Know Some Surprising Facts About Syringe Filters

Syringe Filters look like wheel shaped filters. They have a plastic body having a membrane, which is utilized for purifying the contaminants. Their chief use is to remove the microbes and harmful particles from gases, or liquids. In addition to this, they possess a syringe that is associated with filter membrane. There is a fabulous plethora of pour sizes, in which these filters are available in the market. A Nylon filter is also found with numerous hydrophobic and hydrophilic membrane materials.

These syringe filters are utilized in an array of applications including environmental sample analysis, HPLC sample preparation, bio fuel analysis, routine QC analysis, protection precipitation, food analysis, and many more. Apart from this, various industries use this filters involving environmental and general laboratory, pharmaceutical, food and beverage, and many others. As far as HPLC is concerned, these filters are utilized for removing the particles from the sample prior to its entering the column.

Consequently, the precision of results as well as the life of the column substantially increase. The membrane used by these filters may be of Nylon mixed cellulose, PES, polypropylene, or PTFE. The nature of the sample finalizes which filter should be used. Mixed cellulose of nylon syringe filters (both are hydrophilic membranes) are utilized to purify aqueous samples. Aside from this, sensitive biological samples are dealt by mixed cellulose ester membrane. They are chiefly made of cellulose acetate, and cellulose nitrate.

Furthermore, hydrophobic membranes (like Poly tetra fluoroethylene) are utilized in order to deal with non-polar solvents. It is a resistant polymer by nature, and useful for highly aggressive as well as corrosive solvents. Since they contain an ample amount of high stability, these polymers are used to purify bases and acids, as well. The moisture present in air vents can also be thwarted by using PTFE membrane. Polyethersulfone or polyyinylidene difluoride membranes (both are low protein binding filters) are used to purify protein samples.

Their nature is hydrophilic. PES membranes are preferred for inorganic samples that are utilized in ion chromatography. They are able to recover most of the samples. Besides this, Syringe Filters have been found to be useful in numerous applications ranging from milk commerce to commercial industries. Propylene membranes are useful with organic solvents and aqueous, as they are hydrophobic in nature. However, you should consider the diameter as well as pour size of filter while you choose these membranes for staying healthy.

Axiva lab is one of the growing company that is manufacturing and supplying various types of nylon syringe filters such as nylon syringe filters, membrane filters, ptfe filters that is useful in numerous applications.

Find information on foot health, including common foot conditions and how to treat and manage them at Everyday Health.

Stinky Sweaty Feet Remedies

How to Fix the Problem of Stinky Sweaty Feet - The Short Guide

Are you the person whose foot odor can kill? A lot of people have stinky sweaty feet. What makes matters worse is that you may not even be aware that your feet stinks as no one has ever felt comfortable enough to point it out to you. It's a touchy subject after all. However, if you are lucky (or unlucky, depending on how you look at it), you may already be aware of the problem. This is most likely the case, which is why you have come here for help in solving this little hygiene issue of yours. The good news is that there are quite a few different effective ways of going about correcting this so that your feet can start smelling a whole lot better. But first it's important to go into some of the underlying causes of why our feet have a tendency to smell bad.

Exploring Some of the Causes of Smelly Feet

The most likely culprit behind feet that stink are simply poor hygiene habits. If you don't shower often, or cut your toenails regularly, or change your socks every day, then your feet are going to smell like any other body part would if you didn't clean it properly. However, to go into a bit more detail; one of the main reasons why our feet often smell so bad is because of how much our feet tend to sweat compared to many of our other body parts. A foot has a lot of sweat glands. While it's true that much of the sweat that comes from the glands in our feet is mostly almost odorless, it can still contribute to a bad smell when it all ends up in our socks and shoes. Another big cause is the fact that we wear shoes. When our poor feet are stuck inside our shoes an entire day, it's no wonder that they start to smell. The lack of air makes it that much harder for our sweaty socks to dry. And as you may have heard, warm and moist places make the perfect home for bacteria.

So How Do You Get Rid of That Foul Smell That Emanates From Your Feet?

Well, the most obvious one of course is to practice good hygiene. Cut your toenails often, shower every day, and change socks regularly. Most foot odor problems could probably be solved by doing the three things above. While most people shower every day, many of them are sloppy when doing so. They might not scrub their feet to get rid of the dead skin, or they might not clean their feet using any sort of bodywash or shower gel. As you may have heard, it's of course also very important to dry your feet thorougly after each washing. Putting on fresh and clean socks every new day is an absolutely vital thing that you must do as well. Many people will use the same pair of socks several days in a row which is needless to say; a recipe for disaster. The material that socks are made of are also a contributing factor. For example; Polyester and nylon both provide very little ventilation for your feet unlike materials like cotton that allows your feet to breathe a bit more.

One great way of combating bad smell is baking soda (or sodium bicarbonate as it's also known as). It's quite common to use baking soda for smelly armpits, so there is no reason why one should not give it a try applying it on their feet as well. Utilizing baking soda is very effective as it makes it harder for the bacteria to thrive and multiply itself. The easiest way to use baking soda is to simply put it inside your socks as well as inside your shoes. Other types of powders that you can use are baby powder or talcum powder as they will both have a similar effect compared to baking soda.

