Pregnancy can be a time filled with excitement and anticipation as an expecting parent awaits the arrival of their newborn. However, pregnancy also comes with crazy hormones, drastic body changes, and can be very uncomfortable at times. Pregnancy also causes a lot of changes to the feet. Pregnancy comes with a wide range of potential side effects, some of which are more serious than others.

The increased amount of hormones during pregnancy is the main culprit for changes in the foot during pregnancy. The increased hormones act by relaxing the ligaments in the foot, which in turn make the foot flatter, and sometimes up to an entire size larger. Weight gained during pregnancy also plays a role by adding more pressure on the feet and the knees, which in turn puts more stress on the arches of the feet. The gait cycle also changes in pregnancy due to altered center of gravity. The alteration in the center of gravity causes women to be less balanced and more prone to falling during pregnancy. Edema in the lower extremity is also a common complaint in pregnancy, and occurs due to the increased blood accumulated during pregnancy. There is increased pressure on blood vessels leading to a slower circulation, and this causes blood to pool in the lower extremity.

Edema, loss of balance, and flat, painful feet can play a large role in a person’s quality of life. There are a few things that can be done to prevent or treat these common side affects. Orthotics can provide extra support for the foot, prevent over pronation, and even add cushioning to prevent the development of conditions such as plantar fasciitis and heel spurs. Orthotics during pregnancy may also help prevent the exacerbation of existing conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, or tendonitis. Exercising increases circulation and can help decrease the amount of edema. Avoid standing for long periods of time if at all possible. Elevating the legs is also important for edema reduction. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids, eat a well balanced diet with low sodium intake, and watch for any changes in edema or asymmetry. Resting on the left side can decrease the amount of pressure placed on the blood vessels and decrease edema. Wearing shoes that fit properly and provide support is important during pregnancy to prevent falls and injuries. Wearing proper shoes is definitely an added challenge especially when one cannot even see their own feet, but supportive and stable shoes are a must! This means that shoes with a significant heel are probably not the best choice, especially in the later stages of pregnancy. There is enough to worry about during pregnancy without dealing with foot pain or discomfort. Contact your Podiatrist if you are suffering from any of these common foot ailments.

Please visit www.ColumbusFoot.com for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist in Columbus, Ohio. Columbus Podiatry & Surgery is located on the North side of Columbus, Ohio near Worthington.

Columbus Podiatry & Surgery in Gahanna. Please call 614-476-3338 (FEET) for an appointment with a podiatrist in Gahanna, OH today.

Now that spring is here, and summer is just around the corner many people will get out their sandals and shorts, and enjoy the sunshine.  Regardless of skin tone, caution should be taken with sun exposure.  Despite popular belief, melanoma can be caused from sources other than sun exposure, and can be more deadly in those with darker skin tones.  The most common site of melanoma in African Americans is on the foot.  Melanoma on the foot is typically caused by viruses, chemical exposure, chronic inflammation, or inherited traits.  Melanoma on the foot is rarely caused by sun exposure.  All types of melanoma can be deadly, but usually respond well to early diagnosis and treatment.

Prevention and early diagnosis of melanoma is key to preventing adverse outcomes, such as metastasis.  Most melanomas are painless, but may present with cracking, bleeding, or ulceration.  Melanoma may occur on the soles of the foot, under the toenails, or on the top of the foot.  Melanoma usually begins as a dark brown or black spot or bump.  A Podiatrist should evaluate any new or changing moles or bumps on the foot.  There are four features to look at when evaluating a mole or bump on the skin.  The four features are asymmetry, borders, color, and diameter.  Melanoma will typically present with an asymmetrical lesion with uneven borders.  Melanoma also presents with uneven coloring, and a diameter greater than 6 mm.

If you notice a suspicious mole or bump on the foot, or even some changes in the pigment of the skin, then an evaluation by your Podiatrist may be warranted.  A biopsy can be performed to determine if the lesion is cancerous.  Early treatment provides the best outcomes.  To help prevent melanoma on any part of your body remember to wear sunscreen, limit time in the sun, limit exposure to chemicals, and watch for any new moles or bumps. Lastly, do not forget to look at the bottom of the foot because the sole of the foot is a very common place for melanoma to hide!

