Dr. Jaffe's Foot Notes

Aftercare

2011-01-13T12:52:00.000-08:00

Post surgical care is critical for anyone who as had foot surgery. Proper aftercare helps ensure fewer complications and more rapid recovery. Discuss with your podiatrist the regimen he or she suggests for your recovery. If you are prescribed a surgical shoe, out it on whenever you walk. Do not allow your foot to dangle, and try to keep your foot elevated to reduce pressure. If a walker or cane is recommended, don't be shy about using one. Ice the area for the first few days post surgery. Doing so will decrease swelling and bruising. Bandages should be kept clean and dry. If anything seems "off" about your recovery, be sure to alert your podiatrist. For experienced, compassionate care for foot problems off all kinds, we welcome your call at 623-975-8397.

Our office is located at 13949 W. Meeker Blvd., Suite B, Sun City West

Visit us at our website

*Article as seen in the Surprise Today Newspaper.

What do they do?

2011-01-13T12:36:00.000-08:00

A podiatric surgeon performs surgery on the feet, ankles and sometimes lower leg. Graduation from podiatric medical school is followed by a residency in podiatric surgery. Some continue further and take a fellowship to learn advanced surgical techniques. Podiatric surgeons generally work in hospitals in clinics. They preform repairs, reconstructions, and corrections on the feet and ankles, addressing conditions like severe bunions and feet that are badly broken and require surgery for stabilization. Podiatric surgeons may specialize in areas such as sports injuries or podiatric medical issues. They ensure that patients can be provided with high-quality surgical care from a professional who is trained both as a surgeon and as a podiatrist.

If surgery is the recommended course of action to deal with your particular foot problem, you'll be glad to know that today's techniques make the process easier and faster, and the recovery is quite a bit more comfortable than even just a few years ago. At our office, we have three basic goals, to relieve pain, restore function, and improve appearance.

Please call 623-975-8397 for an appointment.
Our office is located at 13949 W. Meeker Blvd., Suite B, Sun City West

Visit us at our website

* Article as seen in the Surprise Today Newspaper.

A Toe-Bending Experience

2010-05-13T14:50:00.000-07:00

Excessive bending of the toes can cause capsulitis, an inflammation of a ligament. Ligaments are tough tissue found where two bones come together to form a joint. If there is stress placed on the joint from repetitive motion, the ligaments can overstretch and become inflamed. Symptoms include aching discomfort, and a sharp pain with pressure and with movement of the toe. Doing electrical and plumbing work, climbing ladders, and stooping while gardening all require movements that may cause capsulitis. Wearing very high heeled shoes can also cause inflammation. Cortisone injections, rest, ice, and oral anti-inflammatory medications can alleviate the discomfort for the short time. In some cases, surgery to repair the damage may be indicated.

Proper care of toe joint problems is vital to your program of overall good health. Our office provides comprehensive care in managing foot and ankle problems as well as helping prevent them before they occur. We specialize in the evaluation and treatment of many problems affecting the lower extremities. For your feet's sake and your well-being, call us for an appointment for leading-edge, compassionate podiatric care.

HINT: When capsulitis involves the big toe joint, it is sometimes known as Turf Toe.

Now offering digital x-ray, P.A.D. testing & check out the new website

as seen in the Sun City, Surprise, and Sun City West Independent Newspapers

Diabetic Socks

2010-02-18T08:22:00.000-08:00

The high blood sugar lever experienced by diabetics increases the risk of foot ulcers. Therefore, it is imperative to control foot moisture and ensure less constriction of the area. Diabetic socks are designed to meet those challenges. They are constructed without seams, and they resist wrinkling. These socks are available in cotton blends with non-binding tops; they are also sold in compression versions. Numerous colors are available, but if the wearer has wounds or scars, wearing white socks is preferable. The socks are made in short and mid-calf styles and so not appear vastly different from regular socks. To determine which diabetic sock is appropriate for a specific diabetic patient, consult a podiatrist.

