Items filtered by date: November 2023

Foot pain, often dismissed as a minor inconvenience, can be a red flag signaling underlying issues that demand attention. Our feet, the unsung heroes of daily mobility, bear the brunt of your activities, and persistent pain is their cry for help. Ignoring foot pain may lead to a cascade of consequences, affecting not only your mobility but also your overall well-being. Whether stemming from overuse, wearing improper footwear, or underlying medical conditions, foot pain can be a precursor to more severe issues like stress fractures, tendonitis, or nerve disorders. Chronic discomfort may impact posture, causing a ripple effect on the entire musculoskeletal system. It is essential to recognize that your feet are intricate structures requiring care and attention. Addressing foot pain promptly through proper diagnosis and treatment not only ensures a smoother journey on your feet but also safeguards against potential complications that may arise when warnings are dismissed. If you have developed any type of foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine what the reason is and offer effective relief and treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Front Range Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Foot and ankle problems are prevalent medical issues, particularly among the elderly, who often suffer from pain, stiffness, swelling, or deformities. Common diagnoses include conditions such as corns, athlete's foot, bunions, flat feet, ingrown nails, and warts. Aging-related muscle mass and loss of bone strength may increase seniors' risk for injuries and fractures, compounded by balance and vision issues. Key foot and ankle injuries in the elderly include ankle sprains, where the ligaments are overstretched or torn, potentially weakening the ankle and leading to arthritis, if untreated. Achilles tendonitis and tears are also common. The Achilles is vulnerable to inflammation and overuse, which can escalate to tears or ruptures, especially with sudden trauma. Ankle fractures are serious injuries from traumatic impact, requiring immediate podiatric attention to prevent complications such as infections. The spectrum of foot and ankle injuries in the elderly ranges from minor, treatable conditions to severe injuries necessitating medical intervention, highlighting the need for attentive care to prevent these issues. If you are elderly and have foot or ankle problems, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Front Range Podiatry. 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 tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• 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 Littleton, CO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Poor circulation in the feet refers to a condition where blood flow to the lower extremities is insufficient, resulting in various discomforts and potential health issues. It occurs when blood struggles to move freely through the blood vessels, leading to a lack of oxygen and nutrients in the feet. Several factors can contribute to poor circulation in the feet. One primary cause is atherosclerosis, where fatty deposits build up in the arteries, narrowing and hardening them. Diabetes can also lead to circulatory problems, damaging blood vessels and nerves in the feet. Blood clot formation, often in deep veins, which is known as deep vein thrombosis, also can obstruct circulation. Smoking, high blood pressure, and obesity are additional risk factors. Symptoms of poor circulation in the feet can range from tingling, numbness, and coldness to more severe complications such as ulcers and non-healing wounds. Early detection and proactive measures to improve circulation and maintain foot health can help. If you have symptoms of poor foot circulation, it is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer appropriate treatment options.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Front Range Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

An Achilles tendon rupture is a severe and painful injury that affects the Achilles tendon, which is the largest and strongest tendon in the human body. Located at the back of the ankle, this vital band of connective tissue plays a pivotal role in facilitating walking, running, and jumping. When it tears, it can lead to excruciating pain, a loud popping sensation, and the inability to bear weight on the affected leg. The injury often occurs during sports or physical activities that involve sudden, forceful movements. An Achilles tendon rupture is more common among individuals aged 30 to 40, particularly men. It is beneficial to seek immediate medical attention from a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat this painful condition. 

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Front Range Podiatry. Our doctors 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 Littleton, CO . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.