Research has indicated that approximately one in three adults fall at least once per year. This can lead to serious foot injuries that can hinder completing daily activities. There are simple methods that can be implemented that may help to reduce falling episodes. When the lighting is improved in the household, it will become easier to see steps and obstacles that may be easy to trip over. Additionally, removing frayed rugs can reduce the number of falls incurred, and it is important to hold on to handrails while going up and down the steps. Many patients find it helpful to install grab bars in the shower and toilet area, and using a non-skid bathmat can provide stability in the shower. When a walker or cane is used, the sense of balance is often increased, and it is beneficial to keep a phone within reach in case a mishap occurs. It is helpful to have routine physical and eye exams performed, and this is needed to monitor existing medication and eyeglasses. If you would like more information about how falling can affect the feet, and effective fall prevention methods, please consult with a podiatrist.

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 one of our podiatrists from Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors 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:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

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 offices located in Mount Pleasant and Charleston, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle sprains are quite common in active children, especially those who participate in sports. A sprain occurs when one or more of the tough, fibrous bands of tissue (ligaments) that hold the ankle bones together get overly stretched. Making sudden changes in direction or rolling the foot over while playing sports can sometimes cause the ankle ligaments to stretch beyond their limits and become sprained. Properly warming up the feet and ankles prior to playing sports can sometimes help to avoid an ankle sprain from occurring. Symptoms of an ankle sprain typically include various degrees of pain (depending on how intense the sprain is), swelling, bruising, and—in severe cases—an inability to put weight on the affected foot. Receiving proper care for an ankle sprain is important, as an improperly healed sprain may lead to further sprains and even chronic ankle weakness. If your child has sprained their ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for your child to be evaluated and treated properly.  

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Mount Pleasant and Charleston, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Psoriatic arthritis or PsA is an inflammatory arthritis that can affect people with psoriasis. Psoriasis is a condition that causes red patches of skin with silvery scales on the body. PsA causes pain, swelling, and tenderness in the joints and can affect one’s toes, toenails, soles, heels, and ankles. A common symptom of PsA is swelling of one or more toes. This is known as dactylitis and gives the toe a sausage-like appearance. In fact, swelling of various parts of the foot is common with PsA and can be accompanied by color changes and extreme tenderness. A heel ailment, called enthesitis, can also affect those with PsA. This is characterized by inflammation at the point where tendons and ligaments connect with the bone and can impact the Achilles tendon and the soles of the feet among PsA sufferers. Nail problems can also occur among people with PsA, especially those who have nail psoriasis. The nails may appear pitted, with ridges, flaking, and discoloration, and there may be a lifting up of the nail. This might happen because of inflammation and cellular disruption caused by PsA. The goal of treating PsA-related foot problems is to reduce pain and prevent permanent damage to bones. If you have PsA and are suffering with foot pain, you might see a podiatrist who can help you in developing a plan of treatment towards living a more comfortable life.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Mount Pleasant and Charleston, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

An elevated blood sugar level in the body may lead to a condition known as diabetes. It can damage the nerves in the feet and it can be difficult to feel existing cuts, bruises, or scrapes. An infected cut on the bottom of the foot could evolve into a foot ulcer, and the foot may have to be amputated if it is not promptly treated. It is important to perform proper diabetic foot care and this is done by using a mirror to check the bottom of the feet. Additionally, when the feet are washed and dried thoroughly, they will generally feel better. This can be followed by trimming the toenails straight across instead of curved. Many diabetic patients understand the importance of refraining from walking barefoot and this is an added measure in protecting the feet. Shoes are to be worn with socks that are well-padded and both need to be comfortable and fit properly. It is beneficial to purchase shoes at the end of the day when the feet are at their largest. Patients who have diabetes are suggested to be under the care of a podiatrist who can help them properly treat and manage their foot care issues.

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 Specialists. 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 our offices located in Mount Pleasant and Charleston, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.