Pickleball has gained immense popularity in recent years as a fun and accessible sport for people of all ages. However, like any physical activity, pickleball carries the risk of injury. While some injuries may be minor and self-treatable, others may require professional medical intervention. In this blog post, we will explore some common pickleball injuries that may necessitate a visit to a podiatrist.
1. Ankle Sprains:
Ankle sprains are among the most prevalent injuries in pickleball. The quick lateral movements and changes in direction can put significant stress on the ankle joint, leading to sprains. Podiatrists are well-equipped to diagnose and treat ankle sprains, providing options such as immobilization, physical therapy, and specialized footwear recommendations.
2. Plantar Fasciitis:
Plantar fasciitis is a condition characterized by inflammation and pain in the plantar fascia—a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. The repetitive jumping and pivoting motions in pickleball can strain the plantar fascia, causing micro-tears and inflammation. Podiatrists can offer various treatment modalities, including orthotics, stretching exercises, night splints, and recommendations for appropriate footwear.
3. Achilles Tendinitis:
Achilles tendinitis is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. The explosive movements and sudden stops involved in pickleball can put excessive strain on this tendon, leading to pain and swelling. Podiatrists can provide treatment options such as physical therapy, stretching exercises, orthotic devices, and recommendations for modifying gameplay techniques to alleviate symptoms and promote healing.
4. Stress Fractures:
Pickleball involves repetitive jumping and rapid changes in direction, which can contribute to the development of stress fractures in the feet. Stress fractures are small cracks in the bone caused by overuse and excessive repetitive impact. A podiatrist can diagnose stress fractures through imaging techniques and may recommend rest, immobilization, and gradual return to activity protocols to allow for proper healing.
5. Blisters and Calluses:
Pickleball players often experience blisters and calluses due to the repetitive rubbing and friction caused by quick lateral movements and abrupt stops. While blisters and calluses can be managed at home, a podiatrist can provide professional care, including blister drainage, callus removal, and recommendations for preventive measures and footwear modifications to reduce recurrence.
While pickleball is generally a low-impact sport, injuries can still occur. It is essential to listen to your body and seek medical attention if you experience persistent pain, swelling, or any other concerning symptoms. Podiatrists specialize in foot and ankle injuries, and they can provide a tailored treatment plan to help you recover and get back to enjoying the game. Remember to prioritize proper warm-up, wear appropriate footwear, and practice good technique to reduce the risk of injuries while playing pickleball.
Congratulations to Dr. Lam & Dr. Chapman for earning the title of Naples Illustrated Top Doctors of 2024! Here's to your well-deserved recognition and the positive impact you make on countless lives.
Nail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It's not just a cosmetic concern; it can cause discomfort, embarrassment, and even lead to complications if left untreated. Fortunately, advancements in medical technology have brought forth innovative treatments, one of the most promising being the use of lasers. Among them, the 1064nm laser stands out as a powerful tool in combating this stubborn ailment.
Understanding Nail Fungus:
Before delving into laser treatment, it's crucial to understand the nature of nail fungus. Fungal infections of the nails typically occur when microscopic fungi gain entry through a small trauma in the nail, thriving in warm, moist environments such as sweaty shoes or damp socks. This leads to the nails becoming discolored, brittle, and thickened, often accompanied by a foul odor.
Traditional Treatments vs. Laser Therapy:
Historically, treating nail fungus has been challenging. Traditional methods such as topical creams, oral medications, and nail removal surgery have limitations in effectiveness, long treatment durations, and potential side effects. Laser therapy, however, has emerged as a revolutionary alternative.
The Power of 1064nm Laser:
At the forefront of laser treatment for nail fungus is the 1064nm wavelength laser. This specific wavelength, often generated by Nd:YAG (neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet) lasers, penetrates deep into the nail bed without causing harm to surrounding tissue. Here's how it works:
1. Precision Targeting: The 1064nm laser precisely targets the fungal infection without affecting healthy tissue, ensuring a highly focused treatment approach.
