Flatfoot

Flatfoot is a deformity in which the arch of the foot collapses, with the entire sole of the foot coming into contact with the ground. In some individuals, the arch simply never develops in one foot or both feet. Tendons attach the heel and foot bones to cause the arch. When the tendons do not pull together properly, there is little or no arch, causing flatfoot.

 

This condition is common in both children and adults and is treatable. Adults often suffer from flat foot that is caused by stretched or torn tendons, broken or dislocated bones, obesity, diabetes and aging. In some cases, those suffering from flat feet will have no problems or symptoms at all, they require no treatment. Many other patients experience the following symptoms:

• Pain along the course of the PT tendon which lies on the inside of the foot and ankle
• Pain that worsens with activity
• Swollen feet
• Back and leg pain

Those suffering from flat foot are often unable to properly support bodyweight properly, causing extreme pressure in the joints in the ankles, knees and hips. At Affiliated Foot and Ankle Care Center, we can provide various treatment options that include stretching exercises, orthotic devices and more. Our competent staff is well versed in the diagnosis and treatment of flatfoot, call (907) 260-3668 today to schedule an appointment!

Achilles Tendonitis

If you are suffering from painful swelling in the back of the foot, just above the heel, you might be experiencing Achilles Tendonitis issues. This condition affects millions of Americans, from athletes to couch potatoes. At Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care Center, we see and treat this condition quite regularly.

 

This condition affects the Achilles tendon, which is the strongest and largest tendon in the body. It also connects the leg to the foot as it stretches from the lower leg to the heel bone. The Achilles tendon is crucial to sustaining normal walking patters as it allows the foot to rise up on the toes.

This condition typically develops gradually as the tendon inflammation and may include one or more of the following three stages:

• Peritenonitis – an inflammatory and fibrous reaction between the tendon and the paratenon (areolar tissue filling the space between a tendon and its sheath). It may occur by itself or in conjunction with tendinosis.
• Tendinosis ­– typically an asymptomatic stage that may result in a nodule, or know to swelling at the back of the leg
• Peritenonitis with tendinosis - this stage may lead to a rupture of the tendon and it is characterized by pain and swelling during and after activity.

Similarly to most medical conditions, Achilles tendonitis is best treated early in its development. If you are experiencing pain and/or swelling in this region, a consultation with Dr. Harry Cotler will give you the best chance for a full recovery. You can schedule an appointment at our Soldotna, AK practice by calling (907) 260-3886 or visit us online at www.hcotler.com to learn more about our practice!

Brachymetatarsia

Brachymetatarsia, also known as “short toe” is a condition where there is a growth disturbance to a bone in the foot, creating a short toe. If more than one of the long bones of the foot is affected, it is known as brachymetapody. A short fourth toe is most common, though it could affect any toe.  The toe itself is usually normal length, but the bone the toe attaches to in the arch (metatarsal bone) is short.  A really short toe can be described as a floating toe.

 

Patients who suffer from brachymetatarsia are often in considerable pain. The toe will sit higher up on the foot and can become irritated in shoes. Weight distribution of the ball of the foot is also altered with short toe, causing pain and pressure calluses. Patients suffering from this condition tend to hide their feet and avoid going barefoot.

 

There are treatment options available for those with pain or embarrassment caused by brachymetatarsia; both surgical and non-surgical options are offered. At Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care Center, we often start with custom orthotics may in order to properly distribute the weight across the foot while in motion. The surgical grafting of bone to lengthen the short toe may also be an option in some cases. Contact us today to learn how we can help you regain a greater sense of balance and a smoother range of motion.

 

Visit us online at www.hcotler.com or call our Soldotna, AK office at (907) 260-3668 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Harry Cotler! 

Sports Injuries

Here in Soldotna, AK, our podiatrist office sees many injuries of the feet and ankles, including sports injuries. Sports injuries can occur in many people, including students during practice or games, professional athletes during sporting events, or people who participate in fitness or sports as recreation.

 

Injuries of the feet and ankles are more common among athletes because they use these parts of their bodies so much, requiring the use of them for stability and movement and subjecting them to an overuse injury. It also makes it more important that they see us as soon as they notice signs of an injury.

