From Dr. Kurlanski’s Desk

Lighthouse Foot and Ankle Center is here for you. At this unprecedented time in history, we want to stay in touch with you to keep you informed as we all deal with this crisis together. This is the first in a series of weekly communications we will be sending you to stay connected. Our office will…

Dear Valued Patient, Here at Lighthouse Foot and Ankle Center, our goal is to keep high-risk patients out of the Emergency Room and Urgent Care and stay infection and ulcer free. High-risk patients include those with diabetes with neuropathy and poor circulation, history of amputation, infection or ulceration. Ways we can help: Triage with Telehealth – a…

The first question I ask patients when they come to me with diabetic peripheral neuropathy is “Do you have trouble falling asleep due to your feet?”  Often people with diabetic neuropathy have trouble falling asleep due to tingling and burning pain.  The zingers may not be noticeable during the distractions of the day, but once settled into bed, the burning pain is obvious.  Some patients struggle for hours to fall asleep, rubbing…

Have you ever felt like you have a balled-up sock under your foot or a pebble under your foot, take off your shoe to find there is nothing there?  Chances are you have a Morton’s neuroma, or inflammation of a nerve between your toes.  Other symptoms can include a burning pain in the ball of…

When you come in for an appointment…tell us about your shoes! We get a lot of information about a patient’s condition from their shoes.    No other article of clothing has an impact on health like shoes!   Shoes can be stylish, functional yet cause or fix foot pain.   We want to know…. 1.       What are…

Calluses can often be confused with plantar warts. Both lesions are benign, on the bottom of the foot and occasionally painful. So how do we tell difference? Calluses • Dense, hard skin, uniform in color and thickness • Caused be friction due to tight shoes or faulty biomechanics. • Do not spread and are not…

Orthotics and inserts each are effective in treating foot and ankle conditions such as neuroma, and plantar fasciitis. While the two terms are used interchangeably, they are different! What makes an orthotic different than an insert?  A lot of inserts are marketed as orthotics. They may look like an orthotic; have a plastic shell, deep…

Foot and ankle troubles affect both amateur and professional tennis players alike.  Despite good self-care, properly hydrating, stretching and wearing appropriate shoes, injuries can still happen.  Running, cutting, jumping, quick stops and starts on hard surfaces set the stage for foot and ankle trauma.  6 Common Foot and Ankle Tennis Injuries 1.      Subungual hematoma –…

Are you taking Aleve or Motrin for your chronic heel pain so that you can just get through your day?  Are you worried about what it is doing to your stomach and kidneys?  We have options like shockwave to help you stop taking NSAIDs.  Ibuprofen is great for acute pain, but when pain is there longer than 2-3 weeks it is…

Cortisone injections can be a quick and effective way to treat tendonitis or plantar fasciitis but it is not without its drawbacks.  Steroid injections alleviate pain and inflammation in the short term but can soften cartilage in joints and rupture tendons with repeat injections.   It rarely fixes the underlying condition and should not be used…

What is Kinesio Tape? During the pandemic working from home has allowed us to exercise more.  Increased activity or doing a new activity like running, walking on the beach or hiking can cause new aches and pains like heel pain or Achilles tendonitis.  One way to treat these overuse injuries is with Kinesio Tape.  Professional…

Ultimate Frisbee is incredibly fun to play but like many other sports, there is some risk for injury. There is a lot of running, jumping and quick changes in direction during play.  Players generally wear cleats and play on a grass surface. Ultimate Frisbee was created at Columbia High School in Maplewood, NJ in 1968….

Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in America. It combines parts of badminton, tennis, and table tennis to create an easy-to-learn game that can be picked up by anyone. Pickleball is popular not only in the US but also worldwide. The average age of a pickleball player is about 40, meaning that anyone and…

Dr. Kurlanski has a product for almost every foot and ankle conditions. These are our favorites.    Podoexpert Foam with Urea  Podoexpert nourishing foam cream with urea for cracked and dry skin. It works by repairing and hydrating the protective skin layer on your feet and ankles. It also works great for diabetic patients. Check out our study on Podoexpert coming soon with before and after photos.  Dancer…

If you’ve noticed a bend in your toes that won’t go away, you may have hammertoes.  Your toes may be working extra hard to compensate for imbalance causing you to grip the ground as you walk.  Over time the toes become contracted. Hammertoe can be a general term.  A true hammertoe has a bend at the…

Over the last 30 days we asked 5 diabetic patients to participate in a case study using Podoexpert with urea.  Podoexpert is a nourishing foam cream for cracked and dry skin.  It works by repairing and hydrating the protective skin layer on your feet and ankles. Patients used the foam twice daily. We took pictures at the first…

Pain in the ball of the foot may be due to “pre-dislocation syndrome”, inflammation of the joint under the second toe on the bottom of the foot. This pain may be confused with a neuroma, inflammation of a nerve between the toes. The injury can happen suddenly or over a long period of time. Certain…

Are you aware that back, ankle, hip, and knee pains may be originating from your feet? Feet provide support for your entire body and the poor posture generated by the effects of foot issues can result in a lifetime of discomfort. Overpronation occurs when your ankles are no longer in balance. Pronation is not always…

When it comes to improving health, it’s easy to look past your toenails. However, an ingrown toenail can not only be painful- but it can also pose a risk of infection. Ingrown toenails develop for a couple of different reasons. They may be caused by shoes that are too tight, an inherent foot structure, or…

Sometimes the smallest thing can be so painful! Seed corns feel like a rock embedded in the bottom of your foot. The 2-3-millimeter lesions are cone-shaped plugs of keratin on the ball of the foot and are especially painful barefoot. You are walking on the point of the cone which is why they hurt so…

Did you know that up to 80% of men wear the wrong size shoe, and 90% of American women admit to owning at least one or two pairs of shoes that fit poorly, but they still wear them because they are so stylish?   As part of our new patient visit, we examine patients’ shoes as well as…

Shockwave therapy, also known as Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT) is a fast and gentle non-surgical method derived from lithotripsy, a technique used to disintegrate kidney stones without the use of invasive surgery.  The Enplus shockwave device delivers pneumatically generated high-pressure shockwaves that travel through the skin.  Inflamed soft tissue and bone calcifications that receive these…

Now that travel restrictions have been lifted more and more people on going on a much-needed vacation. Most of us have been sedentary during the pandemic. If you are not prepared, foot pain may keep you from having fun on your dream vacation. Consider training for your getaway to avoid tendonitis or heel pain. Tips…

Neglecting and mistreating our feet cause most of the foot problems we experience, so being aware of and addressing issues that could result in foot discomfort are critical. Shoes are one of the few articles of clothing that impact our health. Paying special attention to what shoes you wear at any age will prevent problems…

After your cancer treatment, do you find that your feet burn and tingle, or worse, they are numb? Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a widespread experience following cancer treatment. About 30 to 40 percent of the patients treated with chemotherapy develop symptoms such as numbness, burning, tingling, cold intolerance, problems with balance, and instability. Neuropathy…

Have you noticed dark red to purple, painful skin patches on one or more of your toes? You may have a condition called Chilblains. Typically, these skin patches develop after exposure to damp cold but not freezing air. In normal circumstances, blood vessels dilate when warm and constrict when cold. Chilblains occur with repeated cold…

Lighthouse Foot and Ankle Center is excited to be the first podiatry practice in Maine, giving patients direct care for foot and ankle pain without insurance regulations. Patients can make an appointment without a referral from their doctor or insurance company. Our wait time for a new patient appointment is much less, and same-day appointments…

What is the Plantar Fascia? The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that extends from your heel to the base of your toes, on the bottom of your foot. The fibrous band provides stability and supports your arch. A common cause of heel pain known as plantar fasciitis can occur when the fascia becomes inflamed…

It is 8 pm on Sunday night and you have finally had it with your heel pain that has been plaguing you for the last 3 months. Your first instinct is to Google your symptoms and find out how to fix your pain. You start seeing pop-up ads for inserts and read all the reviews….

