Items filtered by date: November 2019

The condition that is known as an ingrown toenail typically affects the big toe. It occurs as a result of the outer edges of the toenail growing into the skin. Patients who are afflicted with this ailment are often familiar with the pain and discomfort an ingrown toenail may cause. If the toenail is infected, there can be drainage oozing from the surrounding area. General reasons why ingrown toenails may develop can include trimming the nails incorrectly, or wearing shoes that do not have ample room for the toes to move freely in. Participating in certain sporting activities where trauma is placed on the toe may contribute to the formation of an ingrown toenail. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can guide you toward proper treatment techniques.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Philadelphia, Bensalem, and Fairless Hills, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Elderly people may find their feet have become wider and flatter as the aging process occurs. This may create limited mobility, and it may become more difficult to maintain balance, potentially leading to falls. Research has indicated the importance of keeping the feet as clean as possible, as this can be helpful in preventing fungal infections. Moisturizing the feet frequently will not only feel good, it may also be beneficial in preventing unwanted skin conditions such as cracked heels. When shoes are worn that fit correctly, blisters, bunions, and hammertoes may be avoided. If your elderly friend or family member has any type of foot pain, it is strongly suggested they be under the care of a podiatrist who can offer proper treatment techniques.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll from Pennsylvania. 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 one of our offices located in Philadelphia, Bensalem, and Fairless Hills, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Recent studies that have been conducted in the United Kingdom indicate approximately half of pregnant women are influenced by society to keep up with the latest fashion trends. This consists of choosing to wear inappropriate shoes that include high heels and flip flops during the majority of their pregnancy. When these types of shoes are frequently worn, the risk of falling may increase. This may be a result of hormonal changes that occur within the body, causing the ligaments and muscles to stretch and become soft. Pregnant women may feel more secure when flip flops are avoided, and shoes with a lower heel are worn. It is beneficial to choose shoes that have the proper amount of cushioning, as this is often helpful in providing adequate support. If you would like additional information about how to choose the correct shoes to be worn during pregnancy, please 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 Dr. Joshua David Scoll from Pennsylvania. 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 one of our offices located in Philadelphia, Bensalem, and Fairless Hills, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A common symptom of the medical condition that is known as Morton’s neuroma is a burning sensation in the ball of the foot. Some patients equate the pain and discomfort that is associated with this ailment as a feeling that is similar to standing on a pebble. It may be difficult to walk and perform daily activities, and the affected foot may tingle or feel numb. There are a number of reasons why Morton’s neuroma may develop. These reasons include wearing shoes that are tight in the toe area and existing medical conditions, such as hammertoes, flat feet, or bunions. When specific sporting activities are frequently participated in, excess pressure may be put on the bottom of the foot, which may cause this condition to develop. Some patients find it helpful to perform stretching techniques that are designed to make the tendons and ligaments more flexible. If you are experiencing this type of foot pain, it is advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Philadelphia, Bensalem, and Fairless Hills, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.