Items filtered by date: June 2023

Common reasons people can break a toe can include a heavy object dropping on one of them, or it may happen from stubbing it into a piece of furniture. There is no mistaking a broken toe when it happens, as there is immediate pain, bruising, and swelling. Additionally, it is often difficult to walk, and mild relief may be found when the foot is frequently elevated. It is beneficial to have an X-ray performed which can confirm the fracture, and determine its severity. Patients may find success in using the buddy taping method as a possible remedy for their broken toe. This is done by taping the affected toe to the toe next to it, which can generally provide the stability that is needed as it heals. Severely broken toes may have a bone protruding from them and will require medical attention. If you have a broken toe, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can correctly diagnose it, and offer the treatment method that is right for you.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Edward S. Pozarny DPM from Arlington Podiatry Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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

Cracked heels can occur when the skin on the back of the heels becomes excessively dry, due to a lack of moisture. These cracks may deepen and collect debris, which are known as fissures. Many different things can contribute to the development of cracked heels. Standing for prolonged periods of time, for example, can lead to the onset of cracked heels. Particularly, if an individual is standing on hard surfaces, such as concrete or uneven terrain, this may also be a reason this ailment may develop. If you are someone who must stand for hours at a time, then wearing supportive footwear that is padded may improve your situation. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today if you are concerned about getting cracked heels from standing. 

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Edward S. Pozarny DPM from Arlington Podiatry Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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

Spraining the ankle is certainly no joking matter. When an individual twists or rolls their ankle awkwardly, the ligaments or bands of tissue can be torn, and it is said that the ankle is sprained. There are many ways in which a person might sprain their ankle. For example, a person could sprain their ankle while jumping rope. Since jumping rope requires a person to jump constantly, the feet might land awkwardly at some point. Jumping rope can therefore make one more susceptible to suffering torn ligaments. If you are someone that enjoys frequently jumping rope, then it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist for more information. A podiatrist is a foot specialist that can help you address any problems you might have with your feet and ankles.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Edward S. Pozarny DPM from Arlington Podiatry Center. 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 are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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

Falling can be dangerous. This can apply to any age group, and it is especially helpful for seniors to be aware of how the feet can become injured from falling. It is beneficial for elderly people to be acutely aware of their surroundings, which may falter as the aging process occurs. Getting adequate sleep and leading a healthy lifestyle may be good fall prevention techniques. One of the best things seniors can do for their body is to engage in a gentle exercise and stretching program. This is effective in building and maintaining strength in various parts of the body, which may help to reduce the number of falls. It may also aid patients in getting up quicker after falling, as a result of improved flexibility. There are prevention methods that can be implemented in the household. These can include removing worn rugs from the living area, and installing grab bars in the toilet and shower area. If you would like to know more about how falling can affect the feet and possible prevention methods, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with useful information.

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 Edward S. Pozarny DPM from Arlington Podiatry Center. 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 Arlington, VA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.