February 2020

Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

Research has indicated that falling is a common occurrence among seniors. Because it’s generally known to be common, it can prompt a fear of falling, which may cause difficulty in accomplishing daily activities. It is important to implement methods that can be instrumental in preventing falling, as this may help ease this common fear. Certain medications may cause dizziness, so it is suggested to have patients regularly visit their doctors to avoid this symptom. Strength can be increased when a gentle exercise routine is frequently performed, in addition to wearing shoes that fit comfortably. It may be beneficial to install grab bars in the toilet and shower area, as these may provide the necessary stability. If you would like more information about how falling can potentially affect the feet, please consult with a podiatrist. 

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 Dr. John C. Lawlor from Florida. 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 one of our our offices located in Cape Coral and LaBelle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

There are several reasons why the condition, known as cracked heels, may develop. These can include wearing shoes that have an open back, living in a dry environment, and standing for extended periods of time throughout the day. Common symptoms of this ailment can include dry skin on the heel and surrounding areas, and in severe cases, the skin may split open which is referred to as fissures. Mild relief may be found when the feet are washed in warm water, followed by using a good ointment. This may be effective in replenishing moisture that is necessary in maintaining soft skin. If you would like more information about the causes and treatment of cracked heels, please consult with a podiatrist.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. John C. Lawlor from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our our offices located in Cape Coral and LaBelle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Many people who enjoy running in marathons find that blisters tend to develop in different parts of their feet. It typically occurs as a result of excessive friction in a particular spot on the foot, and can cause pain and discomfort. When the small area of skin becomes damaged, the body’s natural defense is to form a small bubble over the raw skin. This is filled with fluid that protects the area as the healing process occurs. In many cases, it will gradually drain on its own as new skin forms underneath it. The friction may be caused by wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or choosing to wear non-absorbent socks. It may help to cover the blister with an elastic bandage as running and daily activities are completed. If a blister on your foot has become infected, it is strongly advised that you speak with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. John C. Lawlor of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our our offices located in Cape Coral and LaBelle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A treatment option that may be effective in treating foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis, is referred to as shockwave therapy. There are typically two ways to administer this type of treatment, and these are known as high or low energy. The latter is generally given in three or more doses, and there is little to no pain that is felt. The former is given in one session, and may require the patient to be under anesthesia. The purpose of shockwave therapy is to initiate a healing response in the body, which may cause a faster delivery of nutrients to the damaged area. If you have a foot condition that may benefit from the use of shockwave therapy, it is strongly advised that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist.

Shockwave therapy is a treatment commonly used to treat various injuries and conditions, particularly plantar fasciitis in the feet. To learn more, consult with Dr. John C. Lawlor from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is a new treatment option designed to treat bone conditions such as tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and others. Shockwave therapy uses high intensity sound waves that are directed to the affected tissues of the body with pinpoint accuracy. The effects are very beneficial, leading to a production of collagen fibers, eliminating inflammation.

Who Benefits from Shockwave?

Shockwave is recommended for patients suffering from heel pain and associated problems. Heel pain is a common condition which can be caused by obesity, overexertion, and spending a substantial amount of time on hard floors with your feet exposed and unsupported.

Fast and Easy

The therapy is actually a simple process that can leave patients feeling better the very next day. Shockwave therapy is not as dramatic as it sounds. It enables more blood flow to effected areas, addressing the source of the problem and allowing treatment to last for a long time.

Treatment & Recovery Time

Shockwave treatment will enable your feet to recover quickly. This is especially important since surgery is not required. It is cost effective and does not require the use of anesthesia. This treatment is a better option to surgery, since it is proven safe.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our our offices located in Cape Coral and LaBelle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.