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At our practice, we see all kinds of foot and ankle problems, ranging from hammertoe, bunions, and tendonitis to heel pain and ingrown toenails. But we never have seen a baby giraffe that needed therapeutic shoes! That’s what happened at Seattle’s Woodland Park Zoo. Little Hasani – Swahili for “handsome” – was born with a…

Guys, admit it – we don’t always take care of our health as we should. After all, with everything that we have going on, we won’t let a little foot pain or skin problem stop us. But many foot problems can worsen quickly if not tackled right away. Not only that, but many of us…

Sandal season is in full swing and you are probably visiting your favorite nail salon or spa more frequently than during the colder months. This is a great way to pamper yourself, but you don’t want to come home with anything more than perfectly polished nails – for example, a bacterial or fungal infection. Although…

Arthritis is inflammation of a joint. Let’s take inventory: Your feet each have 30 joints, including 3 in each of the toes. Add to that your 3 ankle joints and that is a lot of locations for arthritis to set in. Although there are more than 100 types of arthritis, the most common kinds are…

How many of us consider that it might be possible to get skin cancer on our feet? Not only are our feet vulnerable to dangerous skin cancers caused by cumulative ultraviolet (UV) sun damage. There are other causes of foot skin cancer including: Environmental factors such as car exhaust and other pollutants and chemical burns…

Neuropathy is a serious complication of diabetes. Neuropathy, or nerve damage, occurs when the blood sugar levels are too high, damaging the nerve cells. Often occurring in the feet, neuropathy causes loss of feeling as well as pain and numbness. When a patient with neuropathy loses sensation in the toes, a minor scrape, cut or…

If you follow shoe trends – or maybe that special lady in your life does – you probably have heard of the new floss heels. A floss heel – named for the dental product because their straps are so wispy – has virtually no supportive structure for the foot, even with a thin ankle strap….

Do you have pain in one or more toenails? Does it look red and swollen? Is it uncomfortable or even painful when you put on shoes? If you answered “Yes” to one or more of these questions, you may have an ingrown toenail. An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into…

Do you suffer from neuropathy – nerve damage – with pain, numbness burning or muscle weakness in your feet? If so, we have a state-of-the-art therapy that can not only manage your condition but can also reverse any damage and restore nerve function. Neurogenx can help those with painful nerve damage from diabetes, infections, vitamin…

Ah, the lowly feet. They bear our weight every day and even endure more stress when we run, jog or jump. We shove them into shoes that may be too tight or too worn out, with heels that are too high. They get no respect! And yet, our feet are marvelous miracles of engineering. They…

There are many types of diseases and conditions that, when developed, put you at risk of then developing other related issues. For example, when you have a disease like diabetes, you’re at a higher risk for developing other conditions like nerve disease and gout. As a disease, gout is a type of arthritis that arises…

In the medical field, second opinions are not only helpful, but they’re often strongly encouraged when your diagnosis proves to be a complex case. When it comes to plantar fasciitis, a decent amount of sufferers find permanent relief from merely resting or using custom orthotics. While this is fantastic news, these methods alone simply aren’t…

Every year on March 27th, folks around the world celebrate National Celebrate Exchange Day. It’s a national day that started in honor of the anniversary of when the first exchange club was created in the early 1900s. It originated in Detroit, Michigan as a club for local townsmen to gather and share resources, information, and…

Maybe you’re thinking about finally scheduling an appointment at Lighthouse Foot & Ankle Center to see one of our wonderful podiatrists. In an effort to get ready for that consultation, we urge you to focus on your feet during the days leading up to that appointment. What’s going on with your feet? Where does it…

Each year on March 13th, folks around the world celebrate National Good Samaritan’s Day. This can be done simply by extending a helping hand to a neighbor in need or even signing up for a monthly shift volunteering at your local homeless shelter. Getting involved in your community is a great way to feel more…

There are a handful of foot and ankle conditions that are easier than others to self-diagnose before having a podiatrist professionally diagnose it for you. These conditions are much more visually apparent than others, like bunions or ingrown toenails. For other conditions, however, it can be much more difficult to even notice symptoms, not to…

How can you tell if you need to see a podiatrist? Considering how often we use our feet on a daily basis, the chances that your feet and ankles would benefit from seeing a podiatrist are pretty high. There are so many different kinds of issues that can give us trouble with our lower extremities,…

Have you ever found yourself wondering why the tops of your feet or the sides of your ankles look puffy at the end of a long day? This is a normal and common occurrence in anyone who spends at least one-third of the day, or longer, on their feet. There are many reasons why you…

If diabetes is an issue mostly affecting the normal function of the pancreas, either through insulin resistance or the inability to naturally produce insulin in the body, how does diabetes pertain to a podiatrist? Podiatrists are doctors of podiatric medicine, i.e., someone who specializes in the medical care of our feet and ankles. As a…

When we have a disease like diabetes, we are at risk of developing other conditions and diseases that can stem from diabetes. The most commonly known condition associated with diabetes is called diabetic neuropathy, or the occurrence of neuropathy in a patient with diabetes. Neuropathy happens when our nerves become diseased and dysfunctional, resulting in…

