Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that causes heel pain. It affects the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel to the toes. The condition is characterized by degenerative irritation at the point where the plantar fascia attaches to the heel bone. Despite the name, plantar fasciitis is not characterized by inflammation.

Here are some key points about plantar fasciitis:

• Symptoms include sharp pain near the heel, especially in the morning or after rest. Pain can also be present after activity. The heel may be tender to the touch.

• Causes often include overuse and strain, such as repetitive stress from activities like running or prolonged standing. Other factors can include improper footwear, certain foot structures like flat feet or high arches, and excess weight.

• Plantar fasciitis is more prevalent in women than men, in people aged 45-64, and in those with a higher body mass index.

• While heel spurs are often associated with plantar fasciitis, they are not the cause of the condition.

• Diagnosis is typically based on a physical exam. Imaging may be used to rule out other conditions.

• Treatment usually starts with conservative measures like rest, ice, stretching, orthotics, and physical therapy. Medications like NSAIDs can be used to manage pain. More advanced treatments, such as injections or shockwave therapy, may be considered if conservative measures aren't effective. Surgery is a last resort.

• Most cases of plantar fasciitis will resolve within 12 months, but recovery can take weeks or months.

The goal of treatment is to reduce pain and inflammation, and restore normal function. It's important to consult a healthcare professional for a personalized treatment plan.

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or consultation with a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of a physician or another qualified health provider with any questions or concerns regarding a medical condition. By listening to this podcast, neither its hosts, guests, nor publishers establish a doctor-patient relationship, and no liability is assumed for any decisions made based solely on the information presented.

This audio provides information on diabetic wounds, a significant complication of diabetes. It details the causes, types, diagnosis, and treatment of these wounds, emphasizing the importance of early detection and intervention. The conversation also highlights preventative measures like foot hygiene and regular inspections. Finally, it promotes the services of a podiatric practice specializing in foot and ankle care, including diabetic foot care.

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or consultation with a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of a physician or another qualified health provider with any questions or concerns regarding a medical condition. By listening to this podcast, neither its hosts, guests, nor publishers establish a doctor-patient relationship, and no liability is assumed for any decisions made based solely on the information presented.

Bunion surgery, also known as bunionectomy, is a procedure to remove bunions, bony growths on the big toe joint. The article details four surgical techniques: osteotomy, arthrodesis, Lapidus, and exostectomy, each with varying recovery times and risks. Post-operative care involves pain management, protective footwear, and monitoring for complications like infection. The decision to undergo surgery should be made in consultation with a podiatrist, weighing the benefits of pain relief and improved mobility against potential risks. Recovery typically takes several months, with full function returning after about three months.

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or consultation with a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of a physician or another qualified health provider with any questions or concerns regarding a medical condition. By listening to this podcast, neither its hosts, guests, nor publishers establish a doctor-patient relationship, and no liability is assumed for any decisions made based solely on the information presented.

What is Gout? Gout is a type of arthritis characterized by intense joint pain, often caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. The crystals trigger inflammation, leading to severe pain and swelling. While the big toe is the most common site for gout attacks, it can affect other joints like the ankles, knees, elbows, wrists, and fingers.

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or consultation with a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of a physician or another qualified health provider with any questions or concerns regarding a medical condition. By listening to this podcast, neither its hosts, guests, nor publishers establish a doctor-patient relationship, and no liability is assumed for any decisions made based solely on the information presented.

• Definition: Bone spurs (osteophytes) are extra bone growths that appear as smooth, hard bumps on bone ends, often in joints.

• Location: They can form in various places including hands, shoulders, neck, spine, hips, knees, and feet.

• Pain Trigger: Usually, bone spurs are harmless, but they cause pain when they rub against other bones or press on nerves.

• Main Causes: Osteoarthritis, injuries, overuse, genetics, diet, obesity, and bone issues are common causes of bone spurs.

• Typical Symptoms: You might experience pain, stiffness, weakness, numbness, tingling, muscle spasms, and visible bumps. Rarely, bladder or bowel control issues may occur.

• Diagnostic Methods: Doctors use physical exams, X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and electroconductive tests to diagnose bone spurs.

• Treatment Options: Treatment ranges from rest, pain relievers, steroid shots, and physical therapy to surgery for severe cases.

• Preventative Steps: Wearing supportive shoes, maintaining a healthy weight, and regular exercise can help prevent some types of bone spurs.

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or consultation with a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of a physician or another qualified health provider with any questions or concerns regarding a medical condition. By listening to this podcast, neither its hosts, guests, nor publishers establish a doctor-patient relationship, and no liability is assumed for any decisions made based solely on the information presented.

What Podiatrists Do:

• Specialize in diagnosing, treating, and preventing foot, ankle, and lower leg disorders.

• Perform physical exams, order tests, prescribe medicine, perform surgery, and prescribe medical devices like orthotics.

• Treat a wide array of conditions, from common issues to complex problems and diabetic foot issues.

Scope of Practice in Florida:

• Provide comprehensive foot and ankle care, including surgical and non-surgical treatments.

• Offer specialized care for diabetic, pediatric, and geriatric patients.

• Handle sports-related injuries, provide orthotic/prosthetic services, and offer wound care.

Training & Qualifications:

• Hold a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree, from a four-year program at a college of podiatric medicine.

• Complete a three-year residency; some pursue further fellowship training.

• Qualified to diagnose and treat all foot issues, including surgery.

Importance of Podiatric Care:

• Foot problems affect all ages, impacting mobility and overall health.

• Prevent complications for those with diabetes and arthritis.

• Early intervention prevents more serious health issues.

Where They Work:

• Private practices, hospitals, clinics, nursing homes.

• City Health Departments, VA Hospitals, and the U.S. Public Health Service.

For your next step, consider exploring the specific locations of the practices mentioned in the sources to see if there are any patterns or gaps in service coverage.

This overview will cover Medicare's coverage of podiatry services, including what is generally covered, what is not, and specific considerations for individuals with diabetes. It will also touch on how Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans might affect your coverage and costs. The information is based on several sources, including eHealth, AARP, UnitedHealthcare, Medicare.gov, U.S. News & World Report, and Central Florida Foot & Ankle Institute. These sources provide a comprehensive view of Medicare's policies regarding podiatry and foot care, offering different perspectives from insurance providers, medical associations, and government resources.

The provided texts focus on neuropathy, a condition causing nerve damage, primarily in the feet. They highlight the crucial role podiatrists play in diagnosing, treating, and managing neuropathy symptoms, which include pain, numbness, and tingling. Treatment options discussed range from medication and physical therapy to custom orthotics and minimally invasive surgery. The sources emphasize regular foot checks and podiatric care, particularly for individuals with diabetes, to prevent complications and maintain quality of life. Several podiatry practices are also advertised, providing contact information and location details.