Tuesday, 04 February 2025 00:00

When buying trail running shoes, it is important to focus on several factors to ensure comfort, support, and durability. First, consider the type of terrain you will be running on. For rocky trails, look for shoes with a stiffer sole and more aggressive tread patterns that offer better grip and stability. If you will be running on smoother, well-maintained paths, a more flexible shoe may suffice. The fit of the shoe is also important. Make sure there is enough room in the toe box to allow for natural foot movement, and ensure the shoe is snug around the heel to prevent slipping. The level of cushioning is another consideration, as more cushioning is ideal for longer distances, while minimal cushioning may work better for faster, shorter runs. Finally, look for shoes that offer water resistance or drainage to keep your feet dry in wet conditions. If you enjoy running and want more information on choosing the best shoes, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist, an expert on everything related to feet and ankles.

It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Jim Maxka, DPM from South Penn Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.

Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting

  • Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
  • Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
  • Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
  • Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
  • Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.

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

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Tuesday, 28 January 2025 00:00

Wounds on the feet can result from various causes, including injuries, friction from ill-fitting shoes, or underlying health conditions like poor circulation or nerve damage. Prompt attention to any foot wound is essential, as even a minor foot wound can progress rapidly if not treated. Peripheral arterial disease, which restricts blood flow to the feet, can hinder healing and increase vulnerability to infection. Additionally, nerve damage may reduce sensation, making it difficult to detect injuries. Infected wounds may lead to redness, swelling, warmth, or systemic symptoms such as fever or chills. A podiatrist can diagnose and manage foot wounds by assessing circulation, sensation, and the extent of the injury. Treatment may involve cleaning the wound, removing damaged tissue, and addressing underlying issues like pressure or improper footwear. If you have a foot wound, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Jim Maxka, DPM from South Penn Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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

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Tuesday, 21 January 2025 00:00

Toe pain can occur for several reasons including underlying medical conditions or injuries. One common cause is arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, which leads to inflammation and stiffness in the toe joints. This can result in pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the toes. Injuries, such as sprains, fractures, or bruises, can also cause toe pain, often accompanied by swelling, bruising, and tenderness. Additionally, nerve problems like neuropathy can contribute to toe pain. Nerve damage can cause sensations of tingling, burning, or sharp pain and is commonly associated with conditions like diabetes. Another common cause of toe pain is bunions, which occur when the joint at the base of the big toe becomes misaligned. Other conditions, such as gout, hammertoes, and ingrown toenails can lead to toe discomfort. If you are experiencing toe pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer viable treatment solutions.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Jim Maxka, DPM of South Penn Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Trauma
  • Sports injury
  • Wearing shoes that are too tight
  • Arthritis
  • Gout
  • Corns and calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Blisters
  • Ingrown toenails
  • Sprains
  • Fractures (broken bones)
  • Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

  • Severe pain
  • Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
  • Signs of infection
  • Continued swelling
  • Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

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Tuesday, 14 January 2025 00:00

Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe causing it to lean toward the other toes. They often look unsightly and can be painful, especially when wearing tight or narrow shoes. Bunions develop over time due to factors like genetics, foot structure, arthritis, or wearing ill-fitting footwear. While some people experience no pain, others may suffer from redness, swelling, and discomfort, particularly after prolonged walking or standing. Bunions are more common in women, likely due to shoe choices, and in those with a family history of the condition. Unfortunately, bunions do not go away on their own. They may worsen without intervention. Treatment includes wearing wider shoes, using orthotics, or padding the bunion to reduce friction. For severe cases, surgery may be necessary. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can assess your bunions and recommend the best treatment plan.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Jim Maxka, DPM of South Penn Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

  • Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
  • Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
  • Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
  • Orthotics or foot inserts
  • Surgery

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

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