 

Some of the more common sports injuries we see here in our podiatrist office include:

 

1. Hip stress fractures

2. Pulled hamstring

3. Shin splints

4. Achilles tendonitis

5. Sprains and strains

6. Arch pain

7. Plantar Fasciitis

8. Knee injuries

9. Swollen muscles

10. Shin bone pain

11. Fractures

12. Dislocations

 

As soon as our patients get an injury, we first encourage them to stop their sport or running activity, get rest, and schedule an appointment to be seen in our Soldotna, AK podiatrist office. The faster we can diagnose the problem, the sooner we treat it and enable our patients to get back to physical activities.

 

Contact podiatrist Dr. Harry Cotler today to get help with your sports injuries.

Custom Orthotics

Unlike shoe inserts that you can find at the store or order online, custom orthotics are devices prescribed by a doctor and crafted for your specific foot.  Designed to provide support and comfort to your feet after a thorough evaluation of your feet, ankles and legs, these orthotics can accommodate your unique foot structure and help prevent or treat a variety of conditions.

At Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care, we provide two types of orthotics: those meant to control abnormal motion and those meant to provide additional cushioning and support. Dr. Harry Cotler prescribes custom orthotics for many conditions, including bursitis, plantar fasciitis, tendinitis, bunions, diabetic foot ulcers and foot, ankle and heel pain.

If you are suffering from one of these conditions, Dr. Cotler will examine your feet and how you walk. He will assess the movement and function of your lower extremities and even how your feet function when walking and running. In addition, he will listen to any complaints or concerns you have. This information will all help him design custom orthotics to help your feet and way of life. Clinical studies have shown that these devices are effective in decreasing foot pain and improving function.

To schedule an appointment with our office in Soldotna, AK, call 907-260-FOOT(3668). For more information, visit www.HCotler.com.

Pediatric Foot Care

Our feet and ankles form the foundations that support our bodies and are responsible for our daily mobility, which is why at Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care, we believe good foot and ankle care should begin early in life. Starting in infancy, it is important for parents to take proper measures to ensure good foot health for their children. With a few simple steps, you can keep your baby healthy from head to toe.

With young babies, it is important for parents to change their position several times a day and to look at his or her feet to see if anything looks abnormal. Exercise should also be provided for them. Lying uncovered allows the infant to kick and perform other movements that will prepare the feet for weight bearing. Leaving the child uncovered also prevents abnormal pressure on the feet. A young child’s feet are very pliable, and foot deformities can result from pressure placed on the feet by tight covers or too-small shoes. It is important to make sure your child’s shoes are flexible and fit properly and that sheets and blankets are loose when being used.

As your child ages, be aware of their walking patterns, which could signal any concerns. In addition, any foot pain or swelling without explanation should not be ignored. Foot deformities, such as club foot, require early medical intervention. If any problems arise, it is important to consult with Dr. Harry Cotler, who can address these concerns. From flat feet and juvenile bunions to ingrown toenails and other common foot problems, we specialize in the treatment of children and will work to make sure your children’s feet are happy and healthy.

To schedule an appointment with our office, call 907-260-FOOT (3668). For more information, visit www.HCotler.com.

Hammertoes

Hammertoe is a common podiatric issue that is characterized by the bending of the middle joint in the second, third or fourth toes. While hammertoes are still flexible when the condition first presents itself, if left untreated, they can become rigid, only treatable through surgery. If you have hammertoe, it is important to seek treatment immediately in order to avoid corns, calluses and discomfort, and Dr. Harry Cotler has the experience and expertise to provide effective treatment here in Soldotna, AK.

Hammertoes are commonly caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes or by a muscle imbalance in the foot in association with flat feet, injury or disease. Since muscles work in pairs to straighten and bend the toes, if the toe is bent and held in one position long enough, the muscles will tighten and be unable to stretch out. If left untreated, your toes can become rigid or develop open sores. The condition will not go away without treatment, and a visit to our office is imperative.  

At Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care, treatment for hammertoe usually starts with new shoes with soft and roomy toe boxes. Dr. Cotler may also prescribe exercises to do at home that stretch and strengthen the muscles, such as manually stretching the toes. In severe cases, surgery may be required, but only if conservative measures have already failed.

To schedule an appointment with our office, call 907-260-FOOT (3668). For more information, visit www.HCotler.com.

Bunions

A bunion is a common foot condition characterized as a bump on the joint at the base of the big toe. This bump forms when the bone moves out of place, forcing the big toe to bend toward the others. Because this joint bears a lot of the body’s weight while walking and standing, bunions can cause a great deal of pain if left untreated. Not only can it become difficult to walk, but even wearing shoes can be a problem.