2. Thermal Energy: Upon reaching the fungal cells, the laser emits thermal energy, effectively destroying the fungus by disrupting its cellular structure. This process is known as photothermolysis.
3. Stimulated Healing: In addition to eliminating the fungus, the laser stimulates the body's natural healing response, encouraging the growth of healthy nail tissue.
Advantages of 1064nm Laser Treatment:
The use of 1064nm laser therapy for nail fungus offers several advantages:
1. Non-Invasive: Unlike surgical procedures, laser treatment is non-invasive, requiring no incisions or anesthesia.
2. Painless: Patients typically experience minimal discomfort during the procedure, with no downtime afterward.
3. Quick Procedure: A single treatment session usually takes around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the severity of the infection and the number of nails affected.
4. High Success Rates: Clinical studies have shown promising results, with significant improvements in nail appearance and fungal clearance rates.
5. Safety Profile: The 1064nm laser has a proven safety profile, with minimal risk of side effects or complications when performed by a qualified medical professional.
In the realm of nail fungus treatment, the 1064nm laser represents a game-changer. Its ability to precisely target and eliminate fungal infections while sparing healthy tissue makes it a highly effective and safe option for patients seeking relief from this persistent condition. As technology continues to advance, laser therapy is poised to revolutionize the way we approach nail fungus treatment, offering hope for healthier, clearer nails without the drawbacks of traditional methods.
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The Family Foot & Leg Center (FFLC) prides itself on its network of cutting-edge clinics strategically positioned throughout Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties, ensuring accessible expert foot and ankle care across Florida. Our goal is to swiftly and effectively address your foot and ankle challenges, enabling you to resume your active lifestyle promptly. Equipped with advanced treatment modalities and staffed by a team of devoted specialists, FFLC is dedicated to delivering top-notch care conveniently situated in your local community.
Let us look into the fascinating world of foot surgery, specifically focusing on procedures for conditions like Fifth Toe, Curly Toe, and Hammertoe. These often-misunderstood conditions can cause discomfort and impact mobility, but with the right knowledge and treatment, patients can find relief and regain their quality of life. Join us as we uncover the secrets behind these surgeries and explore how Family Foot & Leg Center is dedicated to providing effective solutions for these common foot ailments.
Understanding Fifth Toe, Curly Toe, and Hammertoe:
Fifth Toe, Curly Toe, and Hammertoe are all deformities that affect the toes, causing them to become misaligned or bent. Fifth Toe, also known as a "pinky toe," can develop a hammertoe-like appearance due to pressure from shoes or inherent structural issues. Curly Toe occurs when one or more toes bend downward or overlap, often causing discomfort and difficulty wearing shoes. Hammertoe is characterized by an abnormal bending of the toe joints, resulting in a hammer-like or claw-like appearance.
The Importance of Surgery:
While conservative treatments such as padding, orthotic devices, and shoe modifications can provide relief for mild cases, surgery may be necessary for more severe or persistent symptoms. Surgery aims to correct the underlying structural abnormalities, realign the toes, and restore proper function and aesthetics. At Family Foot & Leg Center, our experienced team headed by top podiatrist Dr. Kevin Lam specializes in advanced surgical techniques tailored to each patient's unique needs, ensuring optimal outcomes and long-term relief.
Depending on the severity of the deformity and the patient's individual circumstances, various surgical approaches may be employed, including minimally invasive techniques to minimize post-operative discomfort and expedite recovery.
If you're experiencing foot pain, discomfort, or cosmetic concerns, don't let these conditions hold you back any longer. At Family Foot & Leg Center, we're committed to providing compassionate care and innovative solutions to help you overcome these challenges and enjoy a life free from foot pain and limitations. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward healthier, happier feet.
Transform your toes and transform your life with surgical solutions from Family Foot & Leg Center. Experience the difference today!
