If you need a more accessible version of this website, click this button on the right. Switch to Accessible Site

Blog

Blog

Tuesday, 18 June 2019 00:00

What Causes an Ingrown Toenail?

The foot condition that is referred to as an ingrown toenail is a relatively common ailment. It occurs when the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, and can cause pain and discomfort. Prompt treatment of ingrown toenails may help to reduce the risk of an infection occurring. There are various reasons why patients may develop this condition. These can include excessive sweating, wearing shoes that do not fit properly, or trimming the toenails incorrectly. There are noticeable symptoms of this ailment which often include red and tender skin surrounding the affected nail and a fluid surrounding the toe. If you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment techniques.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, 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.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

  • Improper toenail trimming
  • Genetics
  • Improper shoe fitting
  • Injury from pedicures or nail picking
  • Abnormal gait
  • Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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.

Read more about Ingrown Toenail Care
Tuesday, 11 June 2019 00:00

Stretch Before and After Running

Many people who enjoy the sport of running have realized the importance of properly stretching and preparing before engaging in running activities. This may help to prevent running injuries from occurring. Some people make the mistake of running too many miles before building up adequate strength, in addition to not getting enough rest in between runs. It is beneficial to keep a training log, which can help to track the amount of miles that are run and rest that is taken. When the proper running shoes are worn, the risk of injury may decrease. These include shoes that have ample cushioning and enough room for the toes move freely in. When stretching is practiced before and after each run, the muscles often remain strong, and this may aid in minimizing running injuries. If you would like additional information about how to prevent running injuries, it is suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell of InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

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.

Read more about How to Prevent Running Injuries
Tuesday, 28 May 2019 00:00

Daily Methods for Healthy Foot Care

The feet are considered to be the foundation of the body. It is important to implement daily steps to ensure the feet stay healthy. Uncomfortable foot conditions which may include bunions, ingrown toenails and general foot pain may be avoided when properly fitting shoes are worn. The tendons and ligaments in the feet can be stretched while performing a daily exercise routine, which is important in maintaining strong foot muscles. Additionally, your feet may begin to feel better when they are washed at the end of every day, followed by utilizing a good moisturizer. This may help to prevent cracked heels. If you would like additional information about how to care for your feet daily, it is suggested to consult with a podiatrist.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, 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.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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.

Read more about Every Day Foot Care
Wednesday, 22 May 2019 00:00

Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?

If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!

Monday, 20 May 2019 00:00

Athlete's Foot Causes Itching

The symptoms that are associated with athlete’s foot consist of itching between the toes or on the bottom of the feet. In severe cases, blisters may form on the sole of the feet. It is produced by a fungal infection and is known to be contagious. The type of fungus that causes this condition lives in warm and moist environments. These include places such as public pools, showers, or locker rooms. Additionally, wearing damp socks and shoes for the majority of the day may contribute to getting athlete’s foot. There may be measures that can be taken to possibly prevent athlete’s foot. These include wearing shoes and socks that are made of breathable materials and wearing appropriate shoes while in public environments. If you have contracted athlete’s foot, it is advised to speak with a podiatrist who can begin the proper treatment.

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

  • Hydrate your feet by using lotion
  • Exfoliate
  • Buff off nails
  • Use of anti-fungal products
  • Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

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.

Read more about Athlete's Foot
Monday, 13 May 2019 00:00

What Is a Blister?

Many runners are familiar with the pain and discomfort that blisters on the feet can bring. They are typically caused by friction as a result of wearing poorly fitting shoes, or non-absorbent socks. When the skin becomes raw and damaged, a blister will form to protect the skin. It is filled with fluid that will naturally drain when new skin has formed over the affected area. If the blister should rupture before the healing process is completed, the possibility of getting an infection may increase. There are methods that can be implemented to possibly prevent blisters. These include choosing shoes that fit correctly and covering the area with a bandage where blisters are most likely to develop. Additionally, it is beneficial to use a foot powder that helps to absorb moisture. If you have a blister on your foot that is not healing correctly, please consult with a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, 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.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

  • Bubble of skin filled with fluid
  • Redness
  • Moderate to severe pain
  • Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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.

Read more about Blisters on the Feet

Elevated blood sugar levels are the main cause of diabetes. People who have this condition have to pay extra attention in caring for their feet. Diabetic patients may experience a tingling feeling or numbing sensation, and this can make it difficult in noticing any cuts that may be present on the feet. This type of nerve damage can lead to an infection and can cause gangrene if it is not treated promptly. Typical symptoms of a foot infection can include fever, unmanageable blood sugar levels, and skin discoloration. If you are a diabetic patient and would like information about taking care of your feet, it is advised to seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly guide you.

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

  • 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 our office located in Wilson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Diabetic Foot Conditions
Monday, 29 April 2019 00:00

Possible Causes of Gout

Symptoms that are often associated with the form of arthritis known as gout include joints that are stiff, red, or swollen. It develops as a result of excess uric acid in the body and collects in the joints of the big toe. This build up comes from eating foods that have elevated levels of purines, which include red meat and shellfish, or it can develop from genetic traits. Additionally, people who consume large amounts of alcohol can be afflicted with gout, in addition to patients who take low-dose aspirin or diuretics. People who have gout often experience severe pain and discomfort, and it may be difficult to walk. A proper diagnosis is typically performed by extracting a small amount of fluid from the affected joint, which is effective in noticing any crystals that are present. If you have this condition, it is suggested to counsel with a podiatrist who can begin the correct treatment.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell from InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

  • Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
  • Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
  • Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
  • Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

  • Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
  • Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
  • Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
  • Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
  • Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
  • Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment 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 care needs.

Read more about Gout
Tuesday, 23 April 2019 00:00

How Do Broken Toes Heal?

The bones in the toes are delicate and small and can easily break if a heavy object drops on one of them. Some of the symptoms that are associated with broken toes include bruising that may last for one to two weeks, severe pain, stiffness, and swelling. Many broken toes can be treated without surgery, unless the fracture is severe. This includes breaks, which result in the toe becoming crooked, or causes an open wound. The healing process begins with resting and elevating the foot, and this is helpful in reducing any existing swelling. Many patients find it beneficial to tape the affected toe to the toe next to it, and this is referred to as buddy taping. If you have endured an injury to your toe, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer proper treatment options.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. 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 Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • Swelling
  • Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
  • Stiffness
  • Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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.

Read more about What to Know About a Broken Toe
Monday, 22 April 2019 00:00

Before you start dancing...

 

Page 23 of 27
Connect with us