Items filtered by date: October 2023

Pickleball, a popular sport combining elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, has gained a dedicated following in recent years. However, like any physical activity, it carries the risk of injuries, and one of the most common being plantar fasciitis. This is a painful condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot. The repetitive motions, quick lateral movements, and sudden stops and starts in pickleball can put immense strain on the plantar fascia. Over time, this strain can lead to tiny tears in the tissue, resulting in pain and discomfort, often most pronounced in the heel. Preventing plantar fasciitis in pickleball involves practicing proper warm-up routines, wearing appropriate footwear, and performing regular calf and Achilles tendon stretches. If injury strikes, resting and taking anti-inflammatory medications may help alleviate symptoms. Seeking professional guidance from a podiatrist is crucial for a tailored recovery plan, which may include exercises to strengthen the foot and improve biomechanics. By being proactive about injury prevention and prompt treatment, pickleball enthusiasts can continue enjoying this fun sport while minimizing the risk of plantar fasciitis and other common injuries. If you have heel pain from playing pickleball, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer you additional relief and treatment methods.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Steven Wolfington, DPM of Sheboygan Foot Care, LLC. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Sheboygan, WI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Creating a safe home environment for aging loved ones is a top priority in preventing falls and ensuring their well-being. This can begin by decluttering living spaces, removing obstacles, and securing loose rugs to provide clear pathways. Installing handrails and grab bars in key areas such as bathrooms and staircases can offer support for balance. Adequate lighting throughout the home is essential in preventing tripping and considering motion-activated lights for nighttime navigation can be helpful in fall prevention. Invest in non-slip mats in the bathroom and kitchen, where floors are often slippery. Make everyday items easily accessible, thereby reducing the need to climb or reach for them. Regularly check and maintain staircases, handrails, and flooring for any hazards. Finally, encourage loved ones to wear appropriate footwear with non-slip soles and ensure they receive regular vision and hearing checkups. These simple modifications can significantly reduce the risk of falls, allowing your aging loved ones to maintain their independence and safety at home. If you would like additional information about fall prevention techniques, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist.

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 Steven Wolfington, DPM from Sheboygan Foot Care, LLC. Our podiatrist 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 our office located in Sheboygan, WI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toenail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, can be a persistent and unsightly problem. However, staying vigilant and proactive can help you maintain healthy toenails. One of the primary prevention strategies is maintaining good foot hygiene. Regularly wash your feet with soap and water, ensuring to dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes. Keep your toenails trimmed and cut them straight across to prevent debris buildup. Opt for breathable footwear and moisture-wicking socks to reduce the risk of fungal growth in damp environments. If you visit public pools or locker rooms, it is helpful to wear shower shoes that can minimize contact with potentially contaminated surfaces. Additionally, avoid sharing personal items such as nail clippers or shoes with others. Lastly, manage underlying health conditions, as problems like diabetes or weakened immune systems can increase susceptibility to toenail fungus. If you have toenail fungus, it is strongly suggested that you speak with a podiatrist for effective treatment methods and additional prevention strategies.

For more information about treatment, contact Steven Wolfington, DPM of Sheboygan Foot Care, LLC. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Sheboygan, WI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Gout, a type of arthritis characterized by sudden, severe joint pain and inflammation, has often been associated with men. However, it is important to recognize that women are not immune to this painful condition. While women have a lower overall risk of developing gout compared with men, certain factors can increase their susceptibility. One significant risk factor is age. Women are more likely to develop gout after menopause when estrogen levels drop. Hormonal changes can affect uric acid levels, contributing to the formation of gouty crystals in the joints. Additionally, obesity is a prominent risk factor for both genders. Women with a higher body mass index are more likely to develop gout, as excess weight can lead to elevated uric acid levels. Certain medications, such as diuretics or low-dose aspirin, can also raise the risk of gout in women. Genetics and a family history of gout may contribute to the development of this condition. If a woman has relatives with gout, her chances of developing the condition are higher. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing weight, staying hydrated, and addressing underlying medical conditions can help reduce the risk of gout in women. If you would like more information about women developing gout, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking. 

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Steven Wolfington, DPM from Sheboygan Foot Care, LLC. Our podiatrist will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Sheboygan, WI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy, or DPN, is a common complication of diabetes. It occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the nerves, especially those in the legs and feet. DPN can lead to various symptoms, including numbness, tingling, burning sensations, and pain in the affected areas. It can also cause muscle weakness and affect balance and coordination. Over time, it can have serious complications if not managed properly. Surgery to release nerves in the legs has been shown to help people with this affliction and researchers have found that when people had such surgery, they experienced less pain and had an improved ability to feel touch. Surgery on a specific nerve in the tarsal tunnel area seemed to work best in these cases, and those who underwent such surgery were less likely to get ulcers or need amputation. If you suffer from DPN, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a full evaluation and treatment. Surgery may or may not be right for you, but new developments are constantly being made in this area that can potentially be helpful.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Steven Wolfington, DPM of Sheboygan Foot Care, LLC. Our podiatrist 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 Sheboygan, WI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.