Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
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Ankle pain while running can be a frustrating setback for any athlete. Several factors contribute to this discomfort, ranging from overuse injuries to biomechanical issues. Often, runners experience ankle pain due to excessive strain on the ligaments and tendons surrounding the ankle joint. This strain can result from repetitive movements, improper footwear, or inadequate warm-up routines. Additionally, running on uneven surfaces or sudden changes in terrain can exacerbate ankle pain by causing instability and stress on the joints. Poor running form, such as overpronation or supination, may also lead to ankle pain over time. Ignoring early signs of discomfort can worsen the condition and potentially lead to more severe injuries. To prevent ankle pain, runners should prioritize proper footwear, gradual training progressions, and regular stretching exercises to maintain flexibility and strengthen the ankle muscles. If you have developed ankle pain, and feel it may be due to running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you correct treatment options, in addition to effective preventive techniques.
Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
- Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
- Ankle sprains
- Broken ankles
- Achilles tendonitis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Stress fractures
- Bursitis
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
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.
Hallux limitus is a condition where the big toe joint gets sore, stiff, and inflamed. If not treated, it can turn into hallux rigidus, where the joint cannot move, causing a lot of pain and difficulty walking. To help with these issues, foot doctors focus on making the joint move better to reduce pain and improve how it works. They often use special shoe inserts with a deeper heel and a part that supports the inside of the foot. The doctors also look at whether the problem is because the joint does not work well or if it is because of the shape of the foot. Depending on the issue, they may use different kinds of inserts. They usually avoid certain materials and features that can make things worse. When making these inserts for everyday shoes, podiatrists think about things like foot strength and how the foot lines up. They may suggest exercises, massage, and good shoes. If you have a stiff and painful big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment, which may include orthotics.
If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, 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.
What Are Orthotics?
Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.
Over-the-Counter Inserts
Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.
Prescription Orthotics
If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.
If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.
If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Mount Pleasant and Charleston, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
A foot fracture, also known as a broken foot, refers to the break or crack in one or more of the bones within the foot. These fractures can result from various incidents, such as traumatic injuries, repetitive stress, or weakened bone structure. Diagnosing a foot fracture often involves a combination of physical examination and diagnostic imaging. The podiatrist will assess the injured area, looking for signs like pain, tenderness, swelling, deformity, and impaired range of motion. X-rays are the most common imaging tool used to confirm the diagnosis, allowing podiatrists to determine the type and location of the fracture accurately. Understanding the definition and diagnosis of a foot fracture is crucial for proper treatment and recovery. Whether it is a stress fracture from overuse or a traumatic injury, early diagnosis and appropriate management are essential for optimal healing and the restoration of normal foot function. If you have broken your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide one of several treatment options that are right for you.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, 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.
Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury.
Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:
- Bruising
- Pain
- Redness
- Swelling
- Blue in color
- Numbness
- Cold
- Misshapen
- Cuts
- Deformities
Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.
Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.
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 and ankle needs.
Sesamoiditis is a painful condition brought about by two tiny bones below the big toe. It is caused by the inflammation of the sesamoid bones in the foot, and poses challenges to daily activities, like walking. These pea-sized bones play a vital role in weight-bearing, shock absorption, and load distribution during movements that involve flexing the big toe. Sesamoiditis results from repetitive or excessive stress on these bones and their surrounding tendons. Activities such as running and dancing, which repeatedly stress the forefoot, can lead to such irritation and inflammation. Trauma, such as direct injuries or heavy objects landing on the foot, is another common cause, as the sesamoid bones or their adjacent structures may be damaged. Wearing improper footwear, especially shoes lacking cushioning or high heels, increases forefoot pressure, and can contribute to sesamoiditis. Structural abnormalities, like a high arch, alter weight distribution and heighten susceptibility. Tight or inflexible tendons create strain, making the sesamoid bones more prone to irritation. If you are experiencing symptoms that seem to indicate sesamoiditis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.
Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact one of our podiatrists of Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.
Sesamoiditis
Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.
