Items filtered by date: September 2023

Minimally invasive foot surgery is a revolutionary medical technique that offers a gentler alternative to traditional open surgeries for various foot conditions. This advanced approach involves making small incisions, typically less than one inch in length, through which specialized instruments and a tiny camera are used to perform the surgical procedure. Unlike traditional surgeries that require larger incisions, minimally invasive foot surgery results in less tissue damage, reduced scarring, and a quicker recovery period. One of the primary advantages of this approach is its ability to target specific foot problems such as bunions, hammertoes, neuromas, and heel pain with greater precision. Patients can often return to their regular activities sooner and experience less postoperative pain. Additionally, the risk of complications and infection is reduced, making minimally invasive foot surgery an attractive option for those seeking effective solutions for their foot conditions. If you are considering this type of surgery, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if this treatment approach is suitable for your unique foot condition.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one our our podiatrists of Newtown Comprehensive Foot Care. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

When it comes to dance, gymnastics, or even just maintaining healthy feet, having a well-pointed toe can make a significant difference. Achieving a beautifully pointed toe is not just about aesthetics, it is also about improving your overall foot flexibility and strength. Foot stretching is the key to unlocking this potential. Begin by sitting comfortably with your legs extended in front of you. Point your toes as far as possible and hold for a few seconds, feeling the stretch along the top of your feet. Next, flex your feet by pulling your toes towards you while keeping your heels on the ground. Repeat this cycle several times, gradually increasing the duration of each stretch. Another effective exercise involves using a resistance band. Sit with your legs extended, loop the band around your toes, and gently pull the band towards you. This will help improve the flexibility of your toes and the arches of your feet. It is beneficial to incorporate calf stretches into your routine, as flexible calf muscles can enhance your ability to point your toes effectively. Simple calf stretches can help maintain the alignment of your feet and ankles, supporting a graceful toe point. Consistency is important, and by regularly practicing foot stretches and exercises, you can steadily improve your toe point and enjoy the benefits of stronger and more flexible feet. If you would like more information about foot stretches that can strengthen the toes, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist. 

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one our our podiatrists from Newtown Comprehensive Foot Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

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

Becoming a podiatrist, who is a specialized medical professional focusing on foot and ankle health, involves a well-defined educational journey. An interested student will typically need to complete a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as biology or premed. After this foundation, a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine, or DPM, degree is obtained, which is a comprehensive four-year program. During the DPM program, the subjects studied can include anatomy, physiology, and podiatric medicine, accompanied by clinical training. This phase will provide hands-on experience and exposure to various foot and ankle conditions. Following graduation, the competent student will likely complete a residency program, which can last from two to four years, focusing on specialized areas, such as surgery or sports medicine. The final step is to obtain licensure by passing state-specific exams. Becoming a podiatrist requires dedication, a strong educational foundation, and a commitment to promoting foot health. If you have questions about the field of podiatry, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide you with pertinent information. 

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact one our our podiatrists from Newtown Comprehensive Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

• Physical therapy
• Drugs
• Orthotic inserts or soles
• Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

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

Swollen feet, while often benign, can be discomforting and may point to an underlying issue. Various factors can contribute to this condition. Prolonged standing or sitting, especially in one position, can impede proper blood circulation, leading to fluid accumulation and swelling. Wearing inadequate footwear, whether too tight or unsupportive, can restrict blood flow and aggravate the problem. Medical conditions such as hypertension or kidney disease can cause fluid retention in the lower extremities. Pregnancy also plays a role due to increased pressure on blood vessels and hormonal shifts. Injuries like sprains or fractures can trigger inflammation and swelling as part of the body's healing response. Recognizing the cause of swollen feet is important for effective management. Elevating your feet, staying hydrated, and engaging in a consistent exercise routine can be helpful. However, persistent or severe swelling demands medical attention to address the root cause. If you have swollen feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one our our podiatrists of Newtown Comprehensive Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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