It is estimated that 15 percent of all diabetics will develop a serious foot condition at some point, including infection, ulceration, or gangrene. As most cases of these conditions are preventable through appropriate footwear, regular visits to a podiatrist, and scrupulous home care, we urge all diabetics to consider podiatric care as a very important component in managing their diabetic condition. We offer comprehensive foot care. Please call us for an appointment

HINT: Diabetic socks should be constructed without constricting cuffs.

Visit us at: www.scwpod.com

as seen in the Sun City West, Sun City and Surprise Independent Newspapers.

Give Me A Break

2009-12-18T10:53:00.000-08:00

Bones usually break when something happens to crush, bend, twist, or stretch them. Toes are often broken when they accidentally kick something hard. Heels are often broken when a person falls from a height and lands on his or her feet. Other bones in the foot sometimes break when an ankle is sprained or twisted. Occasionally, small cracks can form from repeated stress on the bones of the foot over a long period of time (known as stress fractures). Broken bones in the foot cause pain and swelling. Bruising or redness of the foot with a broken bone is common. It is important to see a doctor anytime you think you may have broken a bone in your foot.

Broken bones anywhere in the body deserve professional attention. Too often, a broken bone that is not allowed to heal properly can be vulnerable to future breaks, strains, and sprains. As a specialist in foot and ankle conditions, a podiatrist is the most qualified person to help rehabilitate a broken foot bone and bring the patient back to normal function. Acute injuries or chronic conditions, we offer a full range of foot care services. Please call for an appointment.

HINT: Do not attempt to drive with a broken foot. Have someone bring you to the doctor or emergency ward.

As seen in the Sun City, Surprise, and Sun City West Independent Newspapers.

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Expecting Foot Pain

2009-12-18T10:06:00.000-08:00

Pregnancy con trigger foot pain. Natural weight gain and the alterations of a woman's center of gravity create added pressure on the knees and feet. The result may be pain at the arch, the heel, or the ball of the foot. For someone who is experiencing these pregnancy-related foot issues, there are numerous steps that can be taken to alleviate the discomfort. Elevating the feet as often as possible, wearing seamless socks that do not constrict circulation, and taking regular breaks to stretch the legs are recommended. Exercising regularly, drinking plenty of water, and eating a diet low in sodium help prevent fluid retention. If the swelling is not similar in both feet, a podiatrist should be consulted immediately.

Just as you put your prenatal care in the hands of a specialist, so should you entrust your hard-working feet to a specialist- a highly trained, specially skilled podiatrist. It's time to pay attention to what your feet are trying to tell you when each step is more painful than the one before. Don't ignore foot problems, whether cause by pregnancy, injuries, diseases, or inherited conditions. Call us instead at our state-of-the-art footcare facility.

HINT: Wear footwear that fits properly during pregnancy. Since feet will probably change side during pregnancy, have them measured.

As Seen in the Sun City, Surprise, and Sun City West Independent Newspapers.

www.scwpod.com

Snub the Stub

2009-11-13T09:45:00.000-08:00

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A Child's Foot

2009-11-13T08:44:00.000-08:00

Pediatric foot problems can appear very early. They require attention because the bones in a child's foot are soft and pliable and easily damaged by constricting shoes, socks and even bedding. Shoes that fit are especially important for a young child's rapidly growing feet. When choosing shoes for your child, make sure the shoe shape matches the foot shape and that the upper is firm in the heel area but flexible around the front of the shoe. The upper of the shoe should be made of leather or material that will allow air to circulate around the foot. Don't use hand-me-down shoes unless they are showing no wear on the sole or upper.

We believe one of the most important elements of healthcare we can provide you with is education. We bring you these columns in order to show you how the many benefits of podiatric medicine can help keep all members of your family walking, running, living in comfort. And since taking care of the feet can't begin too early, you'll be glad to know there is a footcare specialist here in Sun City West who can help you if there seems to be a problem with your child's feet. Call for an appointment.

HINT: Parents need to be on the alert for early developmental problems since children do not usually know enough to complain about them.

As seen in the Surprise, Sun City, and Sun City West Independent newspapers.