Causes of Sesamoiditis
- Sudden increase in activity
- Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
- Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible
Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.
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 and ankle needs.
Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
Plantar fasciitis, a prevalent foot ailment, reveals itself as a condition marked by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes. Characterized by stabbing pain, particularly during the initial steps after awakening or prolonged periods of inactivity, plantar fasciitis often affects the heel and sole. The condition typically results from overuse, where repetitive stress on the plantar fascia leads to microtears and inflammation. While commonly associated with athletes, plantar fasciitis can affect individuals from various walks of life, particularly those with jobs that require prolonged standing. Having tight calf muscles or flat feet and wearing inadequate footwear may contribute to increased vulnerability. Recognizing plantar fasciitis's early signs, such as localized pain and stiffness, enables timely intervention. If you have heel pain, it may be indicative of plantar fasciitis. If this applies to you, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat this condition.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Excessive running
- Non-supportive shoes
- Overpronation
- Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
How Can It Be Treated?
- Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
- Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
- Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
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 and ankle needs.
Debridement plays a vital role in the management of chronic wounds, such as diabetic foot ulcers. It involves the removal of necrotic tissue, foreign debris, bacterial growth, calluses, and non-responsive cells from the wound area, promoting the transition from a non-healing to a healing environment. Various methods are employed for debridement, including surgery, chemical approaches, natural enzyme methods, and biochemical processes. In the case of diabetic foot ulcers, callus buildup, a consequence of repeated pressure or friction, can exacerbate ulcer formation by creating areas of high plantar pressure. Hence, debridement of calluses is not only relevant for treatment but also in preventing these ulcers. If you have foot wounds, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an examination and discussion of appropriate treatment, which may include debridement.
Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Wound Care?
Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic.
What Is the Importance of Wound Care?
While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.
How to Care for Wounds
The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.
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.
Pregnancy is a transformative journey, both physically and emotionally. While many anticipate changes in their bodies, some may not be aware of the potential foot conditions that can arise during this time. One common issue is edema, or swelling of the feet and ankles, which results from increased blood volume and the pressure on leg veins. This can cause discomfort, but it is often temporary. Another condition linked to pregnancy is flat feet. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect the ligaments in the feet, leading to a decrease in arch height. This can contribute to foot pain and discomfort. Additionally, weight gain can place added stress on the feet, often causing pain and fatigue. The expanding uterus may also shift the center of gravity, altering the gait and potentially causing problems like plantar fasciitis. Pregnancy can bring about various foot challenges, but with proper care, many of these issues can be managed or prevented. If you have developed any type of foot conditions during your pregnancy, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can monitor any foot pain or discomfort you may be experiencing.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.
How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?
- Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
- Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
- Wear shoes with good arch support
- Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
- Elevate feet if you experience swelling
- Massage your feet
- Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet
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 and ankle needs.
Most people have never heard of an os trigonum and do not know if they have one or not. That is because the os trigonum is an extra bone in the foot that is present in only 20% of the population. In most cases, this extra bone goes unnoticed. An os trigonum typically forms during childhood and, in most cases, fuses with the talus bone. But if it remains separate, complications can arise with overuse or trauma. The result is termed os trigonum syndrome. Activities requiring frequent ankle flexion, like ballet dancing or running, can contribute to its development. Also, an ankle injury that forces the foot into excessive plantar flexion, in which the toes are pointed downward, can lead to what is termed a nutcracker injury. It is caused when an os trigonum is compressed between the ankle and heel bones. Symptoms include pain at the back of the ankle, worsened during activities such as excessive toe pointing or in the push off phase while walking. Tenderness upon touching the affected area, swelling due to soft tissue inflammation, and the presence of a palpable lump near the Achilles tendon are characteristic signs of os trigonum syndrome. If you are experiencing pain in the back of the heel, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and suggest appropriate treatment.
Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, 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.
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?
- Wearing ill-fitting shoes
- Wearing non-supportive shoes
- Weight change
- Excessive running
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 offices located in Mount Pleasant and Charleston, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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