Digital X-Rays

Many podiatrists' do not utilize X-ray technology in their practice at all, much less digital X-ray technology. This new technology is taking the medical field by storm; its many advantages greatly outweigh those of traditional X-ray systems. Dr. Harry Cotler brought this technology to Affiliated Ankle & Foot Care Center in order to provide a better level of care to his patients.

The use of digital radiography has many advantages that are all but impossible with traditional X-ray systems. Dr. Cotler is able to view and detect anomalies in dark or light areas of the film, enhance cortical outlines, change image brightness and magnify and manipulate the image. The image that is taken is also much higher quality than seen through traditional systems. Digital X-ray technology is a great tool for patients as well. Since traditional X-rays often fail to detect early stages of many problems, digital X-rays give Dr. Cotler higher quality images that allow him to diagnose patient’s problems sooner. Early detection is the best way for patient’s to avoid potentially invasive, costly procedures that wouldn’t have been necessary if the symptoms were found earlier.

Another great benefit of digital X-ray technology is the fact that it is so good for the environment. There is no need for harmful chemicals or wasted film to develop the images. The X-rays are all stored in our computer system, eliminating the need for filing envelopes or physical storage of records.

To make an appointment with Dr. Harry Cotler, call (907) 260-3668. For more information about our team here at Affiliated ANkle & Foot Care Center, visit www.hcotler.com.

 

 

Corns and Calluses

Corns and Calluses affect nearly 5% of Americans and are often treated through podiatric care. Corns and calluses are essentially the same thing: thick, dead skin caused by excessive friction, usually because of a poorly fitting shoe. Corns are generally found on the toes, whereas calluses tend to form on the bottom of the feet. If you are experiencing one of these common foot conditions, visit our team here at Affiliated Ankle & Foot Care Center for treatment, especially if you are feeling any pain or discomfort.

 

Corns and calluses are typically caused by either too much friction or pressure on against part of the foot. These conditions are not contagious but do become painful if left untreated. For patients who suffer from diabetes or decreased circulation, corns and calluses often lead to serious foot problems if left untreated.

 

When you visit our office in Soldotna, AK, Dr. Harry Cotler will conduct a complete exam of your feet, corns and calluses are diagnosed based on appearance and medical history. Dr. Cotler may even inspect your shoes or watch you walk in an effort to determine the cause. Once it is determined that you have one of these conditions, Dr. Cotler will create a treatment plan. For those suffering from mild corns or calluses, it may require a change in shoes or add orthotics. If you suffer from larger corns or calluses, Dr. Cotler will reduce them with a surgical blade. The procedure is completely painless because the skin is already dead.

 

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

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes has many effects on feet, and it is extremely important that any diabetic seek podiatric care. Here at Affiliated Ankle & Foot Care Center, Dr. Cotler has a wealth of experience in assisting diabetic patients with their foot care.

 

Diabetes is a condition that affects many organs and systems in the body. Feet are the first place where effects of diabetes are seen, mainly because they are the furthest extremities from the heart. It is a well-known fact that one of the first systemic conditions that diabetes effects is the circulatory system. Dr. Cotler specializes in disorders of the foot and ankle and therefore is highly trained to examine for abnormalities of the lower extremity.

 

Many times podiatrists are the first doctors to diagnose vascular disease and neuropathy in the lower extremities. Diabetes can cause both of these systemic disorders and by seeing a podiatrist, the feet, which are most affected by diabetes, can be cared for on a regular basis. Often a small problem can be diagnosed and treated at an early stage and helps prevent the condition from progressing to a more serious disorder.

 

If you suffer from diabetes, it is crucial that you ensure foot health by working with a podiatrist. This will truly reduce the likelihood of an infection. Preventative care is the best step you could take if you have diabetes.