If you need a more accessible version of this website, click this button on the right.Switch to Accessible Site

3320 North Buffalo Drive
Suite 107
Las Vegas, NV 89129

(702) 256-8454

goog ico n
Super User

Super User

Tuesday, 15 November 2022 00:00

Various Causes for PAD

Damage that happens to the peripheral nervous system may be referred to as peripheral neuropathy. This can lead to peripheral artery disease, and the abbreviation for this is PAD. There are various groups of nerves that can be affected by this condition. These are the motor nerves and are used for walking and talking. When information is transmitted from the brain to the body that consists of temperature or slight pain, it falls into the sensory nerve category. Activities that happen naturally such as breathing, and digesting foods are part of the autonomic nerves. Damage can occur to these nerve groups as a result of diabetes, vascular problems, or autoimmune diseases. Additionally, kidney and liver disorders may contribute to developing PAD. Common symptoms can include the inability to feel sensations in the feet, and walking may become difficult. If you have diabetes and have a loss of feeling in your feet, it is strongly urged that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat PAD.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with one of our podiatrists from Summerlin Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

  • Claudication (leg pain from walking)
  • Numbness in legs
  • Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
  • Paleness of the skin
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
  • Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Peripheral Artery Disease
Tuesday, 08 November 2022 00:00

The Risk of Getting Toenail Fungus

Anyone is at risk for developing toenail fungus. It is a common infection that attacks the nail bed on the toes. Research has shown that the chances of incurring this may increase as the aging process occurs. Additionally, there may be existing medical conditions that can lead to getting this type of infection. These include poor circulation, psoriasis, or a weakened immune system. The fungus that causes this lives and thrives in warm and moist environments, including  public swimming pools, locker rooms, and shower room floors. Because it can enter the body through small cuts in the feet, it is suggested to wear appropriate shoes while in these types of areas. Toenail fungus is contagious, and it is wise to refrain from sharing shoes, socks, and towels which may help to stop its spread. The symptoms are generally noticeable, as the toenails become yellow and brittle. Additionally, the skin may itch. Medical attention is often sought that can help to restore the nails to normalcy. As soon as you see the symptoms of a toenail fungus infection, it is strongly advised that you see a podiatrist who can guide you toward the correct treatment options.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Summerlin Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

  • Warped or oddly shaped nails
  • Yellowish nails
  • Loose/separated nail
  • Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
  • Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

Read more about How to Treat Your Toenail Fungus

People who experience corns are aware of how painful they can be. A corn can develop in several places on the feet, including the pinky toe, the sole of the foot, or between the toes. It is a hardened area of skin that happens in response to pressure that is exerted in a particular place on the foot. They gradually form as a result of excessive friction that generally comes from wearing shoes and socks that do not fit correctly. Corns are divided into three categories, and this is based on where they develop. A soft corn is found between the toes and is named because of the constant moisture that is found in this area. Smaller corns are known as seed corns and are found on the bottom of the foot. They can be painful from the pressure that is exerted on this part of the foot. The top of the toes may produce hard corns and can be equally as painful. If you have a corn on your foot, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can bring you relief with appropriate treatments. 

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Summerlin Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

  • Well-fitting socks
  • Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
  • Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctors to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Corns: What Are They, and How Do You Get Rid of Them
Tuesday, 25 October 2022 00:00

Pros and Cons of Flat Feet

Flat feet is a condition in which the entire bottoms of the feet rest completely against the floor, obscuring any natural foot arch. There are many disadvantages of having flat feet. For example, people with flat feet are susceptible to back pain and may experience a lack of stability when engaging in physical activities, like running or walking. Many people wonder if there are any potential advantages to this condition. The answer is complicated. Despite the many disadvantages, it might be the case that some incidences of flat feet could improve the absorption of shocks. If you are a swimmer, flat feet may also be very helpful because they can act as a kind of flipper. Flat feet, of course, are not entirely advantageous. Contact a podiatrist today if you have flat feet to learn more about your condition.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Summerlin Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

