Harry Cotler DPM

Showing posts with label Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care. Show all posts

Wednesday, July 8, 2015

Heel Spurs: Treatment and Prevention

Heel spurs are another foot problem that we can diagnose and treat here at Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care of Soldotna, AK. While sometimes heel spurs can develop and cause no pain at all, other times they can cause a great deal of pain.


A sharp pain in the bottom of the foot when first standing in the morning is a common symptom of a heel spurs. The pain often returns when someone stands up after sitting for a long period of time and while walking, jogging, and running. After the sharp pain subsides, it is replaced with a dull ache.


There are conservative and invasive ways to relieve heel spurs. Anti-inflammatory medications can help with pain and swelling, as well as stretching, orthotics, certain shoes, and physical therapy. In some cases, your podiatrist may want to inject a corticosteroid to relieve the inflammation in the area.


When conservative approaches do not work, this is when surgical options are considered. The heel spur can be removed, or the plantar fascia (the thick band of tissue along the bottom of your foot) may be released.


To prevent heel spurs, make sure to wear well-fitting shoes for each activity you are doing. Also make sure to warm up and cool down after physical activities. If you wear out the heels of your shoes, make sure to replace them.


If you have been experiencing heel pain, come in for an examination at our Soldotna, AK location. To schedule, call Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care at (907) 260-3668 or visit our website, www.hcotler.com

Wednesday, July 1, 2015

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome and How to Treat It

The symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome are commonly confused with the symptoms of plantar fasciitis. Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care of Soldotna, AK wants their patients experiencing arch and heel pain to know the difference and to be examined.


Shooting pain, numbness, and a tingling, burning sensation in the heel, the arch, and sometimes the toes are all symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome. These symptoms can feel worse when running, standing for long periods of time, and at the end of a day. Pain caused by plantar fasciitis is also in the inside of the heel and the arch of the foot. However, symptoms having to do with the tibial nerve, like numbness and tingling, as well as tenderness to the touch of certain areas, indicate that the pain is actually tarsal tunnel syndrome. Your podiatrist will be able to run a test to diagnose one or the other.


To relieve the pain caused by tarsal tunnel syndrome, rest from activities that seem to aggravate the condition. When the pain occurs, an anti-inflammatory and a cold pack will help reduce inflammation and swelling. Your podiatrist will know proper foot stretches and exercises to strengthen and stretch the area. These combined can often relieve tarsal tunnel syndrome.


If you have been feeling a burning, tingling sensation near your heel and the arch of the foot, do not wait to have it evaluated. To schedule an appointment with Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care of Soldotna, AK, call (907) 260-3668 or visit our website, www.hcotler.com

Wednesday, June 24, 2015

Xerosis Cutis and How to Treat It

Xerosis cutis is a foot problem that can be quite irritating, but there are ways to defeat it. We at Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care of Soldotna, AK want our patients with extra dry skin to know more about xerosis cutis and how to treat it.


Xerosis cutis is abnormally dry skin and is common on the feet. While this is a temporary condition, it is never welcome and there are ways to keep it away. The signs of xerosis cutis are characterized by dry, itchy, scaly skin, skin that is white and flaky, pink, red, and irritated skin, tight skin, and skin that has fine cracks in it. While getting older may decrease the oils in your skin, causing more dryness, environmental factors are to blame, as well. While taking a shower or bath, over-cleansing the skin, bathing too frequently, and using extra-hot water can all contribute to dry skin. Low humidity and cold, dry winters are also factors. Extended sun exposure, as well as not drinking enough water can also lead to dry skin. While some of these conditions are not easily changed, like winter conditions, there are a lot of ways that you can help moisturize your skin.


Short showers or baths with lukewarm water and gentle cleansers are recommended for bathing. Oil-based moisturizing lotions and drinking plenty of water will also help. For dry air in your home, using a humidifier is also beneficial. And be sure to use sunscreen!


To schedule an appointment with Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care of Soldotna, AK, call (907) 260-3668 or visit our website, www.hcotler.com

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Tailor's Bunion

Tailor’s bunion are less common than a regular bunion, but can be just as painful and troublesome. Here at Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care, of Soldotna, AK, we want you to be able to identify the difference and maybe save yourself some trouble if you are experiencing foot pain.


While a regular bunion is a bump formed in the joint at the base of the big toe, a tailor’s bunion, also known as a bunionette, is formed in the joint at the base of the little toe. They earned their name, tailor’s bunion, by being a well-known foot problem of tailors. These days, the bunionettes are usually caused by not wearing proper shoes. Shoes that do not allow enough room for toes, high-heels, and pointy-toed shoes push in the little toe, deforming the base joint. Inherited predispositions to bunionettes are also to blame.


While the pain in a normal bunion is usually experienced in the bump that forms, with a bunionette, pain is usually felt inside of the joint. Toe spacers and foot padding worn inside shoes can help relieve pain and move the little toe back to its normal positon. Icing the area at the end of the day will also help relieve pain and swelling.


If you have been experiencing pain or even have developed a bump on your little toe joint, schedule an appointment here at Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care of Soldotna, AK. Call (907) 260-3668 or visit our website, www.hcotler.com

Tuesday, February 17, 2015

Ganglions

Ganglions are small, fluid-filled swellings of the joint and tendon that are located on the ankle or on top of the foot. They have the appearance of firm or spongy sacs of liquid and their insides consist of a sticky, clear, thick, jelly-like fluid. Typically they grow slowly and can cause severe irritation when they become too large.
 
The exact cause of ganglions is unknown, but some research has shown that they can form when trauma or repeated irritation weakens the joint or tendon lining. If you wear boots or other restrictive footwear, you may be more susceptible to this condition. Research has also shown that those with bone spurs may also find the pressure of the bony growth can also cause ganglions.
A ganglion usually appears as a smooth bump from 1 to 3 centimeters in diameter. It may disappear and reappear, may be soft or firm, and it may change size. In some cases, you might feel pain if the ganglion presses upon a nerve. If the ganglion is attached to a tendon, the affected area might feel weaker.
 
When it comes to treatment, Dr. Cotler will first complete a physical examination to determine the proper diagnosis. Ganglions often are mistaken for tumors, so visiting us at Affiliated Ankle & Foot Care Center will be extremely beneficial. Treatment methods range from pads placed around the ganglion to reduce pressure, fluid removal, icing and surgery. You can contact our podiatry professions to discuss your symptoms, receive a comprehensive diagnosis and discover the right treatment options. 

Wednesday, July 9, 2014

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.

Thursday, July 3, 2014

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.

Wednesday, June 25, 2014

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.

Tuesday, June 17, 2014

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.

Tuesday, May 20, 2014

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.

Wednesday, April 16, 2014

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

Wednesday, April 9, 2014

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

Thursday, April 3, 2014

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

Wednesday, March 26, 2014

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

Tuesday, March 18, 2014

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. 

Wednesday, March 12, 2014

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.

Wednesday, March 5, 2014

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  

Wednesday, February 26, 2014

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.

Monday, February 24, 2014

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.

Friday, February 21, 2014

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.