Another effective strategy is to rub some alcohol on the inside of your shoes. It is not perhaps a very common method, but it has proven to have a great positive effect as it will kill off a lot of the bacteria. After applying and rubbing in the alcohol, try simply cleaning your shoes with some soap. You may not be able to do this with all kinds of shoes, but most shoes will certainly not take any damage from this as long as you let them dry thoroughly afterwards. And why not let them dry outside in the sun, as that will cause even more of the remaining bacteria to die off if not dead already. Finish off by replacing the old and worn out soles on the inside of your shoes with new ones. Of course, the rubbing of the alcohol as well as the washing and drying are done on your shoes and not on your feet, but you will find that your feet will smell a lot better if they have been inside a pair of nice and fresh smelling shoes all day instead of being inside a pair of smelly ones. Having more than one pair of shoes for use certainly helps as well.

Fixing the problem of stinky sweaty feet doesn't have to be difficult, and it certainly doesn't require a lot of time. Perhaps it just requires the purchase of a product or two, or the creation of a new hygienic habit. It is certainly worth doing, as no one enjoys spending time with "Stinky Peter" or any other cruel nickname that you can think of. If you have tried all of the common methods to no avail, perhaps it's time to consult with a professional that knows what they are doing. If consulting a professional is not your thing, there are some quality products out there on the market that can help you as well.

Knee Pain - Causes And Treatment Options

It is hard dealing with any type of pain. Knee pain can have adverse effects since it can limit your ability to bend or move around like you used to. It causes a lot of discomfort. You will not be even in a position to do what seemed to look like small chores because they will seem like heavy duty tasks as a result of the discomfort. Research shows that approximately 30 percent of people who visit doctors every year usually have knee pain.

The people that are mostly affected by knee pain are athletes, but there are some common individuals who are severely affected by this condition too. One of the main causes of this pain is sudden and jerky movements. Athletes, especially, are likely to have sudden movements that may contribute to development of pain in the knee area. Since the knee is a joint, it is very vulnerable to pain because sudden movements may result into a severe impact that may cause severe pain.

Another common cause of knee pain is injury. Things such as awkward landings, falls, trips as well as accidents can result in knee damage. Athletes are very vulnerable to knee injuries since they are always proactive. Basketball players, for instance, are very prone to anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) which happens when the ligaments that are located in the shinbone and thighbone are damaged. People who carry out repetitive, strenuous activities such as jumping jacks without resting also stand a high chance of getting strains in their knees.

Tendon inflammation is another factor that can cause severe knee pain. When the tendons become overused, they become susceptible to infections that may cause a lot of pain in the knee area. Osteoarthritis, which is a degenerative condition that is commonly experienced by people who are 50 years of age and above, is also a major cause of knee pain. It is a natural disorder and it usually happens as a result of deterioration of the cartilage due to constant use.

The knee is a hinge, and therefore it supports the weight of the body with a motion that is more restricted compared to other joints. It needs to be stable and it should be able to extend fully to straighten the leg. If it has limited extension that the muscles require in order to support the other parts of the body, you will experience pain around the knee area. There will also be too much stress on the ligaments if the knee wobbles from side to side and as a result it will cause a lot of strain and pain in the knee area.

To prevent knee pain, you will need to stop engaging in activities that aggravate pain whether it is immediately or after some time. If the pain is as a result of an injury you got recently, using an elastic bandage may help reduce that pain. Using a cane to support you when you are walking may also help reduce the pain. You can either use the cane on the opposite side of the knee or in the hand that is on the side of the painful knee.

Exercises will also help reduce knee pain. You should however start the exercises slowly and perform them a number of times a day if you can manage to do that. One of the best exercises that you can do if you are experiencing pain at the top of the knee is swimming. It is an exercise that does not involve weight bearing and therefore it will not cause strain in the knee area. When you go swimming, you will need to pay close attention to straightening as well as flexing of the leg.

When you have knee pain, the way you sit can cause problems, so you will need to sit in a favorable way. Be wary of sitting in a position that may put your knees in a much flexed position. If you sit for quite long, make sure that the affected leg is straightened in order to disengage the kneecap from its grove and relieve the pressure.

If the pain becomes uncontainable, you will need to seek professional advice to avoid taking any chances that may cause the situation to be worse or costly to cure. But even with treatment, carrying out exercises will help you heal faster.

Plantar Fasciitis Symptoms - Signs of It and Alternative Medicine to Treat It!

Today I'm going to share with you the top plantar fasciitis symptoms, as well as some alternative medicine that can treat it. In your body you have something known as ligaments, which attach bones to other bones. Its job is to keep structures together, almost like glue.

The plantar fasciitis is a ligament that attached the heel bone to the toes. One of its main jobs is to support the structure of the foot, as well as absorb the pressure and stress that we put on our feet. This ligament is designed to take some abuse, but just like everything it has a breaking point. When this breaking point is reached it could lead to injury and what do you think is the most common symptom of plantar fasciitis?

