For Every Problem, the Solution Is Already in Place
Posted by drchrismilkie in Positive Thinking on February 5, 2011
For every problem that comes into your life, the solution already exists… the trick is in recognizing it.
I believe for most of us life is magical. Okay, actually I believe for ALL of us life is magical. But for many, we stand in the way of the magic, we block it, we resist it. I believe that there is an orchestrated dance as we go through our lives creating a perfect symphony. We just don’t have the trained ear to hear how perfectly all the other instruments are in tune and in rhythm with us.
All of this stems from our attitude about what happens. Let me give some examples. Ever notice that right when you finally get $800 saved up, your car’s transmission needs an $800 repair? So which is the reality? Is it true that whenever you finally get some money saved up, something bad happens to make you broke again? Or is it true that whenever a problem shows up, the solution is already magically in place?
Here’s another example. Ever notice that a romance breaks up in perfect timing for you to meet a spectacular new person? Ever notice that you lose a job in perfect timing for a spectacular new career? Ever notice that the “wrong turn” on a vacation sometimes brings the most spectacular experience of the trip? Personally, with me it is always an amazing panoramic view that I didn’t know existed.
Here’s the core of this idea. Each problem in our life leads us to an amazing adventure of growth and expansion. This growing is something we are all craving, at all times… to become more! Each challenge is an opportunity.
So the next time a problem or challenge arrives, embrace it, and look around, the solution and the opportunity to grow are already in place. You just have to find it. Enjoy the magic in it all.
I believe that for ALL of us life is magical. You can too. Simply choose to believe it.
Guest Article by Dr. Rick Schaefer, author of Extreme Thought Makeover™… 37 Days to Maximum Life! If you are interested in more from Dr. Rick, visit http://www.rickschaefermd.com and sign up for his daily positive morning message.
Leg or Foot Pain May Indicate Blocked Arteries
Posted by drchrismilkie in Foot Pain on January 28, 2011
When blood vessels outside the heart become narrowed or blocked, the condition is called Peripheral Vascular Disease, or PVD. This disease is usually caused by a buildup of cholesterol and plaque in the peripheral arteries.
People at greater risk of PVD include smokers, those with diabetes and people with high cholesterol, high blood pressure and a family history of vascular disease. Aging is another common risk factor.
The main symptom is leg pain when walking. This pain typically subsides at rest. The pain is worse when climbing stairs or walking at a faster pace. Some people experience pain at night while in bed. A symptom of severe PVD is that the pain persists even at rest, or the presence of a leg or foot cut or wound that won’t heal.
The most severe risk of PVD is loss of a limb. Unfortunately, this was the case for a young patient of mine. Another serious risk is an infection or a sore that won’t heal. Eventually this can result in a bone infection that can lead to an amputation.
PVD can be diagnosed by examining the feet and legs. There are specific signs such as a weak pulse in the ankle or foot that can indicate the disease. Other non-invasive diagnostic tests are also available to help diagnose the condition.
If PVD is considered treatable, a number of procedures may be considered. For some patients medication and exercise may be the only therapy needed. Another treatment option is a stent to prop open a blocked artery. The last option is a surgical procedure to replace the blocked artery.
To reduce the risk of PVD, people should not smoke, and should control cholesterol, blood pressure and weight. Regular exercise is a must to help small arteries enlarge, which provides an alternate pathway for blood to flow.
If you are concerned that you may have Peripheral Arterial Disease, I encourage you to come in for a PVD screening. Early detection is the key to handling this potentially serious disease. As I stated earlier, the younger population can be affected as well as the aging.
Please join me in welcoming Dr. Kokat!
Posted by drchrismilkie in General on January 5, 2011
I am excited to announce the addition Dr. Michael Kokat to my practice. Dr. Kokat has decided to join my growing Podiatry practice after working for Milwaukee Orthopedic Specialists for a few years. He has experience diagnosing and treating all foot and ankle conditions. He has a particular interest in helping Diabetic patients from the risk of amputations. Besides his excellent skills, Dr. Kokat also brings a friendly demeanor and compassion to the practice. Outside of Podiatry Dr. Kokat enjoys the outdoors and spending as much free time as possible with his 6 year old son Luke.
Congratulations to our iPad Winner
Posted by drchrismilkie in Events & Charity on December 29, 2010
Congratulations to the winner of our 4th quarter referral contest: Linda Holzbauer. Linda’s name was randomly drawn by a patient in our office on Thursday. Congratulations Linda, enjoy your new toy! And a huge thank you to all the patients who entered the contest by referring a friend or family member to see me. It means more to me than you know.
Pain in the Ball of the Foot
Posted by drchrismilkie in Foot Pain on December 22, 2010
One of the most common locations of foot pain is the ball. By the ball, I am referring to the entire pad before each toe, not just under the big toe. This area is subjected to tremendous pressure every step we take. It’s a wonder it holds up so well in spite of the abuse it takes.
Outside of an injury, the two most common conditions that affect the ball of the foot are a pinched nerve and an inflamed joint. The most common location of a pinched nerve is between the 3rd and 4th toes. The symptoms consist of aching, sharpness, burning or numbness. There are several causes of a pinched nerve including narrow shoes.
An inflamed joint on the ball of the foot is extremely common. Any joint can be affected, but the one next to the big toe is overwhelmingly the most common. Many people describe this pain as a feeling of something bunched up like their sock. A person with flat feet is most prone to this condition. Flat feet mechanically forces more weight on this joint.
Some of the other common causes of pain in the ball of the foot are wearing shoes with little cushion, extremely high arches, standing on concrete all day and wearing away of the protective foot pad. The symptoms are generally all similar including aching, throbbing, burning, sharpness and numbness.
Most conditions in the ball of the foot can be successfully treated in the office. Like many other foot problems, if left untreated, the body will compensate leading to pain elsewhere. If you experience pain in the ball of your foot, start by wearing quality, supportive shoes consistently. If the pain persists, then call my office and tell Kara you need to see me.