Items filtered by date: September 2024

Lymphedema in the feet occurs when lymph fluid builds up in the tissues, causing swelling. This condition results from a blockage or damage in the lymphatic system, which is responsible for draining excess fluid from tissues and returning it to the bloodstream. Lymphedema can be caused by infections, surgery, radiation treatment for cancer, or congenital conditions where the lymphatic system is underdeveloped. People at a higher risk include those who have undergone cancer treatments, have had lymph node removal, or suffer from chronic venous insufficiency. Treatment focuses on managing the swelling and improving lymph drainage. Compression therapy, such as wearing specialized stockings, is commonly used. Manual lymph drainage, a specialized massage technique used by a podiatrist, can help reduce swelling. If your feet are swollen and you are not clear on the cause, it is strongly suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and care.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Susan Yeager, DPM of Yeager Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Redding, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
 

Sesamoiditis is a condition that causes pain beneath the base of the big toe. It is primarily due to inflammation or injury to the sesamoid bones, which are two small bones located under the first metatarsal head. Sesamoiditis is common among dancers, joggers, people with high-arched feet, or those who frequently wear high heels. The pain associated with sesamoiditis often intensifies during activities like walking, especially when barefoot or wearing certain shoes. It may be accompanied by swelling, warmth, or redness in the affected area. A podiatrist can diagnose sesamoiditis through a thorough examination of the foot, sometimes using imaging tests to rule out fractures or arthritis. Treatment typically involves reducing pressure on the sesamoid bones through the use of orthotics, offloading pads, or appropriately supportive footwear. If you are experiencing pain under the big toe, it is suggested that you schedi;e an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Susan Yeager, DPM of Yeager Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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

A broken toe, or toe fracture, occurs when one of the bones in the toe is cracked or shattered due to trauma or excessive stress. Common causes include stubbing the toe, dropping heavy objects on it, or repetitive pressure from ill-fitting shoes. Symptoms typically involve pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the toe. In some cases, the toe may appear deformed or misaligned. For mild relief, it is vital to rest the injured foot and avoid putting weight on it. Pain may be managed by taking mild pain relievers. Keeping the toe elevated and using a buddy tape technique, where the injured toe is taped to an adjacent toe for support, can also assist in recovery. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can make an accurate diagnosis and provide treatment.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Susan Yeager, DPM from Yeager Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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

Diabetic foot blisters, also known as diabetic bullae, are a rare but concerning complication for those managing diabetes. These fluid-filled blisters often appear on the feet, though they can also develop on the hands, arms, or lower legs. While their exact cause remains unclear, uncontrolled blood sugar levels and diabetic neuropathy are believed to be contributing factors. Diabetic blisters are typically painless and can appear suddenly without warning, sometimes growing as large as three inches. Although they sometimes heal on their own within a few weeks, there is a significant risk of infection if not cared for properly. This is why it is essential to seek medical help rather than attempting self-treatment. A podiatrist can provide safe and sterile treatment, ensuring that the blisters remain clean and protected, while also addressing any underlying issues that may be causing them. If you have diabetes and have developed foot blisters, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the correct treatment.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Susan Yeager, DPM of Yeager Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can 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.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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