Yea, there is going to be pain in that area. In fact this condition is the most common reason behind pain of the heel. The pain is most often felt right after you have been resting your foot. Say for example after you wake up from a long sleep, the first few steps you take are going to be painful. Then after you have been walking for a little bit the pain might start to go away.

You might also experience agony in the heel region if you put a lot of pressure on the foot through running, playing basketball, tennis or any other high impact sport. When it comes to treatment there are many different options that you can choose. One idea would be to avoid putting pressure on the ligament if possible. This includes staying off your foot and not doing a lot of walking if possible. You could also try to ensure you have good shoes with cushions inside them.

The pain from this injury is from the inflammation and reducing it can help. You could ice your foot to reduce the swelling, as well as taking omega 3 fats. You could get omega 3 fats through fish; however there are a few dangers to eating fish and do you know what they are? Yep, fish usually have mercury as well as toxins that are not good. This is a reason a dietary supplement can be a great choice.

To sum everything up the top plantar fasciitis symptoms involve pain in the heel region, increased pain when exercising and the first time you put pressure on your foot after resting it. To treat this condition you could stay off your injured foot, ice it and take omega 3 fats.

The Pros and Cons of Surgery for Your Bunions

Many know of the term, bunion, but not everyone knows exactly what a bunion is. It is a bony protrusion on the foot, where the big toe meets the rest of the feet, or simply, at the base of the big toe. Bunions may be caused by several factors including genetics and poor fitting shoes. Regardless of the cause, the pain and even possibly limited mobility make surgery for bunions a consideration for many who suffer from this problem. Like any surgery, there are pros and cons to the surgery, this article will review reasons to have or not have surgery for your bunion.

For many the primary reason to have bunion surgery is to relieve pain. Bunions become painful as the bony protrusion absorbs the weight of the body, due to its location at the bottom joint of the big toe. Again, the location at such a crucial part of the foot means the bunion often receives a great deal of compression and friction from shoes as well. It is not uncommon for the bunion to also suffer from calluses due to the friction from shoes. As the pain increases and the big toe begins to further curve inward to the other toes, mobility may decrease or become limited. This is another reason sufferers seek surgery for bunions.

One pro to having the surgery is of course the reduction or elimination of pain due to the bunion. However, there must be realistic expectations that post surgery it is most likely that range of motion may be limited. Along with this, it is important to realize that post surgery the choices in footwear will still be limited. Many find that a return to ill fitting footwear or shoes that do not meet surgeon approval or recommendation may result in the bunion returning or new bunions developing.

Just as there are many reasons to have bunion surgery, there are times that it is not recommended. One of the most common reasons that surgery is not advised is that non surgical measures have not been explored or fully exhausted. Like other conditions, bunions are not only relieved or cured by surgery. Other treatments along with lifestyle changes may help to alleviate pain and maintain mobility and the current level of activity. Health conditions such as poor blood flow, complications due to diabetes, and other concerns may eliminate surgery as a viable option. Be sure to discuss any and all concerns and health considerations with a trusted surgeon before having surgery for bunions.

Although seemingly straightforward, bunion surgery is unique to each patient. Bunions are like other health concerns in that there are medical and textbook definitions but each case is different due to the patient's overall medical history and that specific to the bunion. If surgery for bunions is a topic being contemplated, reviewing pros and cons with a trusted surgeon may help to determine the best course of action. As with any other medical concern, talk with a trusted medical professional before taking any treatment or medical remedy.

The Importance of Taking Care of Your Feet

When people say that they hurt themselves while getting up out of a chair, that's because their body did not communicate with their feet. This lack of communication meant that the required muscles were not turned on. The body waited until its first step yet you are already bent over, so it will use whatever it has to move. In this case, it is your lower back. So this is where it's going to get cramped because your quads are going to work and go through. We need to get access to our feet, but we have to wear shoes.

So how do we do that? By being barefoot as much as possible to use what's going on inside each foot. We teach this in the restorative therapy program. One of our first foundations and the first steps that we take, are with bare feet to get them to work.

To get your foot to become more sensitive, you can use a pumice stone. There are different types of pumice stones. The lava rock is a big, hard brick that starts to get the dead skin off. The dead skin is there because your foot is trying to protect itself from the constant impact of the shoes you wear. We have to get you to learn how to scrape that thickness away, so your body can feel. By using a pumice stone, you can actually clean up that dead skin, along with the miscommunication that happens there. This is very important to take off. There are also rounded pumice stones, but either way, they all work. Don't think of this as a beauty technique, but as a way to feel the ground more. They need to learn how to feel again.

Notice I mentioned the word 'again'. Your feet need to learn how to feel again, because they have been asleep for so long. You have to start waking them up by doing muscular exercises and by getting the skin to start talking with the ground. Feel what's going on and then your body is going to start responding better and better. After the pumice, you're going to feel so much more of the ground. Your body will be able to detect that the feet are moving so it can stretch the required muscles. By making you aware of how thick your shoes are, your feet can approach that minimalist state. This is your first attempt at gaining access to the world through your feet. You need to keep it somewhat active all the time, even though you are using different types of footwear.