Please visit www.ColumbusFoot.com for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist in Columbus, Ohio. Columbus Podiatry & Surgery is located on the North side of Columbus, Ohio near Worthington.

Columbus Podiatry & Surgery in Gahanna. Please call 614-476-3338 (FEET) for an appointment with a podiatrist in Gahanna, OH today.

Kent Bazemore, of the Lakers, has a lot of potential as a young athlete. This was his second season to play professional basketball. Bazemore is the 6-foot-5 guard for the Lakers, and will unfortunately be sitting out the rest of the season due to a foot injury. Bazemore sustained a tear in the peroneus longus tendon, which courses along the plantar, or bottom part of the foot, and runs medially. The most common way to tear the peroneus longus tendon is by forced dorsiflexion, or upward motion of the foot. An MRI of Bazemore’s foot confirmed a tear in the peroneus longus tendon in the right foot. He will soon undergo surgical correction of the torn tendon.

The peroneal longus and brevis muscles are located on the outside part of the leg, and the tendons continue down into the foot. The peroneus brevis stays lateral, or on the outside of the foot, while the peroneus longus courses medially, or towards the inner part of the foot. The peroneal muscles are important in eversion of the foot, and play an important part of steady gait. Tears of the peroneus brevis are more common, and often occur with a lateral ankle sprain. The weakest portion of the peroneus longus tendon is on the plantar aspect of the foot along the cuboid bone, which is the bone on the outer part of the mid foot. The peroneus longus tendon is ruptured either longitudinally or transversely. A longitudinal tear is more common, and occurs when the peroneus longus tendon pulls against the peroneus brevis tendon until it tears longitudinally. A tear in either tendon can be troublesome, and even career ending, but there are a few treatments available.

Non-surgical options include rest, ice, compression, and pain medications. A walking cast or boot may aid the healing process. In athletes non-surgical options are not usually pursued to give the athlete the best chance at returning to activity, and allowing a faster recovery. Surgical options include tendonesis, which is a procedure that involves sewing the damaged part of the tendon to the normal tendon, or tendon debridement and repair, which involves removing the inflamed portion of the tendon, and replacing it with normal tendon, or possibly even a graft from the Achilles tendon. After surgery immobilization is required for 6-12 weeks. Bazemore might be out for the season, but with the proper care he should be back in the game next season.

Please visit www.ColumbusFoot.com for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist in Columbus, Ohio. Columbus Podiatry & Surgery is located on the North side of Columbus, Ohio near Worthington.

Columbus Podiatry & Surgery in Gahanna. Please call 614-476-3338 (FEET) for an appointment with a podiatrist in Gahanna, OH today.

Flu season is about to reach its typical peak at the end of January to the beginning of February, but in Columbus and across the country record high numbers of individuals have already been suffering from the virus. There are many remedies and medications that people utilize to improve their health when they have the flu or one of the major respiratory viruses that have also been prominent this year. One popular folk remedy this year has been the use of vapor rub applied to the feet to cure a cough. This is not the only foot related remedy that vapor rub has been rumored to be useful for. Vapor rub applied to the feet has also been believed to be a form of treatment for fungal toenails.

Vapor rub is typically applied to the chest and throat so that vapors may reach the passageways to the lungs where mucus buildup and swelling can be relieved. Vapor rubs are also indicated for application on areas of musculoskeletal soreness and aches, including the feet. However, there is no scientific data that supports the idea that vapor rub applied to the feet is useful in the treatment of coughs or toenail fungus. Vick’s VapoRub even states on their website that they do not recommend their product for the treatment of toenail fungus because it has not been tested for or approved by the FDA approved for that purpose.

Vapor rubs for the treatment of a cough applied according to the package can be useful for individuals with diabetes in need of a topical medication that will not elevate their blood glucose. However, applying vapor rub in the hopes of eradicating toenail fungus may even cause more harm than good. Toenail fungus is difficult to eradicate and typically develops in association with tinea pedis. Moisturizing creams and occlusive ointments, such as a vapor rub, can keep the fungus causing these infection trapped in the nails and skin. Pinpointe foot laser therapy provides one great option to eradicate unsightly thickened and discolored fungal toenails with even less effort than would be required by the application of an ineffective vapor rub!

