Podiatrist - Portland
15 Sewall St
Portland, Maine 04102
207-774-0028
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DR. K's BLOG
Posts for: May, 2010
FALLEN FLAT
There are many causes of flat feet, including decreased exercising and increased weight. Most people have a gap under the arch of their foot when they are standing. Those with flat feet either have no arch or a very low arch.Their feet may roll over to the inner side when they are standing, resulting in the feet pointing outwards. They may experience pain in their feet and leg joints. If flat feet cause pain, an evaluation with a podiatrist can determine the cause. The exact treatment will depend on the cause of the flat feet. Some common treatments are shoe inserts, rest, and anti-infl ammatory medication. Complications of having flat feet include shin splints and stress fractures.
HINT: Flat feet are associated with ankle, knee, and lower back pain.
To determine the best approach for the treatment of flat feet and other foot conditions, a podiatrist will examine the foot; perform a gait analysis; and look at the patient's medical history, past medical problems, length and frequency of symptoms, types of current activity, and pain and problems in other parts of the body. We offer comprehensive care for all podiatric concerns for feet of all shapes, sizes, and ages.
Call us at 207-774-0028 for an appointment at 15 Sewall Street, Portland.
Arthritis and The Foot
There are three types of arthritic conditions that can affect the feet. Osteoarthritis is associated with wear and tear, brought on by age or being overweight. Cartilage covering the ends of bones becomes worn, resulting in inflammation, swelling, and pain. Rheumatoid arthritis, which causes the patient's immune system to destroy cartilage, can be triggered by infection or environmental factors. Post-traumatic arthritis can develop after an injury to the foot or ankle. It is similar to osteoarthritis, and can develop years after a fracture or severe sprain or dislocation. Following an injury, the body can secrete hormones that stimulate the death of cartilage cells. Tilting the foot to compensate for the pain can cause misalignment, which can worsen joint difficulties.
FAST FACT: Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the United States.
While our specialty is feet, our work in podiatry can affect all parts of the body. And as podiatrists, we have a unique opportunity to get insights into how other systems of the body are functioning. With our knowledge and experience, your cooperation, teamwork with other medical care givers, and the great power of podiatry, we will have you walking in comfort, with a smile on your face and a spring in your step despite your arthritis or other foot concern.
Office hours are by appointment at 15 Sewall Street, Portland.
Please call 207-774-0028.
Foot Cancer Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can affect the feet. Pigment-producing cells become cancerous and grow and divide at an uncontrolled rate. Ordinarily, melanoma usually begins as an abnormal mole. To distinguish a normal mole from a melanoma, an ABCD rule wasdeveloped.This guide characterizes the features of melanoma as Asymmetrical lesions, Border irregularity, Color variation, and a Diameter greater than the size of a pencil eraser. However, not all melanomas have features defined by this rule, so it is important to report any new growths or changes in existing moles or lesions. When inspecting for melanoma, focus on the area between the toes, around and under the toenails, and on the soles of the feet.
It's always a good idea to listen to your feet since they often have lots to tells you, including giving you clues about the rest of your body's well-being. When your feet tell you there's trouble somewhere, as your podiatrist, we will work as a team with you and your other healthcare providers (if appropriate) to keep youand your feet healthy and pain free. Feet that feel good make the rest of you feel good, too, so why not give us a call, 207- 774-0028, and start the process today. We're located at 15 Sewall Street, Portland, Maine