I saw a commercial for memory foam in your shoes but all it does is take the pressure away. Your body actually needs that pressure. It needs that feedback from your feet or your ankles will start to roll. So remember, try to get your feet to communicate with your body so your body can feel more and your muscles will stay awake.

Nerve Conditions and Foot Pain

When looking at the subject of foot pain or really any other problem related to the feet, it's worth remembering that the average person takes in the region of 7,000 steps every single day. There isn't a part of the body that's subject to the same kind of ferocious and prolonged punishment as the feet, so really it's hardly surprising that foot pain in general is such a common condition. The feet are of course better-designed to withstand this kind of abuse, but at the same time it's often impossible to get by without something somewhere going wrong.

There are plenty of reasons why one or both feet may present painful symptoms seemingly out of the blue - one of which being a possible nerve condition. And while it's important to ensure that a trained professional makes a responsible diagnosis, it's nonetheless useful to understand a few of the more common examples, which include the following:

Morton's Neuroma

This refers to a condition whereby the nerve between the fourth and third toe increases in thickness and thus prevents painful symptoms. The most common signs of Morton's Neuroma are shooting pains and burning sensations between the fourth and third toes, which are usually most sever while walking or exercising. Women are more likely to be afflicted by men as the condition is made worse by prolonged use of high-heeled shoes.

Pinched Nerve

A pinched nerve is another common cause of foot pain and can present pretty much anywhere across the foot. More often than not, a pinched nerve will be the result of some kind of injury or trauma, which could mean anything from an overly tight shoe to a heavy impact from/against a blunt object. Telltale signs of a pinched nerve include burning sensations, shooting pains and general sensitivity around the affected area.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

It could also be that the problem behind the foot pain is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome, which is the name given to the condition whereby the posterior tibial nerve is squeezed or pressed upon around the ankle. Along with the obvious symptoms like frequent cramping and general pain around the affected area, Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome may also present in the form of numbness which is particularly noticeable when sleeping.

Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy

Diabetes sufferers may also find themselves with an increased risk of foot pain due to Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy, which is caused by an irregular blood sugar content. Up to 25% of all diabetics will suffer this kind of nerve-related foot pain, which presents in the form of tingling, burning and shooting pains in the feet. Again, it can often be at its worst during the evening and while sleeping.

There are plenty of other causes of foot pain that range in both severity and the means necessary to treat them. From vitamin deficiencies to the growth of tumors and right through to the side effects of certain drugs, it's crucial to speak to a professional for advice. In some instances, the solution could be something as simple as using custom orthotics, but in others it may be necessary to take medication or perhaps undergo corrective surgery.

Should I Be Walking Barefoot Inside The Home?

This is a question I get asked everyday day in my Podiatry clinic, and unfortunately the answer is a tricky one.

Yes, we humans are supposed to be barefoot. But barefoot on natural surfaces such as grass, sand and dirt. It's when we introduce the unforgiving man-made surfaces that we get into trouble. Our bodies are not designed to walk barefoot all day on hard surfaces such as timber, tiles, concrete, bitumen etc. - and let's face it in our modern world this is pretty much what we walk on all day long.

Most people without any foot pain should be able to cope with small amounts of walking barefoot at home on hard man-made surfaces (for example half hour in the morning before going to work and one hour in evening after work). Problems will often occur, and occur quite quickly, when someone is on holidays for a few weeks and spends more time barefoot at home, or when women go on maternity leave, or when people retire. Even a person with the most 'mechanically correct' foot posture is likely to develop symptoms from spending long periods of barefoot on hard surfaces. The symptoms may not necessarily show up in your feet either, quite often leg fatigue, sore knees and sore lower back are often signs or poor shock absorption.

Having said this, spending some barefoot time outside on natural surfaces, or 'earthing', poses many health benefits. Barefoot will help to strengthen your toes, foot and lower leg muscles and also improve your proprioception, awareness and balance. I put this theory to test whilst travelling through rural Africa for 6 weeks: I wore a pair of tired flip-flops (almost barefoot) for the whole 6 weeks and did a tremendous amount of walking on predominantly natural surfaces and suffered no foot or lower leg pain or fatigue. If I did the same thing at home in Australia, with our expanse of man-made surfaces, I'm certain I would have very tired achey feet and legs at the end of my trip.

There is also research out there that suggests 'earthing' improves things like energy levels, sleep patterns, blood pressure, stress levels and more.

So my suggestion as a Podiatrist who deals with foot pain all day long: limit your barefoot time on hard, man-made surfaces (instead wear cushioned footwear that does not restrict your toes) but make an effort to increase your barefoot time on natural, 'earthy' surfaces.

