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:
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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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
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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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:
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:
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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PRP stands for platelet-rich plasma. Now you may be thinking, what is platelet-rich plasma? Platelets are blood cells and they have several roles to play in the human body. For one, platelets cause blood clots, and they are also necessary for growth healing functions. Plasma is the liquid portion of blood. PRP therapy uses injections of a concentration of a patient’s own platelets to speed up the healing of injured ligaments, tendons, muscles and joints. This way, PRP injections only use your own healing system to improve musculoskeletal problems. Costs for PRP treatments are reported to run between $500 and $2,000. If you have pain in your Achilles tendon, or in other areas, PRP injections could potentially benefit you. Please consult with your local podiatrist for more information.
If you are suffering from a foot condition, contact Massimo Pietrantoni, DPM of Rochester Podiatry, LLP. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
What Is PRP?
Platelet Rich Plasma, or PRP, is blood taken from a patient and spun in a centrifuge, concentrating the amount of platelets. The plasma is then re-injected into the site of injury or damage, assisting the body in repairing damage to muscles, tendons, ligaments, and tissue. PRP helps the body speed up its healing process.
Uses of PRP
Injuries affecting the foot sometimes don’t heal properly because of poor blood circulation. The healing time slows down, and recovery time is affected by poor blood supply. PRP injections will speed up recovery and resolve this issue.
Treatment
PRP is the first regenerative treatment for damaged muscles, tendons, and ligaments. No surgery needed. It is only applied with an insertion of a needle.
Ultrasound – An ultrasound is needed for proper placement of the platelets.
Injection – When the first injection is received, the patient will return to the doctor in about 2 to 3 weeks and monitor the recovery process.
Recovery time – Some people respond to treatments differently. Therefore, depending on your condition, the doctor will make any remaining decisions on how many more injections are needed, or if any additional ones are even required.
Benefits
One may be able to avoid major surgery, and recovery time will be cut down. PRP injections also avoid creating scar tissue and damage to the area. Risks are also very low using PRP as a treatment. There is no risk of rejection, contracting a disease from using another person’s blood, or infection.
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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