Why You Should See a Podiatrist

There are many different foot problems, and a podiatrist is the medical expert who can help. For example, corns, bunions, and toenail issues can cause pain and discomfort, affecting your daily life. Corns are thickened areas of skin caused by pressure or friction, often from wearing tight shoes. They may look like hard, raised bumps, and can feel sore or tender. Bunions are bony bumps at the base of the big toe, often caused by genetics, arthritis, or poor footwear. They can lead to swelling, pain, and difficulty walking. Toenail problems like fungal infections or ingrown nails may appear discolored, thickened, or painful. A podiatrist can examine your feet, perform diagnostic tests, and offer treatments such as orthotics, minor surgical procedures, or medications to relieve pain and correct the problem. Ignoring these issues can lead to further complications, so early care is vital. If you have foot pain or any of the above conditions,  it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from Highpoint Foot & Ankle Center. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

  • Physical therapy
  • Drugs
  • Orthotic inserts or soles
  • Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Chalfont, Doylestown, and Hatboro, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about What is a Podiatrist?

Long-Distance Running Shoes for Optimal Foot Health

Selecting the proper long-distance running shoes is essential for performance, comfort, and injury prevention. Look for shoes that offer ample cushioning to absorb impact and reduce strain on joints during repetitive motion. Proper support is also important, especially for those with flat feet or high arches, to maintain alignment and reduce fatigue. Road running shoes should provide a durable, lightweight design with breathable materials and a snug, stable fit. A podiatrist can assess your foot structure, gait, and training habits to recommend the best shoe type or prescribe custom orthotics. If you have endured a foot injury from wearing the wrong type of running shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot injuries. This type of doctor can also guide you on how to purchase shoes for your desired running style.

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Highpoint Foot & Ankle Center. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

  • Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
  • There should be little to no slipping at the heel
  • Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
  • Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
  • Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Chalfont, Doylestown, and Hatboro, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Walking Shoes vs. Running Shoes

Causes and Podiatric Care for Blisters on the Feet

Foot blisters are small fluid-filled sacs that develop on the skin, often due to friction from shoes, excessive moisture, or heat. Common causes include wearing new or ill-fitting footwear, prolonged walking or running, and burns. Athletes often get blisters from repetitive friction on their skin from shoes rubbing against the feet. Blisters can feel painful, tender, or irritated, especially when pressure is applied. Blisters may appear as clear, raised bumps, but if they become red, cloudy, or filled with pus, infection may be present. Symptoms like multiple blisters, spreading redness, warmth, or fever can signal a more serious condition that needs professional care. A podiatrist can safely drain large or painful blisters, treat any infection with antibiotics, and provide advice on blister prevention. They may also recommend protective padding or custom orthotics to reduce pressure and friction. If you have a bothersome foot blister, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Highpoint Foot & Ankle Center. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Chalfont, Doylestown, and Hatboro, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Blisters on the Feet

Recovering From an Achilles Tendon Tear

An Achilles tendon tear happens when the strong band that connects the calf muscles to the heel breaks. This often occurs during sports or sudden movements and may feel like a sharp snap or pop in the back of the ankle. Walking becomes difficult, and pushing off the foot may feel nearly impossible. Most people with this injury begin with non-surgical treatment, such as a boot or cast that holds the foot in place while the tendon heals. However, some notice a firm swelling in the same spot that does not go away over time. This may be a sign of an organized hematoma, which is a collection of old blood trapped under the skin. To understand what is going on, podiatrists often use an MRI scan, which gives a clear view of the tendon and surrounding tissues. If needed, a minimally invasive procedure called arthroscopic debridement to clean the area can be performed. This usually leads to good results. If you notice lingering swelling after an Achilles injury, a visit to a podiatrist is suggested.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Highpoint Foot & Ankle Center. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

  • Inflammation
  • Dull to severe pain
  • Increased blood flow to the tendon
  • Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

  • Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
  • Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

  • Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
  • Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Chalfont, Doylestown, and Hatboro, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about What are Achilles Tendon Injuries
scroll to top