Items filtered by date: October 2023

Dealing with a broken ankle can be both painful and challenging. The first step is to seek medical attention for diagnosis through an X-ray. The treatment approach will depend on the severity of the fracture. Treatment options include using a specialized boot or a plaster cast to stabilize the ankle, possible bone manipulation under anesthesia, or even surgical intervention. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor healing progress. Once diagnosed and treated, the recovery process begins. Healing typically takes 6 to 8 weeks or longer, depending on the severity of the break. Specific post-treatment instructions include how long the boot or cast will be needed and guidelines for weight-bearing. Gradual ankle movement and prescribed exercises may be recommended to prevent stiffness. Other recovery tips include resting and elevating the ankle, taking prescribed pain relievers, and being cautious about weight bearing. Gently moving your toes and bending your knee to prevent muscle stiffness is thought to be helpful. For help in dealing with a fractured ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Patricia Mcilrath, DPM from Health One Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Reading and Rittenhouse Square, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A foot stress fracture can be a painful setback, but with the right approach to recovery, you can ensure a swift and safe return to your active lifestyle. The first step is rest. Allowing your foot to heal is of utmost importance, and this may mean using crutches or a brace to minimize weight-bearing. Getting adequate nutrition, rich in calcium and vitamin D, aids in bone healing. Gentle exercises like swimming or stationary cycling can help maintain cardiovascular fitness without adding stress to your healing foot. Gradually, as pain subsides, introduce weight-bearing activities and strength exercises. Wearing footwear with proper arch support and cushioning is suggested to help reduce pressure at the fracture site. A gradual return to regular activity and sport is vital to prevent re-injury. If you have suffered a foot stress fracture, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can provide the correct treatment options.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Patricia Mcilrath, DPM from Health One Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

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

If left untreated, corns on the feet can lead to various complications. Corns are thickened areas of skin caused by friction and pressure, which can become painful and result in infections. This can happen when bacteria enter through cracks in the skin or if the corn is cut or punctured. Infections can lead to more serious problems, including septic arthritis or infection of nearby bone tissue. Corns left untreated can also trigger severe pain, causing individuals to alter their posture. This can affect how pressure is distributed while walking. Individuals with diabetes may have reduced sensation in their feet due to nerve damage. This means they might not notice small cuts or corns. If corns are left untreated in people with diabetes, it can lead to complications like those previously mentioned, in addition to tissue death known as gangrene. To prevent these complications, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to seek treatment if corns become painful. This foot expert can provide proper care to help avoid serious complications from corns.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Patricia Mcilrath, DPM of Health One Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey marked by various bodily changes, and one common occurrence that many expectant mothers experience is swollen feet. This phenomenon, known as edema, can be attributed to several factors. One major contributor is the increased volume of blood during pregnancy. As your body produces more blood to support both you and your growing baby, it can lead to a buildup of fluid in the tissues, causing swelling. Hormonal changes play a crucial role as well. Hormones such as progesterone cause blood vessels to relax, which can slow the return of blood to the heart and result in fluid retention. The pressure from the growing uterus can compress blood vessels in the pelvis, hindering blood flow from the legs and feet. Additionally, gravity also plays a role, as it makes it harder for fluid to return from the legs to the upper body. While swollen feet during pregnancy are common and generally harmless, it is essential to manage them with proper hydration, rest, and elevation. If you experience severe or sudden swelling in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief tips. 

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 Patricia Mcilrath, DPM from Health One Podiatry. 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 our offices located in Reading and Rittenhouse Square, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

In many jobs, the feet are our most valuable assets, and ensuring their safety should be a top priority. Whether you work in construction, healthcare, or any field that requires you to be on your feet, there are essential foot protection tips to keep in mind. This begin with investing in high-quality, industry-appropriate footwear. Steel-toed boots or shoes with composite safety toes can provide protection against falling objects or heavy equipment. Consider the type of sole your work shoes have. Slip-resistant soles are especially important if you work in environments with wet or slippery surfaces. Regularly inspect your footwear for signs of wear and tear. Damaged or worn-out shoes can compromise your safety. If your job involves prolonged standing, consider orthotic inserts or cushioned insoles that can provide comfort and support. By prioritizing foot protection in the workplace, you can reduce the risk of injuries, ensure your comfort, and maintain your overall well-being on the job. If you would like more information about foot protection in the workplace, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the correct type of shoes to purchase. 

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Patricia Mcilrath, DPM from Health One Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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