Figure skating often leads to various foot injuries due to the sport's demands. Stress fractures are common, resulting from repetitive impact on the ice. Tendonitis occurs from overuse and the repetitive movements involved in jumps and spins. Bursitis in the ankle is another frequent issue, caused by inflammation of the bursae due to friction and pressure. Lace bite, characterized by pain and swelling on the top of the foot, results from tight skate laces. Additionally, boot stiffness can contribute to these injuries by restricting natural foot movement and causing pressure points. Improper blade placement affects balance and alignment, increasing the risk of falls and stress injuries. Blade sharpness is essential, as dull blades require more effort to maneuver, leading to overexertion. Foot and ankle injuries are treated by a podiatrist. If you enjoy ice skating and have sustained this type of injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a comprehensive treatment plan.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Patricia Mcilrath, DPM from Health One Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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

Foot strengthening exercises are vital for dancers to improve their performance and prevent injuries. Flexing and pointing the feet, done with deliberate control, enhance flexibility and strength in the arches and ankles. Doming, where the arch is lifted without curling the toes, targets the intrinsic foot muscles, promoting better balance and stability. Calf raises, performed slowly, build strength in the calves and Achilles tendons, essential for jumps and relevés. Resistance band exercises, add an extra challenge, improving ankle strength and control. Regular practice of these exercises can lead to stronger, more resilient feet, enabling dancers to execute movements with greater precision and reducing the likelihood of injury. If you have endured a foot injury while dancing, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can treat foot and ankle pain, in addition to guiding you toward effective foot strengthening techniques.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, 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.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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

Foot blisters are a common and painful issue caused by various factors. Friction is the primary culprit, often resulting from poorly fitting shoes that rub against the skin. Excessive moisture from sweat can soften the skin, making it more prone to blistering. Prolonged activity, such as running or hiking, increases the likelihood of blisters due to continuous friction and pressure. Heat and humidity exacerbate the problem, as damp skin is more susceptible to damage. Additionally, wearing socks that do not wick away moisture or that bunch up can also contribute to blister formation. Understanding these causes helps in taking preventive measures, such as choosing well-fitted, breathable footwear and moisture-wicking socks. Foot blisters can be common, and may become infected if not cared for properly. If this applies to you, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions for infected blisters.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Patricia Mcilrath, DPM of Health One Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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

Wearing high heels regularly can lead to various types of foot damage. The unnatural position of the foot in high heels places excessive pressure on the ball of the foot, which can result in metatarsalgia, a painful inflammation of the metatarsal region. High heels also force the toes into a cramped position, often leading to bunions, hammertoes, and other deformities. The elevated heel shifts the body's weight forward, altering posture and putting additional stress on the knees and lower back. This unnatural alignment can cause chronic pain and long-term joint issues. Additionally, the lack of proper support in high heels can contribute to plantar fasciitis, characterized by severe heel pain. The risk of ankle sprains and fractures is also higher due to the instability of walking in high heels. Over time, the cumulative effect of these issues can lead to significant and sometimes irreversible foot and musculoskeletal problems, emphasizing the importance of moderating high-heel use and opting for more supportive footwear. If you have developed foot pain and feel it may be from wearing high heels, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can offer you treatment solutions in addition to guiding you toward safer footwear.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, 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.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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

Orthotics are devices inserted into shoes to support, align, or improve the function of the feet. They help relieve pain and prevent injuries by redistributing pressure and providing support to specific areas of the foot. This can alleviate issues such as plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and overpronation, reducing strain on muscles and joints. Although there are various types of orthotics, rigid, semi-rigid, and soft, determining which type works best for an individual's condition can be somewhat unpredictable. The effectiveness of orthotics largely depends on the specific foot problem and the unique biomechanics of the patient. For optimal results, it is suggested that if you are interested in understanding more about orthotics, you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can perform a thorough evaluation of your foot condition and overall health and determine if orthotics are right for you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, 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.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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