Bunions form when the force exerted on the joints and tendons in the foot is disrupted. Instability in the joint can cause the abnormality, as can years of abnormal motion and pressure in the joint. This means that the condition is a symptom of faulty foot development caused either by an improper gait or from inherited foot type.

If you are experiencing a firm bump on your inner foot at the base of the big toe or redness, swelling or pain near the joint, you have most likely developed a bunion and should schedule an appointment with our office immediately. Dr. Harry Cotler can provide you with treatment to stop the progression of the condition. Treatment options include padding of the bunion to minimize pain, taping the foot into normal position, physical therapy, custom orthotics and, in the most extreme cases, surgery.  

To schedule an appointment, call 907-260-FOOT (3668). For more information, visit www.HCotler.com.

Running Injuries

Now that the weather is starting to get a little nicer, we thought we’d let you know about some common running injuries and how you can best prevent them this summer. Whether you are a professional athlete or just a weekend warrior, there is always the chance that you could get hurt. The best way to prevent injuries is to prepare, work smart and recover.

Running is a great way to release some endorphins, get outside and get healthy, but if you’re not properly preparing yourself, you could find yourself on a doctor’s table pretty quickly. The most common running-related foot injuries are:

• Shin Splints – pain that occurs in the front or inside of the lower leg along the shin bone. Treatment includes rest, stretching and a slow return to your normal level of activity
• Achilles Tendinitis – this inflammation occurs in the Achilles tendon and causes pain and stiffness in the area of the tendon. Treatment includes rest, cold compress on the afflicted area and calf stretches
• Plantar Fasciitis –inflammation in the plantar fascia tissue that causes a great deal of pain during physical activity. Treatment should include calf stretches, rest and cold compress to the afflicted area
• Blisters – these fluid filled sacks occur due to friction between shoes/socks and skin. If you have blister problems, consider getting new shoes, wearing socks with a double layer and apply petroleum jelly on areas prone to blisters

If you have suffered any running injuries, take a minute to think about how important your feet are to you and your daily life. If you are in pain and your home remedies are not working, schedule an appointment with us at Affiliated Ankle & Foot Care by calling (907) 260-3668. 

Fun Facts/Common Foot Disorders

Did you know that there are a quarter of all the body bones just in your feet? There are 52 bones, 66 joints, 214 ligaments and 38 muscles in both of your feet alone. When you compare that to the rest of your body, it’s kind of astounding. Think about how all of those parts work together to just take one step, in fact, every time your heel lifts off the ground it forces the toes to carry one half of your body weight.

 

The Institute for Preventative Foot Health did a study that showed nearly 80 percent of people ages 21 and older have had at least one foot related problem in their life. The study was conducted in 2012 and surveyed 1,456 people. Here are the top-5 biggest foot problems of the participants:

1. Athlete’s foot – nearly 25% of the people in the study said they have experienced athlete’s foot at least once in their life
2. Achy feet – 26% of those surveyed said they have trouble with sore, achy feet. This usually occurs with age and is treatable through Podiatry
3. Calluses – 27% reported issues with calluses. Calluses occur on the sole of the feet and is usually caused by friction
4. Blisters – 28% noted problems with blisters. Blisters also form from friction but often occur more frequently and are more like a wound
5. Ankle sprain – 31% of participants reported problems with sprained ankles. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons reported that 25,000 Americans sprain an ankle every day

If you would like to read more about common foot problems, you can visit our website here. We have provided extensive information about common foot problems that are treated at Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care with Dr. Harry Cotler in Soldotna, AK.

Tendinitis

Your feet are one of the most important parts of your body, but are you taking care of the like you should? When your feet hit the ground in the morning, are you in pain? Do you experience pain when you walk, run or even just standing? Tendinitis is one of the most common foot conditions out there right now and if it’s treated properly, it can lead to very serious foot conditions. At Affiliated Ankle & Foot Care, we take pride in how we care for our patients so if you’re in pain, come in and we’ll take a look.

 

Tendinitis results from an injury, most likely sustained due to overuse. Improper stretching prior to exertion or incorrect form during physical activity can also contribute to this condition. Tendinitis mostly affects the tendons that connect your muscles to bone. In some cases, people suffer from Achilles tendinitis. This inflammation in the Achilles tendon is very painful and is very common amongst active adults.

