Foot Conditions
Arch and heel pain/plantar fasciitis
A very common complaint is that of a painful heel and/or arch in the morning, on first standing. This is usually caused by strain to the ligament called the plantar fascia, which is stretched when the arch lowers with each step we take. This condition responds very satisfactorily with treatment that includes stretching exercises that Dr. Halpine will demonstrate, and with the provision of orthotic devices.
Many people suffer with pain along the shin bone or in the knee region while walking or running. Quite frequently these aches are due to biomechanical imbalances of the feet and legs. The muscles must overwork in order to try to stabilize an excessive foot motion called subtalar joint hyperpronation. Your podiatrist can examine your mechanics and offer relief from these symptoms.
When toes rub against the shoe, the pressure can cause pain and the formation of corns. This problem is first treated through trimming and attention to shoe fit. Surgical correction of the toe deformity that is causing the corn formation can be performed by Dr. Halpine.
A bunion is a prominence on the inside of the foot near the big toe. It also causes the drift of the big toe toward the second. The causes of bunions include: heredity, wear and tear, and a flexible low-arched foot-type. Dr. Halpine can slow bunion development with orthotic devices. He is also specially trained in the surgery to correct this painful deformity.
Early diagnosis, preventive treatment and patient education are crucial in helping to avoid severe complications of diabetes such as the loss of digits and limbs to infection. All patients with diabetes should see a Podiatrist at least once a year.
Toenails often begin to grow into the flesh causing infection and pain. Dr. Halpine can give both short-term and permanent relief with minor surgery. Thickened, yellowing, crumbling nails may be caused by a fungal infection. This may spread from one toe to the next or one family member to another. Depending on the severity, Dr. Halpine may recommend an oral medication to remedy this problem.
With each step of a pronated (flattened) foot, the achilles is twisted. Multiply this twisting by tens of thousands of steps and achilles tendonitis can result. Dr. Halpine can assist this condition by fitting orthotic devices to stabilize the feet.
Many parents are concerned if their children's feet point inwards or outwards or appear to have extremely flat arches. Your podiatrist can offer early diagnosis and treatment which can assist your child in having a lifetime of foot comfort.
Verrucae are caused by a virus that infects the first layer of skin. They cause a disruption in the skin's normal growth pattern. They are painful to walk on and contagious. Dr. Halpine can offer relief, most often through complete surgical removal of the wart.
Athlete's foot is a fungal condition of the skin that can cause redness, cracks, burning and itching. Blisters may form on the skin. It is important that the correct diagnosis be made and treatment started by your Podiatrist.
A
neuroma is an enlarged nerve that passes between the metatarsal
heads at the base of the toes. This may cause pain or numbness
in the forefoot or out into the toes.
Patients often seek relief by removing their shoes and bending
the toes. Specially designed orthotic devices to spread the
metatarsal bones are largely successful to control this condition.
If necessary Dr. Halpine can offer more invasive treatments.