A little more than half the patients we see come to the office with pain in the ball of the foot from a neuroma, heel pain, ankle pain, arthritis, and tendonitis. Laser therapy in conjunction with taping, shoe recommendations, stretching, and orthotics works fantastic for these conditions. But how does it work? Laser therapy works…

As a lifestyle medicine podiatrist, I firmly believe that foot health is a reflection of our overall well-being. Our feet carry us through life, yet they are often neglected until problems arise. By adopting foundational lifestyle habits, we can support not just our feet, but our entire body’s health. Here’s how you can optimize your…

As a lifestyle medicine podiatrist, I firmly believe that foot health is a reflection of our overall well-being. Our feet carry us through life, yet they are often neglected until problems arise. By adopting foundational lifestyle habits, we can support not just our feet, but our entire body’s health. Here’s how you can optimize your…

Fungal toenail infections (onychomycosis) are one of the most common foot conditions, affecting millions of people each year. While it may start as a small white or yellow spot under the nail, if left untreated, it can worsen and become difficult to treat. Many people ignore early signs of a fungal infection, thinking it will…

Plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, and other chronic foot conditions can be frustrating to manage, especially when they persist despite traditional treatments. One of the most effective non-invasive therapies available today is Radial Pulse Therapy (RPT), a form of shockwave therapy that promotes healing, reduces pain, and enhances mobility. If you’re struggling with foot pain, RPT…

A pet is more than just a companion—it’s a source of joy, routine, and even exercise. Whether you’re walking your dog through the neighborhood or playing with your cat at home, staying active is essential for both you and your furry friend. However, foot pain, joint discomfort, or balance issues can make pet care more…

If you’ve stubbed, dropped something on, or otherwise injured your toe, you may be wondering if it’s broken. Instead of spending hours in a crowded emergency room and facing a high bill, you can get a same-day appointment at Lighthouse Foot & Ankle Center in Scarborough, Maine. We provide on-site X-rays, expert diagnosis, and a…

If you’ve been dealing with Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, you know how frustrating these conditions can be. The pain is often worse in the morning, making those first few steps out of bed feel like walking on broken glass. One of the most effective, yet underutilized, treatments for these conditions is the posterior night…

Athletes place far more stress on their feet than the average person. Running, cutting, and jumping generate forces up to five times the body’s weight, making proper foot support crucial. Generic, mass-produced inserts can provide some cushion but fail to address biomechanical imbalances, improper arch support, or impact absorption—factors that contribute to ongoing foot pain…

Good circulation in your feet is essential for maintaining healthy tissues, preventing discomfort, and reducing the risk of complications, particularly if you have conditions like diabetes or peripheral artery disease. If you’ve been noticing cold feet, numbness, or a tingling sensation, it might be time to give your circulation a boost. Here are seven effective…

Fractures, or broken bones, are common injuries that occur when a bone is subjected to forces beyond its capacity to withstand. When it comes to foot injuries, it’s especially important to rule out a fracture early and ensure proper treatment. Here’s a closer look at how fractures heal, the timeline for recovery, and why consulting…

Hammer toes are a common yet frustrating foot condition that can cause pain, discomfort, and difficulty finding properly fitting shoes. If you have been struggling with this condition, you may have heard about a minimally invasive procedure called percutaneous tenotomy. This innovative technique offers a quick and effective solution for correcting flexible hammer toes, often…

Winter is here, and while the season brings cozy sweaters, hot drinks, and beautiful snowfalls, it also brings challenges for our skin. The cold air, indoor heating, and reduced humidity can leave your skin feeling dry, flaky, and irritated. As a podiatrist, I know how important it is to maintain healthy skin, especially for your…

Understanding Plantar Fibromas: Identification and Management Plantar fibromas are non-cancerous growths that develop along the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue running along the sole of the foot. While these fibromas are generally benign, they can cause discomfort and interfere with daily activities. Let’s explore what plantar fibromas are, how to identify them, and…

Bone health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, especially for women, who are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis as they age. Osteoporosis, characterized by weak and brittle bones, can lead to fractures and reduced quality of life. Fortunately, there are steps women can take to optimize bone health and prevent this condition….

