Knowing When It Is Time To Visit The Podiatrist
Posted by articlemanager in Foot Pain on June 11, 2010
Believe it or not, many people do not have a podiatrist whom they see regularly. And while regular visits to the podiatrist’s office may not always be a necessity, there are some certain times when you should know that it is time to go give your local podiatry clinic a visit. Situations such as possible toenail fungus or plantar warts are a good indicator that it is time to seek professional help from an expert in the medical treatment of feet. To help you figure out when it is time to give the podiatrist a visit, here are some of the signs that let you know that it is time to seek professional medical intervention.
- Discolored or Crumbly Toenails – Discolored or crumbly toenails can be a very clean indicator of toenail fungus, and usually require medical intervention. Toenail fungus, contrary to popular belief, cannot be treated at home or with over the counter medications, as they are almost always completely ineffective. Rather, this problem needs medical treatments, such as the innovative and revolutionary laser treatment that is only available at the podiatrist’s office.
- Pain in your Heels – While pain in your heels can sometimes be a sign of an innocent and easily treated problem, it can also be a sign of a bigger and more serious problem, such as bone spur. A podiatrist will be able to determine the source of the problem, and help to work with you to figure out the best course of treatment and the best way to ease your pain. If you are feeling any pain in your heels, it is a good idea to take it easy and rest until you can get in to see a professional podiatrist. Remember, exacerbating these problems can only make them worse.
- Hard Lumps in the Pads of the Feet or Toes – Hard “lumps” in the pads of the feet or twos could be one of two things; they could either be unsightly warts, or painful bunions. Either way, it is crucial that you book an appointment with a podiatrist as soon as possible to ensure that your problem does not worsen. Whatever the condition may be, it can only get worse if left untreated.
If you ever suspect that pain or swelling in your feet may be a result of something serious, it is best to schedule a visit with your podiatrist.
A Technique to Elevate Your Mood in a Moment
Posted by rickschaefermd in General, Positive Thinking on June 9, 2010
Letter of Introduction from Dr. Milkie: I would like to introduce to you a friend of mine Dr. Rick Schaefer. He considers himself a “reformed anesthesiologist.” He now focuses on life coaching, and has published a wonderful program on Positive Thinking called Extreme Thought Makeover, which I have been through. I have invited him to contribute to my eNewsletter. I am proud to share his inspirations with you, and hope you will benefit in some way… I certainly have! – Chris
A Technique to Elevate Your Mood in a Moment Simply by Focusing Your Thoughts
Your mood correlates completely to your focus of thought in every moment. You know this because you can feel it change moment to moment as you go through the day. You win a contest, a date is canceled, your boss shows appreciation, your doctor tells you he found a lump, you leave work at the end of the day, your favorite sports team wins, your favorite player is traded away, etc. All of these examples are simply thoughts that are changing for you, and thus bouncing your feelings, emotions, and mood. I offer you here a simple exercise to elevate your emotional state in a moment. And it is so, so simple
The idea is to focus is on bringing up the feeling and energy of appreciation as strongly as possible. Simply put your attention upon all the things you really appreciate: your favorite daily moments, things, and people. Think about them, write them down, and appreciate all of the stuff that you appreciate.
For me, I love that first taste of my favorite iced coffee drink first thing in the morning. I love seeing the sun rising, blindingly bright as I drive downtown. I love the people I care about. I love that people love me. I love discovering something new that I am drawn to. I love slipping in under a puffy warm and cozy comforter on a cool evening. I love crawling into bed on nights I don’t have to set the alarm, because it really allows me to fall into the present moment, and melt into the bed. I love seeing deer walking through the yard. I love the luxury of taking a ten minute nap. I love my iPhone (oh my gosh, don’t get me started on that!) I love that I am a risk-taker. I love that I am always willing to say “YES!” I love the luxury of having an automobile, and being able to jump in and drive anywhere I want, any time I want, to be with any one I want. I love making a fresh salad from a grocer’s salad bar. Wait, I love the grocer for supplying it for me. Whoa, I love the farmer who grew the lettuce for me. I love the person who invented the hot shower. I love that there is truly an endless supply of things to appreciate in this world.
You get the idea… once you get going it is really hard to stop. This is called a Rampage of Appreciation. Practicing this way of thinking squeezes out any space in your thoughts to be annoyed or irritated with anything in your life. Go ahead, grab a pen and paper and start writing. Keep going and going, and see what you come up with. Most importantly, recognize the feeling that comes with it. The feeling of love and appreciation for your world will become overpowering.
Is the glass half empty or half full? The answer is what you want it to be. It is totally up to you, to your imagination, and to your thoughts. And thoughts become things. So choose wisely, and practice choosing appreciation!
