KEEPING MIDDLE-AGED PATIENTS ACTIVE

  • By Jodi Simard
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  • 22 Jan, 2018
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Most of the common foot problems that bother active middle-aged people are restricting and easily treated if detected early. In most cases, conservative treatment will enable patients to return to activity relatively quickly. Middl~aged men and women are participating in a variety of exercises and athletic activities more than ever before. As a result, they are more vulnerable to foot and foot-related injuries. Fortunately, most foot ailments are minor and can be treated conservatively. Early diagnosis and treatment are keys to returning these active people swiftly and safely to their sports.

Hallux Valgus

Pathologic changes can lead to an angulation of the great toe and enlargement of the medial portion of the first metatarsal and thickening over the medial bursa. The causes of hallux valgus include, but are not limited to, heredity, metatarsus primus varus, pes planus, rheumatoid arthritis and neurologic disorders. Most patients affected by the disorder are middle-aged women.

Patients usually have pain over the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint and have difficulty wearing shoes because of the medial prominence and associated toe deformities. Occasionally, the degree of deformity is not always consistent with the severity of the symptom and this needs to be considered during treatment. Shoes with a wide toe box and sufficient insole padding are recommended to make the patient more comfortable. Orthotics that support the longitudinal arch and redistribute the pressure areas may give some relief of symptoms. This treatment plan is often successful. However, surgery is an option when conservative treatment has failed.

Hallux Rigidus

Hallux rigidus is a degenerative arthritis in the first MTP joint and may be accompanied by pain, diminished range of motion and difficulty wearing shoes. Participants in sports with running or jumping may be predisposed to this aliment.

Treatment of this condition includes wearing low-heeled shoes with adequate width and depth to accommodate the increased bulk of the joint. The use of an orthotic or rigid insole to reduce the stress across the MTP joint may also be beneficial. If conservative management is not successful, then surgery is another option.

FINDING THE PERFECT FIT

By Jodi Simard • April 13, 2018
Shop for shoes at the end of the day when your feet are largest. The size of your feet change as you grow, so before buying shoes always have your feet measured while standing. Select shoes by how the shoe fits your foot and not by the marked size.

WHAT IS CHIROPODY

By Jodi Simard • January 22, 2018
The practice of Chiropody is the assessment, treatment and prevention of diseases or disorders of the foot. Chiropody is practiced by qualified, regulated practitioners who have undergone government established and recognized programs and examinations. Only those who are registered by the Ontario College Of Chiropodist are licensed to practice as Chiropodists in Ontario.

COMMON TOE DEFORMITIES

By Jodi Simard • January 22, 2018
Many disorders can affect the joints of the toes, causing pain and preventing the foot from functioning as it should. People of all ages can have toe problems, from infants born with deformities, to older adults with acquired deformities.

CHILDREN'S FOOTCARE

By Jodi Simard • January 22, 2018
what do you do about your child's developing feet which have to carry the entire weight of the body through a lifetime? Many adult foot ailments, like other bodily ills, have their origins in childhood and are present at birth. Periodic professional attention and regular foot care can minimize these problems in later life. Neglecting foot health invites problems in other parts of the body, such as the legs and back.

HOW PROPER FOOTWEAR CAN REDUCE FOOT PROBLEMS

By Jodi Simard • January 22, 2018
Today, there are almost as many different kinds of footwear as there are pieces in a jigsaw puzzle. An almost endless variety of shoe styles and materials make buying a pair of shoes a major dilemma.

Foot Ulcers : Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Options

By Jodi Simard • January 22, 2018
The term ulcer, is generally used to refer to breaks in the normal integrity of the skin. Ulcers are skin wounds that are slow to heal and are classified in four stages, according to which layers of skin are broken through.

WORKPLACE ATHLETES

By Jodi Simard • January 22, 2018
Your ability to use your feet safely, with ease and comfort, is vital if you are to remain a valuable and productive worker. However, a large number of workers are exposed to injuries due to prolonged periods of standing and walking.

SUMMER FOOTCARE

By Jodi Simard • January 22, 2018
The warm days of summer are almost upon us. As we break out the summer wardrobe and footwear here is some foot care advice for the summer months.

DOES MY INGROWN TOENAIL NEED SURGERY?

By Jodi Simard • January 22, 2018
Ingrown toenails are caused by impingement of the skin along the margins of the nail by the nail plate. Some ingrown toenails are chronic, with repeated episodes of pain and infection. Pain can be present without infection, and pain.

SENIORS NEED REGULAR PODIATRIC CHECK-UPS

By Jodi Simard • January 22, 2018
Usually, older patients see me when a problem has occurred, but preventive care would be better,” Dailey says. “Billions of dollars were spent last year on treating conditions of the lower extremities as a result of diabetes.
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