Please visit www.ColumbusFoot.com for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist in Columbus, Ohio. Columbus Podiatry & Surgery is located on the North side of Columbus, Ohio near Worthington.

Columbus Podiatry & Surgery in Gahanna. Please call 614-476-3338 (FEET) for an appointment with a podiatrist in Gahanna, OH today.

Swimming kicked off the Olympic Games this past weekend with an exciting start as many of the events were full of surprises. Former champ Michael Phelps was defeated by fellow American Ryan Lochte in the 400 meter medley, in which Lochte won gold. Swimming is known for being an activity that is less damaging to the joints of the knee, foot and ankle, and can even offer a means of exercise for athletes of other sports with certain foot injuries!

Just about the worst thing a runner can hear is that they are injured and going to have to take time off from running. Luckily, swimming can help soften this blow by offering an alternative way to get some cardiovascular activity. Stress fractures are small fracture that occurs from excessive force on normal bone and can force runners to talk a break from running for several weeks. For the runner with a stress fracture, swimming is often a great alternative that will not bear weight on the injury. Swimming can also help an athlete ease back into their favorite sport after other serious injuries. For example, after a peroneal tendon tear, swimming can help to make the transition from being immobilized in a cast or a CAM walker boot to normal running or other weight bearing sports go more gently by allowing the muscles to slowly adapt.

Swimmers should also be careful to take care to avoid injuries that can occur from intense pool training. Ankle pain is a common complaint from the repetitive motion the ankles are forced through while swimming. The Achilles tendon, which is responsible for flexing the foot, may also become irritated from the repetition and develop Achilles tendonitis. While the Achilles is doing much of the work, the extensor tendons on the top of the foot can also become irritated by being tightly pulled. By taking care to stretch the feet and ankles properly and always listen to your body when working out, these injuries can be minimized. Swimmers also need to take extra care to avoid developing warts, Athlete’s foot, and fungal nails from bacteria and fungus that may live in locker rooms and poolside surfaces where other bare feet have deposited them. If these conditions do develop, contact your podiatrist immediately to treat the condition and prevent its spread to others.

Please visit www.ColumbusFoot.com for more information on Swimmers Feet or call 614-885 FEET (3338) to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist in Columbus, Ohio. Columbus Podiatry & Surgery is located on the North side of Columbus, Ohio near Worthington.

About 9% of patients with diabetic neuropathy have had Charcot foot. Charcot foot is a degenerative condition that affects the joints in the feet. Charcot can occur in type 1 and type 2 diabetes patients. Early diagnosis and treatment are imperative to minimize morbidity and further complications.

Charcot foot goes hand in hand with diabetic neuropathy. Diabetic patients with neuropathy are at risk of developing Charcot foot because of the lack of sensation in the foot and lower extremity. Neuropathic patients often walk on an injured foot, and they may damage or cause breaks in the bones of the foot, due to decreased sensation and weak bone structure. Over time the joints collapse, or change shape, and eventually the foot may have a rocker bottom appearance. Some patients have a traumatic event; such as a trip or fall occur prior to the onset of Charcot foot, while others do not. The acute onset of Charcot presents with warmth, redness, and swelling, and may progress to a collapsed, deformed foot. When diagnosis is made, then immobilization with a cast or boot will help stabilize the foot, and allow healing. Depending on the severity, surgery is another option. Charcot foot may require months of immobilization for proper healing to occur. Many patients with Charcot do not present with pain, and this sometimes leads to a delayed or incorrect diagnosis. Some cases have a severe deformity before diagnosis is made.

Charcot foot can be devastating, but there are a few steps to prevent Charcot foot from occurring or recurring. One of the most important steps for diabetics is to keep tight control on blood glucose levels. Compliance with diabetic medications is very helpful in preventing neuropathy, which in turn could prevent Charcot foot. If neuropathy has already begun, speak to your podiatrist about treatment options. Doing daily foot examinations is something every diabetic should get in the habit of doing, and it is a good idea to contact a podiatrist if there are any changes in color, shape, or temperature, as well as any open wounds or calluses on the foot.

Please visit www.ColumbusFoot.com for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist in Columbus, Ohio. Columbus Podiatry & Surgery is located on the North side of Columbus, Ohio near Worthington.