The Family Foot & Leg Center (FFLC) proudly operates a network of cutting-edge clinics strategically positioned across Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties, ensuring that exceptional foot and ankle care is accessible throughout Florida. Our aim is to swiftly and effectively address your foot and ankle challenges, facilitating your return to an active lifestyle with minimal delay. Equipped with advanced treatment modalities and staffed by a team of devoted specialists, FFLC is steadfast in delivering top-tier care conveniently situated in your local community.
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This is Dr. Lam, we are doing a fifth toe arthroplasty, because this lady likes to wear stilettos and won't give it up and she has a nerve type pain right about here. So, see that big thing? Nice little callus, no we don't cut the callus out, we actually do the bone right underneath it, we're gonna get rid of, we're gonna rotate this toe straight, okay?
So I'm gonna go through this, you could keep on watching and -- she's numb already so this is not so brutal.
Right here, elliptical incision. I like to do this without using the tourniquet just because it decreases the amount of swelling.
I also give her some steroids. Already right in the site, as you can see the bone underneath right about here causing the problem, I'm gonna check for the joint, right here is the joint, releasing some ligaments around the bone, so I try not to cause too much damage while we go in here, so very carefully cutting around the bone here here's that knuckle that's been causing her pain right here, as you can see right about here that is the knuckle, you're looking at it, imagine that rubbing against the shoe, the nerves are all over it, etcetera, but that's the knuckle rubbing against the shoe.
Actually she has an extra growth so this is not just a regular arthroplasty. She actually developed a growth on this side, a cap growth right about here. This is the regular bone right here, that's the cap of the problem right here, so she formed a little extra growth almost like an osteoneoplasm, we call it osteochondroma, 'cause it's a cap with a cartilage, so here I'm just releasing the soft tissue here as I get the bone out in one piece.
This is the head of the proximal phalanx we're looking at it before right here, this is the part that's rubbing against her shoe, that extra knob, it's not supposed to be here. It's supposed to look as smooth as this side right here with nothing but she has extra growth right on the side right here, osteochondroma, that's what that is.
Had the cartilage in there and everything right about here. This is the extra tissue that's causing her the pain, we lift it up and we saw that callus right there. Callus is the body's natural way of protecting itself.
So now we have the bone out, it looks like a nice, clean clear cut and we'll go ahead and re-examine this, make sure there's no sharp edges and I don't see any but mostly this thing has to do with proper tissue rotation, taking out that space that's gonna form a scar tissue.
I'm gonna go ahead and repair the extensor tendon and then Dr. Nelson here will finish up the closure. but I'm gonna go ahead and let's get started on the closure. I'm gonna start the rotation with the soft tissue closure first. My assistant here Dr. Nelson just calling for the dressings right now while I start the deep closure. This will prevent it from being a floppy toe and help to create the foundation for the healing process right here.
The reason why I like to use absorbable sutures, imagine pulling the sutures out of the toe. It's very painful and this just dissolves in the next few weeks. She's going right back to work tomorrow.
So Dr. Nelson can take over, finish up the closure, as you can see the toenail is up in there, she has a low chance for another rotation right there. So a couple more stitches and a couple more rotations we'll be okay. We're good for now.
We'll see you at follow-up.
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At the Family Foot & Leg Center (FFLC), we take pride in our expansive network of cutting-edge clinics spread strategically throughout Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties, ensuring that no matter where you are in Florida, expert foot and ankle care is within reach. Our mission is to help you overcome your foot and ankle challenges swiftly and effectively, so you can return to your active lifestyle as quickly as possible. With our advanced treatment options and a team of dedicated specialists, FFLC is committed to providing you with the best care possible, conveniently located right in your neighborhood.
Are you contemplating a bunionectomy in Southwest Florida? Before you take the next step, it's crucial to be well-informed about what to expect. While your podiatrist will undoubtedly provide valuable guidance, there are certain aspects they may not always discuss.
