- ArthritisRheumatoid arthritis, otherwise known as RA, is a chronic disease. The disease causes inflammation of the lining of the joints. This disease can lead to long-term joint damage which in turns results in chronic pain, loss of function and disability.
- Plantar FasciitisPatients with plantar fasciitis will often demonstrate heel spurs on x-rays, but these spurs are not typically the root of the problem. They are, however, the result of the problem which is excessive strain and pull on the plantar fascia. at its attachment on the heel. Doctors agree that the appearance of heel spurs on an x-ray does not by itself mean that a person needs surgery. Some people have heel spurs and no pain; others have heel pain and no spurs.
- Primary Care
- High Cholesterol
- Diabetic Foot Care
- Diabetes Care
- Radiology
- X-Rays
- Wound CareNot all ulcers are infected; however if your podiatric physician diagnoses an infection, a treatment program of antibiotics, wound care, and possibly hospitalization will be necessary.
- Pinched NerveMedication, including the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Aleve, ibuprofen or another pain reliever, might also help. Steroids that are of the long-acting variety taken in unison with nerve blocks are also worth considering if the pinched nerve is the primary cause of the discomfort. However, if there are issues with the bones or if a pinched nerve requires releasing, surgery might be necessary.
- Ankle Surgery
- BunionsA bunion is an enlargement of the joint at the base of the big toe—the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint -that forms when the bone or tissue at the big toe joint moves out of place. This forces the toe to bend toward the others, causing an often painful bump on the inside of the foot. Since this joint carries a lot of the body’s weight while walking, bunions can cause extreme pain if left untreated. The big toe joint itself may become stiff and sore, making even the wearing of shoes difficult or impossible. A bunion–from the Latin “bunio,” meaning enlargement–can also occur on the outside of the foot along the little toe, where it is called a “bunionette” or “tailor’s bunion.”
- GangreneDue to the suppression of the immune response in diabetics, the body is often unable to heal these wounds. If left untreated bacterial infections can lead to gangrene, which may require amputation to ensure that the infection does not spread to other parts of the body.
- Ingrown ToenailsAlthough they can start out as a small nuisance, ingrown toenails can become a real problem if left untreated. Caused by a segment of the toenail that embeds in the skin around the nail, an ingrown toenail is characterized by pain, swelling, redness and a feeling of warmth in the affected toe. If the nail digs into the flesh around the nail and causes the skin to break, bacteria can enter, resulting in an infection. The infection can increase the level of pain in the toe and create additional problems.
- CornsDevelopment of a painful bump on the outside edge of the foot or at the base of the big toe. Redness, swelling, or pain at or near these joints. Corns or other irritations are caused by the overlap of the first and second toes. Restricted or painful motion of the big toe.
- UlcerA diabetic foot ulcer is an open sore or wound that most commonly occurs on the bottom of the foot in approximately 15 percent of patients with diabetes. Of those who develop a foot ulcer, six percent will be hospitalized due to infection or other ulcer-related complication.
- CallusesThe human body is amazing in its ability to protect itself from repeated pressure and stress. It is this adaptive tendency that creates calluses on the feet. Calluses are think patches of skin that develop when the foot is subjected to excessive friction and pressure. This skin forms a protective layer over the foot to make it less vulnerable to injury. However, the callus itself may eventually become a problem if not properly managed.
- FungusAthlete’s foot is a skin infection caused by fungus. A fungal infection can occur on any part of the body. Athlete’s Foot or Tinea Pedis is the name given to a fungal infection of the foot. It is common in the feet, because shoes provide a moist environment, which is a breeding ground for fungus.
- Sports MedicineHe has training in reconstructive foot & ankle, arthroscopic, and diabetic limb salvage surgery. His training also includes various aspects of Sports Medicine, Diabetic screening and management, and conservative treatment of common foot & ankle ailments. He was part of the medical staff overseeing sports injuries at the Penn Relays in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He was accepted to participate in the AO fellowship in Lugano, Switzerland. He graduated from the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. He received his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine. He is currently a member in good standing with the American and Florida Podiatric Medical Associations. Dr. Sheingold enjoys spending time with family, swimming, skiing, and bike riding.
- Physical TherapyAvid runner can experience a variety of injuries throughout their training. They range from mildly annoying to something requiring physical therapy or even surgery. To ensure that you take proper care of your body, make sure that you stretch properly, wear appropriate footwear and listen to your body telling you to rest.
- Flatfoot Correction
- Heel Pain
- Orthotics and Prosthetic TherapyFoot orthoses and related devices are available from a variety of different sources these days. Custom and non-custom foot orthoses, arch supports, and shoe inserts may be obtained at retail establishments, via the internet, or from professional healthcare providers. There can be major differences between foot orthoses from different sources, so finding a specialist who is qualified in biomechanics and foot orthotic therapy is very important. A prescription foot orthosis is a medical device that should only be provided after an appropriate biomechanical examination. A biomechanical examination enables a practitioner to understand the patient’s individual needs so that a proper foot orthosis can be prescribed.
- General PodiatryVisiting your doctor at the Heart and Sole Podiatry prior to initiating exercise can help you learn ways to prevent the problems you may experience. We are dedicated to keeping you healthy in whatever activities you do!
- Achilles TendonitisIf you are experiencing painful swelling in the back of your foot just above the heel, you may be suffering from Achilles Tendonitis. This troublesome condition affects the Achilles tendon, which is the strongest and largest tendon in the body and connects the leg to the foot as it stretches from the lower leg to the heel bone. This tendon is crucial to normal walking patterns as it allows the foot to rise up on the toes.
