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Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

The type of shoes that are known as flip flops are popular to wear during the summer months for a variety of reasons. These may include the ease of quickly slipping your feet into them, as well as the ability to choose from bright colors and various styles. If flip flops are frequently worn, foot conditions may develop, and shoes that offer more support may be an option to consider. Pain may develop in the arch area, and heel pain is a common ailment. The foot may feel generally fatigued, and this may be a result of the toes grasping the shoe to maintain stability. It is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist if you have developed foot pain from wearing flip flops.

Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell from InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

Flip-flops have managed to become a summer essential for a lot of people. While the shoes may be stylish and easy to slip on and off, they can be dangerous to those who wear them too often. These shoes might protect you from fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, but they can also give you foot pain and sprained ankles if you trip while wearing them.

When Are They Okay to Wear?

Flip-flops should only be worn for very short periods of time. They can help protect your feet in places that are crawling with fungi, such as gym locker rooms. Athlete’s foot and plantar warts are two common fungi that flip-flops may help protect your feet against.

Why Are They Bad for My Feet?

These shoes do not offer any arch support, so they are not ideal for everyday use. They also do not provide shock absorption or heel cushioning which can be problematic for your feet. Additionally, you may suffer from glass cuts, puncture wounds, and stubbed toes since they offer little protection for your feet.

More Reasons Why They Are Bad for Your Feet

  • They Slow You Down
  • May Cause Blisters and Calluses
  • Expose Your Feet to Bacteria

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Wilson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Flipping Out About Flip Flops
Monday, 04 May 2020 00:00

The Definition of a Heel Spur

Heel spurs are small calcium deposits that develop on the heel of the foot. They can develop as a result of wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, and can generally cause severe pain and discomfort. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this condition can consist of difficulty in walking upon arising in the morning, and there may be an obvious protrusion on the heel. Abnormal foot structures may cause heel spurs to gradually develop, or they may come from consistently participating in running and jumping activities. Relief may be found when shoes are worn that can accommodate the heel spur, and it may help to support your foot while resting at night. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat heel spurs.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell from InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Wilson, NC . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Read more about How to Treat Heel Spurs
Monday, 27 April 2020 00:00

Foot Stretches for Seniors

It can be incredibly beneficial for elderly patients to regularly perform foot stretches. When a senior patient's feet are strong, as well as flexible, it may make them more likely to avoid accidentally falling. By performing stretches, you may increase your blood circulation, as well as improve your range of motion, muscle strength, and balance. One example of a foot stretch that is easily practiced is called an ankle rotation. This can be done by sitting up straight in a chair, and resting your ankle on the opposite knee. Begin rotating your ankle first clockwise, then counterclockwise, then you may switch ankles. For an additional stretch, make sure your toes are pointed straight during this exercise. For more advice on elderly foot care and low-impact exercises for the feet, it is suggested that you speak with your local podiatrist.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell from InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Wilson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Monday, 20 April 2020 00:00

How Can I Tell If I Have a Hammertoe?

Research has found that the second toe, next to the big toe, is most likely to develop a hammertoe if an injury occurs, along with other causes. Hammertoes typically occur due to genetic factors, ill-fitting footwear, or from arthritis. This condition is most notably recognized by the appearance of the affected toe. Like its name suggests, a hammertoe will typically point downward, in a hammer-like fashion. Hammertoes can be incredibly uncomfortable and can make completing daily tasks difficult. To help ease the pain of mild hammertoes, a professional may suggest wearing custom orthotics. For more severe cases, it may be necessary to have surgery performed in order to correct this ailment. For more advice on how to treat and correct a hammertoe, please consult with a podiatrist.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell of InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

  • Painful and/or difficult toe movement
  • Swelling
  • Joint stiffness
  • Calluses/Corns
  • Physical deformity

Risk Factors

  • Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
  • Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
  • Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
  • Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Wilson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Hammertoe
Thursday, 16 April 2020 00:00

Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?

If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!

When the feet are cared for correctly every day, daily activities may be easier to accomplish. There are simple ways to ensure proper foot care. These can consist of washing and drying your feet often, and it may help to apply a good moisturizer as well. When the toenails are trimmed properly by cutting them straight across, ingrown toenails may be prevented. Many patients enjoy wearing high heels, however it is beneficial to alternate wearing shoes that have a lower heel. If you swim in public pools, it helps to wear appropriate footwear, as this can help to prevent toenail fungus and athlete’s foot from developing. For additional information about how to properly care for your feet on a daily basis, please speak with a podiatrist.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell from InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Wilson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Every Day Foot Care

Patients who have the medical condition that is known as tarsal tunnel syndrome can experience several symptoms. These may include a numbing sensation on the inside of the ankle, pain and discomfort after walking for long periods of time, and the toes may feel weak. Having flat feet may play a significant role in developing tarsal tunnel syndrome, and it can gradually develop from conditions such as arthritis and varicose veins. If you are afflicted with this ailment, it is beneficial to elevate the affected foot as often as possible, in addition to strengthening the muscles and tendons by performing specific stretches. These can include circling your ankles from left to right for several seconds, followed by changing direction. It may feel good to raise and lower your toes throughout the day, and stretching the plantar fascia may help the foot to generally feel better. Please consult with a podiatrist to learn more about possible treatment techniques for tarsal tunnel syndrome.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell of InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

  • Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
  • Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
  • At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

  • Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
  • The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
  • If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Wilson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Monday, 30 March 2020 00:00

Methods That May Help to Prevent Falling

Research has indicated that elderly people may be more susceptible to falling in their living environments. This can lead to sprained or broken ankles, and it may be difficult to complete daily activities. It is important for caregivers to ensure their patients have regular vision and medical examinations, as this can be helpful in having clearer vision and feeling stable. There are methods that can be implemented which can help to reduce falling. These can include removing carpeting that is worn, replacing lighting with brighter bulbs, and installing grab bars in the bath and toilet area. Additionally, it may help to encourage the patient to incorporate a gentle exercise program into their daily routine, as this may be beneficial in maintaining strength. If you would like additional information about how the feet can be protected by preventing falling, please consult with a podiatrist.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. Kendall Blackwell from InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

  • Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
  • Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
  • Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
  • Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
  • Utilizing a walker or cane
  • Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
  • Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Wilson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Falls Prevention
Monday, 23 March 2020 00:00

Do I Have Gout?

Elevated levels of uric acid in the bloodstream may lead to a condition that is referred to as gout. It is considered to be a form of arthritis, and can cause debilitating pain and discomfort. Noticeable symptoms often appear in the big toe and surrounding areas, and may include swelling, redness, and difficulty moving the affected foot. Research has indicated it may be caused by genetic factors, or from specific types of foods that are eaten that have high purine levels. These kinds of food can consist of shellfish, red meats, and drinks that have elevated sugar levels. There may be existing medical factors that can contribute to the onset of gout. Patients who are obese, diabetic or have high blood pressure may be susceptible to developing gout. If you feel you have symptoms of this condition, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell from InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Wilson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Everything You Need to Know About Gout
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