A Slice of Life

2009-11-10T13:04:00.000-08:00

Splinters are shards of glass, metal, wood, or other materials that get caught under the skin. Splinters should be removed so they don't cause an infection. Common causes of splinters in the foot include stepping on thorns, walking on rough wood decks or boardwalks, and accidentally stepping on broken glass. To remove a small splinter from the foot, soak the area for 10-15 minutes. Applying a bit of ice will numb the area. Using tweezers with ridges, grab the splinter as close to the skin as possible. Pull firmly at the same angle as it entered the foot. When finished, dab on rubbing alcohol to disinfect the area. Large or deep splinters should be removed by a podiatrist.

While its smart to know the basics or quick-action, short-term treatment for splinters and other foot injuries, it is crucial to a successful recovery to seek the services of a specialist trained in foot care as soon as possible following an injury. If you don't have a podiatrist at this time, you may want to include our telephone number in your list of numbers to keep handy by your phone. We offer complete foot care for the family. Office hours are by appointment, but emergencies are seen as promptly as possible.

HINT: Splinters are known medically as a soft tissue foreign body.

As seen in the Sun City, Sun City West and Surprise Independent Newspapers.

Foot Art

2009-11-05T08:46:00.000-08:00

Foot tattoos are becoming increasingly popular among tattoo aficionados. A number of factors should be taken into consideration before embarking on a trip to the tattoo artist. Foot tattoos tend to be more painful than on other areas since work is done over the bone and not on a fleshy part of the body. There is also a greater risk of ink migration, which blurs the design over time. There is also the issue of proper healing and infection and infection avoidance. A fresh tattoo should not rub against clothing during the healing process, which can take up to three weeks. That means shoes and socks are not an option. In general, tattooing the foot is not the healthiest idea for expressing creativity.

Foot aches and pains come from many sources- infections, structural problems, too much physical exertion, improper shoes, muscular imbalances, disease, neglect, trauma, and heredity. Don't let foot problems ruin your good times - treat your feet with the respect they deserve. If your feet are cramping your lifestyle, professional care is in order. For comprehensive foot care for everyone in your family, we welcome your call.

HINT: It is not advisable for diabetics to have their feet tattooes as it can affect blood circulation.

As seen in the Surprise, Sun City and Sun City West Independent Newspaper.

Feeling Cramped?

2009-11-03T14:30:00.000-08:00

Foot cramps are non-voluntary spasms that can last from a few minutes to a few days, and they can affect a muscle or a muscle group. Such spasms can leave the muscle sore even after the pain is gone. The inner arch of the foot and toes, especially the big toe, can be affected. There are common causes of foot cramps, including a sedentary lifestyle, injury caused by repetitive motion, poor blood circulation, and low calcium or potassium levels. To alleviate the pain, move the foot in a direction opposite to the cramp to relieve the undue stretch on the muscle fatigue.

We're concerned about all aspects of your health, especially in the health of your feet. When your feet are cramping and uncomfortable, or are otherwise trying to tell you something, don't hesitate to call on us. Our Goal is to provide you with a comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan so that you are out of pain and back on your feet in as short amount of time as possible. Call us for an appointment.

HINT: Applying ice packs to the affected regions helps in acute cases of foot cramps.

As seen in the Surprise, Sun City and Sun City West Independent Newspaper.

A Pain In The Toe

2009-11-03T14:07:00.000-08:00

Some people experience numbness in the big toe. It may be accompanied by swelling on the underside where the toe bends. They may feel a "zinging" sensation when walking. These uncomfortable symptoms may be an indication of a compressed nerve. This is compounded when a shoe hits the toe area or if long hours are spent standing. There could be the presence of an inflamed extra bone on the bottom of the toe, known as a sesamoid. There may be arthritis in the joint or a chipped flake of bone in the joint that is causing the pain. Should you experience such discomfort in your big toe area, consult with your podiatrist.

When your feet hurt, it's important to find out why. Following diagnosis, it's time to formulate a treatment plan that may consist of orthotics, medication, surgery, exercise, or even a change in footwear. If your toes are giving you trouble, it's smart to communicate with your doctor. Now is a good time to schedule an appointment for foot care for the family, where we practice conservative podiatry as the frontline defense against feet that cause you to suffer.

HINT: Wear wide supportive shoes if you experience big toe discomfort.

As seen in the Surprise, Sun City and Sun City West Independent Newspaper.