Items filtered by date: October 2023

Multiwave Locked System (MLS) Laser Therapy is a laser treatment that uses a combination of wavelengths of light to reduce pain, swelling and inflammation in various parts of the body. MLS Laser Therapy can be used to treat many conditions, including arthritis and arthritic joint pain, Achilles tendon injuries, plantar fasciitis, fractures, gout, and peripheral neuropathy. MLS Laser Therapy treatment is safe, painless, and noninvasive. For some conditions, it may be used as an alternative to prescription medications and surgeries. If you are interested in exploring MLS Laser Therapy as a potential treatment option, please consult with your podiatrist.

MLS Laser Therapy is a successful alternative for treating any pain you may be experiencing related to certain podiatric conditions.  If you are interested in MLS Laser Therapy, consult with one of our podiatrists from Ankle & Foot of Edmonds. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

MLS Laser Therapy

Multiwave Locked System (MLS) Laser Therapy is a patented, FDA-cleared technology that helps relieve pain and inflammation from a number of podiatric conditions, including:

• Heel Pain
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Sports Injuries
• Wounds
• Achilles Tendonitis
• Arthritis
• Neuropathy
• Neuromas

MLS Laser Therapy is an ideal alternative to surgery and prescription medication, as it has no negative side effects and encourages accelerated healing. Among its many clinical benefits, MLS Laser Therapy also:

• Reduces swelling due to bruising or inflammation
• Blocks pain
• Reduces formation of scar tissue
• Improves nerve function

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

Flip-flops are a beloved summer staple for their casual comfort and easy style, but they also bring hidden dangers to your feet. One of the primary risks is a lack of arch support. These flat sandals offer minimal to no arch support, which can lead to problems such as arch pain and plantar fasciitis. Additionally, the constant gripping motion required to keep flip-flops on can strain the tendons in your feet and result in discomfort. Flip-flops can also leave your feet exposed to injury. Without adequate protection, you may be vulnerable to stubbed toes, cuts, and scrapes from sharp objects or tripping on uneven terrain. The open design can also expose your feet to sunburn, which can be painful and damaging. Furthermore, the lack of ankle support can increase the risk of sprains and other injuries, especially if you are walking on uneven surfaces or participating in physical activities. While wearing flip-flops may be suitable for quick trips to the beach or pool, it is essential to prioritize proper footwear for extended walks or activities that require support and protection for your feet. It is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can provide you with useful information about the potential dangers of frequently wearing flip-flops.

Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Ankle & Foot of Edmonds. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

Flip-flops have managed to become a summer essential for a lot of people. While the shoes may be stylish and easy to slip on and off, they can be dangerous to those who wear them too often. These shoes might protect you from fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, but they can also give you foot pain and sprained ankles if you trip while wearing them.

When Are They Okay to Wear?

Flip-flops should only be worn for very short periods of time. They can help protect your feet in places that are crawling with fungi, such as gym locker rooms. Athlete’s foot and plantar warts are two common fungi that flip-flops may help protect your feet against.

Why Are They Bad for My Feet?

These shoes do not offer any arch support, so they are not ideal for everyday use. They also do not provide shock absorption or heel cushioning which can be problematic for your feet. Additionally, you may suffer from glass cuts, puncture wounds, and stubbed toes since they offer little protection for your feet.

More Reasons Why They Are Bad for Your Feet

• They Slow You Down
• May Cause Blisters and Calluses
• Expose Your Feet to Bacteria

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

Ankle arthritis can be a debilitating condition, causing pain and limiting mobility. However, incorporating specific exercises into your routine can help alleviate discomfort and improve joint function. Ankle circles are a simple yet effective exercise to enhance joint mobility. Sit with your legs extended, and rotate your ankles in clockwise and counterclockwise circles. Calf stretches can also be beneficial and are done by standing facing a wall, placing one foot forward, and leaning into the wall while keeping the back leg straight. This stretches the calf muscles and reduces stiffness. Resistance band exercises, like dorsiflexion and plantarflexion, help strengthen the ankle muscles and promote stability. Toe taps and heel raises are also effective exercises that can enhance the range of motion and build muscle strength. If you have ankle arthritis, and are interested in learning about additional exercises that may bring relief, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Ankle & Foot of Edmonds. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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

Stress fractures, although often seen as minor injuries, can lead to significant discomfort and prolonged recovery if not addressed properly. Understanding the causes and seeking timely treatment are essential steps toward a smoother healing process. One of the primary causes of these hairline fractures is repetitive stress and overuse, particularly common among athletes and those engaged in high-impact activities. The constant pounding on the bones, such as during running, can weaken them over time, eventually resulting in a fracture. Insufficient rest between activities or abrupt increases in intensity or duration can increase the risk. Identifying stress fracture symptoms is important for early intervention. Pain, localized tenderness, and swelling are common signs, typically worsening with activity and subsiding with rest. Treatment often involves rest, immobilization with a brace or cast, and sometimes crutches are used to reduce weight-bearing. By recognizing the causes and seeking appropriate treatment, individuals can recover from stress fractures more quickly and minimize the risk of recurrence. If you have endured a stress fracture, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and guide you toward the correct treatment options. 

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Ankle & Foot of Edmonds. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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

Diabetic neuropathy is a common and serious complication of diabetes that affects the nerves, particularly in the legs and feet. Symptoms include numbness and tingling, often starting in the feet and spreading. Other indications of diabetic neuropathy are burning or sharp pain at night, muscle weakness that can impede walking or moving, and loss of balance, which increases the risk of falls. In some patients, skin changes, such as dry or cracked skin, and slow wound healing are common. Causes of diabetic neuropathy include uncontrolled blood sugar levels that can gradually damage nerves, and inflammation that harms nerve fibers. Diabetes can lead to poor circulation because of restricted blood flow to the feet. A family history of neuropathy may increase the risk, and smoking and overuse of alcohol can worsen nerve damage in diabetics. If you are experiencing diabetic neuropathy symptoms in the lower extremities, it is suggested that you make regular appointments with a podiatrist to monitor their progress. 

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists from Ankle & Foot of Edmonds. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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