How to Cure Deformed Toes and Bunions

Our legs and feet are naturally engineered for maximum stabilization and mobility, and toes are crucial for the healthy foot functionality. In fact, just like other parts of our feet, our toes are complex structures that help us balance as we walk and run. However, daily travel, stress, and improper care can take a toll on our feet. As a result, pain creeps in and we may suffer from one of many foot and ankle disorders such as clawed toes, deformed toes or bunions. Of these, deformed toes and bunions are common disorders that majority of the people suffer. It's necessary to learn about the symptoms, causes and treatment of these common foot disorders.

Deformed toes:

This toe disorder is also known as hammertoes. In this disorder, second, third or fourth toe bends causing a permanent bend that appears like a hammer. Hammertoes can be quite painful due to the pressure on the joints.

Hammertoes can be caused by wearing shoes that don't fit properly. Ill-fitting shoes can force your toes into a bent position. If your toe remains bent for a long time then it forces the toe muscle to shorten, resulting in a painful toe deformity. Often, deformed toes are found in conjunction with bunions or other foot disorders. Hammertoes can also occur due to joint or nerve damage, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes and osteoarthritis.

To alleviate pain and pressure due to Hammertoes you can switch to new, soft shoes with a wider space for your toes. This will help avoid crowding of the toes. Orthotics, shoe inserts, foam or gel separators and toe caps can also offer good relief from discomfort and pain. It is always better to see a podiatrist as early as possible so that you can get the right deformed toes treatment and avoid surgery, which becomes inevitable if your toes become more painful and rigid.

Bunions:

Bunion is another common toe injury that needs medical attention. Medically, it is known as Hallux Valgus. A bunion can be easily spotted as it is a big lump on a side of your foot on the big toe. Prominently, it's a structured deformity of the joint and bones of the big toe that causes a lot of pain while moving. It is observed that bunions are more prominent among the women due to the types of shoes they wear.

Often, bunions are an inherited disorder. Their symptoms range from inflammation, skin irritation, pain to a reddish appearance around the lump. The big toe leans toward the other toes and causes a lot of pain while walking. Usually, bunions are caused due to abnormalities when the ligaments and tendons no longer function appropriately. Other causes of bunions are abnormal bone structure, flat feet and genetic factors. Also, narrow-fitted footwear can aggravate the problem. If not treated at an earlier stage, it can lead to arthritis of your big toe joint.

Wearing wider footwear with extra padding or orthotics can help heal bunions quickly. You can go for toe separators, bunion spacers and bunion splints. If the deformity is severe, it is advisable to visit an efficient foot and ankle podiatrist as early as possible to get it operated. Surgery of bunions involves the removal of bony enlargement on the side of foot, correcting abnormal misalignment of the toe and realignment and straightening of the big toe. Also, your health, age and lifestyle play a major role in deciding whether your bunion needs to be operated or not.

No Scar Bunion Surgery - Minimally Invasive Bunionectomy

Women are especially prone to form bunions. What exactly is a bunion? This is a deformity of the joint at the base of the big toe. The toe becomes misaligned, being turned away from the midline of the body. So when shoes are worn, there is a resulting pressure on the big toe and inflammation may follow. This is the pain that is felt especially as the bunion grows bigger.

The problem can be even more pronounced in women because of wearing high-heeled shoes that are most likely also pointed at the toes. Because of this design, these types of shoes unfortunately tip the weight of the body forward. The toes in turn are squeezed into the shoes with narrow toes and can later become deformed as a result.

As the bunion becomes more severe, the joint where it is located can be seriously damaged and this can affect the normal functioning of the foot. The bunion can also damage the other toes and may lead to a condition called hammertoes. A hammertoe is when the middle joint of the toe bends and becomes stuck in that position. Toes may curl, corns and calluses may form, toe joints can be difficult to move, the there can be pain at the base of a toe or in the ball of the foot.

Bunion treatments are important if the pain becomes severe and interferes with daily routines. Some conservative treatments for bunions include relieving foot pressure by wearing shoes with enough room in the toe box. Use shoes with low heels, protect bunions with gel pads, use shoe inserts, or you may also wear a splint at night to help keep the toe straight. For the pain and inflammation, NSAIDS may be taken such as ibuprofen and aspirin. Warm soaks and ice packs may also help with pain relief.

If these conservative bunion treatments fail, then the only definitive treatment is bunionectomy. Over time, bunions usually get worse so if not treated, it will likely get larger and even more painful. There are different surgical procedures to treat bunions, depending on its severity. The traditional bunion surgery has a reputation of being painful. It involved cutting open the toe joint, sawing off parts of the bone, and then putting them back together. This very invasive operation is so painful that the patient can be left incapacitated for several weeks. Scarring is also to be expected because of the scope of the operation.

In recent years, there is an option called the minimally invasive bunionectomy. This no scar bunion surgery is also virtually painless and involves very short recovery time. This does not involve any cutting of the bone and no extensive incision is done. Only a keyhole surgery is performed, leaving it an almost scarless bunion surgery. However, not all foot surgeons can perform this operation. It is important that you choose a qualified podiatrist with extensive experience in both open bunionectomy and the newer non-invasive surgery techniques.

