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3885 S. Decatur Blvd Suite #1080
Las Vegas, NV 89103

December 2023

In the diverse landscape of workplaces, the importance of choosing the right shoes transcends mere fashion, it is a vital aspect of ensuring safety and protection. Different work environments demand varying levels of resilience from your footwear. Construction sites, for instance, call for sturdy, steel-toed boots to shield against potential impacts, while slip-resistant shoes are essential in restaurant kitchens to prevent accidents on slippery surfaces. For office settings, where comfort is often paramount, choosing supportive yet stylish shoes can enhance overall well-being. Understanding the specific hazards and demands of the work environment is key to selecting the appropriate footwear. Consider factors like arch support, toe protection, and sole grip to match the nature of the job. By investing in the right pair of shoes, individuals not only prioritize their safety but also pave the way for a more comfortable and productive work experience. If you would like more information about specific shoes to purchase for your work environment, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Loren Hansen, DPM from Ankle & Foot Medical Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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

Read more about How to Handle a Long Work Day on Your Feet
Tuesday, 19 December 2023 00:00

Ways Psoriasis Affects the Feet

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition known for its distinctive red, scaly patches that commonly appear on various parts of the body. Unfortunately, psoriasis can also affect the feet, causing discomfort and complications. When psoriasis targets the feet, it can lead to symptoms such as redness, scaling, itching, and pain. The skin on the soles, toenails, and even between the toes can be affected. Psoriatic lesions on the feet can make walking and wearing shoes painful, significantly impacting one's quality of life. Moreover, psoriasis-related nail changes can lead to pitting, thickening, or even detachment of the toenails. Proper foot care and management strategies, such as topical treatments and lifestyle adjustments, can help alleviate the symptoms and improve the overall health of your feet. If you suspect psoriasis is affecting your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Loren Hansen, DPM from Ankle & Foot Medical Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

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

Read more about Systemic Diseases of the Foot
Tuesday, 12 December 2023 00:00

Treatment Options for Claw Toe

Claw toe, a foot deformity characterized by a claw-like appearance of the toes, demands prompt attention to alleviate discomfort and prevent worsening. Non-surgical interventions are often the initial line of defense, focusing on enhancing toe flexibility and optimizing foot mechanics. Taping or splinting to maintain toes in a more natural position, can reduce the progression of a claw toe. Gentle exercises also promote joint mobility and encourage toes to assume a healthier alignment. Activities like picking up small items with your toes can be beneficial. In severe cases, surgical options become a consideration. Joint fusion or tendon and bone operations may be recommended to address the root cause and provide lasting relief. Early intervention significantly improves the prognosis for individuals grappling with claw toe deformity. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to managing claw toes. Early intervention significantly improves the prognosis for individuals with claw toe deformity.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Loren Hansen, DPM of Ankle & Foot Medical Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Trauma
  • Sports injury
  • Wearing shoes that are too tight
  • Arthritis
  • Gout
  • Corns and calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Blisters
  • Ingrown toenails
  • Sprains
  • Fractures (broken bones)
  • Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

  • Severe pain
  • Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
  • Signs of infection
  • Continued swelling
  • Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

Read more about Toe Pain
Tuesday, 05 December 2023 00:00

Diagnosis of Foot Fractures

Foot fractures are a relatively frequent occurrence, particularly involving the metatarsals and toes. Patients typically show up with a range of signs and symptoms, most commonly pain and difficulty walking. To make a diagnosis, X-rays are typically necessary, although emerging evidence suggests that ultrasonography may be just as reliable. The course of action depends on the fracture's location and its impact on balance and weight-bearing ability. In the case of metatarsal shaft fractures, the initial treatment involves a posterior splint and avoiding activities that involve putting weight on the foot. Subsequent treatment entails using a short leg walking cast or boot for a period of four to six weeks. Other fractures are treated differently. If you feel you have broken your foot, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible for a proper diagnosis and treatment that is appropriate for you.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Loren Hansen, DPM from Ankle & Foot Medical Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

  • Bruising
  • Pain
  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Blue in color
  • Numbness
  • Cold
  • Misshapen
  • Cuts
  • Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

Read more about Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment for a Broken Foot
Sunday, 03 December 2023 00:00

Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!

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