What are the most common things you see?
We treat a lot of different pathologies, but some of the more common issues are plantar fasciitis, ingrown nails, and sports/exercise related injuries.
What is something you do that people don’t realize?
We diagnose and treat a lot of systemic pathology. There are many diseases that affect the lower extremities that are diagnosed by podiatrists.
If I get orthotics, does that mean I have to wear special shoes?
No! Many people do not realize that orthotics can fit in a variety of shoes. We can make custom orthotics for cleats, athletic shoes, and dress shoes.
When should I have my bunion fixed?
A bunion is one of the most common deformities found in the feet. Because of the progressive nature of this problem, a bunion left untreated can lead to enough pain and disability to make walking difficult. You should seek bunion treatment before it becomes too painful. In the early stages of this problem, conservative, non-surgical treatments are often the best approach. These treatments include wearing shoes with a wider toe box and using custom shoe inserts called orthotic devices. The custom inserts helps to re-position the foot inside the shoe to take pressure away from the bunion prominence. These treatments are aimed at increasing comfort and perhaps slowing the progression of this deformity. Only surgery can correct this problem. To learn more about when surgery is needed, click here.
What is shockwave therapy and how does it work?
Shockwave therapy (EPAT) is used to treat acute and chronic pain caused by a variety of conditions, including plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, capsulitis and shin splints. Shockwave therapy stimulates the body’s natural healing response, sending nutrient-rich blood and various repair cells to take care of soft tissue problems. Shockwave therapy also causes the formation of new blood vessels which also contributes to the healing process.
How often should I replace my custom orthotic devices?
Orthotic devices are custom shoe inserts. These devices help to rebalance foot strike and foot motion during walking and running. They are often very helpful in the treatment and resolution of many conditions including plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis and neuromas. How long they last depend on how much someone weighs and how much time a person spends on their feet each day. If you have custom orthotics, you should have them checked by one of our doctors every eighteen to twenty-four months.
Why does my heel hurt and how can I make this pain go away?
Heel pain is the most common problem that brings people to our office. While many conditions can cause foot pain, there are two that occur most frequently:
– Plantar Fasciitis (fah shy tis)
– Posterior Heel Pain
Ignoring heel pain usually leads to a worsening situation. Consulting with a podiatrist right away is your best bet to help develop a plan in the earlier stages and allow for a quicker recovery.
What are your recommendations on shoes?
For shoes, it always depends on the type of foot type you have and the purpose of the shoes. Our doctors will do a full foot exam and check a patient’s biomechanical format and then give recommendations based on that.
How do I prevent ingrown toenails?
Do not cut them out on your own is our number one piece of advice for patients. More often then not, they will become infected because they’ve been picked out and that causes much more pain and difficulty in healing of the area.