- Ankle SprainInjuries to the foot can be quite common and painful. As with many injuries, it is important to first isolate the problem to determine the best mode of treatment. If you have a new injury to your foot or lingering pain from an old injury, contact an experienced podiatric specialist to begin the healing process. Your podiatrist will discuss with you how the injury occurred and work with the affected area to determine the exact location of the injury and get an understanding of your range of motion. An x-ray may be used to determine if the bone has been fractured or broken.
- Bunions ProblemsBunions form when the normal balance of forces that is exerted on the joints and tendons of the foot becomes disrupted. This can lead to instability in the joint and cause the deformity. They are brought about by years of abnormal motion and pressure over the big toe joint. They are, therefore, a symptom of faulty foot development and are usually caused by the way we walk, and our inherited foot type, our shoes, or other sources.
- Calluses
- Diabetic Foot CareDiabetes is a condition in which excessively high glucose levels in the blood can jeopardize the health of the liver, eyes, kidneys and blood vessels. One of the potential effects of diabetes is a weakened immune system rendering the body unable to effectively fight off infections. Additionally, the disease often leads to serious problems with the feet.
- Flat FeetIt is rare to find someone who walks with both feet in perfect alignment. Often we walk on the inside or outsides of our feet, or with our toes or heels rotated inward. These typical walking patterns can cause many problems not just with the feet but also for the whole body as the alignment of the feet sets the foundation for the whole body’s alignment. One of the most common effects of improper alignment is known as flatfoot, or fallen arches.
- HammertoesA hammertoe is a contracture – or bending – of the toe at the first joint of the digit, called the proximal interphalangeal joint. This bending causes the toe to appear like an upside-down V when looked at from the side. Any toe can be involved, but the condition usually affects the second through fifth toes, known as the lesser digits. Hammertoes are more common to females than males.
- Heel SpursHeel pain may also be the result of an inflamed bursa (bursitis), a small, irritated sack of fluid; a neuroma (a nerve growth); or other soft-tissue growth. Such heel pain may be associated with a heel spur or may mimic the pain of a heel spur.
- Heel Pain
- Foot Pain
- Foot InfectionsDealing with infections is a normal part of life and the common understanding is that most people with healthy immune systems are able to fend off common infections without the help of medical treatment. While this may be true for most parts of the body, infections of the feet can present another set of problems. Because feet are consistently in contact with dirt and other materials that may worsen and infection, it is necessary to be proactive when tending to foot infections.
- Ingrown ToenailsIf you suspect an infection due to an ingrown toenail, immerse the foot in a warm salt water soak, or a basin of soapy water, then apply an antiseptic and bandage the area.
- Foot Injuries
- MetatarsalgiaMetatarsalgia pain has the potential to prove debilitating. Patients who suspect or know they have metatarsalgia are encouraged to contact our office in Cape Coral, FL by dialing (239) 573-9200. Metatarsalgia pain is addressed with pressure bandages, arch supports, cushioned pads, shoe orthotics, stretching and ice. Try to remain off your feet until the foot feels better. If you find there is a callus on the foot bottom where pain is present, it might be necessary to have it scraped down by a medical professional to alleviate pressure.
- Foot OrthoticsFoot orthotics are referred to by many names. Some common names used to describe foot orthoses and related products are arch supports, shoe inserts, orthotics, orthoses, custom orthotics or orthoses, prefabricated orthotics or orthoses, just to name a few! Needless to say, this can all be very confusing to patients or consumers who are interested in understanding prescription and non-prescription foot care products and devices.
- Pediatric Foot CareWhen caring for infants and children, taking care of their feet probably doesn’t jump to mind for a top priority. However, there are several ailments that can affect a youngster’s feet and proper steps should be taken to ensure good foot health.
- Plantar FasciitisThe heel bone is the largest of the 26 bones in the human foot, which also has 33 joints and a network of more than 100 tendons, muscles, and ligaments. Like all bones, it is subject to outside influences that can affect its integrity and its ability to keep us on our feet. Heel pain, sometimes disabling, usually occurs on the bottom of the heel and this is called plantar fasciitis. Pain on the back of the heel or on the sides of the heel are indicative of other problems. Fortunately, approximately 90% of people with plantar fasciitis improve without the need for surgery. Unlike some other condtions, following your doctor’s orders and treatment plan for plantar fasciitis can greatly improve your quality of life in a relatively short period of time.
- Podiatric DeformitiesUlcers form due to a combination of factors, such as lack of feeling in the foot, poor circulation, foot deformities, irritation (such as friction or pressure), and trauma, as well as duration of diabetes. Patients who have diabetes for many years can develop neuropathy, a reduced or complete lack of feeling in the feet due to nerve damage caused by elevated blood glucose levels over time. The nerve damage often can occur without pain and one may not even be aware of the problem. Your podiatric physician can test feet for neuropathy with a simple and painless tool called a monofilament.
- Podiatric SurgeryArin J. Sheingold, D.P.M. is Board Certified by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine and is Board Eligible in Foot Surgery by the American Board of Foot & Ankle Surgery. He is a Fellow of the American College of Podiatric Medicine and an associate of the American College of Foot & Ankle Surgery. Dr. Sheingold finished a three-year post graduate training at Chestnut Hill Hospital Podiatric Medical and Surgical Residency, University of Pennsylvania Community Health Network in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in June 2010.