If you need a more accessible version of this website, click this button on the right. Switch to Accessible Site
New Mesa office location: 6242 E. Arbor Ave. Suite # 116 Mesa, AZ 85206.

Apache Junction / Mesa(480) 984-3338Rate Us

August 2022

Tuesday, 30 August 2022 00:00

Feet Problems in the Elderly

The foot can be compared to a tire of a car. After many years of use, a foot can wear down like tires wear down. A tire becomes thin and the tread less dependable over time just as a human foot shows its age over time. The key difference between a foot and a tire is the former cannot be changed. We get one pair of feet per life. Because seniors are generally less active than those younger, they may not pay as much attention to their feet as they once did. But as one ages, they need to pay even more attention to their feet. If you are a senior you will likely experience foot pain. And foot pain is highly associated with a higher risk of recurrent falls, reduced mobility, and a loss of independence. Muscles and tendons lose elasticity with age and that contributes to pain. Additionally elderly foot pain is a result of putting on weight, losing fat on the padding of feet, compromised blood flow from health problems (such as diabetes or peripheral neuropathy), persistent foot problems, such as hammertoes, bunions, corns, calluses, wearing shoes that do not fit well, or simple neglect in care. Daily foot inspections, washing, drying, and moisturizing feet frequently, and cutting toenails straight across are all part of a good foot care routine. Paying attention to diet, exercising, and wearing properly fitted shoes and socks will all help in alleviating foot problems as well. If you are a senior or responsible for caring for a senior, include a podiatrist on the health care team to teach you how to care for your feet or provide diagnosis and treatment should a problem arise.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Glen Robison from AZ Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

  • Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
  • Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
  • Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
  • Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
  • Shoes that don’t fit properly
  • Pressure sores
  • Loss of circulation in legs & feet
  • Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Mesa and Globe, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Elderly and their Feet
Tuesday, 23 August 2022 00:00

Exercises for Morton’s Neuroma

There are a number of foot conditions that can cause an individual pain and discomfort in the affected area. Morton’s neuroma is one of these conditions. Primarily affecting the ball of the feet, Morton’s neuroma occurs when the tissue around a toe nerve thickens, which can ultimately cause sharp pain and burning. It is most common for Morton’s neuroma to affect the nerve that is located between the third and fourth toes. Performing various exercises and stretches might potentially help you manage or mitigate pain from Morton’s neuroma. You might try an exercise known as the bottle roll, for instance. When in a seated position, slowly and gently roll a cool water bottle underneath one foot at a time. When the water bottle is cold, this can cool the foot and reduce any inflammation. Instead of using a water bottle, you might even consider using a ball that is about the size of a golf ball. Additionally, you might try what is known as the big toe stretch. When you are sitting, put an exercise band over the big toe and extend the leg outward. After pulling the band toward you, use the big toe to repeatedly push the toes forward, working against the pressure of the exercise band. Please contact a podiatrist if you have Morton’s neuroma. Such a professional will be best able to help you manage and treat your condition.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Glen Robison of AZ Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

  • Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
  • Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
  • Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Read more about Morton's Neuroma
Tuesday, 16 August 2022 00:00

Tips for Wearing Flip Flops

Flip-flops are undoubtedly a convenient kind of footwear. Not only are they fashionable, but they are also very easy to slip on during the warm summer months. However, they can wreak havoc on the health of your feet for many different reasons. Most importantly, flip-flops can be bad for your feet because they force the feet to work overtime to keep the shoe on the foot. For example, flip-flops lack a back strap of any kind causing the foot must scrunch up into unnatural contortions to keep the flip-flop in place. This type of shoe can be dangerous because the piece of foam resting underneath the sole of the foot offers little to no support. Additionally, many kinds of flip-flops are made using plastic and that plastic material can cause blisters and irritate the skin. If you must wear flip-flops, consider wearing them selectively. For instance, you might wear them only to walk down the block or from the car to the beach instead of on long walks or hikes. For more information about this kind of footwear, reach out to a trusted podiatrist.

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Glen Robison from AZ Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

  • Ankle problems
  • Hip problems
  • Lower back problems
  • Pain in the balls of the feet
  • Problems with foot arches
  • Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

  • Sprained ankles
  • Blisters
  • Infections
  • Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Mesa and Globe, AZ .  We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Flip Flops and Feet
Tuesday, 09 August 2022 00:00

Different Causes of Blisters

Blisters can be an unsightly and potentially uncomfortable affliction on the foot. Essentially, blisters are areas on the feet that have excess liquid in between layers of skin. There are many different causes of blisters that you might notice on your feet. Commonly, blisters can form on areas of the feet, particularly the toes, when an individual wears a new, ill-fitting pair of shoes. The friction produced by a tight pair of shoes can consequently create a blister.  Another common cause of blisters on the feet is overexposure to the sun. When an individual gets a sunburn on their feet and lower legs, blisters that are small and white can appear causing pain and an itching sensation. Blisters may also be the result of excessive moisture around the feet. Specifically, when the feet sweat too much, the excessive sweat can ultimately clog the pores of the feet creating blisters. Knowing the specific cause of the blisters on your feet can help determine the correct treatment. If you have blisters on your feet, contact a podiatrist who can help you address the problem.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Glen Robison of AZ Foot & Ankle. Our doctor 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 Mesa and Globe, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Blisters

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.

Tuesday, 02 August 2022 00:00

Possible Reasons for Achilles Tendon Pain

The Achilles tendon main function is to connect the heel to the calf. An Achilles tendon injury can occur from overuse, or because of a fall. If the tendon tears, it is referred to as a rupture, and is common among those who are active or athletic. This can cause severe pain and discomfort, often making it difficult to walk. There are additional reasons why patients may experience Achilles tendon pain. These include pyoneritides, which is considered to be a form of tendinitis, an infection caused by bacteria, or possibly from fatty deposits in the tendon. Osteoarthritis has been known to cause pain in the Achilles tendon, and it may be a result of a loss of cartilage. Mild relief may be found when performing specific stretches. These include standing on a step and lowering one heel at a time until a gentle stretch is felt. Practicing toe curls can also be an effective exercise, and this is done by bending the knee while curling the toes up, and holding for several seconds. If you would like to know more about Achilles tendon injuries or how to perform exercises that can help this type of pain, please schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Glen Robison of AZ Foot & Ankle. Our doctor 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 Mesa and Globe, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about What are Achilles Tendon Injuries
Connect with us