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Gregory Loo, DPM Board Certified Podiatrist and Surgeon

September 2020

Monday, 28 September 2020 00:00

The Importance of Visiting a Podiatrist

Due to potential underlying medical conditions like diabetes and arthritis, it is important to consult a podiatrist when experiencing issues with the feet. A podiatrist will not only be able to diagnose and treat the potential injury, but they are also able to help find a long term solution to the issue. Some issues that podiatrists help treat include, but are not limited to, sprains, ingrown toenails, bunions, blisters, flat feet, fungal nail infections and arthritis. Podiatrists are also able to help diagnose and treat more serious issues such as heel pain, which can sometimes be severe and limiting. If you are experiencing an issue with your feet, it is important to consult with a podiatrist about what treatment options are best for you.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact Gregory T. Loo, DPM from Elite Podiatry. Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Ahwatukee, and Phoenix, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about What is a Podiatrist?

If you are experiencing pain, weakness, soreness, or a lack of flexibility in your feet or ankles, you may want to start practicing certain stretches. Stretching the feet and ankles can help to benefit the overall health of your lower extremities. One simple stretch you can practice allows you to sit comfortably in a chair. Once seated, begin by raising your toes, point them, and then curl them under. You’ll want to repeat this motion 10 times to help strengthen your mobility and build flexibility. Another stretch you can perform is called the marble pick-up, and is more focused on strength. Sit with your back straight and your feet in front of you. Place marbles in front of you and begin to pick them up with your toes. Start by using the toes of the right foot, then switch to your left. For more suggestions on what stretches you can practice to help the overall health of your feet, please speak with a podiatrist.

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 Gregory T. Loo, DPM from Elite Podiatry. 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 one of our offices located in Ahwatukee, and Phoenix, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Stretching Your Feet

Rheumatoid arthritis or RA, is an autoimmune condition that can affect joints throughout the body. It often affects the joints of the feet and ankles. The most common joints in the feet and ankles affected by RA are the smaller joints of the toes, the joints of the forefoot, the subtalar joint between the two tarsal bones of the foot, and less commonly the ankle joint. Signs of RA in your feet include soreness, warmth and swelling of one or more joints that lasts for several days, joint erosion, joint instability, and pain. RA could also cause painful fluid-filled sacs or nodules to develop on the feet. For more information on the signs and symptoms of RA in the feet and what you can do to treat this condition, speak with a podiatrist today.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Gregory T. Loo, DPM from Elite Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

  • Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
  • Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
  • Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Ahwatukee, and Phoenix, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Arthritic Foot Care
Tuesday, 08 September 2020 00:00

Is My Toe Pain Being Caused by Gout?

Gout is an inflammatory form of arthritis that can cause swelling and stiffness in the joints, most commonly affecting the big toe. A common symptom of gout may include sudden flare ups, where the joints of the big toe begin to experience a throbbing, crushing pain. If your joints appear swollen or inflamed, and the skin of the affected area is warm and appears red or purplish, you may be experiencing symptoms of gout as well. Symptoms of gout can generally be managed by certain lifestyle changes as well as medication, however getting this condition diagnosed can sometimes be difficult. If you’re experiencing joint pain, particularly in your big toe, please seek the professional care of a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Gregory T. Loo, DPM from Elite Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

Read more about Gout
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