September 2019

The medical condition that is referred to as gout is often accompanied by severe pain and discomfort. The joint in the big toe is typically affected, and common symptoms include redness, tenderness, and difficulty in moving the toe. Many patients experience signs of gout suddenly without warning, and it frequently happens at night. This condition is caused by excess uric levels that are in the bloodstream, and may occur from specific foods that are eaten. These can include foods that have elevated levels of purines which may produce crystals that lodge in the joints of the big toe. Mild relief may be found from this debilitating pain by taking anti-inflammatory medication. Additionally, it is helpful to incorporate healthy eating habits into your daily routine, and this may prevent severe gout attacks from occurring in the future. If you are afflicted with gout, it is strongly advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to manage these attacks.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Piedmont Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Cary, Apex, Dunn, and Benson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many patients who enjoy the sport of running understand the benefits of stretching before running begins, and after it has ended. Research has indicated it may help to strengthen the muscles in the feet and legs, and this may be advantageous in preventing many injuries. An effective stretch is known as toe curling, and this is helpful in maintaining strength in the top of the foot. Additionally, the foot can be trained to move certain toes individually, which is known as toe yoga. It is important to keep the ankles strong, and this can be accomplished by pointing and flexing the feet on a frequent basis. If you would like more information about the benefits of stretching the feet, please schedule a consultation with a podiatrist. 

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our podiatrists from Piedmont Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Cary, Apex, Dunn, and Benson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Jayson Tatum, forward for the Boston Celtics and currently playing for the U.S. men's national basketball team at the World Cup, suffered a sprained ankle during the American win over Turkey on Tuesday, September 3rd. The game went into overtime and ended with the U.S. prevailing 93-92. The sprain occurred in the course of the game’s final possession and was confirmed the following day after tests. “I think I just slipped and fell the wrong way,” said Tatum of the injury. The consequential sprain kept Tatum out of the Americans’ games against Japan and Greece. Fortunately, Brad Stevens, coach of the Boston Celtics, expressed that the ankle sprain wasn’t serious. If you’re suffering from a sprained ankle, consult with your podiatrist for a proper evaluation.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Piedmont Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Cary, Apex, Dunn, and Benson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The medical condition that is known as poor circulation occurs when blood flow is restricted in the body. Common symptoms that are associated with this condition can include cold feet, in addition to a tingling and numbing sensation. This risk of developing poor circulation may increase as the aging process occurs. Other existing factors that can lead to this condition can include smoking, lack of exercise, and eating unhealthy foods. There are noticeable symptoms that are present if poor circulation exists. The most common sign is feeling cramps in your legs as you walk, and some patients are aware of consistent aches in their legs and feet. Mild relief can be obtained when a gentle walking program is implemented, and this can be helpful in controlling poor circulation. If you feel you have symptoms of this condition, it is suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Piedmont Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Cary, Apex, Dunn, and Benson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The feet are considered to be the foundation of the body, and it is important to maintain proper foot care. This includes washing and drying your feet completely, which may be beneficial in preventing athlete’s foot from developing. Foot odor may be avoided when the socks are changed daily. The overall feeling of the feet may improve when proper size shoes are worn. Research has indicated it is beneficial to purchase shoes in the afternoon, when the feet are at their largest. Additionally, it is helpful to wear high heels and flip flops for limited amounts of time because of the inadequate support these shoes typically provide. If you would like additional information about how to care for you feet, it is suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can provide you with the correct knowledge.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Piedmont Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Cary, Apex, Dunn, and Benson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many parents often notice their infants feet are made of cartilage that is flexible and soft. Additionally, the feet may appear to be flat, and this is a result of an arch that has not yet formed. The feet will become stronger as walking begins, and will become fully developed when the child is in their teenage years. Research has indicated that there are three foot shapes that are inherited from their parents. If the big toe is the longest toe, it is considered to be a tapered foot. Rounded foot shapes occur if the middle toes are longer than the rest of the toes. If the toes are the same length, the foot shape is known to be square. It is important that toddlers walk barefoot while indoors, as this is instrumental in developing the overall strength of the foot. If you would like additional information about how to care for your child’s feet, please consult with a podiatrist.

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 Piedmont Foot & Ankle Clinic. 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 one of our offices located in Cary, Apex, Dunn, and Benson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.