Michael Martinez fractures his 4th metatarsal

The last thing the Phillies needed was another injury but unfortunately on Tuesday in the game against the Orioles, Michael Martinez suffered a foot fracture after being hit by a pitch. Like Chase Utley, Martinez will start the season on the disabled list.

Martinez suffered a 4th metatarsal fracture after a pitch hit him directly in the foot. The metatarsal is a long bone that is located behind the digits. With a direct hit it seems that bone fractured but has remained in good position. If the bone had fractured into several pieces or moved away from each other surgery would be necessary. Instead, he will be forced to immobilize the area until healing occurs. The fracture fragments will knit together in 4-6 weeks. This process can be sped up with the use of a bone stimulator. A bone stimulator uses ultrasound or electric current (which does not hurt) to increase bone healing.

Hopefully he will heal uneventfully and be back on the playing field soon, the Phillies could use a break.

Dr. "Sandie"Grulke
http://www.podiatrycarespecialists.com/

Ingrown Toenail West Chester and Newtown Square Update

A few weeks ago we talked about ingrown toenails. An ingrown toenail can occur on any of the toes (as well as fingernails). They can occur from improper trimming of the nails, trauma to the nail, family history of ingrown toenails, style of shoe/sneakers, and toe deformities (such as a bunion or hammertoe). Treatment options vary depending on how severe the toenail is. The pain can actually come from a callous that has formed in the corner of the nail. As the toenail grows into the skin, a callous may form in the corner of the nail. This also may cause some pain more so than the ingrown nail. Both usually will get removed when they are present.

One may also develop referred pain of the ingrown nail where it will happen at the base of the nail or even around the joint of the nail. Its always important to get these checked out if you are dealing with pain to prevent them from getting infected. Most of the over the counter products do NOT work and can make it worse.

If you keep getting ingrown nails, there is a minor in-office procedure that can be done to help prevent the ingrown nail from coming back.

Please visit our website for more information and a video on ingrown toenails!

Chad Friedman, DPM

http://www.podiatrycarespecialists.com/videos.html

Ingrown Toenails in Newtown Square or Audubon PA?

Is your toe hurting at the nail corner? Is it red or inflamed? Then you may have an ingrown toenail. If so, this can be fixed with going to see your Podiatrist. It is important to see someone when it begins to hurt. This can help to prevent it before it gets infected. If you continue to keep getting them, there is a an office procedure that can be done to help prevent them from growing into the corner. If you live in the West Chester, PA, Newtown Square, or Audubon area, please make an appointment to be seen.



http://www.podiatrycarespecialists.com/