Items filtered by date: March 2018

A bunion is often easily identified because of the large bony protrusion that appears on the side of the big toe.The skin on top of the bone may look red and and can become painful due to the friction the toes experience from shoes. Bunions can be caused by conditions such as arthritis or an abnormal foot structure that may possibly be inherited. The condition can also be made worse by wearing shoes that fit poorly. If you suffer from this ailment, it’s recommended to wear wider shoes to accommodate the affected toe. A more permanent solution would be surgery, in which the bunion is removed. If you have this condition, please consult with a podiatrist for additional information and to determine the best treatment option for you. 

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Carolina Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Huntersville Office | 16419 Northcross Dr Suite A, Huntersville, NC 28078; Mooresvillle Office | 206 Joe Knox Avenue Suite D, Mooresville, NC 28117; and Mountain Island | 10310 Couloak Drive Suite 200, Charlotte, NC 28216 . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

If you experience pain under the ball of your foot, you may have a condition that is referred to as sesamoiditis. There are small bones that exist within the sole of the foot, and a possible injury can cause inflammation to the tendons that connect the big toe to these bones. If this should happen, common symptoms may include pain being present while walking and running, in addition to experiencing difficulty standing on tiptoes. The skin typically does not show any signs of being swollen or red because the injured bones and tendons are deep within the foot. It generally stems from beginning any new activity that may involve running and jumping, typically indicative of a new sport. If you feel you are suffering from this ailment, it’s suggested that resting the foot by reducing the activity will be beneficial in promoting healing. Please consider a consultation with a podiatrist for more information about sesamoiditis.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact one of our podiatrists of Carolina Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Huntersville Office | 16419 Northcross Dr Suite A, Huntersville, NC 28078; Mooresvillle Office | 206 Joe Knox Avenue Suite D, Mooresville, NC 28117; and Mountain Island | 10310 Couloak Drive Suite 200, Charlotte, NC 28216 . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The feet are often considered the foundation of the body. There are numerous benefits to having strong feet, and this can be encouraged by performing proper foot exercises. Additionally, flexibility can be attained by exercising the feet, and this may positively affect balance and support of the body’s weight. There are simple ways to accomplish this, and several of these stretching exercises involve the use of a towel. When the calves are stretched, the benefits extend to the ankles and feet, which can improve circulation. While seated, fully extend the leg, wrap the towel around the sole of the foot, and gently pull forward. Typically, you’ll feel moderate tension, and it’s beneficial to hold this position for 30 seconds. These stretches not only feel good, but will strengthen the muscles and tendons in the feet. Please consider scheduling a consultation with a podiatrist to learn more about the benefits of exercising the feet.

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 one of our podiatrists from Carolina Foot & Ankle. Our doctors 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 doctors 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 one of our offices located in Huntersville Office | 16419 Northcross Dr Suite A, Huntersville, NC 28078; Mooresvillle Office | 206 Joe Knox Avenue Suite D, Mooresville, NC 28117; and Mountain Island | 10310 Couloak Drive Suite 200, Charlotte, NC 28216 . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A fungal infection of the toenail is a common condition that many people are afflicted with. It’s prevalent in people who are diabetic or who have compromised immune systems, in addition to enduring any trauma that may have affected the toes. This type of fungus generally lives in moist environments and is typically found on public shower room floors. Some of the symptoms that may be experienced can include the nails becoming thick, yellow or brown, and the nails lifting up, breaking easily. It’s possible to prevent this fungus from invading your toenails by keeping your feet clean and dry, especially in between the toes. Additionally, wearing proper footwear in public showers will also aid in the toes being protected. Maintaining clean and short nails may be beneficial in controlling this condition. Please consider a consultation with a podiatrist for information and treatment options that are correct for you.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Carolina Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Huntersville Office | 16419 Northcross Dr Suite A, Huntersville, NC 28078; Mooresvillle Office | 206 Joe Knox Avenue Suite D, Mooresville, NC 28117; and Mountain Island | 10310 Couloak Drive Suite 200, Charlotte, NC 28216 . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.