 

If you are trying home remedies for the pain and it’s not working, it’s time to visit us. When you come in for your appointment, Dr. Cotler will complete a physical examination of your feet and ankles. If necessary, an X-ray will be taken in order to properly diagnose your condition. If inflammation is found, Dr. Cotler will devise a treatment plan that will include immobilization, cold compresses and even medication if necessary. 

Arch Disorders

Arch pain can be a crippling condition that makes even the simplest tasks almost impossible. Arch pain, often referred to as arch strain, is an inflammation and/or burning sensation at the arch of your foot. If you are currently having arch problems, it might be time to come in and get it checked out. At Affiliated Ankle & Foot Care, we take a proactive approach to healing your heal pain so it does not advance to a more painful condition down the road.

 

A factor in the early management of arch pain is receiving an accurate diagnosis from your podiatrist, Dr. Harry Cotler. If the symptoms are mild, Dr. Cotler may prescribe foot orthotics and stretching exercises to help the calf muscles and arch. If your symptoms are more severe, we may use tape to support the arch and restrict movement as well as prescribe an anti-inflammatory medication and possibly recommend the use of custom orthotics. If there is no relief from those treatments, further testing may be necessary to determine whether such conditions as arthritis or a more serious condition might form.

 

Arch pain is most often caused by plantar fasciitis, which can affect the heel, arch, or both. Plantar fasciitis treatment is the same, regardless of the location of foot pain. If you are suffering from fasciitis or even fallen arches, try these home remedies:

• Rest/ice
• Medicate – non-steroidal anti inflammatory
• Shoe adjustments or custom orthotics
• Use a walking boot or brace

If you are experiencing any arch problems and have tried to manage the pain on your own, it might be time to consider visiting us at Affiliated Ankle & Foot Care. Our professional staff is here to get you back to feeling great!

Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction

Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction

Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction is a common foot and ankle condition experienced by many people. One of the most important tendons in the leg, the posterior tibial tendon connects the calf muscle to the bones on the inside of the foot. Its main function is to support the arch of the foot while walking. Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction occurs when this tendon becomes inflamed or torn, which can decrease support for the arch of the foot, resulting in flat feet.

 

Symptoms of posterior tibial tendon dysfunction usually occur after activity that requires heavy use of the tendon, such as running, hiking, climbing or walking. Symptoms include pain, swelling, flattening of the arch and an inward roll of the ankle. This ailment is generally progressive, and if left untreated can get worse.

 

When posterior tibial tendon dysfunction develops, it starts with pain on the inside of the foot and ankle. In addition, the area may be red, warm or swollen as well. As the dysfunction progresses and the arch begins to flatten, the pain may stay, but the foot and toes will begin to turn outward. This means that the ankle will roll inward as you walk and cause pain on the outside of the foot and below the ankle. Once the condition has deteriorated this far, it indicates that the tendon has deteriorated considerable and arthritis is developing.

 

While surgery might be required for more serious causes, if you come to our office early on, we may be able to help with only mild correction. Dr. Harry Cotler provides both non-invasive and surgical treatment for a variety of foot conditions. To schedule an appointment with this Soldotna podiatrist, call (907) 260-3668. For more information, visit www.HCotler.com. 

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis

While most bones in our body are connected to each other at joints, there are a few that are connected only to tendons or are embedded in muscle. These are called sesamoids. The largest one in the body is the patella (kneecap), but there are also two very small sesamoids in the feet. They are both found in the underside of the foot, with one behind the great toe and the other closer to the middle of the foot on the outside.

 

These sesamoids act as pulleys, providing a smooth surface for the tendons to slide over, which gives the tendons extra leverage and power. The sesamoids in the foot also elevate the bones of the great toe and assist in weight bearing. Without the sesamoids, the big toe loses some of its power and force.  

If the tendons that surround the sesamoids become irritated or inflamed, it is called sesamoiditis, which is a form of tendinitis common among ballet dancers, baseball catchers and runners. The most common symptom of sesamoiditis is pain underneath the big toe on the ball of the foot. This pain usually builds gradually over time and is accompanied by swelling and bruising. Symptoms are pressure related and are brought on by walking, running or jumping or when direct pressure is applied.

 

If you believe you have sesamoiditis in Soldotna, AK, schedule an appointment with our office for diagnosis. Dr. Harry Cotler can treat this condition in a variety of ways, from non-invasive to surgical. To schedule an appointment, call (907) 260-3668. For more information, visit www.HCotler.com. 

