Items filtered by date: September 2020

Growing adolescents may experience the medical condition that is known as Sever’s disease. It typically affects teenagers who frequently participate in sporting activities, and pain and discomfort may be felt in the heel during physical activity. Reduced flexibility can be a result of the inflammation that can occur from tightened muscles. Noticeable signs that your child can exhibit include limping, and favoring one foot. The foot may feel better with rest, and when specific stretches are performed and this is most beneficial when done on a daily basis. If your child has heel pain, it is recommended that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat Sever's disease.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Imaze Marian Davis, DPM from Marian Davis, DPM, PA. Our doctors 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 office located in Miami, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

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Monday, 21 September 2020 00:00

Treatments for Bunions

Bunions are bony bumps located on the joints at the base of the big toe. These bumps can cause symptoms such as foot pain, stiffness, swelling, skin irritation, or thickened skin over the joint. There are many different treatments for bunions. Conservative treatments, while not a cure for bunions, can relieve pain and slow or stop their progression. Because they are often caused by ill-fitting shoes, changing your footwear to shoes with a wider toe box and low heels can help relieve bunion pain by putting less pressure on your foot. Using a pad or orthotic insert in your shoes can provide the cushioning and support your feet need. Wearing a toe splint at night can help hold the big toe in a straighter position. Using an ice pack on the swollen joint may decrease swelling and pain. Some bunions are severe and cause so much pain and discomfort that they interfere with daily activities. Severe bunions often require surgery. If you have bunions, it is recommended that you seek the care of a podiatrist.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Imaze Marian Davis, DPM of Marian Davis, DPM, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

  • Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
  • Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
  • Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
  • Orthotics or foot inserts
  • Surgery

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

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Monday, 14 September 2020 00:00

Possible Prevention Techniques for Falling

Falling can be a life-threatening experience for older adults. Injuries may occur, and it may evoke a fear of performing daily activities, which can limit self confidence. Many falling episodes can be avoided when proper prevention techniques are implemented. These can include installing grab bars in the shower and toilet areas, improving lighting in the living environment, and removing loose rugs. It is beneficial to have routine medical exams, as this may be helpful in monitoring existing medications. Patients may experience a fractured toe, a sprained ankle or a broken foot as a result of falling, and it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can help you to prevent unwanted injuries as a result of falling.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Imaze Marian Davis, DPM from Marian Davis, DPM, PA. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

  • Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
  • Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
  • Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
  • Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
  • Utilizing a walker or cane
  • Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
  • Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

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Tuesday, 08 September 2020 00:00

Common Reasons for Ankle Pain

Your ankle can hurt for a variety of reasons. The most common cause of ankle pain is an injury, such as a strain or a sprain. A strain is an injury to the muscle or tendon of the ankle, while a sprain is an injury to the ligament. Both types of injuries can vary in severity and may cause pain or discomfort, tenderness, and swelling. Other possible injuries of the ankle include Achilles tendon ruptures or ankle fractures, which are more severe in nature. Several types of arthritis can affect the ankle, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. An infection, in which bacteria enters the skin or the joint around the ankle can cause pain and swelling, in addition to fever and fatigue. Flat feet or fallen arches may lead to ankle pain as well. If you are experiencing ankle pain, it is recommended that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to begin the best course of treatment that is right for you. 

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Imaze Marian Davis, DPM from Marian Davis, DPM, PA. 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 our office located in Miami, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

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