Items filtered by date: April 2022

The group of bones that are under the bottom of the big toe include the sesamoid bones. They protect specific tendons in the foot, and absorb most of the weight on the inside of the foot. The condition that is known as sesamoiditis occurs when the sesamoid bones become inflamed. They can become injured as a result of enduring a stress fracture, or from an injury that comes from repetitive motion consisting of dancing. Many patients need to have a proper diagnosis performed, which includes having an X-ray taken that can rule out a fracture. Correct treatment techniques can possibly reduce painful symptoms, in addition to protecting the foot from further injury. These can consist of wearing orthotic insoles, taking anti-inflammatory medication, or possible surgery. If you feel you have injured your sesamoid bones, it is strongly urged that you confer with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition, in addition to offering you correct treatment solutions.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Amir Shalev, DPM of Complete Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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

When you experience a complete tear of the Achilles tendon in the ankle, it is called an Achilles rupture. The list of those most likely to have this condition can include: men over 40, athletes who play sports such as football, tennis, or rugby, women who wear high heels, athletes who consistently ignore Achilles pain, and athletes who have had a recent ankle injury, overpronate, or have a thinner Achilles tendon. Still other risk factors include being overweight, taking certain medications, or using corticosteroids. What does a ruptured Achilles tendon feel like? It reportedly feels like someone has kicked or hit you in the back of the heel. Ignoring the warning signs, such as a pain that builds gradually or the pain from another ankle injury,  increases the risk of such a tear. To avoid this occurrence, it is a good idea to see a podiatrist, who can perform a full biomechanical analysis to determine whether you may need orthotics or specific stretching and strengthening exercises. It is possible to recover from this painful event, but prevention is better.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Amir Shalev, DPM of Complete Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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

Foot care gets more inconvenient for the elderly, sometimes because it is just hard to reach your feet, and other times because an underlying condition makes it nearly impossible. There are a few simple ways for the elderly to practice foot care. Because the fatty pads that protect the soles of the feet may have thinned, one way is to wear shoes that fit properly, provide adequate arch support and cushioning for your heels while also avoiding walking barefoot at home. Try not to sit with your feet hanging down for long periods, and instead, keep them elevated as often as possible, especially if you are less active. Exercising the feet and ankles is a good idea in order to keep the blood flowing and reduce swelling. Practice good skin care, such as keeping your feet clean and dry, applying moisturizer to prevent cracked heels, and having calluses removed. Trim toenails straight across, to avoid ingrown nails that can become infected. If your feet are uncommonly cold, seem numb, red, bruised or swollen on a regular basis, or if they have sores that do not heal properly, it is a good idea to consider regular visits to a podiatrist who can keep on top of these symptoms and provide proper treatment before they worsen.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Amir Shalev, DPM from Complete Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

Many people are born with flat feet. There may be additional causes for flat feet to develop that can include pregnancy, arthritis, diabetes, or even an injury.  Orthotics are custom made inserts that are designed to fit inside shoes. Research has indicated that wearing orthotics may help patients with flat feet. The benefits of wearing orthotics can include shock absorption, improved balance, and support for the arch and heel. Additionally, orthotics may reduce existing pain that some patients experience because of flat feet. If you have this condition, and are interested in learning more about how orthotics can help you, please consult with a podiatrist. 

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Amir Shalev, DPM from Complete Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.