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis

There are more than 100 different types of arthritis, and the most common one is osteoarthritis. While all the different types involve inflammation and swelling in and around the joints, osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that is caused by wear and tear as you age. Usually occurring in the weight-bearing joints, such as the hips, knee and spine, osteoarthritis can also affect your hands and feet.

 

The most common places for osteoarthritis to occur in the foot are where the ankle and shinbone meet, the heel, mid-foot and the big toe. Symptoms often develop gradually and include aching and soreness in the joint (especially after long uses), stiffness, swelling and fluid accumulation.

Women are more likely to develop osteoarthritis than men and in those older than 60. However, osteoarthritis has been diagnosed in much younger individuals in their 20s and 30s. Some factors increase an individual’s chance of developing the disease, including heredity, obesity and overuse of the joint.

 

There are several ways to treat osteoarthritis in the foot and ankle, including steroid injections, anti-inflammatory drugs, arch supports, canes, shoe inserts and more. If you are experiencing foot pain, schedule an appointment with our practice. We can help alleviate your pain and improve your quality of life. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Harry Cotler, call (907) 260-3668. For more information, visit www.HCotler.com. 

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a painful foot condition caused by compression of the tibial nerve as it travels through the tarsal tunnel. The tarsal tunnel is the canal through which all the foot’s nerves, arteries and tendons that provide movement and flexibility reside. It is located between the medial malleolus (the bump on the inside of the ankle bone) and the flexor retinaculum (a band of ligaments that stretches across the foot). The tibial nerve resides in the tarsal tunnel and provides sensation to the bottom of the foot.

 

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very painful, with symptoms in the foot that include a shooting pain, numbness or a tingling or burning sensation. The syndrome can be caused by injury, disease or even the natural shaping of the foot. The most common causes of tibial nerve compression are flat feet or fallen arches, swelling caused by an ankle sprain, swelling caused by arthritis or diabetes and an enlarged, abnormal foot structure. Examples of abnormal structures include varicose veins, ganglion cysts, swollen tendons or bone spurs. Tarsal tunnel syndrome tends to be most common in athletes or individuals who do a log of standing. These people tend to put an excessive amount of stress on the tarsal tunnel area, leading to compression.

 

If you have tarsal tunnel syndrome, our office can help. We offer both non-invasive and surgical treatment for a variety of foot conditions. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Harry Cotler by calling (907) 260-3668. For more information, visit www.HCotler.com. 

Athlete's Foot

Athlete’s foot is one of the most common foot funguses in America. It is a very contagious condition that is often spread through walking barefoot on contaminated surfaces, it is mostly found in gym locker rooms. Some people are more likely than others to get athlete’s foot and there is really no explanation for this. It can be compared to the flu in that you can be a carrier of the fungus but not actually have symptoms. In these situations, the carrier can easily spread the fungus with no knowledge at all.

 

Traditionally, if you have athlete’s foot, the skin between your toes will burn and itch, the skin may peel and crack as well. There are three different types of athlete’s foot:

1. Toe-web infection – usually occurring between the fourth and fifth toes, the skin in this area will become scaly; it will also peel and crack.
2. Moccasin- type infection – your feet will become sore and the skin on the bottom of your foot can become thick and crack. In bad cases, the fungus will spread to the toenails, causing them to thicken, crumble or even fall out.
3. Vesicular type infection –a sudden outburst of fluid-filled blisters will break out under the skin. The blisters can appear anywhere on the feet. If it goes untreated, it can cause a bacterial infection.

Athlete’s foot is very treatable. Dr. Harry Cotler recommends treating the condition when you first see symptoms because the body can become vulnerable to other bacterial infections when large cracks occur in the skin. If you are experiencing any signs of athlete’s foot, schedule an appointment with Dr. Cotler today for effective treatment options. 

Common Foot Disorders

Did you know that there are a quarter of all the body bones just in your feet? There are 52 bones, 66 joints, 214 ligaments and 38 muscles in both of your feet alone. When you compare that to the rest of your body, it’s kind of astounding. Think about how all of those parts work together to just take one step, in fact, every time your heel lifts off the ground it forces the toes to carry one half of your body weight.

