A foot deformity known as a hammertoe is caused by an imbalance of the ligament and the muscle in the toe joint. It results in a toe where the middle joint rises up to form a mountain shape. Hammertoes are frequently experienced by women, as the result of wearing high-heeled shoes for long periods of time. The structure of the shoe, especially those with pointy toe boxes and very high heels, puts too much pressure on the toes and can cause joint imbalance. Other causes of hammertoes include high arches, bunions, and arthritis. In some cases, a hammertoe may be the result of an injury, as sudden trauma can cause the muscles and tendons in the toe to slip out of alignment. Flat feet are another cause of hammertoe because those with flat feet rely more on their toes for stability. And some people are genetically inclined to develop hammertoes. Hammertoes are categorized as flexible, semi-rigid, or rigid. Treatment ranging from non-invasive to surgical will depend on the status of the hammertoe. Please contact a podiatrist for an examination and treatment suggestions if you have a hammertoe.
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell of InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.
Symptoms
Risk Factors
Treatment
If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work 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 care needs.
The longitudinal arch of the foot, which extends from the heel to the base of the toes, plays a vital role in keeping you on your feet. This arch acts like a shock absorber and helps you maintain balance with every step you take. It also helps you adapt to changes in terrain, such as walking on a hilly or uneven surface. Most importantly, the arch bears the weight of your body when you stand or move. The arch is part of a complex network of muscles, ligaments, tendons, and bones that allow the feet to work efficiently. If any part of the network is injured, it often results in arch pain. Symptoms are tightness, pulling, or a burning sensation. The most common causes of arch pain are plantar fasciitis, flat feet, overpronation, and shoes that do not fit properly. Other causes are high arches, injury, and overuse. If symptoms of arch pain persist or worsen, it is a good idea to consult a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer the appropriate treatment options.
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.
A bunion is recognized as a hard bump that forms on the outside of the big toe. It develops as a bony protrusion, and it is considered to be a deformity. Genetics may contribute to getting a bunion, in addition to wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely. This may be a reason why bunions are more common among women, and relief may be found when appropriate-size shoes are worn. A bunion can put pressure on the other toes and may cause them to shift towards each other. Additionally, a corn or callus may form on top of the bunion, which may happen from the toes touching the top of the shoe. Other symptoms may consist of joint pain, and the toes may have a limited range of motion. A bunion may stop growing when larger shoes are worn, and temporary relief may be found when protective pads are worn over it. If you have developed a bunion, it is strongly urged that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer correct treatment options, which may include surgery for permanent removal.
If you are suffering from bunions, 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.
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?
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.
Gout is an inflammatory condition that causes redness, swelling, stiffness, and extreme pain in the joints, particularly the big toe. A gout attack in the big toe, termed podagra, happens suddenly and often at night. Sufferers may be jolted awake by pain and a burning sensation so great that even the weight of a sheet on the toe can be agonizing. Gout is more common in men, but the risk factor increases in women after menopause. Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the body, which forms crystals in joints, resulting in severe pain. Attacks usually last for about a week but can occur again without warning. Because the crystals, called tophi, that form in the toe joint can cause both cartilage and bone damage, it is not a good idea to ignore this condition. Instead, if you believe you have developed gout, please make an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer treatment options and suggest lifestyle changes to best combat this disease.
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
Risk Factors
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.
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!
Athlete’s foot occurs when a fungal infection between the toes produces a scaly, red rash. Eczema is another condition that is often confused with athlete’s foot. However, they are two very distinct and different conditions in important respects. Eczema is not limited to the feet and is contagious. It is a chronic inflammatory skin condition. Both of these conditions can make the skin of the foot appear red, dry, and itchy. Both eczema and athlete’s foot are diagnosed by a medical professional by ultimately performing some kind of physical examination. In diagnosing both conditions, a medical professional might be particularly concerned with the skin and analyzing skin samples. It is very common for several different foot conditions to be confused with one another, although they are distinct and have separate causes and symptoms. If you are having trouble discerning what condition is impacting the health of your feet, consult with a podiatrist today.
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.
Those who are among the elderly population are especially at risk of experiencing detrimental afflictions of the feet. There are many reasons for this phenomenon to occur. However, one often overlooked reason is that as individual ages, it is common for them to demonstrate a reduced desire to walk. Walking in a safe and healthy way offers the feet a litany of different benefits. Walking can strengthen muscles in the feet and ensure that they are vibrant, strong, and resilient. However, when elderly individuals lose their desire to walk regularly, they might notice a corresponding decrease in the health of their feet. Of course, walking may not be feasible or safe for all seniors, but walking if you are able and if it is medically permissible can be a key way to improve foot health. Continuing to walk can also increase the balance that one demonstrates when engaging in weight-bearing activities. If you are a senior citizen and want to continue maintaining the strength of your feet, contact a podiatrist today for more details.
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.
Research has shown the majority of falls happen at home. This can invoke a fear of falling and may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. The feet are often affected during and after a fall and may result in incurring a broken toe, ankle, or foot. Many people can prevent falls from occurring when they implement specific methods, in addition to getting regular physical and eye examinations. These can include improving the lighting in the household, removing worn rugs from the steps, and clearing clutter from the common areas. Some patients find it beneficial to have a grab bar installed in the toilet and shower area, and using a non-slip bath mat in and out of the shower can be helpful in preventing falls. A podiatrist is qualified in informing you of how the feet are often affected by falling and can steer you toward fall prevention techniques that are customized to your home. For more information, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist at your earliest convenience.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. Kendall Blackwell from InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.
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 growth on the heel of the foot is often known as a plantar wart. This type of wart generally causes pain and discomfort. A plantar wart grows inward from the constant pressure the heels endure from walking and standing all day. The walking style, or gait may be affected with an existing plantar wart, as the body tries to compensate for the pain it can cause. It is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is found in warm and moist environments. These types of places include public swimming pools, locker rooms, and shower room floors. It is advised while in these areas that appropriate shoes are worn, such as flip flops or water shoes. The fungus can enter the body through small cuts in the skin, and these types of shoes may prevent a wart from occurring. Plantar warts can be extremely painful, and if you have developed one or more of these types of growths, please consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose it and offer removal options.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell from InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor 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
Treatment
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.
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.
Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.
