Items filtered by date: August 2023

Ankle pain can be a persistent and debilitating issue that affects individuals of all ages and lifestyles. This discomfort often stems from a variety of factors, such as injuries resulting from accidents or sports-related activities, overuse, improper footwear, or underlying medical conditions. Understanding the root cause of ankle pain is crucial for implementing effective remedies. Resting and elevating the affected foot can provide initial relief by reducing inflammation while promoting healing. Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises under the guidance of a podiatrist can aid in rehabilitation and prevent future issues. Wearing supportive footwear with proper arch and ankle support, in addition to orthotic inserts, can provide stability and alleviate pain. It is suggested that you seek timely medical advice from a podiatrist if you have ankle pain, who can effectively diagnose and treat this condition.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Philip K. Schrumpf, DPM from Active Feet Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

Osteomyelitis, a bone infection caused by bacteria or fungi, can significantly impact the feet if left untreated. It commonly occurs in the feet of adults, and the hips and spine also may be affected. The feet are susceptible to infections through injuries, wounds, or surgeries. Symptoms such as pain, swelling, stiffness, and redness often manifest in the infected feet. Timely diagnosis is crucial, involving physical exams and imaging scans. Treatment options may include antibiotics or surgical removal of infected bone tissue. Prompt wound care and proper footwear play a vital role in safeguarding against osteomyelitis and its potential long-term effects on the feet. If you suffer from this condition, or any type of foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper examination and care.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Philip K. Schrumpf, DPM from Active Feet Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Blisters on the feet appear to be bubbles that are filled with liquid. This can cause irritation and can easily put a damper on our active lives. Understanding their causes can empower us to take better care of our feet. Foot blisters are small, fluid-filled sacs that form on the outermost layer of our skin, resulting from friction, pressure, or irritation. When our skin is subjected to repetitive rubbing against surfaces such as shoes or socks, it responds by separating its layers and accumulating fluid, forming a blister. Friction is the primary cause of foot blisters, especially when ill-fitting shoes or rigorous activities cause excessive rubbing. Additionally, prolonged exposure to moisture from sweat can weaken the skin's protective barrier, making it more susceptible to blisters. High temperatures can also exacerbate friction and contribute to blister development. By understanding the definition and causes of foot blisters, there are proactive measures that can be taken to prevent them. Properly fitting footwear, moisture management, and good foot hygiene can keep these bothersome blisters at bay, allowing us to stay active and comfortable on our feet. It is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist if you are seeking additional prevention techniques for blisters on the feet.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Philip K. Schrumpf, DPM of Active Feet Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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

Morton’s neuroma is a thickening of the tissue that surrounds the digital nerve that leads to the toes. It is commonly experienced between the third and fourth toes and can feel as if there is a small pebble in your shoe. A Morton’s neuroma also may be termed an interdigital neuroma, interdigital neuritis, or a plantar neuron. The main symptom is sharp and burning pain in the ball of the foot, especially while walking or running. Some numbness or tingling may also be present. High-heeled shoes, which increase pressure on the ball of the foot, may make the situation worse. Tight or narrow shoes that squeeze the toes can also contribute to the discomfort. Treatments for Morton’s neuroma include changes in footwear, wearing inserts in the shoes, injections of corticosteroid medication, and shockwave therapy. In severe cases, surgery to remove part of the affected nerve or surrounding tissue may be considered. If you are experiencing pain that may be caused by Morton’s neuroma, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Philip K. Schrumpf, DPM of Active Feet Clinic. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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