Double Board Certified Foot/Ankle Surgeon Dr. Kevin Lam has introduced the Lam modification no scar bunion surgery for patients in Florida. Today, people all over the country seek Dr. Lam for his minimally invasive scarless bunion surgery. He is also a published health writer and national foot/ankle lecturer. Voted top doctor by Naples National Network Florida 2008/2009, Voted amongst America's Top Podiatrists 2011. For more information on how to treat bunions,

PLANTAR FASCIITS: Symptom Care Versus Corrective Care

Plantar Fasciitis is not only a debilitating condition but, also frustrating. To someone experiencing pantar fasciitis it seems like nothing seems to help, at least long term. Why? Most of the traditional treatment methods focus on eliminating/reducing pain or inflammation. This approach is addressing the symptoms rather than the cause.

There are two causes of plantar fasciitis.

The most common cause is stress that is placed on the plantar fascia. I want you to understand that the condition is not a disease or something you catch. What happens is a physical change takes place in the foot which causes stretching of the plantar fascia and eventually causes tears. There are many reasons for this including sprain/strains of the ankles, repetitive stress, weakened ligaments and age to name a few.

The other cause is direct trauma to the fascia itself. This is relatively uncommon and depending upon the severity usually has a good outcome along with treatment focused on healing.

How is stress to the fascia caused?

One or more bones of the foot move out of place physically stretching the fascia. The most common I see is the heel bone (calcaneus) slides backwards and outwards. The plantar fascia attaches to the calcaneus and due to it moving out of place it stretches the fascia. Overtime with standing, walking and running small tears develop in the fascia. If the dysfunction continues other bones will move out of place and cause ankle pain, toe pain or pain in the ball of the foot.

So why does the calcaneus move out of place?

When our foot strikes the ground during walking the forces push it in the opposite direction. This is not a problem for a foot with strong healthy ligaments and tendons. An ankle with weakened tendons and ligaments cannot overcome these heel strike forces and the calcaneus is slowly pushed out of place.

How to correct these physical changes (dysfunctions).

Unfortunately, traditional treatment methods focus on treating the pain (the symptom) and not reversing these changes. These traditional treatment methods include pain medication, injections, orthotics, shoes, braces and stretching just to name a few. In fact stretching the plantar fascia, which is recommended almost 100% of time, typically has a negative effect! This is the very thing that caused the condition to begin.

First the dysfunction must be identified. The physician needs to palpate the foot (feel the foot), perform orthopedic tests, motion the joints and sometimes take x-rays or refer out for an MRI. Plantar fasciitis may be diagnosed by a history however, to determine the dysfunctional pattern a physical exam must be conducted. Once the dysfunction is identified very specific adjustments (manipulations) to the individual bones of the foot will be performed. Each patient's treatment will be unique. The first thought in someone's mind who has plantar fasciitis is "Will it be painful?". Surprisingly, when performed correctly there typically is very little discomfort if any. This will not only move the bones into the proper position but, will allow the foot to function normally again. Once the bones begin to realign in the proper position the pressure is taken off the fascia and now true and permanent healing may take place. Additional teatments such as cold laser, interferential and targeted massage are also performed to facilitate the healing of the fascia. When appropriate therapeutic exercises will be initiated into the treatment to strengthen the muscles of the foot and ankle.

Who can perform these specific adjustments?

General chiropractors sometimes adjust the feet and do have great results however, the adjustments of a Hand and Foot Chiropractor are much different in that they are highly specific. If you have been suffering with plantar fasciitis and have tried orthotics, injections, medications, chiropractic, night splints or several shoe styles and continue to have pain I recommend you search for a Hand and Foot Chiropractor or a chiropractor who treats plantar fasciitis on a daily basis.

Dr. Stephen Canuel is a full body chiropractor in West Melbourne, Florida who in addition to the spine treats the tiny bones in the hands and feet for conditions like carpal tunnel and plantar fasciitis. He is proud to be known throughout his community as the "Hand and Foot Chiropractor".

He has been trained and endorsed by the Chiropractic Hand and Foot Clinics of America in which has been invited to become a fellowship member. He has assisted in the training of other chiropractors from around the nation in increasing their skill of adjusting the hands and feet.

Your Shoes Should Be Made of Thermoplastic Rubber Footwear Compounds

Harsh environments and extreme conditions can wear down or ruin a pair of shoes. With thermoplastic rubber footwear compounds, your shoes can withstand the worst. These compounds are cost effective and offer superior traction in cold weather environments, and are resistance to chemicals and abrasion.

Whether you are looking for sandals, rain boots, work boots, or just another pair of shoes, you cannot go wrong with thermoplastic rubber footwear compounds. These shoes look and feel like real rubber. They provide quality performance and durability, while maintaining a lightweight feel for your feet. They meet all the needs any consumer could possibly dream of.

