Peripheral artery disease, PAD, is a circulatory condition that results from the buildup of fatty deposits that collect in the blood vessels. While some people with PAD do not experience symptoms, others feel pain when they walk that recedes when they rest. Other symptoms include loss of hair on the legs and feet, numbness in the legs, and brittle slow-growing toenails. In addition, people with peripheral artery disease may have sores on the feet and ankles that do not heal, and changes of color on the skin. PAD commonly affects people who smoke or have diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. These conditions all cause or contribute to the narrowing of the blood vessels that serve the feet. Exercising and giving up smoking are the top two ways to decrease the effects of peripheral artery disease. Medication and in some cases surgery may be prescribed. If you believe you have PAD, it is a good idea to consult a podiatrist for help in determining the best treatment plan for you.
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.
Almost everyone is familiar with the pain that can result from stubbing one’s toe. For example, when an individual suddenly jams their toe into a hard surface, such as the leg of a table or a door frame, they might experience sharp sudden pain. Severe cases of stubbed toes can result in further injuries, such as a broken toe. In these cases, the bones in the toes will break. There are several ways to identify a broken toe. You might notice swelling at the toe, discoloration, difficulty moving the toe, and even numbness. Although a broken toe might not sound serious to some people, it is nothing to take lightly. If you have stubbed your toe and begin to notice these symptoms, it is wise to contact a podiatrist immediately. This foot specialist will help you identify and treat the problem in your feet.
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 is often severe pain and discomfort by people who endure an Achilles tendon injury. It is considered to be the longest and strongest tendon in the body, and its job is to connect the calf muscles to the heel. Common symptoms that many people experience can include a tightness or stiffness, as well as pain in the lower calf. Research has indicated that the pain level may be reduced when the Achilles tendon is strengthened. This consists of performing specific stretches that start off slowly, and gradually intensify. Calf raises are done by raising up on both legs, and lowering down one at a time. Proper form includes lowering down slowly, with a controlled motion. An effective stretch is called the single leg calf raise, which is done by standing on the ball of the foot, and slowly lowering the leg down. There are various forms of Achilles tendon stretches that are done, and if you would like more information on how to perform these, please consult with a podiatrist.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, 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 the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
Rupture Symptoms
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Wilson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Morton’s neuroma is a foot condition that affects the nerves between the metatarsal bones in the foot. These are long bones, and there are affected nerves lying in between the bones. The pain that is associated with this condition feels like a burning sensation, or maybe a numbing and tingling feeling. If prompt medical attention is not sought, the pain can become unbearable, and walking may be difficult. This can be a result of irritated or compressed nerves, and in severe cases, surgery may be necessary for repairing or removal of these nerves. A common cause of Morton’s neuroma can come from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. High heels can fall into this category, and it is suggested to refrain from wearing these types of shoes. They can gradually be replaced by wearing a lower heel, and this may help to accelerate the healing process. Morton’s neuroma is considered to be one of the most painful foot conditions, and if you have developed symptoms that may indicate this ailment, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist.
Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell of InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care 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?
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 our office located in Wilson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.
The swelling of the feet can be caused by several different things. One often overlooked cause of swollen feet is wearing shoes that do not fit correctly and are too tight. The reason that a tight pair of shoes can cause swelling is because the tightness can reduce circulation and discourage blood flow. Sometimes when an individual selects a pair of shoes that does not conform to their foot shape and size, the shoes can end up cutting off circulation. For example, an individual might have a particularly wide foot, and if they select a regular pair of shoes that is too narrow in shape, the shoes might be too tight. It might also be useful to know that an individual can prevent swelling from tight shoes by remembering not to buy small shoes at the store, thinking that they can be “broken in.” Typically, this is not advisable. Contact a podiatrist today for more information.
Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, 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.
Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:
Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet.
Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Wilson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
