As a runner, foot problems like blisters or plantar fasciitis can be frustrating. Research shows many runners face foot injuries, which disrupt their training. Blisters are caused by friction, while bunions can develop from genetics or wearing tight shoes. Plantar fasciitis, a common foot condition, brings heel pain due to inflammation. Peroneal tendonitis and neuromas are also common, affecting foot tendons and nerves. Weakness and instability in foot muscles are main causes of foot pain. Overuse can lead to soreness or injury. Strengthening exercises, including toe yoga and arch lifts, can help to prevent issues. If you are a runner and are experiencing more than soreness from a good workout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a consultation, as pushing through pain can worsen injuries.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Richard DiBacco, DPM of Podiatry Associates of Erie, Inc.. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries? 
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

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

Many people may take their foot health for granted, however it is extremely important to take care of your feet in order to prevent issues from arising. Not only can podiatrists help to prevent problems, their extensive knowledge on the feet allows for them to specialize and target their treatments in a more advanced manner as compared to a general practitioner. Podiatrists can help diagnose, treat, and rehabilitate foot related issues, including bunions, heel pain, bone fractures, fungal infections, and ingrown toenails. Podiatrists can also help patients find the proper orthotics to provide support for their feet. Additionally, they can help provide self-care and preventative tips, especially for patients with conditions like diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis. If you are experiencing any issues with the feet, or you want to get ahead of any potential issues, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact Richard DiBacco, DPM from Podiatry Associates of Erie, Inc.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

• Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
• Use innovative methods to treat conditions
• Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
• Correct walking patterns and balance
• Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

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

Toenail fungus is a common occurrence that many people experience in their lifetime. The most common fungal infection, Distal subungual onychomycosis (DSO), is caused by Dermatophytes—the same fungus found in athlete’s foot. This fungus enters through the end of the nail. Older adults are more prone to developing this toenail fungus because as we age, nails can dry out, making them more susceptible to cracks making it easier for the Dermatophytes to get inside. DSO usually turns the nail yellow and may cause it to disintegrate into tiny fragments which build up under the nail along with pieces of skin, which thicken the nail. Sometimes the nail will even pull away from the skin. DCO can make wearing shoes very uncomfortable, not to mention making the toenails look unsightly. Left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other nails, skin, and possibly even fingernails. If you are suffering with toenail fungus, contact a podiatrist who can treat the condition with a variety of medicinal treatments as well as laser therapy to remove the infection.

For more information about treatment, contact Richard DiBacco, DPM of Podiatry Associates of Erie, Inc.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot 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.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Erie and Meadville, PA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.