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University of Michigan Loses Bryan Mone due to Broken Ankle
University of Michigan loses their defensive tackle Bryan Mone due to a broken ankle sustained during practice. The sophomore player was excited to start the season, but will apparently not be able to participate since the injury was significant enough to keep him off the field for a long period of time. Initially sources and Mone’s coach refused to comment for the Wolverines player stating they wanted to keep him away from the media. However, the injury and Mone’s time off this season have since been confirmed.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.
When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
- Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
- Swelling around the area
- Bruising of the area
- Area appears to be deformed
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Preventing Blisters for Events Such as Ironman Kona
With the return of fall weather, it is important to get the feet prepared for blister prevention during the boot weather months. When purchasing shoes it always best to make sure you are getting the correct size and fit of the shoe. A shoe that is too tight will definitely cause blisters on the feet. Rubbing a blister block or silicone based hair serum on blister prone parts of the feet can help reduce friction if you already have shoes that are too tight. On the chance that you are unable to take the proper measures to prevent a blister and get one anyways, make sure to keep durable band aids on you to allow it to heal properly.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If you have any concerns with blisters on your feet contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
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 doctor.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Honey Gives Advice from Personal Bunion Problems
Honey Good, founder of lifestyle website HoneyGood.com recalls her experience on dealing with bunions and bunion surgery later in life. When the pain of bunions first erupted, Good received medical attention from four different doctors with four different opinions that ultimately resulted in bunion surgery. Although Good never went through with it since she already had surgery on her foot once and did not enjoy the experience, she has developed a few tips for women her age. Purchase shoes that are a size bigger or have a larger toe box in addition to putting an insert in your shoe that goes under the big toe. Good has also found that putting a one inch rubber wedge in between in her big toe and index toe helps relieve the pain. She also recommends having your shoes stretched professionally, so you can continue to wear your shoes in addition to keeping your feet healthy.
Bunion surgery usually occurs after non-surgical methods have proved to be ineffective. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What is a Bunion?
A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs by the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.
Why do Bunions Form?
- Genetics – susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary
- Stress on the feet – poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can cause bunions to form
How are Bunions Diagnosed?
Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.
How are Bunions Treated?
- Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
- Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
- Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
- Orthotics or foot inserts
- Surgery
If you have any concerns please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Laser Treatment Gaining Popularity in Reducing Toe Nail Fungus
While toenail fungus is estimated to have an effect on nearly 35 million people worldwide, laser treatment for the condition has become increasingly popular. The treatment works by sending wavelengths of light through the nail bed to eliminate fungal spores. Since this occurs by delivering heat into the nail, patients often find warming or pinprick sensations in the area. According to Dr. Alap Shah, “The reason more people are going to it is because it’s preventing people from having to take some of these medications that can be toxic to the liver.”
While toenail fungus is troublesome to eradicate, it is not impossible. For more information about treatment, consult with Dr. Howard Hyman of The Podiatry Center, P.C. Our doctor will attend to all of your podiatric needs.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a problem which affects many people and is hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating toenail fungus.
Antibiotics & Treatments
Lamisil – is the most commonly effective treatment for toenail fungus. It is available as an antibiotic Terbinafine tablet and cream. Terbinafine is a chemical component which kills fungal growth on the body. Applying regular doses will gradually kill the fungal growth. It is important to keep the area clean and air free.
Talcum powder – applying powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well
Alternative Treatments
There are always surgical procedures that are available for toenail fungus. Some people would like immediate quick removal of toenail fungus. Surgeons will be able to cut through and remove the growth using laser surgery. It is important not to try and remove it yourself. Once removed, your old shoes will need to be replaced to avoid reinfection.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
The Best Ways to Avoid Heel Spurs
Heel spurs occur when there is extreme strain on the heel bone and surrounding ligaments causing a calcium deposit on the heel bone. In order to avoid the painful condition many suggest to wear shoes that are your size, massage the feet after walking around in heels and consider switching to a flatter shoe, and stretch the feet. Additionally, running on hard surfaces or barefoot can increase risk of heel spurs. Avoid exerting too much pressure on the heels and get fitted for a proper running shoe to reduce chances of heel spurs forming.
Heel spurs can be incredibly painful, and sometimes might make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, call one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.
Heels Spurs
Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be a cause from small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching it to the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot. Bone may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.
Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs. Pain sometimes intensifies with age. Heel spurs are known to cause a substantial amount of pain. One of the main associations spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.
