Author: Newsletter Editor

Gait Cycle

Newsletter Editor Newsletters

Welcome Back!

Hey everybody!
Welcome back to this week's discussion on foot facts -what you need to know.

It's been a while, but I'll get you up to speed on the 411!

Most of us do it everyday. Babies do it as well as well as adults late into their life. So little thought is put into this process that it can sometimes be taken for granted. It is so important in our lives that without it, one would have to change many aspects. What is this common complex function I'm talking about? The art of walking-the Gait Cycle.

Read more

Morton’s Neuroma

Newsletter Editor Newsletters ,

Hello again from Amelia White

Welcome back to Foot Facts. The Universal Portal to the wide world of feet.

This week's topic is Neuroma, Morton's Neuroma. What is Neuroma? I'll tell you.

A neuroma is a benign tumor of a nerve. Morton's neuroma is not actually a tumor, but it is a thickening of the surrounding tissue of the nerve that leads to the toes. The thickening occurs as the nerve passes under the ligament that connects the metatarsals (toe bones) in the forefoot. Morton's neuroma typically develops between the third and fourth toes, usually due to irritation, trauma or excessive pressure. The risk for Morton's Neuroma is eight to ten times greater in women than in men.

Read more

Diabetic Foot Infections

Newsletter Editor Newsletters

Any time a break in the skin occurs, bacteria, fungi, and other pathogens can enter and cause an infection. The foot is an especially rich source of bacteria and invading microorganisms, because your shoes provide them a perfect environment in which to live. Therefore, any time you notice a lesion, ulcer, cut, or sore on your feet, you need to take prompt action to prevent infection. A foot ulcer is the most likely source of infection in the foot. When an ulcer becomes infected, microorganisms can eat through layers of skin and bone tissue to create a deep hole. When the infection spreads or becomes too deep, amputation may be needed.

Symptoms

Symptoms of an infected ulcer include fever, redness, swelling, warmth around the wound, and any sort of drainage or oozing of pus-like material. There aren't as many symptoms for infections as there are for other foot problems, but they are still as serious.

Read more

Pain Relief

Newsletter Editor Newsletters

Happy Easter!

This is the time of year for new suits, brimmed hats, and new shoes, but be warned -with new shoes can bring new pain. To deal with this pain,most people go straight to the medicine cabinet and grab a pain reliever. In this article we will educate you on pain relievers. Do we really know howpain relievers work? What's the difference between NSAIDs and Acetominaphen? Can everyone take pain relievers? When should I not take pain relievers? Get ready for some fascinating facts.

Read more

Custom Ankle Braces

Newsletter Editor Newsletters , , , , ,

Greetings everyone.

Tube-Cast Sock

We are continuing our highlight on custom ankle braces in this newsletter. We previously discussed various reasons someone would need custom braces; dropfoot, ankle arthritis, Charcot foot, etc (see previous edition). If it sounds like you can benefit from custom ankle bracing like hundreds of people already are, then here is what you can do. Schedule an appointment for a quick and simple casting process to place your order. The casting process is a short one that is as simple as putting on a sock, which is also exactly how it is performed.

There are various different styles to fit everyone and their different lifestyles. Firm, flexible, sporty, non-weighted, and standard are some just to name a few. No matter which Ankle Foot Orthotic (AFO) brace works best for you, the bottom line is that you are receiving support that will make mobility an easier task. Restricted medial collapse, increased mobility and range of motion, all while reducing pain make custom braces a favorite among patients.

Upon receipt your health care provider will instruct you in proper use of you custom brace to maximize effectiveness. Proper wear and care, as well as good hygiene will help you help the brace work as efficiently as intended.

One frequently asked question is: Can I afford to get custom ankle braces? Well there is good news. In most cases, custom braces are covered through Medicare and other insurance providers. As always, check with your insurance provider for the coverage details of your specific plan to avoid confusion and be clear about your coverage.

Foot Care Aware

Newsletter Editor Newsletters ,

In recognition of American Diabetes Month, during the months of November and December, the American Diabetes Association, the Illinois Department of Human Services Diabetes Control Program and the Illinois Podiatric Medical Association will sponsor the "Foot Care Aware" program. The "Foot Care Aware" program is a free foot-screening program for people with diabetes to help diagnose nerve damage and reduce their risk of lower extremity amputations.

Read more

Annual Diabetes Campaign

Newsletter Editor Newsletters

The Illinois Podiatric Medical Association Kicks Off Annual Diabetes Campaign

Chicago, IL. - This November and December, the lllinois Podiatric Medical Association, the American Diabetes Association, and the lllinois Department of Human Services Diabetes Control Program will once again launch its "Foot Care Aware" program. The "Foot Care Aware" program is a free foot-screening program for people with diabetes to help diagnose nerve damage and reduce their risk of lower extremity amputations.

Read more

Congenital Dislocated Hip

Newsletter Editor Newsletters

Congenital dislocated hip is an abnormality that is seen at birth. The role that podiatrists play in pediatrics is remarkable. With the first sign of stance or walking abnormality, a parent's concern will be great enough to rush their child off to the doctor. We will learn about the many tools and techniques, which cater to the pediatric patient, that allow a congenital dislocated hip to be diagnosed and treated.

Read more