Understanding the Bunionectomy Process:
A bunionectomy is a surgical procedure aimed at correcting a bunion—a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, often causing pain and discomfort. While the surgical techniques and approaches may vary, the primary goal is to realign the affected bones, remove the bunion, and restore proper foot function.
Empowering Yourself with Knowledge:
To ensure the best possible outcome from your bunionectomy, it's essential to take an active role in your treatment journey. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to ask your podiatrist about any concerns or questions you may have regarding the procedure, recovery, or potential risks.
2. Seek Second Opinions: Consider seeking a second opinion from another podiatrist to gain additional insights and ensure that a bunionectomy is the best course of action for your condition.
3. Educate Yourself: Take the time to research bunionectomies, familiarize yourself with the procedure, and understand what to expect before, during, and after surgery.
4. Choosing the right foot surgeon for your bunionectomy is essential. Begin by researching specialists in your area, ensuring they are board-certified and have relevant experience. Read patient reviews to gauge their skill and patient satisfaction. During consultations, inquire about their success rates and patient outcomes. Trust your instincts and select a surgeon with whom you feel comfortable and confident in their abilities to provide personalized care and achieve optimal results.
A bunionectomy is a significant decision that can greatly impact your quality of life. By being proactive, asking the right questions, and seeking out comprehensive information, you can ensure that you're fully prepared for the journey ahead. Remember, your podiatrist is there to guide you, but ultimately, the more informed you are, the better equipped you'll be to make decisions that prioritize your foot health and overall well-being.
Dr. Kevin Lam is Double Board Certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery. First Podiatrist in Collier County, Florida to achieve such double certification. Only 900+ DPM's are double certified in the United States. Named Amongst America’s Top Podiatrists and top Doctors in SWFL by various publications: 2011, 2012, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2018, 2019, 2024 he is also sought after for his expertise in minimally invasive bunion surgery technique. Dr. Lam modified the technique, Lam Bunionectomy, to be done in the office and to allow for the quickest healing without any complications.
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This is status-post four weeks bunionectomy -- minimally invasive bunionectomy. This is -- believe it or not -- this was the better foot, this was the worse foot, so we did that one first. This is four weeks, no scar.
We have one wire we're gonna keep in for another two weeks back there, but that was the incision right there.
So right here at the fifth, first and this is the better foot of the two. So again we're gonna let this one heal and then go on to that one. We're at four weeks now, very minimal swelling, she's doing really good, her range of motion for the first MPJ is really, really good.
So, no crepitus because there's no opening there. The opening is on the side. They're very beautiful, one stitch did the trick and we're ready.
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At the Family Foot & Leg Center (FFLC), we take pride in our expansive network of cutting-edge clinics spread strategically throughout Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties, ensuring that no matter where you are in Florida, expert foot and ankle care is within reach. Our mission is to help you overcome your foot and ankle challenges swiftly and effectively, so you can return to your active lifestyle as quickly as possible. With our advanced treatment options and a team of dedicated specialists, FFLC is committed to providing you with the best care possible, conveniently located right in your neighborhood.
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes. This inflammation often leads to intense heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest.
Several factors can contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis, including overuse or repetitive strain on the feet, improper footwear, high arches, flat feet, obesity, and tight calf muscles. Athletes, runners, and individuals who spend prolonged periods on their feet are particularly susceptible to this condition.
The symptoms of plantar fasciitis can vary in intensity, ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain that interferes with daily activities. Without proper treatment, the condition can worsen over time, impacting mobility and quality of life
If you're experiencing persistent heel pain or suspect you may have plantar fasciitis, it's essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. Don't let plantar fasciitis hold you back – with the right approach, you can find relief and get back to enjoying life to the fullest.
