May 2023

Poor blood circulation can cause the feet to feel cold, numb, or tingly. It can also cause dry skin on the feet and brittle toenails. This happens because there is an interference with blood delivery of vital oxygen and nutrients to the feet. Poor circulation can make wounds heal slower and increase the risk of infection. Lifestyle changes may help some patients, and others may have to take medicine to widen blood vessels. Though vitamins and supplements cannot cure circulation problems, they may provide relief from symptoms. If you have signs of poor circulation in your feet, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can determine what the cause is, and offer advice on treatment. 

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Scott Samera, DPM of Samera / Foot + Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

Falling can cause serious injuries. The feet are often affected, and this can compromise the ability to complete daily activities. Having the eyes checked regularly can help to update existing eyeglasses, in addition to having routine physical examinations for medication checks. The living environment can be made safer by implementing simple fall prevention techniques, such as improving lighting in the household and removing worn rugs. Some people find it beneficial to install grab bars in the shower and toilet area, in addition to using non-skid bath mats. It is wise to wear shoes that fit correctly, and keeping items in a lower cabinet may make them easier to reach. Engaging in a gentle exercise program can be helpful in keeping the body strong while improving balance. Tai Chi and yoga are good examples of this. If you would like more information about effective fall prevention methods, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you are seeking. 

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Scott Samera, DPM from Samera / Foot + Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Most broken toes are the result of falling, dropping something heavy on it, or bumping it into a hard object. Symptoms of a broken, rather than sprained, toe include severe throbbing pain that does not subside, swelling, bruising, and redness of the skin. The inability to put weight on the toe is another sign, as standing or walking is likely to send shooting pain up through the body. Worse, it may even cause you to lose your balance and fall. A telltale sign of a broken toe is a popping or cracking noise heard when the injury occurs. If you have a broken toe it will become extremely tender to the touch. Putting on shoes, or even socks, may become impossible to bear. An obvious sign that a toe is broken is if the bone becomes visible through a break in the skin. Besides being painful, the toe is then more likely to be exposed to infection. Further, if not properly healed, this can lead to a permanent deformity. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment. 

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Scott Samera, DPM from Samera / Foot + Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Lake City and Branford, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A sprained ankle can happen in a variety of ways. These can include unexpectedly stepping off a curb, or twisting it during a sporting activity. Regardless of how it happens, a sprained ankle can be painful and cause difficulty completing daily activities. Additional symptoms may include swelling, bruising, and a reduced range of motion. When the foot is frequently elevated, the swelling may decrease, and wrapping the affected ankle in an elastic bandage may help to stabilize the foot. If the sprain is severe, the healing process may take several weeks, and activities may have to be temporarily stopped until enough time has passed. Severely sprained ankles may affect the joints, and it is beneficial to seek immediate medical attention if the foot appears to be deformed. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Scott Samera, DPM from Samera / Foot + Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Lake City and Branford, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

It is important to note that foot pain is nothing to take lightly. Since humans use their feet every day for a wide range of activities, maintaining proper foot health and addressing any potential foot pain is critical. Occasionally, foot pain may result from wearing the wrong type of shoe for the specific activity that is being pursued. For example, many individuals who spend a lot of time walking are not wearing shoes that are well suited for this. When an individual engages in walking, it is beneficial the shoes have a significant amount of arch support. This means shoes such as flip flops or flats generally are not well suited to this activity. High heels also are ill-fitted to the activity of walking because this kind of shoe forces the weight of the body to the balls of the feet. Therefore, a patient can try to remember to choose shoes that match the activity they are engaging in. If you are someone struggling with foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for treatment and advice. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Scott Samera, DPM from Samera / Foot + Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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