Understanding Fibrokeratomas on Toenails: Identification and Treatment Fibrokeratomas are rare, flesh-colored benign growths that can develop on or around the toenails. Though often mistaken for warts due to their appearance, fibrokeratomas are entirely non-cancerous and require a different approach to treatment. This blog post will help you identify fibrokeratomas and explore effective treatment options. What…

Nail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common condition that affects millions of people. It is caused by fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments, making feet a prime target due to the conditions inside shoes and socks. Let’s explore how fungus lives on the skin and nails, how it damages the nails by digesting keratin,…

Summer is in full swing and that means we’re nearly halfway through the year! It seems like ages ago, but one of our New Year’s Resolutions was to make a conscious effort to put our best feet forward. We can’t do that without you! If you haven’t already, now is the perfect time to establish…

You’ve seen it everywhere in the news and heard all the rage about the health benefits of a standing desk, but how do you really know if a standing desk is right for you? At Lighthouse Foot & Ankle Center you can always expect to find new and innovative medical treatment for your foot and ankle health….

Even though plantar fasciitis affects nearly 1 out of every 10 people, most of us have no clue that our foot pain might be signalling plantar fasciitis. When a case is mild, it’s easy to think that the pain and discomfort of plantar fasciitis is simply normal fatigue or due to aging. This couldn’t be…

If you haven’t been to see your podiatrist in a long time, you’re probably out of the loop when it comes to the newest generation of treatment for common podiatry issues. We can help get you all caught up! At Lighthouse Foot & Ankle Center, we embrace new advancements in podiatric treatment and technology. When…

Of all the different kinds of ways our feet and ankles can experience aches and pains, some experiences are perceived as more of a concern than others. This is for good reason – however, one of the most prominent aches and pains U.S. citizens experience is heel pain… yet heel pain is often overlooked as…

Every year, thousands of U.S. citizens are diagnosed with diseases and conditions that negatively impact the health of their feet and ankles. One of those many diseases and conditions is arthritis, affecting nearly 54 million diagnosed adults in the U.S. today. Arthritis is classified as the painful inflammation and stiffness of our joints, causing many well-known…

Have you been getting outside much this summer? It’s never too late to get started! While hiking has always been a beloved American past time, hiking has recently become more popular across many age groups. Many of our patients at Lighthouse Foot and Ankle Center are passionate hikers! Many active people experience various aches and pains in…

Have you recently been diagnosed with a foot or ankle condition that, if it worsens enough, may require a referral for surgical intervention to correct it? Among these include diabetic ulcers, hammertoes, bunions, plantar fasciitis, and much more. Many of these conditions can be made worse if lifestyle and physical changes aren’t made to improve your condition….

Thinking about getting another pedicure soon? Going for a pedicure can be such an amazing and relaxing experience. Not only do you walk out with pretty, pampered toes, but your legs and feet have been buffed and massaged. If you’re lucky, your back may have been massaged too if they have those special chairs! There…

Are you thinking about taking the next step when it comes to taking care of your feet and ankles? When foot pain and various other foot issues have troubled you longer than you can stand, it’s time to talk to a trusted podiatrist about your options. For almost everyone with foot and ankle problems, orthotics are the way to…

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to have hammertoes? Probably not, but imagine what it feels like to squeeze your feet into a pair of shoes that are too small around the toes. The joints and bones of your toes get cramped up against the box of your shoe, an uncomfortable experience that can…

Here’s something you might find a bit mindblowing: the way you lace your shoes can impact your experience wearing them. If you’re like most of us, you go to the shoe store, buy a pair of shoes that are advertised to accommodate your brand of foot problems, tighten up their laces, and you’re on your…

One of the most fascinating things about the medical world is the realization that every individual can experience symptoms differently than others. While there are many symptoms that are shared across several different types of diseases and conditions, the way that we experience them can vary on an individual basis. When it comes to tingling…

Imagine that one day you’re looking down at your feet and you notice something off about your toes. You notice that the second or third toe in from your big toe looks a bit different than the others. While your other toes lay pretty flat, you might have one that is starting to look as…