Items filtered by date: August 2023

Feeling pain in the ball of the foot can be a common issue. Sometimes this is caused by wearing shoes that are too narrow or tight and the metatarsals, or long bones in the feet, squish together and compress a nerve between the second and third toes. This affliction can also be due to small joints, bursa, stress fractures in metatarsal bones, sesamoids under the big toe, or issues with the big toe joint. Factors contributing to this pain include weight gain, increased physical activity, certain types of shoes, like high heels, sports that involve jumping or sprinting, and uneven muscle strength or unique foot shapes like high arches. To address such pain, it is essential to identify the underlying causes and reduce excessive pressure on the affected area. This can involve getting new shoes, using orthotics, and doing exercises to strengthen muscles. Early intervention is key to preventing more complications down the road, so it is suggested that if you are feeling pain in the ball of the foot, you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Desiree Garzon, DPM from County Wide Foot, Ankle, & Wound Care. 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 offices located in Boynton Beach, and Wellington, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot blisters are fluid-filled sacs that develop under the skin due to excessive pressure or friction. Often painful and uncomfortable, foot blisters can appear as red, swollen areas that protrude from the skin's surface. When dealing with foot blisters, early intervention is crucial. Once a blister forms, clean the area with antiseptic lotion and apply antibiotic ointment. Cover the blister with a clean, nonadhesive bandage, and change it daily to prevent infection. Soothe pain and itching with a cold, wet washcloth over the blister. Preventing blisters requires proactive steps. Wear well-fitted footwear, as shoes that fit improperly can lead to friction. Test shoes before purchasing to ensure a snug fit. Keep your feet dry to prevent the buildup of moisture, and fully dry your feet before wearing socks. Apply tape or bandages on areas of the shoe prone to rubbing. While foot blisters aren't emergencies, their discomfort can limit mobility and open the door to infections. If initial treatments don't suffice or signs of infection arise, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for advanced treatment options.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Desiree Garzon, DPM of County Wide Foot, Ankle, & Wound Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can 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.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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

Gout is a type of arthritis that often affects the joints of the big toe, and is caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals. There are four distinct stages of gout. The first stage, known as asymptomatic hyperuricemia, is characterized by high levels of uric acid in the blood without any noticeable symptoms. The second stage is acute gout that occurs when uric acid forms crystals which begin to deposit in the joints. This can lead to sudden and severe pain, swelling, and redness. If left untreated acute gout can progress to the third stage, known as intercritical gout, or the interval between gout attacks. During this phase, patients can experience periods of remission where symptoms subside, but it is essential to maintain proper management and lifestyle changes to prevent future flare ups. The final stage is chronic tophaceous gout, which occurs after repeated gout attacks. In this stage, large uric acid crystal deposits called tophi, can develop beneath the skin surrounding the joints and in other tissues. Tophi can lead to joint damage and deformities. Early detection and appropriate management are key to preventing the progression of gout. If you believe you have gout, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment options. 

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Desiree Garzon, DPM from County Wide Foot, Ankle, & Wound Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

Running shoes are the holy grail for many fitness enthusiasts, but with so many options available, finding the right pair can be overwhelming. Understanding the different types of running shoes will make the selection process smoother. Neutral cushioned shoes are ideal for runners with a neutral gait, providing balanced cushioning for shock absorption. People who have mild overpronation may benefit from wearing stability shoes that offer added support to prevent excessive inward rolling of the foot. Motion-control shoes may be a good choice for people who have severe overpronation because they feature maximum support and control that can stabilize the foot. Experienced runners seeking a natural, lightweight feel may opt for minimalist shoes, which can also help to improve foot mechanics. To find out which type of running shoes are best for you, it is beneficial to have a gait analysis performed. This is an accurate method that can determine your foot type and running style. A proper fit consists of having a thumb's width of space between the longest toe and shoe tip and a snug heel fit. If you would like additional information about which types of running shoes are right for you, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist. seeking.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact Desiree Garzon, DPM from County Wide Foot, Ankle, & Wound Care. 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 Boynton Beach, and Wellington, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

One of the most common ailments women can have during their pregnancy is swollen feet. The medical term for swollen feet is edema, which can happen for many reasons. Gravity plays a role in this condition, in addition to the extra fluids the body produces to house the growing baby. Pregnancy causes pressure from the uterus on the pelvic veins and affects the large vein on the right side of the body. This vein returns the blood from the lower limbs to the heart, which may cause swollen feet. It may worsen if temperatures are warm outside or if a large amount of sodium is included in the diet. Additionally, there is a pregnancy hormone called relaxin that loosens the ligaments, which allows the bones to spread out for eventual delivery. The feet are no exception to widening, and many women must purchase larger shoes. If you have questions about why your feet become swollen during pregnancy, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

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 Desiree Garzon, DPM from County Wide Foot, Ankle, & Wound Care. 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 Boynton Beach, and Wellington, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.