If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!
Falling can significantly effect the feet, especially as people age. When an individual falls, the feet may suffer from sprains, fractures, or bruises. For older adults, the risk is heightened due to age-related changes in the feet. As one ages, the muscles and ligaments in the feet weaken, reducing balance and stability. The fat pads on the soles of the feet thin out, offering less cushioning and making the feet more vulnerable to injury upon impact. Additionally, conditions like arthritis, poor circulation, and reduced flexibility in aging feet can complicate recovery after a fall. Even minor injuries can cause lasting discomfort or difficulty walking. To protect the feet, it is important to wear supportive footwear, engage in balance-strengthening exercises, and ensure a safe living environment to prevent falls and reduce the risk of injury. If you have endured a foot injury from falling, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. Ronald K. Olm from Grand Traverse Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
Utilizing a walker or cane
Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Traverse City and Kalkaska, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Lingering pain after a broken ankle can be frustrating and concerning for many individuals. Several factors may contribute to this ongoing discomfort. Incomplete healing is one common cause, and if the bone has not fully mended, pain can persist during movement. Scar tissue formation surrounding the injury site may also lead to sensitivity and discomfort. Additionally, stiffness in the ankle joint from immobilization can contribute to lingering pain, affecting mobility and range of motion. Other possible causes include arthritis developing at the fracture site and tendonitis, resulting from overuse as activities are resumed. Psychological factors such as fear of re-injury can amplify the perception of pain. If you have continued pain from a fractured ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer effective relief insights.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Ronald K. Olm from Grand Traverse Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Broken Ankles A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.
When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
Swelling around the area
Bruising of the area
Area appears to be deformed
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Traverse City and Kalkaska, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
A bunion, medically known as hallux valgus, is a bony prominence that forms at the base of the big toe, causing the toe to angle towards the second toe. This condition can lead to significant discomfort and pain, especially when wearing shoes. Bunions develop gradually and are often caused by factors such as genetic predisposition, which influences foot structure, and wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear that places pressure on the toes. Other contributing factors include arthritis, flat feet, and repetitive stress from certain activities. As the bunion progresses, the surrounding soft tissue may become inflamed, resulting in redness and swelling. Understanding the causes of bunions is essential for prevention and management, as making appropriate footwear choices and addressing foot mechanics can help reduce discomfort and slow the progression of this common foot condition. If you see the beginning signs of a bunion, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief tips.
Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.
Causes
Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development
Symptoms
Redness and inflammation
Pain and tenderness
Callus or corns on the bump
Restricted motion in the big toe
In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Traverse City and Kalkaska, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