New advances in thermoplastic rubber footwear compounds have developed with the beef and poultry processing industries specifically in mind. New formulas containing polyvinyl chloride and polyvinyl chloride alloy extend the working life of your boots by an additional thirty percent, saving you money on the cost of replacing your work boots as they deteriorate on the job. If you work in a harsh or dangerous environment then you owe it to yourself to invest in quality protective footwear. These shoes, boots, or sandals are more resistant to the fickle nature of your climate, dangerous chemicals, and are more effective in slip resistance, which is especially important when working in a dangerous industry where any slip could be perilous.

For the fashion conscious, these types of superior, protective shoes can be found in a variety of colors and styles to fit your personal taste. Enjoy practical durability, excellent protection, and the safe slip-resistant power this innovative material has to offer without sacrificing your style.

Thermoplastic rubber footwear compounds do a great job of keeping your feet dry and warm in the snow or in the rain. Walking down a city street in the middle of winter is no problem. Your shoes not only stay dry and warm as you travel from train to office and back again on the daily commute, but they are also exceptionally slip resistant so that ice is no problem either. Tired of your socks getting bogged down with water on rainy, puddle-filled days? Conquer the elements and splash in the puddles with the joy of a child with the comfort that your feet are protected. No more soggy socks and frozen toes.

Thermoplastic rubber footwear compounds are truly amazing in withstanding a diversity of situations. Whether in hot, cold, or dangerous settings, shoes made of this material exceed expectations and provide a level of unmatched comfort and durability.

Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Pain

Heel pain is a common complaint. There are several reasons for heel pain and the most common cause is plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is the ligament which connects the toes to the heel bone. When this ligament becomes inflamed it can cause pain, tenderness, and swelling. Many athletes experience this condition as well as people who spend a lot of time on their feet. While this can be a very painful condition, the good news is it does respond well to treatment.

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

A ligament is different from a muscle or a bone. It is fibrous tissue which acts as a support and a connection between bone and other tissues. The plantar fascia is a flat band of tissue supporting the arch of the foot. Excessive pronation (inward rolling of the foot when walking) is the most common cause of plantar fasciitis. People with high arches or flat feet may also be at a greater risk for developing this condition.

If you spend a lot of time on your feet or walking, or wear footwear that doesn't give you enough support these things can also cause stress on the ligament. Athletes with tight Achilles tendons or calf muscles also put a greater strain on the ligament and may develop inflammation. Plantar fasciitis causes swelling and pain when walking or standing, and if not treated may develop tears in the ligament itself.

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

You may first notice pain when you start to walk after resting. The pain may increase during the day, and be worse when you have to climb stairs or stand for long periods of time. Pain is focused near your heel and it can be a stabbing pain. You may experience symptoms in just one foot, or in both feet. As the condition progresses you may hear a snapping or clicking sound, and the area will become very swollen.

Treatment Options

Plantar fasciitis responds very well to treatment. The earlier you start treatment, the faster you can get relief from pain. The first step in treatment should be a visit to your chiropractor. They will note how you stand and walk, examine your legs and feet, and discuss your general health and health history. They will then develop a plan to treat the condition and help prevent it in the future.

Ice packs, reduction in activity, and over the counter anti-inflammatory drugs help most people recover. Your chiropractor will show you calf and toe stretches to perform several times each day. These will be done in the morning upon rising and several times during the day. Always wear shows with cushioned soles and good arch support, and you can also get shoe orthotics to wear if you stand or walk a lot. Your chiropractor may also recommend physiotherapy to help heal the ligament and reduce pain and inflammation.

You don't have to suffer with the pain of plantar fasciitis. With proper treatment and prevention you can get relief and prevent further inflammation. Talk to your chiropractor if you experience heel pain; he or she can help you fine the relief you need.

What Likely Causes Your Foot Pain?

Foot Pain is one of the most problematic types of pain in the body to deal with. Because our feet are made up of a number of bones, joints, and ligaments, it turns out to be one of the most complex parts of our body. So pain in the foot can indeed be very painful and likely to cause severe discomfort on anyone.

To understand better the pain that you're facing right now, it's important that you review what might have caused it in the first place. There are a number of reasons that could lead to foot pain, so check out the possibilities below to know what options you have to significantly reduce pain.

#1. Underlying Diseases

Foot Pain can be related to a number of possible medical conditions such as Arthritis, Diabetes, or Gout. These can either cause your foot to become stiff, reduce your foot's full range of motion, cause some swelling in your toes or other parts of your feet, and, even nerve damage. If you have any history of any of these medical conditions, or even suspect that you do, consult your doctor immediately to discuss what options you have for relieving foot pain. Your doctor can also give you an in depth explanation of what causes the pain, and how you can deal with it.

#2. Foot Injuries

A simple ankle sprain can go a long way, so does a muscle strain. Injuries such as these can be sudden or gradual. It's likely that you've encountered an accident, but you probably thought it was a minor one. In other cases, repeated stress on your feet could also have accumulated over time and is now causing you pain.

To help you narrow down the probable cause of your foot pain, here is a short overview of five the most common foot injuries.

