Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
Charcot foot used to be a rare diabetes complication. It was said to affect less than 1% of people with diabetes. Now experts say it is becoming more common, and there is worry that patients and their care providers do not know about this diabetic complication or its warning signs. Charcot foot is a sudden softening of the foot’s bones, caused by neuropathy or nerve damage from diabetes. It can lead to a host of serious problems, such as joint loss, fractures, and amputation. As the condition worsens, the bottom of the foot can become convex and bulge out. Since many diabetics do not feel pain in their lower extremities, they continue walking on the foot, which can cause further problems. This disorder cannot be reversed, but its dangerous effects can be halted if dealt with early. Symptoms appear suddenly and include warm, red skin, swelling, and pain. Unfortunately, these symptoms can also be a sign of deep vein thrombosis or an infection. If you are diabetic, it is important to include a podiatrist as part of your medical care team. They are educated in foot disorders that other doctors may not be aware of or are trained to treat.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other 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.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
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.
Pickleball is one of the most popular sports people are playing now because it is slower and has a lower intensity compared to other sports. However, despite it seeming to be an easier form of exercise, injuries to all parts of the body can still be sustained. Ailments from pickleball related to the feet are commonly associated with the Achilles tendon and ankles. An Achilles strain involves the tendon in the back of the ankle that connects the calf to the heel. This can happen from the sudden stop-and-go actions in pickleball and can be accompanied by a sharp, snapping feeling. Ankle sprains are injuries to the ligaments on the side of the ankle and are typically caused by missteps or faulty landings. Wearing well-fitting and supportive footwear, warming up before playing pickleball, performing stretching and strengthening exercises regularly, and using ankle braces can help. If you get injured during pickleball or any other sport, it is important to rest. If pain persists or worsens, see a podiatrist as soon as possible to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan so you can return to pain-free play.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, 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.
Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:
Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
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.
Plantar fasciitis is an extremely common foot affliction that affects a wide variety of different individuals of different backgrounds. Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia, the tissue that runs through the arch of the foot. The plantar fascia can become swollen or inflamed when it is strained and overused. There are several risk factors of plantar fasciitis to be aware of that could increase the probability of developing this condition. For example, consistently wearing ill-fitting shoes, or footwear that offers little or no arch support, can increase your risk of plantar fasciitis. Additionally, if you are overweight or have gained a significant amount of weight in a short amount of time, this extra weight that you are putting on your feet could make the development of plantar fasciitis more likely. Lastly, running substantially long distances, particularly on uneven surfaces, can make one more susceptible to plantar fasciitis. Contact a podiatrist today for an appointment if you think that you have plantar fasciitis.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
How Can It Be Treated?
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
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.
Patients who have hard or flattened nodules on the bottom of their feet may have a foot condition known as plantar fibromatosis. A specific type of this ailment is referred to as Ledderhose disease and it is a rare foot condition. Patients may notice it affects both feet and typically is painless in the beginning stages. Pain and discomfort may gradually occur while walking and medical attention is often sought from a podiatrist who can treat this condition. There are several reasons why this condition may occur, including genetic history, long-term alcohol use, chronic liver disease, and diabetes. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this condition may be joint pain in other areas of the body and some people may experience a tingling or numbing sensation. If you have small bumps on the bottom of your feet, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat Ledderhose disease.
Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, 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.
Rare Foot Conditions
The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist. Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care.
There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:
Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp.
Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.
Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking.
A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Wilson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Exercises to improve your balance as you age can also contribute to a healthier life in general. In addition to improving posture, stability, and coordination, balance exercises can lower the risk of being injured through falls. Studies find that after six weeks of balance exercises, seniors also improved their coordination, leg strength, and ankle mobility. Experts recommend that seniors perform two or three sets of exercises a week, but it is always wise to check in with a medical professional beforehand. Here are two simple balance exercises you can try. Weight shift: Stand with legs hip-width apart, shift the weight to one foot, and then lift the other foot. Hold for 30 seconds. You may wish to keep a chair nearby, or lightly touch the wall if needed. Repeat on the other foot. Do this three times. Even if you need a walker, there are some exercises you can do. Marching: Stand with hands on the walker and lift one knee, then lower and lift the other knee. Repeat 20 times. For more information on how to improve your balance and lower the risk of falling, please consult 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:
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.
Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
A common condition that can affect children and young teenagers who actively participate in sporting activities is known as Sever’s disease. This is an ailment that affects the heels, and can develop as a result of a heel growth spurt. The heel pain is caused by tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon, and the pain may increase when their chosen activities are pursued. You may notice your child is limping, walking on their toes, or experiencing swelling surrounding the heel. These symptoms may be indicative of Sever’s disease. It is beneficial to wear shoes that fit correctly, and this may help the affected foot to feel better. Effective treatment starts with stopping the activity that caused the condition. It is also important to elevate the foot as often as possible. The average recovery time for Sever’s disease is approximately 2-3 months. If your child has these symptoms, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and offer treatment solutions.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Kendall Blackwell from InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.
Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.
Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.
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 injuries.
Cracked heels are an unsightly and unattractive affliction of the foot that primarily affects the skin surrounding the heels. If you have cracked heels, you might notice that the skin on the heels has become very dry and hard calluses have started to form. Although there are many potential causes of cracked heels, wearing flip flops or sandals without a back strap could be contributing to this problem. Despite the fact that these shoes can be convenient to wear during the summer time, they effectively expose your heels to the air in such a way that can dry out the skin, making cracked heels more likely. Additionally, the fact that these shoes offer little arch or heel support cushioning is problematic. The lack of cushioning forces the individual to exert more pressure on their feet when walking, sometimes causing the skin to break or crack. One simple way of preventing this from happening is by choosing to wear shoes that cover more of the skin on the foot, as opposed to flip flops or open-back sandals. Wearing shoes that cover more skin will provide the skin on the heel with the coverage that it needs to be protected. You might even consider preventing cracked heels by applying a daily moisturizer and drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated. If you wear flip flops or sandals, consider contacting a podiatrist to learn more about your risk of developing cracked heels.
Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, 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.
Cracked Heels
Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.
How Do You Get Them?
Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.
Promote Healing
Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.
Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.
Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.
Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin.
Change in Diet
Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.
Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed.
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.
The plantar fascia tissue attaches to the heel bone and stretches out to connect with the toes. When this band of tissue gets excessively and repeatedly stretched, it can stress the heel bone and tear its lining. This type of wear and tear on the heel bone can prompt a response in the body where calcium deposits build up over time creating spurs on the bone that can grow up to half an inch. Heel spurs may or may not be painful. They may go undiagnosed or overlooked because they can occur in tandem with the inflammatory condition known as plantar fasciitis. If your heel spurs are symptomatic, they may create sharp pain, heat, tenderness, and inflammation in the heel. People who are obese or who have osteoarthritis are more prone to developing heel spurs. Older adults and those who wear improper footwear are also more at risk. If you are experiencing heel pain or believe you may have heel spurs, make an appointment with a podiatrist who may need an X-ray to diagnose your heel spurs. Once diagnosed, your heel spur may be treated with rest, cold compresses, anti-inflammatory injections, pain medication, physical therapy, stretching, and more.
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.
