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September 2019

Thursday, 26 September 2019 00:00

Before you start dancing...

 

Monday, 23 September 2019 00:00

Can Running Injuries Be Prevented?

The sport of running is known to be therapeutic and enjoyable. Research has indicated there are methods which can be implemented which may prevent painful running injuries. When the legs and feet are warmed up, the muscles become flexible, and can be less prone to having an injury occur. This can be accomplished by performing leg swings. It is beneficial to perform this type of stretch by standing on one leg, and swinging the other leg forward and backward. This can be instrumental in developing strength. It is helpful to run with a specific reason in mind, which can vary from running up and down hills to running on smooth pavement. This awareness may prevent running injuries by focusing on what type of steps are being taken. Additionally, it helps the body to run in small increments on a daily basis, and this may help to keep the body limber. If you would like additional information about how to prevent running injuries, please schedule a consultation with a podiatrist.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Massimo Pietrantoni, DPM of Rochester Podiatry, LLP. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brighton and Greece of Rochester, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Monday, 23 September 2019 00:00

Possible Causes of Cracked Heels

Patients who have severely dry skin on the heels of the feet are prone to a condition that is referred to as cracked heels. It can happen for a variety of reasons, including standing for extended periods of time throughout the day, and wearing shoes that have an open back. Additionally, existing medical conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and thyroid disorders may play a significant role in the formation of cracked heels. Research has indicated the chances of developing this condition may increase for patients who are obese. Partial relief may be found when the feet are washed and dried thoroughly followed by applying a good moisturizer on and around the affected area. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment options.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Massimo Pietrantoni, DPM from Rochester Podiatry, LLP. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

  • Invest in a good foot cream
  • Try Using Petroleum Jelly
  • Ease up on Soaps
  • Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

  • Moisturize After Showering
  • Skip a Shower
  • Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
  • Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brighton and Greece of Rochester, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Tuesday, 17 September 2019 00:00

Possible Ways To Prevent Falling

Research has indicated that approximately one third of seniors in America will fall during the night. This can cause many injuries to occur, that may include painful foot ailments. There are methods that can be implemented which can help to reduce the risk of falling. These can consist of improving the lighting in the bedroom and hallways, removing worn carpeting, and installing grab bars in the shower and toilet areas. Many seniors find it beneficial to live in a home that has one level, and this can aid in preventing hazardous falls that may be caused by stairs. Additionally, it is helpful to incorporate a gentle exercise program into your daily routine. This can result in strengthening muscles which may also help to prevent falling. Please speak with a podiatrist if you would like more information on how falling may affect the feet. 

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 Massimo Pietrantoni, DPM from Rochester Podiatry, LLP. 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 one of our offices located in Brighton and Greece of Rochester, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Tuesday, 10 September 2019 00:00

Older Patients and Proper Foot Care

Many elderly patients may experience difficulty in taking care of their feet. They may find it challenging to bend down to properly trim their toenails, which could cause ingrown toenails to develop. Elderly people may find it helpful to use the services of caregivers to monitor the condition of their feet. They can help the patient to look for existing cuts, scrapes or bruises that may be on the bottom of the feet. This is beneficial if the patient is diabetic, and may be crucial in possibly preventing foot ulcers. The feet may feel better when they are soaked in warm water, followed by applying a moisturizer on them. Additionally, the feet can become stronger when gentle stretching techniques are performed. If you would like additional information about the importance of elderly foot care, it is suggested to seek the counsel of a podiatrist.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Massimo Pietrantoni, DPM from Rochester Podiatry, LLP. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

  • Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
  • Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
  • Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
  • Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
  • Shoes that don’t fit properly
  • Pressure sores
  • Loss of circulation in legs & feet
  • Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brighton and Greece of Rochester, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Monday, 02 September 2019 00:00

Possible Causes of Athlete’s Foot

The medical term for athlete’s foot is known as tinea pedis. It is a condition that affects the feet, and is caused by a fungus. Many patients notice symptoms of this condition between the toes and on the bottom of the feet, which often include severe itchiness and a burning sensation. The fungus of this contagious ailment lives and thrives in warm and moist environments. These can include public swimming pools, shower room floors, and surrounding areas. To avoid getting this uncomfortable condition, it is important to wear appropriate shoes while in these areas. Additionally, it is beneficial to wear clean shoes and socks, and it will also help to keep the toenails trimmed. Relief may be found while using an antifungal spray on the affected areas. For more severe cases, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can offer proper treatment options, which may include medication.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Massimo Pietrantoni, DPM from Rochester Podiatry, LLP. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

  • Thoroughly washing and drying feet
  • Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
  • Using shower shoes in public showers
  • Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
  • Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

  • Redness
  • Burning
  • Itching
  • Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brighton and Greece of Rochester, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

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