Columbus Podiatry & Surgery in Gahanna. Please call 614-476-3338 (FEET) for an appointment with a podiatrist in Gahanna, OH today.

Are you debating whether or not to trash your favorite pair of shoes due to an embarrassing shoe odor? Do you tend to sweat more than other people you know? Hyperhidrosis is a condition where a person sweats excessively, even when the temperature is cool. Those that suffer from hyperhidrosis may have more problems associated with foot odors. Fungal infections or bacteria are two of the biggest causes of foot odor, and excessive sweating creates an optimal environment for bugs to grow. Below are some tips to make shoes less smelly.

• UV shoe deodorizers have shown to help by killing bacteria in shoes. However, UV shoe deodorizers are often expensive and not practical for most people. For example, Columbus Podiatry & Surgery offers the Sterishoe for $130.
• Stuff two dryer sheets in each shoe until the shoes are worn again.
• Sprinkle two tablespoons of borax into each shoe, then dump it out before wearing again.
• Mix baking soda with medicated foot powder and let the mixture sit in the shoes for at least 8 hours before wearing.
• Fill a spray bottle with either green tea or vodka and spray in shoes. Let the solution dry before putting shoes back on.
• Try not to wear the same shoes more than two days in a row.

These tips will only help with smelly shoes, but there are solutions to help alleviate smelly feet as well. If sweat is the cause of the foot odor the best solution is an antiperspirant made especially for the feet. Some antiperspirants are sold over the counter, and stronger ones may require a prescription. Soaking the feet in black tea for 30 minutes a day for a week is another great solution. If a fungus is the cause of foot odor, then your Podiatrist may prescribe an anti-fungal medication. Columbus Podiatry & Surgery offer a large assortment of products. Please visit ColumbusFoot product page for more information. If you are suffering from embarrassing foot odor, then don’t hesitate to contact your Podiatrist to find the best solution for you!

Please visit www.ColumbusFoot.com for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist in Columbus, Ohio. Columbus Podiatry & Surgery is located on the North side of Columbus, Ohio near Worthington.

Columbus Podiatry & Surgery in Gahanna, near Easton. Please call 614-476-3338 (FEET) for an appointment with a podiatrist in Gahanna, OH today.

Orthotics are devices that are placed in the shoe to put the foot in a neutral position, or provide cushioning depending on the type of orthotic. Orthotics devices are used in foot conditions such as, flat foot, pes cavus (high arched feet), equinus (muscular imbalance limiting upward motion of foot), hammertoes, limb length difference, diabetes, bunions and many other conditions. Orthotics can be custom made or bought over the counter. A plaster cast of the foot is used to send to a lab that makes custom made orthotics, and the orthotics lab can add correction specific to the patients’ needs.

Orthotics fall into two different categories: functional and accommodative. Functional orthotics devices are used to correct biomechanical deformities in the frontal plane, and reduce impact while running or walking. Functional correction is used to reduce abnormal pronation by providing support of the arch, while accommodative orthotics are a soft supportive device used to provide cushioning, and distribute weight bearing pressures evenly across the bottom of the foot. When making orthotics it is important to compensate for limb length differences because even a small difference can cause pathology, and affect gait. Symptomatic differences in limb length usually occur when there is a 4cm or greater difference. Functional orthotics devices are made of semi-rigid material to provide stability, such as graphite or plastic. Accommodative orthotics devices are usually made of softer materials, such as leather or foam to provide comfort. Accommodative orthotics devices are used in conditions such as, diabetes to help relieve pressure.

This is just a brief overview of the various uses and types of orthotics, and is not complete by any means. For some people, orthotics devices are a way to treat foot pain conservatively and avoid surgery. Orthotics devices are sometimes recommended post-operatively to prevent recurrence of various deformities. However, some patients use orthotics devices to provide stability and support to the foot, and prevent injuries. Contact your Podiatrist if you feel that you could benefit from orthotics devices to best determine what type may be right for your foot type. Columbus Podiatry & Surgery offers a wide array of orthotics, utilize several techniques and manufacturers to accommodate our patients individual needs.

Please visit www.ColumbusFoot.com for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist in Columbus, Ohio. Columbus Podiatry & Surgery is located on the North side of Columbus, Ohio near Worthington.

