Items filtered by date: September 2022

Research has shown the foot condition that is known as flat feet affects approximately one quarter of people worldwide. The medical term for this ailment is referred to as pes planus, and it is noticeable as the foot lies flat on the floor while standing. Many people are affected by this foot condition, and it may cause difficulty in walking. Additionally, there are people who can accomplish daily activities without having pain, and it does not affect their lives. The majority of babies are born with flat feet, and the arch generally develops by the teenage years. Adults who continue to have flat feet may consider having reconstruction surgery performed, and this can be effective in strengthening the arch. The ligaments, tendons and bone structure may be negatively affected in people who have flat feet, and surgery may be successful in repairing this part of the foot. If you have this foot condition, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can guide you toward options that can provide relief. 

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Edward S. Pozarny DPM of Arlington Podiatry Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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 and ankle needs.

An ankle fracture means that one or more of the medial, lateral, or posterior malleolus (the bony projections on either side of the ankle) is broken. Dislocation of the ankle joint can result from an ankle fracture. Usually, when a patient breaks an ankle, they will experience pain, swelling, and an inability to bear weight on the affected foot. There may be a pop when the ankle breaks, and it may appear deformed. Those with osteoporosis, a history of frequent falls, or a compromised vascular system are more at risk for ankle fractures, as are those who have frequently participated in sports. An X-ray, CT scan, or MRI will confirm a broken ankle diagnosis. If you think you have broken your ankle, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can recommend the best treatment options for you.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, 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. 

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 Arlington, VA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Hammertoe is a specific kind of foot affliction that primarily impacts the joint of the second, third, or fourth toe. When an imbalance in one of these joints occurs, the toe has a tendency to essentially bend upwards at the joint. As a result, the toe resembles a hammer. Age and gender havs a particularly interesting relationship with this foot condition. Specifically, the incidence of hammertoe is increased in older individuals and women. One possible explanation for this correlation is that women tend to wear shoes that force the toes into awkward contortions, such as high heels. When a toe is forced into tight positions in the toe box against the other toes, hammertoe can develop. Individuals who suffer from hammertoe will tend to experience pain where the hammertoe is located. Additionally, it may become difficult for the individual to walk normally. Swelling is also common for patients living with a hammertoe. If you are a woman or are an older individual that is concerned about developing hammertoe, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today. Your podiatrist can help you try to prevent and treat your hammertoe.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Edward S. Pozarny DPM from Arlington Podiatry Center. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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

Many women enjoy high heels despite the pain that can come from frequently wearing them. There may be many pairs of high heels in their closets, but the pain may cause unwanted foot conditions. Blisters are a common ailment to get while wearing high heels, and they can be caused by a narrow space in the toe area. The toes may rub together, and a painful blister may form. When patients choose to wear high heels, it is suggested that they fit properly, as this can help to avoid sliding. This is the term that is used when the shoes are too big, and the toes grip the front of the shoe, causing toe strain. This can lead to an uneven distribution of weight, and the ball of the foot may be negatively affected. Research has shown that the ankle, joints, and surrounding tendons may become strained and may lead to incurring a stress fracture or tendonitis. If you would like more information about the dangers to the feet of wearing high heels, please consult with a podiatrist.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, 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.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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 and ankle needs.