The Family Foot & Leg Center (FFLC) prides itself on its network of cutting-edge clinics strategically positioned throughout Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties, ensuring accessible expert foot and ankle care across Florida. Our goal is to swiftly and effectively address your foot and ankle challenges, enabling you to resume your active lifestyle promptly. Equipped with advanced treatment modalities and staffed by a team of devoted specialists, FFLC is dedicated to delivering top-notch care conveniently situated in your local community.
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Hey guys, Dr. Lam. We are here to talk about plantar fasciitis and surgery for plantar fasciitis. Yes, surgery. You know, a small amount of patients
will benefit from surgery.
Most -- majority of patients, I will say 85 - 90 percent of our patients do well with conservative care. What is conservative care? Well, you have natural anti-inflammatories, you have stretching techniques, physical therapy is really big, inserts, injections, etcetera, there's also shockwave therapy but let's say all those things fail or you know, you can't afford to pay for shockwave therapy because it is not covered by by insurance but what we have that's a great alternative to that is endoscopic plantar fascial release.
I'm gonna show you a little video of that later on of an actual case and I'll talk through it. It's a very short video following this explanation.
So you have an idea. This is plantar fasciitis on the bottom of the foot, that's your heel. As you can see, it's nicely marked.
So what we're gonna see later in the video, there's a camera going in through one side right about here and it's looking up, it's looking right up at this just as you're looking up but that's what you'd be seeing on the -- there you go, going into zoom so that's what you'd be seeing later on, you'll just be seeing this tissue, this band of tissue and then what you'll also see later on, a blade going in from this side just cutting this right about there, that's what you'll be seeing on the video and why is that important?
What is plantar fasciitis? Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of this rubber band down on the bottom of the foot It actually looks like a rubber band when we go into surgery so that's how I explain to my patients.
So why does this cause a problem? Well number one is it's almost like a pinnacle
where your heel strike, number one. Number two, this tissue right here it could be -- you can have little micro tears or macro tears you can have a little tearing of this tissue as you step down wrong or you stepped out on an object, some Legos, anything.
Poor choice of shoewear where it's not padded enough and you're getting a lot of injury -- repetitive injury to this, you're not letting it heal.
Another theory is you can have some inflammation on the bone inside or what we call venous congestion in there, that's another theory behind that that's why we see a lot of inflammation on an MRI
inside the bone or on the plantar fascia or both So obviously, typically we try to do the conservative thing first and if that doesn't work then we move on to more aggressive surgical care.
So we're gonna go on to the video of the endoscopic plantar fasciectomy. I'm gonna go ahead and try to talk through it. It's really not much, again, it's a very short video so again you'll see me -- actually the camera is actually inserted on this side on the outside of the foot, 5th metatarsal side the cameras gonna be coming in this way while I cut this side that's what you're gonna see initially I would go in through this side right here to view everything but and then when we come to cutting I reverse the camera, I come in here, the camera's there to look, this is the camera now to look as I take the surgical blade now this is a surgical blade, let's see if I can get another pen here so as not to confuse anyone, this is a surgical blade, again the camera's looking and a surgical blade is right here and you cut,
pull back and cut and that is what you're gonna see on the video, any questions let us know.
This is a quick procedure, it's about 30 minutes or less from going into the operating room to them prepping, us giving a little anesthesia, to putting in the last stitch which is only about two so go on from there, any comments, concerns let me know.
Hopefully this will explain one of our common procedures called endoscopic plantar fasciectomy for chronic plantar fasciitis or plantar fasciosis.
Hey guys, this is Dr. Lam. We are going live on the video this is an actual EPF procedure -- endoscopic plantar fasciectomy this is again the camera going in from the outside of the foot, fifth metatarsal side looking at the medial side of the foot as you can see that is a nice curved blade this is all through a couple millimeters incision actually as you can see the fat is underneath on this down side right here and then the blade is cutting the plantar fascia which is this white tissue right here you see the red underneath that is the muscle belly of the flexor tendon down there so a flexor muscle belly, so we cut until all the white portion is cut which is the plantar fascia we're only cutting a certain amount that is pre measured and you can see I'm moving around the probe just to -- this is just feeling make sure I have every fiber cut as you can see this is a thick fiber right here, this white is the plantar fascia, again the red is the muscle belly underneath there.
