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Northampton (610) 261-1001


Easton (610) 253-4821

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June 2019

Wednesday, 26 June 2019 00:00

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

The purpose of the peripheral nerves is to send messages to the nerves in the body, which affect sensation. Peripheral neuropathy can occur if there are complications with this group of nerves. The symptoms that are often associated with this condition can include tingling in the feet and hands, numbness, and muscle weakness. There may be existing medical conditions that can lead to peripheral neuropathy, which can include diabetes. Mild relief can be found if certain prescription medications are taken, and these may be helpful in reducing any burning and shooting pains that exist. If you have a tingling sensation in your feet, it is suggested to consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can guide you toward the correct treatment.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Dr. Edward D. Hutson from Easton, PA. . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

  • Numbness
  • Sensation loss
  • Prickling and tingling sensations
  • Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
  • Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

Read more about Neuropathy

Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

Monday, 17 June 2019 00:00

How Are Orthotics Made?

Many patients who experience a variety of foot conditions find it beneficial to wear custom-made orthotics. These types of insoles can provide support, and may be helpful in correcting abnormal walking styles. They are constructed after an impression of the foot is taken using a 3-D laser scan, or a plastic mold. The patient will try them on, and adjustments can be made to produce maximum results. There are several foot conditions that can improve from wearing orthotics, which may include plantar fasciitis, bunions, and rheumatoid arthritis. If you would like additional information about the advantages of wearing orthotics, it is suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Dr. Edward D. Hutson from Easton, PA. . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Easton, and Northampton, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Ankle Foot Orthotics for Athletes
Wednesday, 12 June 2019 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.

Monday, 10 June 2019 00:00

Where Is the Plantar Fascia Located?

The tissue that is located on the bottom of the foot is referred to as the plantar fascia. It connects the toes to the heel bone, and establishes the arch in the foot. If this band of tissue becomes inflamed, the medical condition known as plantar fasciitis may develop. This can be a result of wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or it may happen if the foot is overused, or not stretched properly. Additionally, if patients run frequently on uneven surfaces, or if there is a sudden weight gain, the chances of developing this condition may increase. The symptoms that are associated with plantar fasciitis often include foot pain when taking the first steps after waking up, and discomfort while participating in running and jumping activities. If you feel you have developed this condition, it is strongly advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly treat plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Edward D. Hutson from Easton, PA. . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

  • Excessive running
  • Having high arches in your feet
  • Other foot issues such as flat feet
  • Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
  • Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

  • Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

 

Read more about Plantar Fasciitis
Wednesday, 05 June 2019 00:00

Before you start dancing...

 

Monday, 03 June 2019 00:00

Stretching the Toe Flexors

The muscles that flex the toes are referred to as foot flexors. When this part of the foot is properly stretched, conditions that include Achilles tendinitis and shin splints may be prevented. To stretch the muscles of the big toe, hold your heel with one hand while gripping your big toe with the other hand. Gently pull the big toe back toward the ankle, and hold for several seconds. Additionally, if you want to stretch the toe flexors, there is a simple and effective stretch that can accomplish this. While in a seated position, place a rolled towel under your toes and hold upwards with both hands. Slowly pull the towel up so a gentle stretch is felt in the toes. For additional information about how to stretch the feet, please consult with a podiatrist who can properly guide you.

Why Stretching Is Important for Your Feet

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Dr. Edward D. Hutson from Easton, PA. . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first to determine if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

  • Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
  • Similar to the previous exercise, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
  • Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
  • Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising to ice and rest the foot. It is advised that you then see a podiatrist for help.

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

Read more about Stretching Your Feet
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