Walking barefoot can significantly benefit foot health by enhancing ankle range of motion and activating the foot muscles and nerves. It allows the ankle to move more freely, improving flexibility and strength while stimulating nerves that contribute to better balance and posture. The natural gait encouraged by barefoot walking can also help improve overall alignment and reduce strain on the legs and back. However, there are potential risks to consider. Walking without shoes increases the likelihood of cuts, scrapes, and infections, including athlete’s foot, due to exposure to harmful surfaces, fungi, and bacteria. If you walk barefoot it is essential to do so on safe, clean surfaces. Gradually increase the practice to minimize these risks while enjoying the benefits of stronger, more flexible feet. If you have developed a foot condition from walking barefoot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions.

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 one of our podiatrists from Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors 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 doctors 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 office located in Canonsburg and McMurray, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A foot exam is important for preventing complications and maintaining foot health in individuals with diabetes. During the exam, a podiatrist will assess various factors to ensure early detection of potential issues. Key areas of focus include checking for any cuts, sores, or infections, as well as examining the condition of the skin for dryness, cracks, or fungal infections. They will also evaluate circulation by checking pulse levels in the feet and legs, and test sensation using a monofilament or tuning fork to detect any loss of feeling. Symptoms like persistent pain, swelling, or changes in skin color can indicate underlying problems that require attention. The exam may also include a review of footwear to ensure it provides adequate support and minimizes pressure points. To keep your feet healthy and address any concerns promptly, it’s suggested you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a comprehensive diabetic foot exam.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Foot pain can often be a hidden symptom of hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. Hypothyroidism can lead to various complications, including peripheral neuropathy and fluid retention, both of which contribute to foot discomfort. Poorly controlled thyroid levels can cause nerve damage, resulting in tingling, numbness, or pain in the feet. Additionally, hypothyroidism often leads to fluid retention, causing swelling in the feet and ankles, which can increase foot pain. The reduced metabolic rate associated with thyroid dysfunction can also affect muscle strength and joint health, further contributing to foot issues. If you have a thyroid condition and are experiencing foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot ailments, in addition to determining if it is linked to thyroid disease.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact one of our podiatrists from Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

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

Choosing the right running shoe involves several important factors to ensure comfort and improve performance. Cushioning is vital, as it provides shock absorption and reduces impact on joints. Heel drop, the difference in height between the heel and toe, affects running gait and comfort. A lower drop encourages a more natural stride, while higher drops offer extra cushioning. Arch support is essential for stability and preventing injuries, especially for those with specific arch shapes. Pronation, or the natural inward roll of the foot, determines the level of support needed. Comfort is paramount, and the shoe should fit well in both length and width to avoid blisters and discomfort. Fit and style, including whether the shoe is narrow or wide, also affects overall comfort. If you have suffered a foot injury from wearing the wrong type of running shoes, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, as well as guide you on what to look for in running shoes.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

• Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
• Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
• Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

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

Ankle pain while walking can stem from various causes. Common culprits can include sprains, arthritis, tendonitis, and fractures, all of which can result in inflammation, swelling, and discomfort. Overuse, wearing improper footwear, and previous injuries can also contribute. Ankle pain impacts mobility and quality of life, making walking difficult. To avoid ankle pain, wear supportive shoes, maintain a healthy weight, and perform exercises to strengthen ankle muscles. Rest, compression, and elevation can help manage pain. However, if you have persistent or severe ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and a treatment plan. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist ensure ongoing foot and ankle health, allowing walking to remain a simple and effective means of transportation without discomfort.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

The sesamoids are two tiny, pea-shaped bones located just beneath the big toe. These free-standing bones allow the big toe to move normally. They also provide leverage when you push off the big toe while walking or running. The sesamoids can be fractured during physical activities like running, hiking, or playing sports. Broken sesamoid bones cause deep, aching, or sharp pain in the ball of the foot behind the big toe. The surrounding area may be red or swollen. Sesamoid fractures are generally diagnosed through X-rays. Treatment may include wearing flat, rigid shoes specially designed to hold bones in place while they heal. Wearing orthotics and certain medications can help to manage pain. If you are having pain in your foot, it is suggested you make an appointment with a podiatrist for care and treatment options.  

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact one of our podiatrists of Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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

Foot, ankle, or toe pain can significantly impact your daily life, making even simple tasks challenging. For instance, runners often experience stress fractures or Achilles tendon pain, which a podiatrist can treat through diagnostic testing and appropriate treatment. Arthritis in the feet and ankles can cause swelling, stiffness, and pain, but a podiatrist can suggest treatments to maintain joint health and improve mobility. Diabetic patients should see a podiatrist regularly to manage foot health and prevent serious complications. Persistent heel pain, whether from heel spurs or plantar fasciitis, requires professional diagnosis and treatment to restore comfort and function. Ingrown toenails, if left untreated, can lead to painful infections that a podiatrist can effectively address. Injuries like sprains, strains, or fractures also necessitate a visit to a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis. Conditions such as corns, calluses, bunions, and athlete’s foot can be managed with the expertise of a podiatrist, relieving pain and preventing further problems. If you are experiencing foot, ankle, or toe pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

• Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
• Use innovative methods to treat conditions
• Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
• Correct walking patterns and balance
• Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

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

Thick toenails can be more than just a cosmetic issue. They often signal underlying health problems. One of the primary causes of thickened toenails is fungal infections, known as onychomycosis. This occurs when fungi infiltrate through small cracks or cuts in the nail or surrounding skin, where they thrive in the moist environment under the nail bed. This condition can worsen, leading to thicker nails that may change color, emit a foul odor, and become painful. Besides fungal infections, health issues such as psoriasis, congenital disorders, or chronic illnesses can also cause your toenails to thicken. Prompt and proper treatment from a podiatrist is essential, as untreated thick toenails can lead to further complications, including difficulty in walking and wearing shoes comfortably. If you notice a thickening of your toenails, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Canonsburg and McMurray, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.