Pain
The pain associated with spurs is often times because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to poke and affect other boners and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.
Treatments
There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain there are several methods for healing. Medicines, surgery, and herbal care are some options.
For more information about Heel Spurs, follow the link below.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our office in Millburn, NJ. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Cracked Heels Can be Caused by Many Different Factors
Cracked heels are a common foot ailment year round that can be caused by many different activities some of which most people may not even be aware of. While walking barefoot where your feet are exposed to dust and hard floors can cause heel cracking and those with conditions such as diabetes and arthritis are more susceptible to it. From the chemicals in the detergent to wash your clothes with to improper foot care or posture, there are many factors in cracked heels. Talking to a podiatrist is the best bet in healing your feet properly if you are suffering from the foot ailment.
Cracked heels can become painful if left untreated. To learn more, consult with one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, PC. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
The Truth about Cracked Heels
Cracked Heels
Cracked heels are unappealing, and make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Not only may they look bad, but they can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.
How do you get them?
Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.
Promote Healing
Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief, or who suffer from chronic dry feet.
Wear Socks – wearing socks with medicated creams, helps lock in moisture so it can stay on longer.
Moisturizers – applying it both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.
Pumice Stones – these remove dead skin, and then you can massage cream onto your foot. This way the cream will be absorbed. The skin needs to be exfoliated; therefore the outer layer dead skin needs removal.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies for your foot and ankle needs.
Company Creates New Procedure to Fix Flat Feet
Tyber Medical LLC has created a new implant procedure designed to treat flat feet. Branded the “Ty-Wedge Opening Osteotomy Wedge System,” the new device just recently received approval to aid in creating arches in flat feet. Flat feet are a common foot condition and when it becomes problematic, most individuals will use orthotics or surgery to fix it. The Ty-Wedge is made of plastic titanium and is surgically inserted into the foot bone. CEO Jeff Tyber expects the device will launch later this year.
Flat feet are not always problematic. If you are experiencing problems with the condition, speak to one of our podiatristsof The Podiatry Center. Our doctors will answer any of your foot and ankle related questions and attend to all of your podiatric needs.
What are Flat Feet?
Flat feet are a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. Standing about 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arch never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – if you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms:
Pain around the heel or arch area
Trouble standing on the tip toe.
Swelling around the inside of the ankle.
Flat look to one or both feet.
Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment:
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and treatments for your foot and ankle needs.
Seniors Around the Country Gather for the National Senior Games Despite Past Injuries
This past July the Minneapolis metro area hosted the 2015 National Senior Games where nearly 12,000 seniors ages 50 and older completed in high activity events such as basketball, swimming, and volleyball. Despite many of these participants having previously suffered from foot and ankle injuries, making them even more susceptible to injury at this stage, the event was still a success. Health professionals do recommend, however, that seniors take extra precautions when participating in high impact activities such as tennis, golf, or running since these activities can have negative influences on the lower extremities.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. For more information, consult with one of our podiatrists from The Podiatry Center, P.C. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
The Elderly and their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet, and can hide many life threating medical conditions.
Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
Shoes that don’t fit properly
Pressure sores
Loss of circulation in legs & feet
Edema & swelling of feet and ankles
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Study: Working on your Feet for Long Periods of Time Can Have Negative Effects
According to a study conducted by the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society, standing for long periods of time while at work can have negative impacts on your lower extremities. The study included 14 men and 12 women ages 18-30 and 50-65 years old. All participants performed low intensity tasks, such as using a computer, while standing. The results showed that for much longer than 30 minutes after the work day had ended, significant fatigue to the back, legs, feet and ankles persisted. Overall having a balance between standing and sitting at work can be beneficial for both workers and employers.
While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Working on Your Feet
Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.
Positive Changes
Negative heeled shoe – choosing this shoe places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.
Go barefoot – our feet were not designed to be enclosed for hours, or all day. Try allowing yourself to expose your feet to air.
Eliminate Pain
Foot Exercises – performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and stretches is beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.
Achilles tendon – stretching the foot out flat on the floor, will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen.
With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.
Keep your feet healthy and your body will thank you for it.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Research Finds That High Heels Can Have Damaging Effects to Biomechanics of the Feet
According to research published in the Journal of Electromyography and Kinesiology, high heels can have damaging effects on the biomechanics of the feet. Wearing high heels regularly changes the natural position of the foot and ankle that can cause damage all the way up to the spine. Additionally, wearing high heels too frequently causes muscular weakness and imbalance. Although one in ten women wears heels at least three times a week according to the American Osteopathic Association, changing into more practical footwear more often and taking the proper steps to exercises and stretch the feet can help reduce any effects to the biomechanics of the feet.
