- ArthritisFlat foot is a foot condition in which the arch of the foot has either partially or totally dropped or has never developed. While it is common in babies and small children, it can become a problem in adulthood if the arch never forms. For adults, the development of flat feet can be brought upon by injury, because of pregnancy due to increased elasticity, or obesity. Those who have health concerns such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes may also be at greater risk for developing the condition.
- Plantar FasciitisThere are several factors that may put you at a greater risk for developing plantar fasciitis. One of the biggest factors is age; plantar fasciitis is common in those between the ages of 40 to 60. People who have jobs that require them to be on their feet are also likely to develop plantar fasciitis. This includes factory workers, teachers, and others who spend a large portion of their day walking around on hard surfaces. Another risk factor is obesity because excess weight can result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.
- Medical Weight LossOnce flat foot has been diagnosed, your podiatrist may suggest one of several treatment options. Flat feet can be rigid, in which the feet appear to have no arch even when the person is not standing; or flexible, in which the person appears to have an arch while not standing, but once standing the arch disappears. Those with flexible flat feet may be told to reduce any activities that cause pain and to avoid extended periods of walking or standing. Another suggestion may be weight loss, as excessive weight may be placing pressure on the arches.
- ElectrocardiogramRegardless of the location on the body, all surgical procedures require preoperative testing and examination to ensure the surgery’s success and preferred outcome. A review of your medical history and medical conditions will take place, as will an evaluation of any current diseases, illnesses, allergies, and medications. Tests such as blood studies, urinalyses, EKG, X-rays, and blood flow studies may be ordered. Because the procedure involves the foot and/or ankle, the structures of your feet while walking may also be observed by your podiatrist.
- Pregnancy
- Diabetes Care
- MRITo figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
- X-Rays
- Wound CareDiabetics must be wary of all wounds, regardless of depth or size. Diabetes, a chronic disease in which the body cannot properly use glucose the way it normally would, causes various complications that make wounds difficult to heal. Nerve damage or neuropathy can cause diabetics to have trouble feeling the pain of a blister or cut until the condition has significantly worsened or become infected. A diabetic’s weakened immune system can make even the most minor of wounds easily susceptible to infection. Diabetics are also more prone to developing narrow, clogged arteries, and are therefore more likely to develop wounds.
- Pinched Nerve
- Ankle Surgery
- Bunion SurgeryBeing able to walk in a surgical boot, as opposed to being completely non-weight bearing (in a cast with scooter or crutches) for 6-8 weeks, means that you will be getting back to a better quality of life faster; may return to most occupations more quickly; and will be less inconvenienced by bunion surgery.
- Metatarsal SurgeryWhen conservative, noninvasive methods prove ineffective, surgery may be selected as the next course of action for the treatment of your foot or ankle condition. A wide number of foot and ankle surgical procedures exist, and it is up to your podiatrist to determine which intervention will be most appropriate and helpful for your case. Some surgical procedures include bunion surgery, fusion, hammertoe surgery, heel spur surgery, metatarsal surgery, nail surgery, neuroma surgery, reconstructive surgery, skin surgery, and tendon surgery. Typically, surgery is turned to as a definitive way to alleviate excessive pain or discomfort and to return your foot to full mobility.
- BunionsIf you have arthritis, frequently wear tight fitting shoes such as high heels, and are older in age, it’s very likely that you may develop a bunion. A bony hump at the base of the big toe is the biggest sign that you may have developed this condition. Bunions are often painful and typically cause an extreme amount of discomfort. Because a bunion protrudes on the side of the foot, it’s likely for it to continuously rub against the inside of your shoe. This causes frequent friction and pain, which may cause calluses to form as well.
- Ingrown ToenailsIngrown toenails have multiple reasons for developing. In many instances, the condition is a result of genetics and is inherited. The most common cause, however, is improper trimming; cutting the toenails too short forces the skin beside the nail to fold over. An ingrown toenail can also develop due to trauma, such as stubbing the toe, having an object fall on the toe, or participating in activities that involve repeated kicking or running. Wearing shoes that are too tight or too short can also cause ingrown toenails.
- Reconstructive Surgery
- Hammertoe Surgery
- Skin CancerThere are three main types of cancers of the feet. They include malignant melanomas, basal cell carcinomas, and squamous cell carcinomas. For most cases, you’ll want to check for anything resembling a mole, bump, or patch. If your abnormality is asymmetric, has a ragged border, is more than one color, or has a diameter greater than 6 millimeters, you should seek professional help as soon as possible. To best identify which type of skin cancer you’re dealing with, we recommend you consult with a podiatrist as soon as possible. In addition to their unusual appearance, these cancers may cause bleeding, itching, and foot pain.
