Tuesday, May 29, 2018

Morton's Neuroma

                    
A neuroma is an enlarged, damaged, and usually entrapped nerve.  The most common area of the foot for a neuroma is between the 3rd and 4th metatarsal bones.  Morton's neuroma is thought to be caused by both foot structure and repetitive trauma.
                    
Symptoms include shooting pain, burning, or tingling that extends to a toe.  Sometimes a shoe with a good support and a wide toe box may keep the condition under control.  More often, a steroid injection to the area as well as orthotics are helpful in relieving pain.  Icing the area and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory may also temporarily help the symptoms.
                     
More advanced treatment includes sclerosing alcohol injections to the area that deactivate the damaged nerve.  Usually between 2-5 injections of sclerosing alcohol are needed to be effective.  Surgical excision of the neuroma is done when more conservative treatments fail.  As with any surgery, the possibility of complications must be considered.
                    
If you or someone you know is suffering from shooting pain or burning extending to the toes, please feel free to contact us.  A conservative solution may be closer than you think.
 
Evan Kelner, DPM







Are Sneakers the New High Fashion?


                    
Recently, while watching TV news, there was a brief segment featuring a variety of women on Manhattan streets wearing sneakers with summer dresses.  The TV reporter asked the women why they were wearing sneakers with skirts and dresses instead of high heels.  Almost all the women responded that they were wearing the sneakers not only for comfort, but also as a fashion statement.
                    
Today's sneakers come in a wide variety of styles and colors.  According to the news report, wearers of Nike, Adidas, and other brands are up 37%, as opposed to high heels, of which sales are down 11%.
                    
At the royal wedding festivities of Meghan and Harry, it was reported that tennis star Venus Williams wore sneakers under her gown.
                    

Is foot comfort taking precedence  over classic shoe fashion?  Are women eschewing high heels in favor of sneakers?  Is this just a fad or is it a true fashion trend?  It may be interesting to see.


Evan Kelner, DPM

Wednesday, May 9, 2018








The Problem with Compression Stockings


                   
                    
Compression stockings are an important part of treating swelling or edema of the feet, ankles and legs.  These prescription stockings control the swelling by being applied the first thing in the morning, before the legs become too swollen.  They are worn all day and then taken off at night before bedtime.  These stockings must be properly fitted to the legs.  Too tight and they cut off circulation; too loose and they are non effective.  The stockings are not only important in controlling edema, but can also prevent the occurrence of leg ulcers.
                    
The problem with compression stockings is that, in order to be effective, they must be very snug.  It is often difficult and time consuming to both put them on and take them off.  Some patients become frustrated, and choose therefore not to wear them at all.
                    
Although there have been some innovations to make compression stockings easier to use, such as zippers and lighter materials, compliance is still a problem.  Recently I expressed this concern to a vascular surgeon.  He told me that he recommends that his patients try yoga pants, leotards or compression socks instead.  Although not as effective in controlling the swelling, these other alternatives are, perhaps, better than nothing.
                    
If you have problems with swelling of the legs, seek medical attention.  The cause of the swelling needs to be identified in order to properly treat it.

Evan Kelner, DPM