A chronic autoimmune condition that causes hardening and tightening of the skin and connective tissues, affects the feet and impairs mobility. This condition, called progressive systemic sclerosis, can lead to painful joints, stiffness, and reduced foot functionality, making daily activities challenging. Risk factors include female gender, age between 30 and 50, and a family history of autoimmune disorders. Other symptoms include Raynaud's phenomenon, skin changes, and gastrointestinal difficulties. Relief is often achieved by improving foot functionality through exercises, wearing  proper footwear, orthotics, and targeted therapies. A podiatrist can assess structural changes, recommend customized treatments, and monitor foot health to reduce pain and improve mobility. If you have symptoms of this condition, it is suggested that you seek care from a  podiatrist who can offer you a proper diagnosis and appropriate care.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Shawn Echard, DPM of Laurel Podiatry LLC. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

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

Foot arthritis, also known as arthropathy, is a joint-related condition that causes inflammation and gradual deterioration within the joints of the foot. This condition can affect mobility and comfort because the foot contains many small joints that support balance and movement. Common symptoms include joint pain, swelling, stiffness, tenderness, and reduced flexibility while walking or standing. Causes include age-related wear of joint cartilage, previous injury, or inflammatory diseases that affect joint tissues. Risk factors include genetic predisposition, repetitive joint stress, excess body weight, and abnormal foot mechanics. A podiatrist can evaluate joint function, recommend supportive treatment, and help reduce pressure on affected joints. If you have symptoms of foot arthritis, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management tips.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Shawn Echard, DPM from Laurel Podiatry LLC. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Greensburg and Somerset, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Toe infections can begin when bacteria or fungi enter the skin through small openings, such as cuts, cracks, or irritated nail edges. Common infections include ingrown toenails and fungal nail conditions that affect the nail bed. The area may look red, swollen, and warm, and it can feel tender, sore, or throbbing. Some infections produce drainage, odor, or thickened and discolored nails. Discomfort may increase with walking or pressure from shoes, making daily activity more challenging. Causes often involve improper nail trimming, tight footwear, minor trauma, or damp environments that encourage growth of organisms. A podiatrist can identify the source of the infection and evaluate its severity. Treatment may involve careful cleaning and topical or oral medication. In some cases a minor procedure is needed to relieve pressure or remove affected tissue. If you suspect a toe infection, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Shawn Echard, DPM of Laurel Podiatry LLC. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

Pickleball is a great way for older adults to stay active, but it can place repeated stress on the feet and ankles, especially with quick pivots, side-to-side movements, and sudden stops. These motions can increase the risk of sprains, which occur when ligaments are overstretched during an awkward step or loss of balance. Strains may also develop in muscles and tendons due to overuse or reduced flexibility. For seniors, factors like decreased balance, muscle strength, and joint stability can make these injuries more likely. Wearing shoes that lack proper support or have poor traction can further increase the risk of slipping or instability on the court. A podiatrist can help by evaluating foot structure, addressing pain, and recommending supportive footwear or custom orthotics to improve stability and reduce strain.  If you have foot or ankle pain while playing pickleball, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist, who can relieve discomfort, improve safety, and help you continue enjoying this popular and social activity.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Shawn Echard, DPM from Laurel Podiatry LLC. Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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