  • Pain around the heel or arch area
  • Trouble standing on the tip toe
  • Swelling around the inside of the ankle
  • Flat look to one or both feet
  • Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Flat Feet
Tuesday, 27 September 2022 00:00

Facts About Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a progressive auto-immune disease that causes inflammation, swelling, and pain in the joints of the foot, ankle, and toes. Symptoms include stiffness in the joints, especially when first waking up or after sitting for long periods. People with rheumatoid arthritis typically experience flare ups of pain, when their symptoms worsen. These may be caused by stress, overactivity, or changes in medication. With rheumatoid arthritis, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium, which is a membrane that lines the joints. As a result, the synovial cells grow and the membrane thickens, in turn causing the pain and inflammation. Untreated RA can cause damage to the cartilage, tissue that keeps the bones from touching each other. People at high risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis include those who are over 60, female, obese, and who smoke. Genetics also can be a risk factor. Blood tests and imaging tests can help determine whether you have rheumatoid arthritis. For testing, diagnosis, and treatment options, please consult a podiatrist.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Summerlin Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

  • Swelling and pain in the feet
  • Stiffness in the feet
  • Pain on the ball or sole of feet
  • Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Feet
Tuesday, 13 September 2022 00:00

Facts About Flat Feet

Flat feet, medically known as pes planus, occur when the long arch of the foot has not developed properly. Children are born with flat feet, but usually develop healthy arches by the age of five. Some people are genetically inclined to have flat feet. Others develop them as a result of a condition, such as diabetes, a stroke, or rheumatoid arthritis. Weight gain and standing for long periods of time can cause discomfort if you have flat feet, but most people do not experience pain from this condition. Wearing shoes with good arch support and cushioning in the heel can be a plus, if you have flat feet. A number of stretching and strengthening exercises can help to relieve any heel pain caused by flat feet. If being on your feet is a requirement of your job or lifestyle, wearing orthotics may be a good option. A podiatrist can assess the extent of the condition and prescribe custom shoe inserts to address it. For more information about flat feet and how they can be treated, it is a good idea to make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Summerlin Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

  • Pain around the heel or arch area
  • Trouble standing on the tip toe
  • Swelling around the inside of the ankle
  • Flat look to one or both feet
  • Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about What is Flexible Flat Foot?
Tuesday, 13 September 2022 00:00

What is Flexible Flat Foot?

Flatfoot is classified as having the entire sole of the foot in contact or near contact to the ground while standing. The disorder is also known as fallen arches, because those affected have no arch in their feet. Flexible flatfoot and rigid flatfoot are the two types of flatfoot.

A person has flexible flatfoot if when sitting or standing on their toes, they have an arch that disappears when they stand with the entire foot on the ground. Flexible flatfoot may also be called “pediatric flatfoot” because the condition first appears in childhood. It is common among infants because the arch does not develop until the age of 5 or 6 years. Rigid flatfoot is not as common in children as it is with adults. This type of flatfoot is developed due to the weakening of tibialis posterior muscle tendon, a major supporting structure of the foot arch. Development of this deformity is progressive and shows early signs of pain and swelling that begins at the inside arch of the foot and moves to the outside of the foot below the ankle. More severe cases can possibly lead to arthritis of the foot and ankle joints.

Although most cases of flatfoot involve people born with the condition, some less common causes are obesity, diabetes, pregnancy, and osteoporosis. In some cases, flatfoot may come with no symptoms at all and does not require any type of treatment. With other cases though, symptoms may include pain in the shin, knee, hips and lower back. If a person with flatfeet experiences such symptoms, a health care provider may suggest using orthotic devices or arch supports, which may reduce the pain. Wearing supportive shoes can also prove more comfortable with flatfeet and staying away from shoes with little support such as sandals. Other methods to relieve pain also include stretching the Achilles tendon properly and using proper form when doing any physical activity. In addition, losing weight can reduce the stress on your feet and reduce the pain.

