What is a Ganglion?

 

Ganglions are small sacs (cysts) filled with fluid that develop on top of a joint, ligament or tendon. Typically located on the ankle or top of the foot, ganglions usually grow slowly but can cause severe irritation when the size becomes too large. The symptoms of this condition range from tingling and numbness to pain. Once diagnosed by our staff at Cumberland Foot and Ankle Center, ganglion treatment will be discussed from there. 

A physical examination is often all that is needed to diagnose a ganglion. The cause of ganglion cysts is unknown; however, they may be linked to inflammation or irritation of the tendon sheath or joint capsule, an injury, overuse or repetitive motions, or arthritis. Ganglions are usually small, painless bumps and do not cause other symptoms. Sometimes the bump can be tender to the touch, or there can be pain that gets worse with activity or pressure. If the ganglion puts pressure on nearby nerves, you may experience a tingling sensation. 

If you have questions ganglions, give us a call. To learn more about ganglions, visit www.myhappyfoot.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our podiatrists at Cumberland Foot and Ankle Center in Somerset, KY, call 606-679-2773.

Ganglions are small sacs (cysts) filled with fluid that develop on top of a joint, ligament or tendon. Typically located on the ankle or top of the foot, ganglions usually grow slowly but can cause severe irritation when the size becomes too large. The symptoms of this condition range from tingling and numbness to pain. Once diagnosed by our staff at Cumberland Foot and Ankle Center, ganglion treatment will be discussed from there.

A physical examination is often all that is needed to diagnose a ganglion. The cause of ganglion cysts is unknown; however, they may be linked to inflammation or irritation of the tendon sheath or joint capsule, an injury, overuse or repetitive motions, or arthritis. Ganglions are usually small, painless bumps and do not cause other symptoms. Sometimes the bump can be tender to the touch, or there can be pain that gets worse with activity or pressure. If the ganglion puts pressure on nearby nerves, you may experience a tingling sensation.

If you have questions ganglions, give us a call. To learn more about ganglions, visit www.myhappyfoot.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our podiatrists at Cumberland Foot and Ankle Center in Somerset, KY, call 606-679-2773.

 

Diabetic Foot Care

If you have diabetes it is important to inspect your feet every day and seek care early if you get a foot injury. As a person with diabetes, you are more vulnerable to foot problems, because diabetes can damage your nerves and reduce blood flow to your feet. If you suffer from diabetes, it is crucial that you contact us today to learn how we can help you protect your feet for a lifetime.

By taking proper care of your feet, most serious health problems associated with diabetes can be prevented. Here are some diabetic foot care tips to follow.

• Wash and dry your feet daily using mild soaps and warm water. Once patting your skin dry, apply lotion on your feet to prevent cracking.


• Examine your feet each day by checking for dry, cracked skin, blisters, scratches and other sores that appear out of the ordinary.


• Take care of your toenails by cutting them after bathing, when they are soft. Avoid cutting into the corners of toes and cut toenails straight across and smooth with a nail file.


• Protect your feet with shoes and socks.

If you have questions about diabetic foot care, give us a call. To learn more about diabetic foot care, visit www.myhappyfoot.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our podiatrists at Cumberland Foot and Ankle Center in Somerset, KY, call 606-679-2773.

Do You Suffer From Flat Feet?

Most people have a gap under the arch of their foot when they are in a standing position. The arch, the inner part of the foot is slightly raised off the ground. People with flat feet or fallen arches either have no arch or it is very low. Flatfoot is often a complex disorder, with diverse symptoms and varying degrees of deformity and disability. If you experience symptoms with flatfoot, at Cumberland Foot and Ankle Center non-surgical treatment options are always explored first.

A significant number of people with flat feet experience no pain and have no problems. Some, however, may experience pain in their feet, especially when connecting ligaments and muscles are strained. The leg joints may also be affected, resulting in pain. If the ankles turn inwards because of flat feet the most likely affected areas will be the feet, ankles, and knees. Symptoms may vary depending on the severity of the condition. A symptom is something the patient feels and reports, while a sign is something other people, including the doctor may detect.

If you have pain in your feet, give us a call so we can diagnose your condition and discuss your treatment options. To learn more about flat feet, visit www.myhappyfoot.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our podiatrists at Cumberland Foot and Ankle Center in Somerset, KY, call 606-679-2773.

What Is Hammertoe?

Hammertoe is a deformity of the second, third or fourth toes. In this condition, the toe is bent at the middle joint so that it resembles a hammer. Hammer toe results from shoes that don’t fit properly or a muscle imbalance, usually in combination with one or more factors. If your feet often hurt and you believe hammertoe is a result, our staff at Cumberland Foot and Ankle Center are here to help.

Some symptoms of hammertoe include:

• Pain or irritation of the affected toe when wearing shoes.


• Corns and calluses on the toe, between two toes, or on the ball of the foot.


• Inflammation, redness, or a burning sensation.


• Contracture of the toe.


• In more severe cases of hammertoe, open sores may form.
  
  

Although hammertoes are readily apparent, to arrive at a diagnosis our doctors will obtain a thorough history of your symptoms and examine your foot. Hammertoes are progressive and usually will get worse over time; however, not all cases are alike. There is a variety of treatment options for hammertoe. The treatment our doctors select will depend upon the severity of your hammertoe and other factors.

If you relate to any of these hammertoe symptoms, give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about hammertoe, visit www.myhappyfoot.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our podiatrists at Cumberland Foot and Ankle Center in Somerset, KY, call 606-679-2773.