Items filtered by date: February 2021

Monday, 22 February 2021 00:00

Walking May Help Patients With PAD

It can be beneficial for patients who are afflicted with peripheral artery disease (PAD) to incorporate walking into their daily routine. PAD is an ailment that can occur from arteries that have become severely damaged, and it can make it difficult to walk. Many patients understand the importance of walking regularly, despite the fact that it may be uncomfortable to do so. An important benefit that can be achieved from walking is developing stronger legs and feet, which can positively affect general health. Walking three times per week is a favorable place to begin, and this can gradually be increased as the feet become stronger. If you have foot pain that prevents you from walking, please consult with a podiatrist who can treat PAD, and can recommend a walking routine that is right for you.

 

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Dr. Nicholas Przystawski from Central Florida Foot Care, PA. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

  • Claudication (leg pain from walking)
  • Numbness in legs
  • Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
  • Paleness of the skin
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
  • Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

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

Read more about Peripheral Artery Disease
Friday, 19 February 2021 00:00

It's Time for Beautiful Feet

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

An ankle sprain can be the result of stretched or torn ligaments from suddenly twisting the ankle. As the ankle rolls outward, the foot turns inward, and this can cause the inside of the ankle to become damaged. The symptoms that many patients experience can include immediate bruising, swelling, and difficulty walking. After a proper diagnosis is made, which generally involves having an X-ray taken, treatment can begin. This typically begins by wrapping the affected ankle in an elastic bandage, as this is helpful in providing the necessary support to the ankle during the healing process. Additionally, it is beneficial to elevate the sprained ankle, which can alleviate some of the swelling. If you have sprained your ankle, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat this injury.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Nicholas Przystawski from Central Florida Foot Care, PA. Our doctor 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 our office located in Leesburg, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Ankle Sprains
Monday, 08 February 2021 00:00

What Causes Walking Abnormalities?

Abnormalities in one’s pattern of walk or gait can be caused by a large variety of conditions. Often, an injury, deformity, or disease that affects the lower limbs is responsible for causing the abnormal gait. Injuries such as bone fractures, sprains, shin splints, or tendonitis may affect your walk temporarily, and improve with treatment as the injury heals. Birth defects, like clubfoot, can affect gait if left untreated. Arthritis, which causes joint pain, inflammation, stiffness, and weakens the joints over time, often affects the feet and ankles and leads to a restricted range of motion and abnormal walking patterns. If you have a walking abnormality that stems from a foot or ankle problem, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist. 

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Nicholas Przystawski from Central Florida Foot Care, PA. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

  • Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
  • In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

Read more about Biomechanics in Podiatry
Monday, 01 February 2021 00:00

Why Do Elders Fall More?

In our youth, we are often able to just get back up again following a fall. This is not always the case as we age. Seniors are more likely to suffer falls than younger adults, with one in three seniors experiencing a serious fall every year. Among many other complications, these falls can result in injuries to the legs, ankles, and feet that can severely limit an elder’s mobility and overall quality of life. There are multiple risk factors that increase the likelihood of falling as we age, including having decreased strength, poor coordination, limited mobility, reduced eyesight, hearing loss, stiff joints, health complications, cognitive disorders, and taking multiple medications. Falls among the elderly can have serious and potentially life-threatening consequences, making fall prevention an important goal. For information about measures you can take to help prevent falls, please consult with a podiatrist.  

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 Dr. Nicholas Przystawski from Central Florida Foot Care, PA. Our doctor 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 our office located in Leesburg, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Falls Prevention

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