Tuesday, 30 August 2022 00:00

Facts About Diabetes and Amputation

Nerve and circulatory damage resulting from diabetes is common and can lead to injuries to the feet and lower legs. In extreme cases, amputation is required. Amputations are the end result of foot or leg ulcers that did not heal or cannot heal. Diabetic neuropathy and peripheral artery disease (PAD) are contributing factors to this occurrence. Neuropathy makes it hard to detect cuts and sores, which may become infected. PAD then slows the healing process, causing ulcers, which if left unattended can lead to gangrene. At some point removing the ulcerated area can give way to removing the foot or limb. The two main actions that may help to keep this chain reaction from occurring are blood sugar maintenance and proper foot care. Reducing stress and eating healthy food is a good beginning. Refraining from smoking and alcohol consumption, both of which contribute to nerve damage and poor circulation, is highly recommended by experts. Losing weight and keeping track of blood sugar levels is essential. Daily foot care is imperative, including keeping feet clean and dry and checking for sores, cuts, and blisters. Moving the toes and feet to encourage better blood flow and wearing shoes that fit properly also help. If you have questions regarding proper diabetic foot care, please visit a podiatrist as soon as possible. 

Diabetic Limb Salvage

Diabetic limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have a foot ulcer and diabetes, consult with one of our podiatrists from Summerlin Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Diabetic Limb Salvage?

Diabetic limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot, that has an infected ulcer, from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.

Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Amputation has been found to lead to higher mortality rates. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Diabetic Limb Salvage
Tuesday, 30 August 2022 00:00

Diabetic Limb Salvage

Limb salvage is a procedure that involves saving a lower extremity from amputation. In podiatry, limb amputation often occurs as a result of diabetes. The fundamental goal of limb salvage is to restore and maintain stability and movement of the affected lower extremity.

The procedure typically involves removing the diseased tissue and a small portion of the surrounding healthy tissue, as well as the removal of any affected bone if necessary. If bone is removed it is then replaced with prostheses, or synthetic metal rods or plates, or grafts from either the patient’s body or a donor. Limb salvage is typically the preferred choice of procedure over amputation, as the procedure preserves both the patient’s appearance and allows for the greatest possible degree of function in the affected limb.

Upon diagnosis and determining that limb salvage is the appropriate treatment, the podiatrist may enlist the help of a physical and/or occupational therapist to prepare the patient for surgery by introducing various muscle-strengthening, walking, and range of motion exercises. Such exercises may be continued as rehabilitation post-procedure.

Tuesday, 02 August 2022 00:00

What Is Sinus Tarsi Syndrome?

Pain on the outside of the foot between the ankle and the heel bone is usually caused by a condition known as sinus tarsi syndrome (STS). The sinus tarsi is an area within the hindfoot, between the talus and calcaneus bones, that contains ligaments, nerves, muscles, blood vessels, and fat. The pain felt in this area is generally caused by an injury to the ligament, such as a sprained ankle. It becomes a syndrome, however, when it is accompanied by several other factors. Among them are chronic pain felt at the front and side of the ankle, a feeling of instability, and difficulty walking on uneven surfaces (sand, gravel). Swelling, tenderness, and bruising are also present with sinus tarsi syndrome. People with flat feet are more likely to incur STS. It may also be the result of frequent ankle sprains. Ballet dancing, sitting with your feet tucked under you, and pitching baseballs or softballs can cause the syndrome because of repetitive actions. Symptoms of sinus tarsi syndrome generally develop over time. In order to determine whether you may have STS, please consult a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Summerlin Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

  • Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
  • Ankle sprains
  • Broken ankles
  • Achilles tendinitis
  • Achilles tendon rupture
  • Stress fractures
  • Bursitis
  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome
  • Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

Read more about Ankle Pain
Page 3 of 6
Connect With Us

fb ico x blog ico big