showering
  • Skip a Shower
  • Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
  • Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Owensboro, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Solutions for Cracked Heels
Friday, 10 February 2023 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, 07 February 2023 00:00

A Foot Care Routine for Children

Proper care of your child’s feet can go a long way in preventing issues as they age. Also, beginning a routine foot care regimen will help children continue this process for themselves. Washing the child’s feet daily is the first recommended habit. Once clean, they should be dried well, and a small amount of baby powder can be applied. When they are old enough to walk outdoors, buying shoes that are of quality and fit properly is imperative. Children’s feet grow fast so it is necessary to make sure their shoes do not get too tight to avoid damage to their feet. Using socks that are also the right size and made of wool or cotton are best since they will allow your child’s feet to be warm while giving them room to develop. A child’s toenails should be cut straight across and filed to smooth edges to prevent ingrown toenails. Lastly, allow children to go barefoot indoors, as their feet will develop best and gain strength when they are not restricted. If you have questions about how to best care for your children’s feet, or if issues with their feet arise, see a podiatrist, who is an expert in this area.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Dr. Sheldon D. Simon of Kentucky . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

  • Make sure their shoes fit properly
  • Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
  • Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
  • Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
  • Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
  • Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
  • Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
  • Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Owensboro, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about What to Do to Keep Your Child’s Feet Healthy
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