- Corns
- UlcerSome of the most common problems are foot ulcers, ingrown toenails, fallen arches, and fungal infections. A foot ulcer is an open sore on the foot and can be a result of decreased sensation in the feet due to diabetes. An ingrown toenail is defined as when the nail grows into the side of the toe. Fallen arches are indicated by the instep of the foot collapsing. A fungal infection is a condition that results in deformed and discolored toenails.
- Calluses
- FungusProper foot hygiene is also important. Making sure that you always have clean, dry socks on can be a major deterrent to many different problems, including bacterial infections, foot odor, and certain types of fungus. Wet feet are a major cause of many of these problems. If your socks get wet, it is important to change them. Walking around in wet socks may not only lead to various infections, but can irritate the skin and result in a number of various complications. Clean, dry feet are less likely to be affected by fungal and other infections.
- Physical TherapyThere are various options your podiatrist may suggest for heel pain. Treatment options for heel pain typically include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), which may reduce swelling and pain. Other options are physical therapy, athletic taping, and orthotics. In severe cases of heel pain, surgery may be required.
- Flatfoot Correction
- Heel Pain
- Ankle SprainHeel pain can be due to a multitude of conditions including plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, and heel spurs. Pain experienced in the ankle can be a sign of an ankle sprain, arthritis, gout, ankle instability, ankle fracture, or nerve compression. In more serious cases, pain in the foot can be a sign of improper alignment or an infection.
- Orthotics and Prosthetic Therapy
- General PodiatryTo ensure your convenience, below is the information you need about our podiatry office, including our hours, location, appointment scheduling and insurance acceptance.
- Ankle Instability
- Ankle Sprain
- Bunions ProblemsBunions are complex deformities that can be very painful. Roy A. Rothman, DPM is pleased to offer a new, patented treatment for bunion correction-Lapiplasty
- Calluses
- Flat FeetProper footwear is another way to keep feet healthy. Shoes that fit well and provide proper support help prevent ingrown toenails and fallen arches.
- Fungus ToenailsToenail fungus is a condition that many people develop and suffer from. Toenail fungus often results in the discoloration and thickening of the toenail, which can cause embarrassment for many people. The condition begins as a small white or yellow growth beneath the tip of the nail and at its worse can develop into the nail’s deterioration.
- Geriatric Foot CareWhile proper foot care is important for everybody, senior citizens have the tendency to be more susceptible to certain conditions. The elderly should therefore be well-informed about podiatric problems that may arise and what they can do to properly avoid or treat them.
- HammertoesDr. Rothman specializes in MLS laser therapy, wound care, performing skin grafts for cancer, foot surgery, working with diabetic patients, and all general foot care. We are a full-service office that can handle anything from reconstructive foot surgery and high risk foot care to hammertoes.
- Heel SpursOne condition is plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is caused by the inflammation of the plantar fascia, or the band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the base of the toes. The pain from this condition is initially mild but can intensify as more steps are taken when you wake up in the morning. To treat this condition, medication will likely be necessary. Plantar fasciitis is often associated with heel spurs; both require rest and special stretching exercises.
- Heel Pain
- Foot Pain
- Ingrown ToenailsAn ingrown toenail is a nail that has curved downward and grown into the skin. This typically occurs at either the nail borders or the sides of the nail. As a result, pain, redness, swelling, and warmth may occur in the toe. If a break in the skin forms due to the ingrown nail, bacteria may enter and cause an infection in the area; this is typically characterized by a foul odor and drainage.
- MetatarsalgiaPain in the ball of the foot, termed metatarsalgia, can have many causes. One of the most common causes is a condition called Morton’s neuroma. This ailment is the result of a pinched nerve and is most often felt between the third and fourth toes. Symptoms include sharp pain, numbness, burning, and tingling. Bunions are another common cause of metatarsalgia. The bony bump at the base of the big toe can become painful, and the changes in gait and posture that result often bring pain to the ball of the foot. Wearing high heels, especially those with a narrow and pointed toe box, is a further cause of pain in the ball of the foot. This type of shoe places the body’s weight onto the ball of the foot and exerts pressure on the metatarsals, as well as the joints between the toes and the foot. Being overweight also puts a person at higher risk of metatarsalgia. For help with any of these symptoms, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment options.
- Foot NeuromaMorton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.
- Plantar FasciitisPlantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is the thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. When this band of connective tissue becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis occurs. Fortunately, this condition is treatable.
- Podiatric DeformitiesMorton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.
- Podiatric SurgeryRoy Rothman, DPM is board certified in foot surgery as well as wound care by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery, and the American Professional Wound Care Association. He has hospital affiliations with Central Florida Regional Hospital, Florida Hospital Fish Memorial, Blue Springs Surgical Center, and Lake Mary Surgical Center. Dr. Rothman specializes in MLS laser therapy, stem cell therapy, performing skin grafts for cancer, foot surgery, working with diabetic patients, and all general foot care. He has been in practice for 35 years.
- Allergies