The Institute for Preventative Foot Health did a study that showed nearly 80 percent of people ages 21 and older have had at least one foot related problem in their life. The study was conducted in 2012 and surveyed 1,456 people. Here are the top-5 biggest foot problems of the participants:

1. Athlete’s foot – nearly 25% of the people in the study said they have experienced athlete’s foot at least once in their life
2. chy feet – 26% of those surveyed said they have trouble with sore, achy feet. This usually occurs with age and is treatable through Podiatry
3. Calluses – 27% reported issues with calluses. Calluses occur on the sole of the feet and is usually caused by friction
4. Blisters – 28% noted problems with blisters. Blisters also form from friction but often occur more frequently and are more like a wound
5. Ankle sprain – 31% of participants reported problems with sprained ankles. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons reported that 25,000 Americans sprain an ankle every day

If you would like to read more about common foot problems, you can visit our website here. We have provided extensive information about common foot problems that are treated at Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care with Dr. Harry Cotler in Soldotna, AK.

Work-Related Foot Problems

When it comes to work-related foot injuries, it doesn’t matter what line of work you’re in, you are at risk of foot injuries. While most foot injuries occur off the job, there are a number of work-related factors that can lead to foot problems, especially in jobs that require long periods of standing.

 

The main thing to remember when you’re thinking about your foot health while working is choosing the right footwear. Poor footwear that does not fit properly heavily contributes to foot disorders. You should look for the following in a pair of work shoes:

• Flexibility – footwear should stretch and grow with your feet
• Comfort fit – sometimes feet are different sizes so make sure to measure both feet when shopping
• Timing – buy your new shoes in the late-afternoon when feet are swollen to their maximum size
• Shock-absorbing – if the shoes you’re looking at don’t have shock-absorbing qualities, buy insoles. Your feet will thank you if you’re walking around a lot as part of your job.

Next time you have an appointment with Dr. Harry Cotler, tell him about your job and ask what types of shoes you should wear, he’s happy to help! We treat all types of foot pain, so if you aren’t sure what you have just call for an appointment. The most work-related pain we treat is:

• Bunions
• Hammertoe
• Arch disorders
• Heel spurs
• Corns and callouses
• Ingrown toenails  

Vascular Examination - PAD

Here at Affiliated Ankle and Foot care, we strive to be at the forefront of the podiatry profession. We do so through continuing education programs and keeping up with the latest technological advances. One of the technologies that we’re using at our Soldotna, AK practice is a vascular examination tool. This great device allows us to better diagnose Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD).

 

PAD is a lower extremity disorder in which plaque builds up in the arteries that carry blood to the rest of your body. This plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, fibrous tissue and other substances. When the plaque builds up in the body’s arteries, it can harden and narrow the arteries, limiting the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the other organs in your body, especially to the legs and feet. For those wondering what the symptoms of PAD are, patients often report the following:

• Cramping pains in the legs or hip muscles while walking
• Burning or aching in the feet and toes while at rest
• Cooling of the skin in specific areas of the legs or feet
• Color change in the skin
• Sores on the feet and toes
• No pulse in the feet

Our non-invasive vascular exam is a simple test. Dr. Harry Cotler will place blood pressure cuffs on your leg at different levels. This will measure your blood pressure and obtain an image of the pulse wave form. This will show Dr. Cotler whether or not there is evidence of PAD.

Soft tissue masses and tumors

Soft tissue masses and tumors

Soft tissue masses and tumors are diagnosed and treated here in our Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care office by our podiatrist Dr. Harry Cotler. These masses or tumors are identified as thickening and hardening of one part of skin, typically found under the ball of the foot.

 

Soft tissue masses and tumors can be caused by friction and pressure on that particular area. Many people find that they get these types of tissue masses from the shoes they wear, or because they have hammertoes or bunions. While complications from soft tissue masses and tumors aren’t entirely common, they can occur without proper treatment.

 

Before treating these masses, we must first diagnose them. If you show any of the following symptoms, now is a good time to visit us for an examination:

• Rough, thick and hardening of the skin
• Soreness, pain or tenderness in the area
• Redness around the lump
• A raised, hardened lump on the foot or toes
• Flaky and dry skin

The type of mass and how long the patient has had it determines the best treatment plan. We offer custom orthotics and shoe inserts if these soft tissue masses are caused by lack of shoe support, and we can also tape the foot if there is too much pain and pressure.

 

Visit our podiatrist Dr. Harry Cotler in Soldotna, AK to get started on your treatment for soft tissue masses and tumors.