In chronically inflamed plantar fasciitis you would see that thickened tissue requires a couple passes with that blade again it's all done endoscopically, the incisions are really small we're seeing on the screen as you see right here looks like it's getting a little blurry from the fog so that's it.
At Family Foot & Leg Center, we understand the impact that foot conditions can have on your daily life. One such condition that can significantly affect mobility and quality of life is arthritis of the big toe joint. Big toe fusion surgery, also known as arthrodesis, is a transformative procedure that can provide relief and restore function to those suffering from this debilitating condition.
Understanding Big Toe Arthritis:
Arthritis of the big toe joint, also known as hallux rigidus, is a condition characterized by the degeneration of cartilage in the joint. This degeneration leads to pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the big toe. Everyday activities such as walking, standing, and even wearing shoes can become excruciatingly painful for individuals with this condition.
The Big Toe Fusion Solution:
Big toe fusion surgery is a highly effective treatment option for advanced cases of hallux rigidus. During the procedure, the damaged cartilage in the big toe joint is removed, and the bones are fused together using screws or plates. This fusion eliminates motion in the joint, effectively alleviating pain and restoring stability to the foot.
Transforming Lives:
The impact of big toe fusion surgery on patients' lives is truly remarkable. By eliminating the debilitating pain associated with hallux rigidus, this procedure enables individuals to regain their mobility and return to the activities they love. Whether it's walking, running, or simply enjoying a pain-free existence, big toe fusion surgery can significantly improve overall quality of life.
Recovery and Rehabilitation:
Following big toe fusion surgery, patients will undergo a period of recovery and rehabilitation. Our team at Family Foot & Leg Center will provide comprehensive post-operative care, including guidance on proper wound care, physical therapy exercises, and footwear recommendations. With dedication to the recovery process, patients can expect to resume normal activities within a few months post-surgery.
We're dedicated to transforming lives through advanced foot care solutions like big toe fusion surgery. If you're suffering from the debilitating effects of big toe arthritis, don't hesitate to reach out to our experienced team for personalized treatment options. Together, we can help you reclaim your mobility, alleviate pain, and get back to living life to the fullest.
Transform your life today with big toe fusion surgery at NaplesPodiatrist.com. Schedule your consultation now!
Call: 239 430 3668 @option 2 at voice prompt
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At the Family Foot & Leg Center (FFLC), we take pride in our expansive network of cutting-edge clinics spread strategically throughout Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties, ensuring that no matter where you are in Florida, expert foot and ankle care is within reach. Our mission is to help you overcome your foot and ankle challenges swiftly and effectively, so you can return to your active lifestyle as quickly as possible. With our advanced treatment options and a team of dedicated specialists, FFLC is committed to providing you with the best care possible, conveniently located right in your neighborhood.
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Dr. Lam here with a patient with a first MPJ fusion.. This patient had this surgery about six months ago and she has no pain, you're able to walk? No problems? Correct?
"Well, let's see, it was last September, once we took that extra screw out, not extra one but the one that was giving me problems, it's been great."
Awesome. Now a lot of people are afraid of this whole fusion thing but you know, but it takes away the pain, take away the arthritic joint, put plates and screw on top of it and typically patients do really well, you're able to go on your trip like you said you went to London and everything else and no problems there right? You are able to walk with these fancy shoes?
"No I had better shoes on." [laughs]
Okay, but it's looking really good, you can't even tell. The alignment is perfect on this. We go to a straight shot to the x-ray real quick, we have right here, the x-ray right about here we're gonna go actually right here, you see the plate and screws, everything's in order, everything is fused and we'll leave it at that.
