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Monday, 16 July 2018 00:00

Is a Plantar Wart Painful?

If you’ve ever had a plantar wart, you are most likely aware of the intense pain and tenderness that is typically experienced while walking. It is known to be caused by the human papillomavirus, which is also referred to as HPV. This particular type of virus typically affects the heel of the foot, and will grow inward as a result of the pressure the heel endures from everyday activities such as walking. The appearance can be a small area with thickened skin and may sometimes have black dots in the center. Treatment options may include utilizing liquid nitrogen that will freeze the wart off, salicylic acid cream, which may be used to burn the wart off, or specific medicine that is applied directly to the wart. It’s important to have a podiatrist properly diagnose your plantar wart to determine what the best course of treatment is for you.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Morris Stribling from Foot Care of Central San Antonio. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

  • Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
  • Hard or thick callused spots
  • Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
  • Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

  • Freezing
  • Electric tool removal
  • Laser Treatment
  • Topical Creams (prescription only)
  • Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

Read more about All About Plantar Warts
Monday, 09 July 2018 00:00

Have I Broken My Ankle?

If you have suffered a traumatic ankle injury that may result in swelling, severe pain and bruising, you may have broken your ankle. Most broken ankles occur from a fall, which causes one or more of the ankle bones to fracture. Occasionally, if jumping from an extended height occurs, the joints may undergo extreme flexing, which may cause a broken ankle. It’s important to take all weight off the ankle as soon as possible, and this is typically accomplished by immobilizing the ankle in a cast. Research has shown that six weeks is the average time a cast is worn, which typically allows ample time for the ankle bone to heal. For severe breaks, surgery may be necessary to adequately repair the bone, which may include inserting metal pins or plates. It’s beneficial to begin a rehabilitation program when the cast is removed. This may ensure proper mobility. Please speak to a podiatrist if you have broken your ankle for additional information.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Morris Stribling from Foot Care of Central San Antonio. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

  • Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
  •  Swelling around the area
  •  Bruising of the area
  • Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

Read more about All About Broken Ankles

When babies are born, their feet are generally very flexible. Ligaments connect the 26 bones and 35 joints for optimum support, and is often surrounded by fat for additional padding. Most children have flat feet, and the arch typically forms when walking begins, which is commonly about 12 months of age. As the child begins to walk, research has shown that wearing a shoe with a soft sole will encourage the child to feel and be aware of the ground they’re walking on. This will enable muscle strength to develop, and the child may gradually move to a shoe with a firmer sole. It’s crucial to measure your child’s feet frequently to allow for the proper size shoes to be selected. Once the correct shoe size is determined, the shoe should fit comfortably with adequate room for the toes to move about. If you observe your child is still flat footed after walking or has feet that turn inward or outward, it’s suggested to consult with a podiatrist for advice about possible treatment options.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Morris Stribling of Foot Care of Central San Antonio. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

Read more about What to Do to Keep Your Child’s Feet Healthy
Tuesday, 26 June 2018 00:00

Before you start dancing...

 

Monday, 25 June 2018 00:00

How to Care For Your Feet

It is easy to forget to take care of your feet in the warmer weather. In the summer, your feet are more likely to be exposed to the sun and hot surfaces, which may cause them to become dry and rough. One of the best things you can do for your feet is to eliminate the dry skin cells. This can be achieved by exfoliating your feet once a week. This process will leave you with feet that are soft and renewed. Afterward, you should use a moisturizer on your feet to make sure they stay hydrated throughout the day. There are several types of pumice stones available for sale, and it’s suggested to have one in shower that can be used frequently. Adequately moisturizing your heels are crucial because the heels bear the majority of the weight. The heel also has a thick layer of skin protecting it, and this skin is less penetrable which makes moisturizing difficult. Therefore, it will take more effort to ensure that moisture is locked into the skin.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Morris Stribling from Foot Care of Central San Antonio. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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