What do you look for in a podiatrist when you want someone who truly stands out? When it comes to treating foot and ankle issues, keeping up to date with the most advanced and effective treatments is key. At Lighthouse Foot & Ankle Center, our team proudly offers several innovative treatment methods. Cold Laser Therapy,…

There are few people left in the United States who are unaware of our concerning prevalence of obesity in all age ranges. We’re known for our indulgent and deep-fried foods, as well as our tendency to live more sedentary lifestyles. While this rings true for many, the past few years of research have shown an…

It’s that time of year again! Snow is here and your sneakers just aren’t going to cut it. There’s a common misconception that boots are only for people who work outside, in construction, or in rugged terrain. The truth is, boots are great for everyone, and there’s a good reason why boots are relied on…

The importance of seeing your primary care doctor every 6 to 12 months is common knowledge, but what about seeing a podiatrist? While most people might think that you would only need a podiatrist if you have an excruciating or debilitating foot or ankle issue, podiatrists treat such a wide range of issues from mild…

Imagine this: there’s a part of our body that houses over 26 bones, 33 joints, and over 100 different muscles, tendons, and ligaments. These body parts are none other than…our feet and ankles! With so many bits and parts needed to keep our feet and ankles fully functioning, it’s no wonder foot and ankle injuries…

Are you new to arthritis? If you’ve just recently been diagnosed with arthritis, educating yourself is your best strategy when it comes to navigating the future of your health and comfort. Arthritis is an umbrella term for several types of conditions and diseases that impact the joints within our bodies. Considering there are over 100…

It’s common for people to not always consider a problem before it personally affects them. One foot issue, in particular, that isn’t often considered until it’s already a problem is foot fungus. The same type of fungus that affects your feet can easily spread to and affect your toenails! When a toenail is impacted by…

Do you have arthritis or diabetes? As you might know, patients diagnosed with conditions like arthritis or diabetes are at a higher risk of developing gout. Gout is a form of arthritis in which high levels of uric acid accumulate in your bloodstream. When uric acid builds up in your blood, it can cause crystals…

When you step into any podiatry office, you will likely see or hear something about orthotics. There are so many different types and providers for orthotics, it can be hard to choose and easy to feel overwhelmed. While orthotics can be an investment in your personal health and wellbeing, the cost can be discouraging and…

To wrap up National Diabetes Awareness Month, all of us here at Lighthouse Foot and Ankle Center want to take an opportunity to talk about something very dear to us… warm, comfortable socks! Winter is coming and it’s more important than ever for diabetic people to pay close attention to the needs of their feet and ankles….

Diabetes is front and center when it comes to health and wellness in the news. Did you know that diabetes affects nearly 10% of the adult population in the U.S.? Studies have shown that approximately 34% of U.S. citizens were or are currently at risk of developing diabetes. People who are already diagnosed with diabetes…

Are you worried about the cold winter season ahead? You aren’t alone! During the cold winter season, many pre-existing foot and ankle issues can worsen due to the drop in temperature. In addition to this, the weather itself makes foot and ankle injuries all the more common. Out of all the different types of foot and…

People diagnosed with diabetes are at a greater risk for heart disease. This means that taking care of your diabetes will also in turn help you take care of your heart. Every November for National Diabetes Awareness month, the National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP) works with its partners to raise awareness for diabetes management and prevention….

There are many aspects of our lives that change the day we are officially diagnosed with diabetes. Among those many changing aspects of life, our relationship with our shoes is one of the most important parts of transitioning to a diabetic friendly lifestyle. Did you know that the month of November is Diabetes Awareness Month? During this…

Did you know that restless leg syndrome is considered to be a podiatric issue? Restless leg syndrome is characterized by an uncomfortable ‘pins and needles’ sensation, also commonly described as ‘pin prick’ or ‘prickling’ sensations, in the muscles of the legs and feet. This uncomfortable sensation is only relieved when the legs are continuously moving…

The change of season is here in Maine and wow, is it beautiful! The leaves have gone from green to all shades of autumn, the wind has picked up to a gentle breeze, the humidity has finally left the building and made way for cooler temperatures. If you’re thinking that now is the time to…

Imagine this: you’re at your regular doctor’s office and your doctor asks you what has been ailing you lately. You say that the bottom of your feet have been hurting you recently but you’re not sure why. Your doctor asks you to describe where, how, and when it is painful. Will you know what to say?…

Living with arthritic joints can be hard. To many of those suffering from arthritis, the thought of forcing yourself to be more active can be difficult – not to mention painful. We urge you, however, to consider this: leading studies show that daily exercise not only helps relieve the symptoms associated with arthritis, but it can…

Ankle fatigue is no joke. There is no one better suited to understand your struggle with ankle discomfort than a podiatrist like Dr. Michele Kurlanski. When you’ve experienced one or more ankle sprains or injuries, the tendons and joints in your ankle might become weakened over time. This is especially true when your ankle sprain…

We’re only a few months away from 2019 and so many aspects of daily life are constantly changing. While it’s great for some parts of life to stay the same familiar things that we’re comfortable with, there are other parts of our lives that greatly benefit from changing and modernizing. One of the most important…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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….

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…

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…

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…