Gabriel Lazar, DPM
Foot and Ankle Specialist
January 2023
Tuesday, 10 January 2023 00:00
Several Types of Arthritis Can Affect the Feet
Arthritis can affect numerous joints that are found in the feet and ankles. This may be a result of inherited tendencies, gradual weight gain, or previous injuries that have occurred. Research has shown there are three common categories of arthritis, consisting of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid, and psoriatic arthritis. The gradual wearing of the joints in the ankles can lead to osteoarthritis, and the joint that is most affected connects the big toe to the foot. Rheumatoid arthritis is considered to be an autoimmune disorder, and it can affect the same joints in each foot. Swollen toes may be an indication of psoriatic arthritis, which is caused by inflamed tendons. There are several methods that can provide relief, and if you are afflicted with arthritis in the feet, please consult with a podiatrist. This type of doctor is qualified in providing an effective diagnosis and determining what the best course of treatment is for you.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Gabriel Lazar from Advanced Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain. The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it. Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.
Symptoms
- Swelling
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Decreased Range of Motion
Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.
Risk Factors
- Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
- Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
- Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
- Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
- Age – Risk increases with age
- Gender –Most types are more common in women
- Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary
If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in El Paso, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Monday, 09 January 2023 00:00
It's Time for Beautiful Feet
You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.
Tuesday, 03 January 2023 00:00
Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Many foot diseases and conditions become more serious and common among the elderly. Some of these conditions include diabetic ulcers, ingrown toenails, fungus, arthritis, corns, and calluses. Unfortunately, it may be harder for older adults to take care of their own feet, but there are some precautions they can take in order to avoid any serious conditions.
Dry, cracked heels tend to be a common problem for older people. In order to avoid this, you should always keep your feet clean and well moisturized. Special feet moisturizers should be used as average lotions might not provide enough moisture for dry and cracked heels. Daily foot inspections are crucial for the elderly to detect any irregularities in their earliest stages. During the aging process, blood circulation tends to slow down causing older people to not feel their feet as well as they used to. This often results in foot problems going unnoticed.
Fungal and bacterial conditions thrive on elderly feet because older adults are less likely to keep their feet clean and dry; this makes it easier for bacteria to take hold in their dry, cracked skin. Elderly people should be sure to thoroughly dry their feet, especially in between the toes, after bathing. This will help them avoid developing any fungal infections. Additionally, clean cotton socks should be worn after the feet are dried.
Cutting toenails straight across will help prevent ingrown toenails. When toenails are cut too lose, the nail might break through the skin resulting in an ingrown nail. Clippers should be used to cut the nails in order to make the cut even.
Elderly people who have diabetes are at risk of developing serious foot problems that may lead to amputation. Ulcers that are left untreated can lead to gangrene. Dry and cracked feet, fungus, and untended cuts under the nails may also lead to infections.
Fortunately, Medicare covers many different types of services for foot care. Elderly people with any of these foot conditions should seek the help of a podiatrist and perform daily foot inspections in order to ensure that they have healthy feet.
Tuesday, 03 January 2023 00:00
Listening to the Feet
Senior citizens are particularly at risk of experiencing complications in their foot health. This is due to several reasons, most of which involve the diminishing health and resilience of the feet among senior citizens. One of the most important parts of caring for the feet as a senior includes choosing to listen to the feet when they are trying to tell you that something is wrong. Often, if the feet are feeling painful, it is always the more cautious option to not ignore signs of pain. If you are a senior citizen, it can be important to remind yourself that having painful feet or sore feet is not an inevitable part of growing older. If you think that your feet are trying to tell you that something is not right, take this seriously and do not ignore any signs. If you are experiencing foot pain as a senior citizen, contact a podiatrist today. By meeting with a podiatrist, you can help draw up a plan to address any pain in the feet.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Gabriel Lazar from Advanced Foot Care. 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 our office located in El Paso, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 02 January 2023 00:00
Heel Pain Can Be Treated!
Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
