April 2018

Flat feet is a common foot condition that affects millions of Americans. The feet are the foundation of the body, and any misalignment that occurs from flat feet may affect the rest of it. An assessment is often performed to determine the severity of one's flat feet. The ankles may show signs of turning in, and this can an individual’s gait. There are several reasons why flat feet develop, such as an injury that has occurred, diseases like diabetes, or conditions that may develop from arthritis, which may alter the structure of the foot. You may notice pain and swelling surrounding the ankle, and this is a general sign that this condition may be present. Visit a podiatrist for a proper evaluation and possible treatment options.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Todd Goldberg from Complete Family Foot Care Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

If you are experiencing swelling, pain and stiffness in the toes, you may have what is referred to as rheumatoid arthritis. The toes are consistently bent in a downward position, making it difficult to walk. Additionally, it’s common for bunions to develop, which is a small bony protrusion on the side of the big toe. Many people endure pain in the entire foot, and will often notice the nails have become separated from the nail bed. In the desire to obtain relief the gait is often altered affecting the ball of the foot. Recent research has shown that it may be beneficial to wear shoes that provide adequate room for the toes to move about freely, in addition to avoid wearing high heels. There are several ways to treat this condition depending on the extent of the damage that has been incurred. If you are afflicted with this condition it’s suggested to schedule a consultation with a podiatrist to determine the severity of this ailment, and discuss the best treatments options available.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Dr. Todd Goldberg of Complete Family Foot Care Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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

A condition referred to as Morton’s neuroma generally causes severe pain on the ball of the foot or between the toes. The plantar nerve undergoes degeneration and as a result, it becomes thickened and inflamed. Women are more prone to acquire this condition because of the stress and pressure endured by the feet, which is generally caused by the type of footwear that is worn. The symptoms of this ailment typically consist of pain that is experienced between the third and fourth toes or on the bottom of the feet. The pain will often follow a feeling of numbness or tingling and may increase during intense activities. Treatment may consist of incorporating lifestyle changes, including choosing to wear shoes that fit correctly and avoiding any extreme and excessive activities. Please consider scheduling a consultation with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to learn about the best treatment options for you, which may include surgery.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Todd Goldberg of Complete Family Foot Care Center. 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 our office located in Littlestown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Achilles tendinosis and Achilles tendon ruptures are referred to as two types of Achilles tendon injuries. Soreness and stiffness are often symptoms of tendinosis and will gradually worsen if left untreated. This is a common injury among long distance runners and can often be recognized by the severity of pain experienced while running or when touched. A tendon rupture consists of a tear or a complete break between the calf muscle and the Achilles tendon, commonly referred to as tennis leg. This typically happens when the player’s weight is on one leg while lunging to retrieve a serve, and a sharp pain is instantly felt. There may be several reasons why some people may be more susceptible to this type of injury, and these may include a genetic trait where the ankles turn inward or a weakened blood supply to the tendon. Please consult with a podiatrist for additional information about Achilles tendon injuries and the treatment options available.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Todd Goldberg of Complete Family Foot Care Center. 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 Littlestown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.