As a child grows and matures into a young adult, there are several different foot afflictions that can prevent the child from reaching their full potential to have healthy feet. Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis is one such condition and it is defined as symmetrical and shiny peeling of the skin on the feet in children. The condition can also be defined as a certain kind of fissuring on the feet. Many things about this foot condition remain unclear and unknown. However, it is thought that some combination of moisture and repeated friction is the likely cause. Although each case is different, typically a medical professional will recommend that the patient remedies this condition by controlling the extent to which their feet produce and come into contact with moisture. Take your child to a podiatrist today if they are suffering from Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Anthony Ricciardi Jr., DPM of Foot & Ankle Specialists of Nevada. Our Doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

Some people think that foot shape may help to determine ancestry, despite the fact, there is no concrete evidence to support this. The type of arch one has may contribute significantly to the entire shape of the foot and differs from person to person. Research has indicated the arch affects the movement of the foot, and overuse can happen when the arch is too high or low. Additionally, the arch is responsible for pronation and supination of the foot and is a normal part of walking. This is defined as pushing off while walking or running, and the feet will naturally roll outward to balance the weight of the body. An abnormal foot structure may lead to the development of specific foot conditions that can include bunions, plantar fasciitis, and ankle pain. If you have questions about your foot structure, or if you have any foot conditions, it is strongly advised that you confer with a podiatrist who can eagerly address any concerns you may have.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Anthony Ricciardi Jr., DPM from Foot & Ankle Specialists of Nevada. Our Doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

There are numerous reasons that people may experience heel pain. Plantar fasciitis, one of the most common forms of heel pain, may need prompt treatment to diminish existing pain. An injury that happens to the Achilles tendon often results in heel pain, and medical conditions such as arthritis and thyroid disorders may contribute to heel pain. Many patients can find mild relief by practicing specific stretches that can strengthen the heel. These can include standing on a step, and gently lowering the heels one at a time until a gentle stretch is felt. When the foot is rolled on a foam roller or a tennis ball, this may be effective in stretching the muscles on the bottom of the foot. Heel pain may be avoided by wearing shoes that fit correctly, and have adequate arch support. Practicing low-impact activities consisting of swimming and cycling may also be beneficial in replacing running and jumping exercises. If you have heel pain for any reason, please schedule an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can determine the cause and provide effective treatment options.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Anthony Ricciardi Jr., DPM of Foot & Ankle Specialists of Nevada. Our Doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Las Vegas, Nevada . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Charcot foot used to be a rare diabetes complication. It was said to affect less than 1% of people with diabetes. Now experts say it is becoming more common, and there is worry that patients and their care providers do not know about this diabetic complication or its warning signs. Charcot foot is a sudden softening of the foot’s bones, caused by neuropathy or nerve damage from diabetes. It can lead to a host of serious problems, such as joint loss, fractures, and amputation. As the condition worsens, the bottom of the foot can become convex and bulge out. Since many diabetics do not feel pain in their lower extremities, they continue walking on the foot, which can cause further problems. This disorder cannot be reversed, but its dangerous effects can be halted if dealt with early. Symptoms appear suddenly and include warm, red skin, swelling, and pain. Unfortunately, these symptoms can also be a sign of deep vein thrombosis or an infection. If you are diabetic, it is important to include a podiatrist as part of your medical care team. They are educated in foot disorders that other doctors may not be aware of or are trained to treat.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Anthony Ricciardi Jr., DPM from Foot & Ankle Specialists of Nevada. Our Doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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