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Dr. Kennan T. Runte, DPM, FACFAS
Dr. Panah Nabili, DPM

(530) 477-7200

152 Catherine Lane, Suite F
Grass Valley, CA 95945

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July 2024

Tuesday, 30 July 2024 00:00

Common Foot Injuries Among Skaters

Skaters often encounter various foot injuries due to the rigorous demands placed on their feet. Wearing tight-fitting boots can lead to issues like lace bite, where the pressure from laces causes pain and inflammation across the top of the foot. Blisters are another common problem, caused by friction and repetitive motion in ill-fitting skates. Achilles tendon injuries are prevalent due to the intense strain during jumps and spins, resulting in pain and stiffness in the back of the ankle. Additionally, skaters may develop malleolar bursitis, inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs around the ankle bones, from constant rubbing against skate boots. Understanding these injuries is essential for skaters to adjust their equipment and practice proper stretching and strengthening exercises. If you enjoy skating and have incurred a foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can treat any foot condition, and guide you on additional injury prevention techniques.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foothill Podiatry Clinic. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Read more about Foot Pain
Tuesday, 23 July 2024 00:00

Recovering From Ankle Arthroscopy

Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat various ankle joint conditions, such as cartilage damage or ankle impingement. Small incisions allow an arthroscope to visualize the joint and perform repairs, reducing recovery time compared to traditional surgery. Recovery from ankle arthroscopy typically involves some rest to minimize swelling. Patients may resume driving within a few weeks and return to work or sports within four to eight weeks, depending on individual progress and the nature of activities. For personalized guidance on post-operative care and to ensure optimal recovery, consulting a podiatrist is a wise idea. This type of doctor provides specialized expertise in foot and ankle health, ensuring thorough rehabilitation and long-term joint function. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for tailored advice and support throughout your ankle arthroscopy recovery journey.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foothill Podiatry Clinic. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

  • Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
  • Ankle sprains
  • Broken ankles
  • Achilles tendonitis
  • Achilles tendon rupture
  • Stress fractures
  • Bursitis
  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome
  • Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

 

Read more about Various Causes of Ankle Pain
Tuesday, 16 July 2024 00:00

High Heels and Women’s Foot Problems

High heels are a staple in many women's wardrobes, with about 40 percent wearing them daily. However, the fashionable choice often comes with a painful price. Three quarters of women wearing high heels experience foot pain regularly. The height of the heel and the narrowness of the toe box are the main culprits. High heels often force toes into unnatural positions, that may lead to bunions, which are bumps along the inside of the big toe, and hammertoes, where toes become bent at the middle joint. Over time, these conditions can worsen, causing significant discomfort and permanent changes in foot structure. High heels also can contribute to tight calf muscles, which may result in plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. To avoid these issues, select shoes with a proper fit, ensuring that your toes have adequate space to move. For those already suffering, treatments include toe pads, separators, and in severe cases, surgery. If you are experiencing foot pain from high heels, it may be time to reconsider your footwear choices. For guidance with foot problems, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Foothill Podiatry Clinic. Our doctors 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 Grass Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Effect of High Heels on the Feet
Tuesday, 09 July 2024 00:00

Causes and Treatment of Hammertoe

Hammertoe occurs when the muscles around the toe joints contract, causing the toe to bend downward at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. This can lead to significant discomfort and the formation of calluses and corns due to friction. Often, it affects the second toe, especially in cases where it is longer than the big toe, leading to pressure and trauma within tight or ill-fitting shoes. High heels and shoes with a narrow toe box can worsen the condition by exerting extra pressure on the toes. Genetic predisposition, bunions, and physical injuries, such as stubbing or nerve damage, can also contribute to the development of hammertoe. Treatment options vary depending on the severity and flexibility of the toe. For mild cases, a podiatrist might suggest wearing shoes with a wider toe box, using adhesive gel pads, or inserting orthotic devices to alleviate pressure. In more severe cases where the toe becomes rigid and painful, surgical intervention may be necessary to restore normal alignment. If you are experiencing pain from a hammertoe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Foothill Podiatry Clinic. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

  • Painful and/or difficult toe movement
  • Swelling
  • Joint stiffness
  • Calluses/Corns
  • Physical deformity

Risk Factors

  • Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
  • Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
  • Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
  • Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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

Read more about What Are Hammertoes?
Wednesday, 03 July 2024 00:00

Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

Tuesday, 02 July 2024 00:00

Ingrown Toenail Management

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. This condition is often seen in the big toe and can result from improper nail trimming, wearing tight footwear, or injury to the toe. When the nail pierces the skin, it creates an entry point for bacteria, leading to redness, pain, and pus formation. Managing an ingrown toenail involves soaking the affected foot in warm water to reduce swelling, gently lifting the nail edge, and applying antibiotic ointment. It is important to avoid cutting the nail too short or rounding the corners, as this can worsen the condition. Complications from untreated ingrown toenails can include severe infections, abscess formation, and in extreme cases, bone infections. To prevent ingrown toenails, trim nails straight across, wear properly fitting shoes, and maintain good foot hygiene. If the condition persists or worsens, it is suggested that you

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Foothill Podiatry Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

  • Improper toenail trimming
  • Genetics
  • Improper shoe fitting
  • Injury from pedicures or nail picking
  • Abnormal gait
  • Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

Read more about Ingrown Toenail Care
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