The medical procedure that is known as extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) has been successfully used to treat specific types of chronic foot conditions. These may include heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, and tendonitis. It's defined as a treatment administered by a machine that transmits sound waves directly into the affected tissue and may be helpful in forming new blood vessels. This may help to diminish a portion of the pain which is often associated with these types of ailments. Research has indicated there are some patients who would not be eligible for this type of treatment. This group of people can include patients who have pacemakers, are pregnant, or who may have tumors. If you're considering this type of treatment, it's strongly suggested that you're under the care of a podiatrist who can properly guide you toward an effective treatment method that's correct for you.
Shockwave therapy is a treatment commonly used to treat various injuries and conditions, particularly plantar fasciitis in the feet. To learn more, consult with Dr. Richard DiMario from Maine. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is a new treatment option designed to treat bone conditions such as tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and others. Shockwave therapy uses high intensity sound waves that are directed to the affected tissues of the body with pinpoint accuracy. The effects are very beneficial, leading to a production of collagen fibers, eliminating inflammation.
Who Benefits from Shockwave?
Shockwave is recommended for patients suffering from heel pain and associated problems. Heel pain is a common condition which can be caused by obesity, overexertion, and spending a substantial amount of time on hard floors with your feet exposed and unsupported.
Fast and Easy
The therapy is actually a simple process that can leave patients feeling better the very next day. Shockwave therapy is not as dramatic as it sounds. It enables more blood flow to effected areas, addressing the source of the problem and allowing treatment to last for a long time.
Treatment & Recovery Time
Shockwave treatment will enable your feet to recover quickly. This is especially important since surgery is not required. It is cost effective and does not require the use of anesthesia. This treatment is a better option to surgery, since it is proven safe.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Children who participate in running and jumping activities may be susceptible to developing Sever’s disease. This condition can target young adolescents, and affects the growth plate in the heel. It can occur as a result of increased running activities, or during a growth spurt. Common symptoms that are associated with Sever’s disease can consist of pain and discomfort in the heel and surrounding area, and the Achilles tendon may become tight, possibly causing difficulty in walking. Research has indicated it may help to cease the activity that caused this condition, in addition to performing specific stretching exercises which may be beneficial in strengthening the affected foot. If your active child is exhibiting heel pain, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Richard DiMario from Maine. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.
Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.
Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
Patients who experience the uncomfortable foot condition that is known as a bunion may be interested in having it permanently removed. Bunion removal involves a procedure that is referred to as a bunionectomy, and may be helpful in alleviating the pain and discomfort this condition often brings. Complications that can arise from having this type of surgery performed may involve the healing process. This may be a result of poor circulation, and the desire to walk on the affected foot. Additionally, research has indicated that it is beneficial to stop smoking several weeks before and after surgery, as this may help to increase the oxygen supply that is needed for healing. If you are considering having bunion surgery, it is strongly suggested that you seek the advice of a podiatrist, who can help you to determine if this is the correct choice for you.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. Richard DiMario of Maine. Our doctor 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:
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:
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 York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Pain that is felt in the ball of the foot is most commonly associated with a condition known as Morton’s neuroma. Morton’s neuroma typically develops when a nerve becomes inflamed behind the third and fourth toes. Common symptoms of this condition may include pain, swelling, numbness, tingling or burning, and feeling like you’re walking on a rolled-up sock. To help alleviate discomfort, it’s recommended to rest the feet as often as possible, ice the affected area, and elevate and compress the feet as well. Custom orthotics, along with the use of anti-inflammatory medications, have also been found helpful in reducing pain. However, for more severe cases, surgery may be the best option. This is known as Morton's neurectomy. According to a recent study at Nottingham University Hospital in England, 82% of people who underwent the operation reported good to excellent results. For a proper diagnosis and to determine your best treatment options, it is highly recommended that you consult with a podiatrist.
Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Richard DiMario of Maine. 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?
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 York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.
The medical term that is referred to as flat feet occurs when there is no visible arch, or a significantly small arch, as the foot lies flat on the floor. Genetic factors may be a cause of this condition, as well as wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. This ailment may cause a general feeling of achiness in the feet, and it is possible that strained muscles in the calves can develop. Mild relief may be found when gentle stretching techniques are performed that are specifically designed to strengthen the arch area of the foot. Additionally, many patients find it beneficial to wear orthotics inside of their shoes, as this may provide the support that is needed to complete daily activities. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Richard DiMario from Maine. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Are Flat Feet?
Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms
Treatment
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