Columbus Podiatry & Surgery in Gahanna, near Easton. Please call 614-476-3338 (FEET) for an appointment with a podiatrist in Gahanna, OH today.

Swelling or peripheral edema in either one or both lower extremities is a common complaint. Peripheral edema can be caused by a variety of conditions, some of which are benign, while others are more serious. Peripheral edema is seen in many diabetic patients due to damaged capillaries. These capillaries are damaged by increased pressure, and this leads to leakage of fluid into tissues. Edema is not just an inconvenience, but can also cause complications, such as poor wound healing. Edema should be evaluated to determine whether the cause is benign, and discuss treatment options available to lessen the severity and prevent damage to nerves.

There are many ways to manage and lessen the severity of edema. The following tips apply to edema from all causes, including edema caused by diabetes.

• Simply elevating the affected leg or foot can help minimize swelling. Be sure to elevate the leg or foot above the level of the heart for best results.
• Exercising is also a great way to reduce swelling, especially in diabetic patients. Exercise not only increases circulation to the lower extremity, but also helps to reduce blood sugar.
• Compression stockings work by returning fluid to the lymphatic system, while also improving circulation. Compression stockings may not be the most comfortable, but they help significantly reduce edema. Compression stockings are not suitable for everyone, and in some circumstances may be contraindicated.
• Minimizing sodium intake can help by preventing water retention, and also reducing blood pressure.
• Do not sit with your legs crossed because this will reduce circulation to your lower extremities, and may worsen edema.
• Ensure that shoes do not fit too tight, and fit comfortably.

These are just tips to reduce edema, and do not replace seeing a physician to ensure edema is not caused by something more serious, such as a blood clot or peripheral arterial disease. Always err on the side of caution when it comes to maintaining your health. Take care of your feet so they don’t slow you down!

Please visit www.ColumbusFoot.com for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist in Columbus, Ohio. Columbus Podiatry & Surgery is located on the North side of Columbus, Ohio near Worthington.

Columbus Podiatry & Surgery in Gahanna, near Easton. Please call 614-476-3338 (FEET) for an appointment with a podiatrist in Gahanna, OH today.

External fixation may look very high-tech, and maybe even scary. However, external fixation has been used in one way or another since almost 2400 years ago. External fixation techniques were described by Hippocrates, and were used in treating tibia fractures. External fixation is a minimally invasive technique to reduce displaced fractures.

Jean François Malgaigne was one of the many pioneers that made advancements with external fixation devices. In 1846, Malgaigne used a device that consisted of a clamp and four metal prongs to reduce and stabilize a fracture of the patella, or kneecap. Following this external fixation device many other similar inventions were used to treat fractures in various locations. In 1938, Raoul Hoffman made advancements that made external fixation even more useful, and allowed surgeons to place pins into a fracture for stabilization with guidance, while being minimally invasive. In 1951, Dr. Gavriil A. Ilizarov developed the external fixation device that is still in use today. Ilizarov’s fixation device consists of a metal frame that encircles the limb, and is attached to underlying bone by pins. Threaded rods and hinges allow movement of the bone to the correct alignment. Ilizarov’s external fixator is great because adjustments can be made without opening the fracture site, and the device provides stability.

Modern day external fixation not only provides stability to a fracture, but can also be used for soft tissue deformities, as well as other bony deformities. External fixation is preferred when slow correction is wanted. The chance of getting a blood clot is lessened because with external fixation patients can be partial weight bearing, or weight bearing as tolerated following the procedure due to the stability that the fixation provides. External fixators have been used for other bony deformities, such as Charcot, ankle arthritis, and clubfoot. External fixation can also be used to lengthen amputated foot and toe stumps. External fixation has definitely helped many people, but there are still some cons. Pain and infections are two issues associated with external fixation, and rates vary depending on the extent of the procedure, and the location of the device. External fixation devices are used by many Podiatrists for treating many different ailments, and have been crucial to shaping the Podiatry and Orthopedic professions.

Please visit www.ColumbusFoot.com for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist in Columbus, Ohio. Columbus Podiatry & Surgery is located on the North side of Columbus, Ohio near Worthington.

Columbus Podiatry & Surgery in Gahanna, near Easton. Please call 614-476-3338 (FEET) for an appointment with a podiatrist in Gahanna, OH today.