Foot pain does not necessarily have to be something older adults simply learn to live with. Many conditions can be treated successfully or managed to provide relief, and help the aging adult remain as active and independent as possible. Common foot disorders in older adults include corns and calluses, fungal nail infections and ingrown toenails, bunions, hammertoes and clawtoes, and complications due to systemic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and diabetes. A simple approach to overall foot health includes routine foot hygiene, help with trimming toenails (which can be very challenging for older adults), evaluating and modifying footwear to ensure proper fit, comfort, and support, and the use of orthotics to correct and manage various foot disorders. Additionally, regular podiatric care can improve and maintain the level of overall foot health in senior citizens.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, 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.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
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.
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a condition in which blood flow to the lower limbs is inadequate. This typically occurs due to plaque buildup along the artery walls, which causes them to narrow and harden and restricts the amount of blood flow that can travel to the legs. Sometimes, people who have developed PAD do not experience any symptoms. Others however, may notice a tight, aching, or squeezing pain in the calves, leg cramps when walking, weakness, fatigue, and difficulty walking and balancing. When PAD progresses, symptoms like coldness or numbness in the lower limbs, leg and foot pain at rest, and slowly healing wounds may appear. A podiatrist can help you manage PAD and its effects on your feet and ankles. For more information about this condition please consult with a podiatrist.
Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Dr. Kendall Blackwell from InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.
Symptoms
Symptoms of PAD include:
It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.
Diagnosis
While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.
Treatment
Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.
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.
A gait analysis is a method used to identify abnormalities in your walking or running pattern. This is a useful tool, especially for runners. Many people are afflicted with muscle imbalances, overpronated gaits, or other biomechanical issues that can make foot and ankle injuries more likely to occur while running. There are several types of gait analyses. An observational gait analysis involves a physical examination of your feet followed by a visual assessment of your gait. Following this, it should be easier to know what types of running shoes, orthotics, or other support you may need to correct any biomechanical problems. Other types of gait analyses may also measure force on your feet. To learn more about gait analyses, please consult with a podiatrist.
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.
Biomechanics in Podiatry
Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.
A History of Biomechanics
Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.
Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.
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.
Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.
Broken toe bones can either be acute, traumatic fractures, or stress fractures. Traumatic fractures may occur suddenly due to a direct impact—such as stubbing your toe forcefully on a piece of furniture. The affected bone can crack and become displaced. You may hear a sound at the time of injury, feel pain at the point of impact, and see swelling and bruising the following day. You may also have a crooked or abnormal looking toe following the injury. Stress fractures are tiny cracks in bones that occur over time due to repetitive damage, often from playing sports or wearing poorly-fitted shoes. These types of fractures can cause pain during or after normal activity that may go away with rest, pain at the site of the fracture when it is touched, and swelling. Toe fractures that do not receive prompt and proper treatment may become chronically painful, deformed, or arthritic. If you suspect that you may have broken a toe, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell from InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What to Know About a Broken Toe
Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.
Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.
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.
There are many reasons for trying to lose weight. You may want to lower your cholesterol, bring down your blood pressure, increase your energy, or just feel more comfortable in your clothes. You can also add improving your foot and ankle health to the list. Being heavy can place a tremendous amount of strain on your feet and ankles, making you more likely to suffer from heel pain. Carrying excessive weight on your body can set the stage for conditions such as plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, hammertoes, bunions, flat feet, and more. You are also at an increased risk of developing systemic diseases that affect foot and ankle health such as diabetes and gout. While you are working hard to take that extra weight off, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who has various methods of easing pain, while reducing pressure and distributing weight more evenly on your feet.
The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned 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.
Obesity and Your Feet
People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.
Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity
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.
Heel pain is extremely common and is typically caused by small, repetitive injuries to the heel over time. Most heel pain is localized under and in front of the heel, although pain can also affect the back of the heel and can sometimes radiate to, or from, the arch of the foot or the ankle. Heel pain typically starts gradually and may worsen over time when left untreated. Potential causes of heel pain can include plantar fasciitis, heel bursitis, heel spurs, tarsal tunnel syndrome, heel pad inflammation, Sever’s disease, stress fractures, and Achilles tendonitis. Fortunately, conservative treatment methods such as resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot, as well as wearing supportive shoes and taking over-the-counter pain medications can help with pain and swelling, but may not be a permanent solution. If you are experiencing any type of heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist to receive a proper diagnosis with a corresponding treatment plan.
Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. 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.
Causes of Heel Pain
Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.
Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.
Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.
Why Might Heel Pain Occur?
Treatments
Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Wilson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Tinea pedis, also known as athlete’s foot, is a common fungal infection which affects the skin of the feet. Athlete’s foot causes the skin to become red, itchy, painful, cracked, or flaky. The skin may also peel. More severe infections can involve oozing blisters and a foul odor coming from the feet. Although it is contagious, this very unpleasant fungal infection can be prevented. Fungus thrives in warm, moist places like public pools, locker rooms, and showers. If you frequent these areas, avoid doing so barefoot. Always wear shoes to protect your feet. Keeping your feet cool and dry is also key to making them inhospitable to fungi. Wear shoes that allow your feet to breathe, and moisture-wicking socks. You should also avoid sharing personal items like shoes, socks, or towels with others, as fungi can spread through indirect contact with an infected person. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, please seek the care of a podiatrist.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell from InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are 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 and ankle needs.
Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.
There are two types of flat feet: rigid and flexible, with flexible being the most common. Unlike rigid flatfoot where the arch is never present, the arch in flexible flatfoot is present when the foot is elevated and flattens upon standing. Flexible flatfoot in children is generally not concerning because their arches typically develop between the ages of 7 and 10. It is said that up to 25% of kids will continue to have flexible flatfoot as adults. While flexible flatfoot in children and adults may not always produce symptoms, the condition may cause tired, achy feet after walking, leg cramps, overpronation—where the ankles roll inward while walking—and foot or ankle pain. Flexible flatfoot may be inherited and indicative of loose ligaments and flexible joints throughout the body. If flatfoot develops during adulthood, it could be caused by rheumatoid arthritis or neuropathy. Contact a podiatrist for more information about flat feet and to explore various treatment options.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell from InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Are Flat Feet?
Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms
Treatment
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
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.
