Items filtered by date: September 2023

Tendinopathy involves inflammation in and around tendons, often resulting from injury. Low-level laser therapy, which uses monochromatic, coherent, short-wavelength light, has been used since the 1960s to treat tendon injuries. Though investigations are ongoing, some researchers exploring the success of this type of therapy for tendinopathy found that low-level laser therapy consistently shows promise in treating tendinopathy. Patients report improvements in pain, range of motion, and motor function. Combining laser therapy with exercise programs also yielded positive results. If you suffer from tendon pain in your feet or ankles, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to see if this type of treatment can help you.

MLS Laser Therapy is a successful alternative for treating any pain you may be experiencing related to certain podiatric conditions.  If you are interested in MLS Laser Therapy, consult with Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

MLS Laser Therapy

Multiwave Locked System (MLS) Laser Therapy is a patented, FDA-cleared technology that helps relieve pain and inflammation from a number of podiatric conditions, including:

• Heel Pain
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Sports Injuries
• Wounds
• Achilles Tendonitis
• Arthritis
• Neuropathy
• Neuromas

MLS Laser Therapy is an ideal alternative to surgery and prescription medication, as it has no negative side effects and encourages accelerated healing. Among its many clinical benefits, MLS Laser Therapy also:

• Reduces swelling due to bruising or inflammation
• Blocks pain
• Reduces formation of scar tissue
• Improves nerve function

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

Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease, or CMT, is a disorder of the peripheral nerves, responsible for transmitting information to and from the brain and spinal cord. CMT disrupts these nerves, leading to sensory loss and muscle deterioration. This results in symptoms like balance problems, foot abnormalities, pain, and difficulty walking. Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease is a progressive condition, worsening over time, and affecting about 150,000 people in the United States and 3 million worldwide. It is important to understand the peripheral nervous system to comprehend CMT. The peripheral nervous system links the central nervous system to organs, limbs, and skin, enabling the transmission of information and regulating functions like heartbeat and breathing. Nerve signals are carried by axons covered with myelin, akin to electrical wires in a home. CMT can cause myelin decay, slowing nerve signals and affecting longer limbs first. If you are having peripheral nerve damage affecting your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment that will provide you relief with everyday functioning.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

Bones are essential components of our skeletal system, providing support, facilitating movement, and safeguarding our internal organs. When a bone undergoes excessive force, resulting in a fracture, it can lead to pain, reduced function, bleeding, and injury in the affected area. A broken foot is no exception. There are different types of bone fractures, including closed and open fractures, greenstick fractures in children, and hairline fractures. Complicated fractures, comminuted or bone shattering fractures, and avulsion fractures can also be added to the list. A podiatrist will diagnose a foot fracture through X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans. Treatment can include splints, braces and plaster casts. Additionally, undergoing traction and surgical procedures may also be viable treatment options. If you have broken your foot, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine that the best treatment method is for you.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

Cracks in the heels occur due to damage to the skin's protective outer layer. This layer normally retains moisture in the skin through natural oils. However, when this barrier is compromised by things like ill-fitting shoes, harsh weather, or an inadequate diet, moisture escapes. Consequently, the skin becomes dry, brittle, and rigid. Over time, the pressure of one’s body weight causes the skin to split and bleed, resulting in varying sizes and depths of cracks. The discomfort associated with cracked heels stems from the exposure of sensitive lower skin layers, easily irritated by the environment, and prone to snagging on socks or clothing. While cracked heels are primarily a cosmetic concern, in severe cases, deep cracks that bleed can raise the risk of infection. This is particularly concerning for individuals with underlying medical conditions like diabetes, where severe skin damage or infection is a higher risk. To alleviate the pain of cracked heels, rehydration to restore the skin's protective barrier is key. Applying moisturizer daily and cushioning the feet with comfortable shoes and padded insoles can aid in the healing process. If you suffer from persistent or worsening cracked heels, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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