Dr. Rick Schaefer
excerpt from Extreme Thought Makeover
www.rickschaefermd.com
Yellow Thick Toenails May be Caused by Something Other than Fungus
Posted by xmlrpc in Laser Treatments, Toenail fungus on June 5, 2010
Toenails that have become discolored or thick and discolored are often a result of toenail fungus, otherwise known as onychomycosis. According to many studies approximately 20% of people age 40-60 have this condition. The color most often associated with this condition is yellow. Toenail fungus is so common because our feet are exposed to moisture, heat and darkness, all of which are the friend of fungi. The fungi first invade our skin and then assault our nails. So if you ever wondered where you got this condition from just look to your skin. Most people with toenail fungus have dry skin with areas that flake. Your feet don’t have to itch to have athlete’s foot. In fact the more common form of athlete’s foot is the dry, non-itchy kind.
But not all thick discolored nails are toenail fungus. Many of these nails have thickness of the nail bed called hyperkeratinization. It’s a callusing of the nail bed. It usually occurs because of microtrauma to the nail. This microtrauma is usually caused by an underlying abnormality of the bone structure or foot movement. A simple example is a hammertoe deformity. The toe bends downward leading to constant rubbing of the nail against the bottom of the shoe. Most people don’t feel the rubbing. The body responds to friction by building up callus to protect itself. The nail will become thick and often has a yellow or brown color. To determine whether the nail has fungus or just hyperkeratin a biopsy can be performed.
If the underlying bone deformity or biomechanical abnormality isn’t corrected the nail will continue to build up callus. Some deformities are easy to fix with a minor procedure or custom foot orthotics. Once the cause of the nail condition is addressed then the nail itself can be treated. If fungus is present then the new Laser treatment, oral medication or a combination of the two are the treatment options. In the absence of fungus, a thick nail has to be filed down and treated with Urea based products. Urea can help prevent recurrence of hyperkeratin.
Before you run to your family doctor or dermatologist to treat your “fungus” condition you should consult with a Podiatrist. A Podiatrist will not just focus on the nail condition but rather look at your entire foot for the root of the problem. Making the correct diagnosis will lead to a higher chance of success and will save you time and money.
WALK YOUR WAY TO BETTER HEALTH
If someone told you there was a way to exercise that doesn’t require a pricey gym membership or athletic skill and is actually relaxing, what would you say? No doubt, the answer would be, “Sign me up!”
Walking is the singular most popular form of exercise, but may be taken for granted since it is an act that many of us do each day without considering it an aerobic activity. However, the results of walking are physically rewarding–leading to a trimmer body and enhanced general health.
One of the wonderful aspects of starting a walking routine, known as exercise-walking, is that it can be done almost anywhere and at any time, regardless of weather. You can walk to the store, in a mall, around your neighborhood, with your dog, with a group of friends, or on your own. In addition, it is a great form of exercise for those who have a long history of inactivity, problems with obesity or who simply don’t like strenuous activity.
Before you get started on your new walking routine, Dr. Milkie recommends finding sensible, comfortable walking shoes to ensure proper foot health. Wear thick, absorbent socks and footwear that is stable from side to side and well-cushioned. Since buying shoes is the only real monetary investment you need to make for your walking regimen, don’t try to cut costs. Buy your shoes for quality, comfort and fit.
If you are free of any serious health problems, then your walking routine is ready to hit the road immediately. Dr. Milkie suggests a checkup if you are over the age of 60, have a disease, disability or are taking medication. A medical exam is also recommended if you are 35 to 60, substantially overweight, easily fatigued, an excessive smoker, or physically inactive.
Dr. Milkie has a few tips for getting started. Begin by taking 20 minute walks, moving at your own pace but brisk enough to make your heart beat faster. Walk with your head and back straight and stomach tight, keeping your legs out front and knees slightly bent. As you are walking, try to land on the heel of your foot and roll forward to push off on the ball of your foot. Don’t forget to cool down by stretching at the end of each session.
What Is a Stress Fracture of the Foot?
Posted by xmlrpc in Sports & Athletics on May 16, 2010
A stress fracture is an incomplete crack in the bone caused by overuse. A foot that is not structurally sound is prone to developing stress fractures. Even a normal foot can easily develop a stress fracture from repetitive use. Symptoms may include pain, redness and swelling.
STATISTICS:
• 0.7-15% of athletics injuries are stress fractures
• Track athletes have the highest amount of stress fractures
• The first metatarsal accounts for 10% of metatarsal stress fractures
• The second, third and fourth metatarsals account for 90% of metatarsal injuries
• There is a decrease in the incidence of stress fractures in men with lean body mass
• 8.8% of stress fractures occur in the metatarsals
• 25.3% of stress fractures occur in the tarsal bones
• 0.9% of stress fractures occur in the sesamoids
• 28% of stress fractures occur in the calcaneus
CAUSES OF STRESS FRACTURES:
• Overuse or strain of the foot
• Medical conditions such as osteoporosis
• Medications such as steroids
• Sudden increased activity level
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
• Use cold compresses or ice
• Get complete rest
• Elevate the feet
• Stay off your feet
WHAT WILL A PODIATRIC PHYSICIAN DO?
• Perform a physical examination
• Perform x-ray evaluation and future exams as needed
• Immobilize or cast the foot/leg
• Prescribe custom orthotics for long term control and prevention
• Prescribe medications when indicated