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Foot Injuries From Falling Down Stairs

Tuesday, 06 June 2023

Taking the stairs can be a hazard, especially for people who have greater mobility issues, such as seniors and young children. Common foot and ankle injuries from falling down a set of stairs include broken bones, cuts, and lacerations. Stair falls can happen from losing one’s footing or not paying attention. They can also occur if there is a maintenance issue with the stairs. Stair injuries can be prevented by installing banisters to hold onto, fixing loose or broken handrails or stairs, fixing carpeting that is not properly secured, and removing objects or wet conditions that may interfere with safely descending the steps. If you have fallen down a staircase and sustained an injury to your feet or ankles, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist as soon as possible to assess the severity of your injuries and obtain treatment.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Centers for Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
Utilizing a walker or cane
Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Merrillville, Portage, Michigan City/LaPorte, and Schererville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Painful Plantar Warts

Tuesday, 30 May 2023

People who are afflicted with plantar warts may have difficulty walking. These growths are found on the soles of the feet and can cause severe pain and discomfort. This is a result of the consistent weight the feet endure while walking and standing during the day. Plantar warts are caused by a virus that is known as the human papillomavirus, or HPV. This virus is contagious, and lives in warm and moist environments. These can consist of public swimming pools, locker rooms, and shower room floors. It is beneficial to wear appropriate shoes while in these areas, such as flip flops or water shoes. This type of wart will generally take several weeks or months to completely disappear. Many patients seek treatment to relieve the pain, which may include removal for faster relief. If you have a plantar wart, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can guide you toward the treatment that is correct for you.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Centers for Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
Hard or thick callused spots
Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

Freezing
Electric tool removal
Laser Treatment
Topical Creams (prescription only)
Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

Why Do Feet Fall Asleep During Pregnancy?

Tuesday, 23 May 2023

During a woman’s pregnancy, she might notice that her feet fall asleep frequently. In other words, she might notice that her feet often experience numbness or a pins-and-needles feeling. This is actually not an uncommon symptom that results from pregnancy. In fact, many women can experience this feeling in the feet at night or immediately upon waking in the morning. The reason why pregnancy can cause numbness in the feet is due to the fact that pregnancy can lead to nerve compression in this area. If you are someone that is pregnant or planning to be, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today. This foot specialist will be able to help the pregnant woman navigate feelings of numbness in the feet.

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 one of our podiatrists from Centers for Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors 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

What Is Twisting the Ankle?

Tuesday, 16 May 2023

Even novices to the field of podiatry might be familiar with what some people call a twisted ankle. But what exactly does it mean to twist one’s ankle? The answer is that twisting the ankle is another way to say that the foot is inverted or moved outwards in an awkward position. As a result of this, an individual might suffer an ankle sprain. The patient’s outer, or lateral, ligaments might be stretched past their natural point, contributing to the sprain. There are many common symptoms associated with a sprained ankle. For example, a person might experience pain, swelling, or bruising. Importantly, a sprained ankle is distinct from a broken ankle, which occurs when the ankle bone becomes fractured. If you are someone that is currently living with a twisted or sprained ankle, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist to schedule an appointment today.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Centers for Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

Mild to moderate bruising
Limited mobility
Swelling
Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
Stretching before exercises and sports
Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Merrillville, Portage, Michigan City/LaPorte, and Schererville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked

Friday, 12 May 2023

Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.