Read more about Every Day Foot Care
Monday, 18 June 2018 00:00

How to Treat A Broken Foot

broken foot is a painful and common foot condition to contend with. There are 26 bones in the foot, and the feet can generally withstand a considerable amount of pressure. A broken foot is typically the result of a fall, and you may notice immediate bruising and swelling. Symptoms from a severe break may include a portion of the bone extending through the skin or an open wound beginning to form that surrounds the affected area. If you are unable to walk on the foot or experience extreme tenderness, it’s advised that you seek immediate medical attention. Research has shown that it’s important to rest the foot by not walking on it, in addition to elevating the foot which may diminish the swelling. A diagnosis is determined, which often consists of having an X-ray performed and is typically the first step in the proper treatment of a broken foot. A cast is generally used to keep the foot stable while the healing process begins, and can last up to 6 weeks. A consultation with a podiatrist is recommended for a complete evaluation of your broken foot.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Morris Stribling from Foot Care of Central San Antonio. Our doctor  can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

  • Bruising
  • Pain
  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Blue in color
  • Numbness
  • Cold
  • Misshapen
  • Cuts
  • Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

Read more about Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment for a Broken Foot
Monday, 11 June 2018 00:00

The Definition of a Podiatrist

A doctor that specializes in disorders of the foot is referred to as a podiatrist. This type of doctor typically treats foot conditions including hammer toe, bunions and ingrown toenails. They may also treat foot ailments caused by birth defects such as clubfoot and flat feet. Diabetic patients often notice sores on their feet, which may heal slowly, and this may be one of the first symptoms indicating this condition exists. Within this field, there are categories specific to the type of patient that is being treated. For instance, podiatrists who specialize in sports medicine typically treat athletes. Doctors who are skilled in advanced surgery may perform foot and ankle reconstruction, which may be a necessary option after an injury. If you have any questions regarding podiatry, please consult with your podiatrist.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact Dr. Morris Stribling from Foot Care of Central San Antonio. Our doctor 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 offices located in Wilmington and Hockessin, DE. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

 

Read more about What is a Podiatrist?
Monday, 04 June 2018 00:00

What Causes Heel Spurs?

A heel spur is defined as a bony protrusion that develops on the heel of the foot, and it may cause severe discomfort. Research has shown that calcium deposits may gradually form under the heels, resulting in the development of heel spurs. Other symptoms of this ailment may include an achiness that is felt in the heel for the majority of the day, sharp heel pain while standing especially in the morning, and the affected area appearing swollen and tender. There are several causes for heel spurs to develop, including an injury that may tear the membrane covering the heel, and strain to the ligaments that may weaken the soft tissue. Relief may be found by resting and elevating the foot which may reduce swelling, in addition to wearing cushioned shoes. A consultation with a podiatrist will aid further increasing your knowledge about heel spurs.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Dr. Morris Stribling from Foot Care of Central San Antonio. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main conditions spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Central San Antonio, TX. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Read more about Heel Spurs
Tuesday, 29 May 2018 00:00

Symptoms and Causes of Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that affects the nerves in the peripheral nervous system. The nerves become damaged and as a result, this type of neuropathy develops. The symptoms that accompany neuropathy include numbness, tingling or a burning sensation and will most often affect the feet. Additional symptoms may include a loss of balance and it’s common to experience weakness. There are several causes that may promote the onset of this ailment, including a vitamin deficiency, kidney failure, shingles, or alcoholism. Additionally, this condition may be the result of certain chemotherapy drugs that are taken. It’s important to have a correct diagnosis performed so the proper medication can be taken to alleviate the symptoms. It is suggested to consult with a podiatrist if your feet are affected by neuropathy.

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. Morris Stribling from Foot Care of Central San Antonio. 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 heel
  • 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 Central San Antonio, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Peripheral Artery Disease

Your feet are covered a good part of the day. If you are diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often another sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.

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