Proper foot wear is important for biomechanics, which incorporates the moving parts that manage the movement of your feet. To learn more about biomechanics, see one of our podiatrists from The Podiatry Center, P.C. Our doctors can provide you with the foot and ankle information you seek.
A History of Biomechanics
- Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
- In 1974 biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination to the area.
Modern technology improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes providing a better understanding of podiatry concepts for biomechanics. Computers provide accurate determinations about the forces, moments and patterns of the foot and lower legs with the most important information captured.
Advances in materials and more awareness of biomechanics have developed enhanced corrective methods, offering further options for foot-related injuries. Understanding foot biomechanics can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.
If you have any questions, please contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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School Athletes and Parents Should Lookout for Athlete’s Foot This School Year
As the school year comes back into swing and athletes start practicing for their fall games, the occurrence of athlete’s foot may arise in some players. Health professionals say athletes wearing cleats are the most often at risk for athlete’s foot. While the condition can show signs of life in a variety of different forms such as redness, itching, and burning, an unpleasant smell can also be a sure sign. If the rash-like symptoms continue to thrive for more than two weeks after attempting anti-fungal sprays and creams, it is best to see a podiatrist for treatment.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you are concerned about your athlete’s foot contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, PC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
- Hydrate your feet by using lotion
- Exfoliate
- Buff off nails
- Use of anti-fungal products
- Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop
Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speaking to your podiatrist will give you a better understanding of the different causes of athlete’s foot, as well as helping you figure out which treatment options are best for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Achilles Tendon Lengthening Procedure Used to Reduce Foot Pain
George Dawson suffered from pain due to his diabetes for many years and has been dealing with a stiff Achilles tendon due to the pressure placed on his foot. The stiff Achilles tendon meant that the weight was not evenly distributed on his foot and Dawson would need to have the tendon surgically lengthened to relieve the pain and heal properly. Dawson’s podiatrist split his Achilles tendon where it would typically meet the calf muscle, giving it more slack and providing ease to the foot. For nearly two years, George Dawson has not had foot pain since.
Achilles tendon injuries and problems need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, PC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can cause severe difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What are the symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
- Inflammation
- Dull to Severe Pain
- Increased blood flow to the tendon
- Thickening of the tendon
Rupture Symptoms
- Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
- Total immobility
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
- Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
- Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Hydrofeet Insoles Massage Pain of Plantar Warts in Children
Hydrofeet uses liquid glycerin and thermoplastic polyurethane to create insoles that ease the pain of plantar warts in children. Children suffering from plantar warts experience discomfort when participating in sports since the warts typically occur on the soles of the feet making standing, walking, or running uncomfortable. The insole adjusts to support the arch of each foot and massages the foot with each step to reduce pain. Although most plantar warts will eventually go away on their own, if your child is experiencing tremendous pain it is always best to see a doctor for treatment.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you have any concerns with plantar warts on your feet contact Dr. Howard Hyman and Dr. Karyn Goldberg of The Podiatry Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
About Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.
While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.
Symptoms
- Legions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
- Hard or thick callused spots
- Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
- Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing
Treatment
- Freezing
- Electric tool removal
- Laser Treatment
- Topical Creams (prescription only)
- Over-the-counter medications
To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, will help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Philadelphia Phillies Lose Harang for 15 Days Due to Plantar Fasciitis
Right-hander Aaron Harang of the Philadelphia Phillies was placed on the 15-day disabled list recently after being diagnosed with plantar fasciitis in the left foot. Phillies interim manager Pete Mackanin says that Harang has been bothered by the injury for a while: “When you stomp down on it, it started affecting his performance basically, and we as we talked (about) last night, there’s something missing with his command and that’s probably a good reason why.” Harang could potentially make starts before trade deadline if he spends the minimum amount of time on the disabled list, but plantar fasciitis injuries are known to be tough to heal fast.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, visit Dr. Howard Hyman and Dr. Karyn Goldberg of The Podiatry Center, P.C. Our doctors can treat your heel pain as well as any other foot or ankle condition.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of a the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
· Excessive running
· Non-supportive shoes
· Overpronation
· Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
How Can It Be Treated?
· Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
· Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
· Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
If you have any questions, please contact our offices in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