    Achilles Tendonitis - This condition is caused by an inflammation of the Achilles tendon. This is likely caused by repeated pressure on the heel, which then leads to overuse and deterioration. If you hear a snap or feel something tearing along your heel, causing high levels of pain, consult your doctor ASAP. You may have broken your Achilles heel.

    Stone Bruise - This occurs when an impact injury hits a bony part of your foot. Because stone bruises don't likely produce swelling on the surface of your feet, you may feel paranoid about the cause of the pain. However, it's good to know that stone bruise can heal through home treatment (lots of rest, applying ice packs, and in some cases, taking pain medication). But exercise a lot of patience as stone bruises are stubborn and don't go away easily.

    Turf Toe - This develops through repeated pressure put on the big toe. This condition is usually seen in athletes, dancers or sports enthusiasts. When you push the big toe upward due to various activities (e.g.: When you get ready in position for a sprint), repeated occurrence will eventually lead to this injury.

    Bursitis - Bursitis not only occurs in the feet, but it can also occur in various parts of the body. This is because this injury is an inflammation of the bursa-fluid cushions in our body that protect our joints and help us in absorbing shock from the outside. To check if you have Bursitis, here are some of the telltale signs: pain along the joints (often more painful in the morning or after walking for an extended period), lack of range of motion, and weak foot muscles.

    Ingrown Toenails - This occurs when your nails grow into the flesh surrounding your toe, leading to soreness, swelling, and even infection. Ingrown toenails can be hereditary or caused by other factors such as: trauma, ill-fitting shoes, fungal infections, or incorrect trimming of nails. This usually affects your big toe, so to check if you have ingrown toenails, look for a sore bump near your nail, this usually means that your nails have already grown in your flesh. Luckily, you can treat ingrown toenails at home. However, if you see any infection or have a history of diabetes, consult your doctor ASAP for proper medication or possibly, a minor surgical operation to remove your ingrown nail.

#3. Improper or Zero Foot Care

Your lack of proper foot care might be the leading cause of your own pain. Review anything you might have done that caused any possible stress on your feet. Here are some questions that you can initially work with:

    Did I significantly expose my feet to the elements - wind, rain, etc.?
    Did I wear any tight shoes lately?
    Do I skip wearing socks when wearing low cut shoes for the sake of fashion?
    How often and how long did I wear heels this week?
    Did I wear any shoes that were painful to my toes?
    Did I do any exercise that caused a lot of pressure on my feet?
    How do I care for my feet? Do I do anything that relieves foot pressure?
    How often do I give my feet the time to rest?
    Do I practice the proper way of trimming my nails?
    Do I pamper my feet?

If you've answered the questions and suspect that lack of proper foot care may be the cause of your foot pain, then start committing yourself to healthy foot practices. Foot care is not rocket science, it's a simple case of understanding how to properly protect, maintain, groom, and care for your feet. Once you've gained the know-how on what to do, then you're sure to keep your feet healthy.

Everything You Need to Know About Bunions

If you have recently noticed a large and painful protrusion on the big toe side of your foot, then you may be suffering from bunions. In general, this is a deformity caused by the deviation or shift of the bone in your large toe where it joins the rest of the bones of the foot. In the worst cases, this can cause pain that spreads to the entire foot, and an inability to walk or ambulate properly. If your bunions are making walking and every day life a painful struggle, then here are a few things you need to know about how to treat bunions.

No Clear Causes

While bunions can be fairly common, they are not perfectly understood in modern medicine, and there is no one specific cause. Many physicians believe the bunions are genetic. These cases are usually associated with early signs of deviation in the bones, tendons, and ligaments of the first metatarsal, such as flat footed-ness, or excessive flexibility in the ligaments of the foot. Many experts still point to a lifetime of wearing poorly fitting shoes and high heels as a primary cause of bunion deformities. Although many believe that this simply exacerbates an existing problem.

Signs and Symptoms

Bunions are typically diagnosed when the physician sees red, swollen, and irritated skin around the bunion, pain in general or when walking, and the phenomenon of the big toe shifting towards the other toes. As a result of wearing ill-fitting shoes over the bunion, blisters may form on the site as well. This causes many sufferers to wear larger size shoes than they normally would to accommodate the extra width of the foot. If the condition becomes severe, the pain may spread to other areas of the foot as well.

Treatment Options

There are two primary ways to treat bunions: custom orthotics and surgery. Orthotics are simply accommodating padding and shielding designed to be worn with or replace your shoes. In essence these are simple devices, like gelled toe spacers or separators, and cushions, splints, or regulators for the bunion to slowly and conservatively correct the deviation of the bones. Rest, ice, medication, and generally staying off of your feet and avoiding wearing restrictive shoes may also be prescribed to alleviate symptoms more so than correct the deformity

Surgery

If the discomfort or deformity is so severe that the patient is in constant pain or cannot otherwise function normally, surgery administered by an orthopedic or podiatric surgeon may be prescribed. For instance, the doctor may remove some of the protruding bone tissue, or will realign and straighten the first metatarsal. If you are suffering from bunions then your surgeon will design the perfect procedure to bring you relief from the pain and restore your feet to their natural healthy state.