Items filtered by date: March 2024

Arthritis, a condition characterized by inflammation and stiffness in the joints, can significantly impact one's quality of life. While medications and therapies are commonly prescribed to manage arthritis symptoms, the power of exercise in providing relief cannot be overstated. Regular physical activity helps to maintain joint flexibility, strengthen muscles surrounding the joints, and improve overall mobility. Low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, and cycling are particularly beneficial for individuals with arthritis, as they minimize stress on the joints while promoting cardiovascular health and muscle strength. Additionally, exercises focusing on range of motion and flexibility, such as yoga and tai chi, can help alleviate stiffness and improve joint function. Engaging in consistent exercise routines not only reduces pain and inflammation but also enhances mood and promotes a sense of well-being. If you have arthritis and it is affecting your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide you with specific stretches and treatment targeted for relief.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact David K. Morris, DPM from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Plantation, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Foot neuropathy, a common complication of various medical conditions such as diabetes, refers to nerve damage that affects sensation and function in the feet. One of the primary indicators of foot neuropathy is tingling or burning sensations in the feet, often accompanied by numbness or loss of feeling. This diminished sensation increases the risk of injury and can lead to unnoticed wounds or ulcers. Additionally, individuals with foot neuropathy may experience sharp or shooting pains, especially during movement or when pressure is applied to the affected areas. Muscle weakness and difficulty coordinating movements are also common symptoms, making it challenging to walk or perform routine tasks. Recognizing these signs early is essential for timely intervention and management to prevent complications. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you relief and management tips.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with David K. Morris, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

Total ankle replacement, also known as total ankle arthroplasty, is a significant surgery aimed at relieving ankle pain. During the procedure, the surgeon removes parts of the shin bone, or tibia, and the top portion of the foot's highest bone, the talus, replacing the ankle with plastic or metal components. After surgery, you will likely have a cast, boot, or splint on your leg for approximately a month, and you will not be able to put weight on it immediately. You may need crutches, a walker, or a knee scooter during this time. It is important to have assistance at home during the initial recovery period. You will be discharged with bandages and stitches or staples, which your doctor will advise you on when to remove. Post-surgery, you may experience mild pain and swelling, for which your doctor may prescribe medication. Rehabilitation exercises, which are important for regaining strength and mobility, will continue for several weeks. Returning to work depends on individual recovery speed and job requirements, with certain movements or weight-bearing activities possibly restricted. If you have had your ankle replaced, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who will provide personalized recovery steps for the most successful outcome.

In certain cases, in which the patient suffers from extreme pain or damage in a joint, joint replacement surgery may be deemed useful. If you have constant pain in a foot joint, consult with David K. Morris, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Joint Replacement Surgery?

Over time, joints wear down; this can be exacerbated by diseases and conditions. Joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is when a damaged joint is surgically removed and replaced with a prosthesis. Prostheses, which can be made of ceramic, plastic, or metal, act as joints in lieu of an actual joint. One of the most prevalent causes for joint replacement is arthritis.

Arthritis in the Foot

Arthritis can occur in any joint in the body, including in the feet. Common types of arthritis in the foot are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. The big toe is usually where arthritis occurs in the foot; this is known as hallux rigidus.

Joint Replacement Surgery in the Foot

The most common form of joint replacement in the foot is a first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint placement. MTP joint replacement surgery is designed to treat hallux rigidus. Surgery is not intensive, and recovery occurs within one to two months after the procedure has been done. Overall, joint replacement surgery is a safe and effective way to treat pain in the joint of the foot.

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

Blisters, though seemingly small, can wreak havoc on a runner's performance and comfort. Prevention is key to ensuring an enjoyable and pain-free running experience. This can begin by investing in properly fitted running shoes. Ill-fitting shoes can rub against the skin, causing friction and blisters. Additionally, moisture-wicking socks help keep feet dry and reduce the likelihood of blisters forming from sweat and friction. Gradually increasing mileage and intensity during training allows the skin to toughen gradually, decreasing vulnerability to blisters. It is also essential to address hot spots or areas of irritation immediately by covering them with a bandage to prevent further damage. If you have a blister on your foot that is bothersome or has become infected, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you relief and prevention methods.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact David K. Morris, DPM of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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