Items filtered by date: April 2024

Skateboarding is a thrilling sport that demands agility, balance, and skill. However, it also comes with the risk of foot and ankle injuries that can sideline enthusiasts. These injuries range from minor sprains to more severe fractures, impacting both beginners and seasoned riders alike. Common injuries include ankle sprains, which occur when the ligaments supporting the ankle are stretched or torn due to sudden twists or falls. Fractures, particularly in the foot and ankle bones, can result from high-impact collisions or failed landings. Additionally, overuse injuries, such as tendonitis and stress fractures, can develop from repetitive strain on the feet and ankles. Proper protective gear, including sturdy shoes and ankle braces, can help lower the risk of injuries while skateboarding. Furthermore, mastering fundamental techniques and gradually progressing to more advanced maneuvers can reduce the likelihood of accidents. By understanding the potential risks and taking preventive measures, skateboarders can enjoy their passion while minimizing the chance of foot and ankle injuries. If you have endured a foot or ankle injury for any reason, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat these types of injuries.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Lawrence Fallat, DPM of Michigan. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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

Ingrown toenails can be a literal pain, causing discomfort and sometimes infection. Fortunately, there are surgical solutions such as nail avulsion and wedge excision. Nail avulsion involves removing the entire nail or part of it, providing relief by preventing further ingrowth. This procedure is commonly used when the ingrown nail is recurring or severe. Conversely, wedge excision involves removing a portion of the nail along with the underlying tissue. It aims to eliminate the ingrown part while preserving the appearance and function of the nail. Both procedures are typically performed under local anesthesia, ensuring minimal discomfort for the patient. Following either procedure, proper post-operative care is vital in promoting healing and preventing complications. Ultimately, nail avulsion and wedge excision offer effective solutions for those suffering from the discomfort of ingrown toenails, providing relief and restoring comfort to daily activities. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can help you decide if one of these types of foot surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Lawrence Fallat, DPM of Michigan. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Clubfoot, a congenital deformity, occurs when the foot is twisted inward and downward, making it difficult to walk normally. This condition affects approximately one in every 1,000 births and can vary in severity. While the exact cause of clubfoot remains unknown, it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Research suggests that certain genetic mutations may predispose individuals to clubfoot, while maternal smoking and nutritional deficiencies during pregnancy may increase the risk. Clubfoot can also occur as part of a syndrome involving other birth defects. Without treatment, clubfoot can lead to long-term mobility issues and discomfort. However, with early intervention, the majority of cases can be successfully corrected. Treatment typically involves a series of gentle manipulations and casting of the foot, followed by bracing to maintain the corrected position. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to release tight tendons and ligaments. Early detection and prompt treatment are key to achieving optimal outcomes for individuals born with clubfoot. If your child has been born with this foot condition, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can custom-tailor a correct treatment plan. 

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Lawrence Fallat, DPM of Michigan. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

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

Diabetic foot ulcers, a serious complication of diabetes, come in various classifications, each indicating the severity and depth of tissue involvement. Neuropathic ulcers, the most common type, result from nerve damage, leading to decreased sensation and increased susceptibility to injuries, often located at pressure points like the ball of the foot or heel. Ischemic ulcers occur due to reduced blood flow to the feet, typically affecting the toes or heels and manifesting as painful, slow-healing wounds. Neuroischemic ulcers, a combination of neuropathic and ischemic factors, pose significant challenges for treatment and healing. Identifying the classification of diabetic foot ulcers is essential for determining appropriate management strategies. Prompt medical attention, regular foot inspections, and meticulous wound care are vital for preventing complications and promoting healing. Additionally, optimizing diabetes management, including blood sugar control and lifestyle modifications, plays a pivotal role in reducing the risk of developing diabetic foot ulcers. If you have diabetes and have developed a foot ulcer, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can properly treat and manage this condition.

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 Lawrence Fallat, DPM from Michigan. 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 Canton and Taylor, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.