Items filtered by date: April 2020

An ankle sprain may occur after suddenly twisting it. This may happen from falling, or from unexpectedly stepping off of a curb. It occurs as a result of ligaments stretching beyond their normal capabilities, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. Many people who enjoy running may ignore the symptoms of a sprained ankle, and will continue to run. This is not recommended, as it may impact the gait, which can lead to changes in the running style. After a proper diagnosis is performed, which generally involves having an X-ray taken, proper treatment can begin. This may consist of wrapping the ankle in an elastic bandage, which can provide the stability that is necessary as the healing process begins. Gentle stretching exercises may gradually be introduced, which may be helpful in strengthening the overall foot. Please consult with a podiatrist if you have sprained your ankle so they can recommend the best type of treatment method for you.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, 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.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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.

Plantar hyperhidrosis is defined as excessive sweating of the feet. This is typically an uncomfortable condition, and it can cause difficulty in completing daily activities. The feet may emit an unpleasant odor, making many patients embarrassed to have this condition. This ailment can develop for a variety of reasons. These may include genetic factors, menopause, or possibly from having a thyroid disorder. Additionally, it can develop from taking specific medications that may include antidepressants. If you have plantar hyperhidrosis, it is strongly advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly guide you toward beginning the correct treatment techniques.

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.

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 broken foot, or foot fracture, generally occurs as a result of falling, or if a heavy object has dropped on the foot. This is considered to be a common injury, and there are noticeable symptoms that often accompany this type of fracture. These can include severe pain and discomfort, an abnormal foot shape, swelling, and it may be difficult to move your foot. A proper diagnosis is needed in order to confirm a broken foot has occurred. This consists of having an X-ray, CT scan, or MRI taken. At this point, proper treatment can begin, which involves wearing a boot, cast, or splint. Any of these options may be helpful in providing the stability that is needed as the healing process takes place. Moderate relief may be found when the affected foot is elevated, as this may help to reduce existing swelling. If you have broken your foot, please consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible so they can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, 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.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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.

Patients who have diabetes may be aware of the importance of properly caring for their feet. This can help to prevent the painful condition that is known as a diabetic foot ulcer. This type of wound may develop as a result of the inability of feeling a small cut on the foot, and it may quickly become infected. This can happen from elevated glucose levels in the blood, which may hinder the body’s capability to heal properly. Mild relief and proper healing may come from keeping weight off of the foot, and it may help to elevate it often. It is imperative that proper dressings are used as the healing process takes place, in addition to keeping the foot as clean and as dry as possible. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

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 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.

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

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

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 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.