Items filtered by date: January 2019

Monday, 28 January 2019 00:00

Foot Conditions and Pregnancy

When pregnancy occurs, the overall body prepares to accommodate the developing fetus. One of the most common conditions affecting the feet is referred to as flat feet. This may be a result of the additional weight that is placed on the body, and the arch in the foot may temporarily disappear. There may be pain associated with this condition, and research has shown it may be beneficial to wear shoes that may ease any discomfort. Additionally, many women who are pregnant may notice swelling in the feet, which can typically occur in the second or third trimester. This may be a result of increased blood pressure, and comfort may be gained from frequently sitting down, and elevating the feet. It may be helpful to drink plenty of fresh water daily, and this may aid in staying hydrated. If you are pregnant and are experiencing any type of foot pain, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can properly guide you on helpful preventative measures.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from Carolina Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
Wear shoes with good arch support
Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
Elevate feet if you experience swelling
Massage your feet
Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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, Charlotte, NC 28216. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Monday, 21 January 2019 00:00

Protecting Your Feet from Plantar Warts at the Gym

Plantar warts are small growths that mainly appear at the bottom of your foot and are a common viral skin infection. Unfortunately, they spread easily and being cautious in certain public spaces is key to protecting your feet. One public space to be especially vigilant in is the gym. It is important to always wear shoes at the gym, specifically near pools, in locker rooms and showers. Simply keeping a pair of shower shoes or flip flops in your gym bag helps to keep your feet safe from the multitude of bacteria that they would otherwise be exposed to. Additionally, any cuts or small wounds should always be covered. If you have a cut, it is also a good idea to stay away from saunas and hot tubs until it is healed. Covering your feet in order to prevent contact with an infected area is the best way to avoid these uncomfortable warts. If you think you may have contracted plantar warts, it is recommended that you speak to a podiatrist to receive proper treatment.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Carolina Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
Hard or thick callused spots
Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

Freezing
Electric tool removal
Laser Treatment
Topical Creams (prescription only)
Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

Monday, 14 January 2019 00:00

Possible Treatment of Morton’s Neuroma

The painful and uncomfortable foot condition that is known as Morton’s neuroma will typically affect the area between the third and fourth toes on the sole of the foot. The pain may originate from a swollen nerve in the ball of the foot and may be exaggerated by wearing specific types of shoes that may include high heels. There may be available treatment options that can include steroid injections, ingesting painkillers, or by simply changing the footwear. If the symptoms appear to be severe, surgery may be considered if other treatments have been unsuccessful. This type of surgery generally includes removing the pressure and affected nerve, which can be accomplished by a few different methods. It is strongly advised to consult with a podiatrist, so a proper diagnosis and correct treatment can be determined.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Carolina Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and answer any of your related questions.

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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, Charlotte, NC 28216. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Monday, 07 January 2019 00:00

Where Are the Sesamoid Bones Located?

The location of the sesamoid bones is found under the base of the big toe. They sit within tendons and ligaments under the joint of the big toe, and if this area should become inflamed, a condition that is referred to as sesamoiditis may develop. There may be several reasons for this uncomfortable ailment to occur, including enduring an acute injury, or the pain may develop gradually from stress fractures. Additionally, there may be medical conditions, which may contribute to the onset of this condition, which may include autoimmune disorders or infections that may be present. Patients who experience sesamoiditis may notice pain while putting weight on the affected toe, or severe discomfort may be felt while pulling the toe upwards. A proper diagnosis may consist of having an X-ray or MRI performed. If you feel you have any of these symptoms, consult with a podiatrist so proper treatment can begin.

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.

Wednesday, 02 January 2019 00:00

Plantar Hyperhidrosis May Be Uncomfortable

If your feet sweat often and excessively, you may have a condition that is referred to as plantar hyperhidrosis. Patients who are afflicted with this condition may notice their shoes and socks are wet and soggy the majority of the time, in addition to leaving damp imprints of their feet as a result of the excess moisture. Patients who are afflicted with this condition may find moderate relief by wearing shoe inserts daily, which may help in absorbing moisture. Many patients may find it advantageous to use powder in their socks, and this may aid in soaking up any excess moisture. Additionally, drying your shoes out at the end of the day may aid eliminating a portion of the sweat that has accumulated. If you suffer from plantar hyperhidrosis, it is suggested to speak with a podiatrist who can inform you of correct treatment options.

If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact one of our podiatrists of Carolina Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

Hyperhidrosis of the Feet

Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.

Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.

Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.

In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.

A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.