Warts

Warts

We not only treat sprains and injuries, here in our Soldotna, AK, Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care podiatry office, but skin conditions of the foot as well.Warts are a common complaint among our patients, especially plantar warts. Plantar warts show up on the sole, ball, or heel of the foot as noncancerous growths. These types of warts can be yellow, gray, or brown and are spongy and rough to the touch.

 

The main cause of warts on the foot is the human papilloma virus (HPV), which can enter the body through cuts in the skin. Some individuals have a higher risk factor than others with getting plantar warts or other types of warts caused by the virus, especially when walking barefoot outdoors, in locker rooms or in common areas, as well as having a weakened immune system.

 

Plantar warts usually present as a lump on the foot, and are felt more easily while standing. They can grow in singular warts or clusters. We treat all types of warts on the foot after diagnosis, but also encourage prevention of the spreading of warts by always wearing shoes and changing the socks and shoes daily.

 

Call podiatrist Dr. Harry Cotler at 907-260-3668 to learn more about warts and the treatment options we offer.

Ankle Injuries

Ankle Injuries

Our Soldotna, AK podiatrist Dr. Harry Cotler sees patients for a variety of reasons, but all having to do with skin conditions, injuries, or pain pertaining to the feet or ankles. As it is a very common type of injury, he often sees patients who have suffered ankle injuries. The ankles and feet support the entire body, so it is no surprise that they are so easily injured. The recommended type of treatment for ankle injuries often depends on the cause and severity of the injury, which can be assessed right here in our podiatrist office.

 

Ankle injuries can be caused by athletic sports or recreational activities, running and other fitness, or from labor-intensive jobs. Tripping or falling over can also cause an ankle injury.

Symptoms of ankle injuries include a red, warm ankle, swelling, bruising, limited range of motion, and/or pain. If you have any of these symptoms we recommend visiting our Soldotna, AK Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care office for an examination.

 

Some common treatment options for ankle injuries include icing and applying heat, putting on a cast or brace, or providing stretching exercises to help improve the range of motion of the ankle. We look for non-surgical treatments first, before recommending surgery. Surgery is usually only needed for severe ankle injuries.

 

Call us at 907-260-3668 to schedule a consultation with our podiatrist Dr. Harry Cotler for your ankle injury. 

Soft tissue masses and tumors

Soft tissue masses and tumors

Soft tissue masses and tumors are diagnosed and treated here in our Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care office by our podiatrist Dr. Harry Cotler. These masses or tumors are identified as thickening and hardening of one part of skin, typically found under the ball of the foot.

 

Soft tissue masses and tumors can be caused by friction and pressure on that particular area. Many people find that they get these types of tissue masses from the shoes they wear, or because they have hammertoes or bunions. While complications from soft tissue masses and tumors aren’t entirely common, they can occur without proper treatment.

 

Before treating these masses, we must first diagnose them. If you show any of the following symptoms, now is a good time to visit us for an examination:

• Rough, thick and hardening of the skin
• Soreness, pain or tenderness in the area
• Redness around the lump
• A raised, hardened lump on the foot or toes
• Flaky and dry skin

The type of mass and how long the patient has had it determines the best treatment plan. We offer custom orthotics and shoe inserts if these soft tissue masses are caused by lack of shoe support, and we can also tape the foot if there is too much pain and pressure.

 

Visit our podiatrist Dr. Harry Cotler in Soldotna, AK to get started on your treatment for soft tissue masses and tumors.

Neuropathic Pain

Neuropathy in the feet causes a variety of side effects, including burning, achiness and redness. This can be caused by diabetes, having dermatitis, Athlete’s feet or overexertion without wearing the proper footwear. Here at our podiatry office, we offer burning and neuropathic pain treatments in the form of diabetic foot care, necessary surgical procedures, treating infections and treating the exact cause of the burning pain. Physical therapy and rehabilitation treatments are highly effective with this type of foot problem.

Patients who experience the following symptoms are encouraged to consider podiatry care for their burning foot pain:

• Diabetes patients with any type of foot pain.


• Burning pain in one or both feet.


• Foot pain severe enough to affect sleep.


• Patients who want to find alternatives for their foot pain.


• Being unsteady while walking.


• Previously having a fall due to the pain in the foot.

Our treatment plans deal with short-term pain relief and long-term solutions. This is why we incorporate physical therapy as part of the treatment for burning and neuropathic pain of the feet.

Call Dr. Harry Cotler at 907-260-3668 (FOOT) to schedule an appointment if you are experiencing burning or neuropathic pain in your feet.