Items filtered by date: November 2018

Monday, 26 November 2018 00:00

Several Ways to Develop Ankle Pain

There are several injuries that may be experienced, which can precede uncomfortable ankle pain. These may include falling or tripping in which a fracture can occur, or a medical condition such as ankle arthritis. Throbbing, aching, or feeling a burning sensation may be a few of the noticeable symptoms that many people have, and it may progress gradually or be felt immediately. If you have stepped off a curb unexpectedly, tripped while participating in a sporting activity, or changed direction suddenly while running, you may have endured a form of ankle pain. It’s suggested to speak with a podiatrist as quickly as possible, so a correct diagnosis can be performed and treatment can begin.

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 Summit Podiatry. 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 tendinitis
  • 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 one of our offices located in Wilmington, Whiteville, and Wallace, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

Read more about Ankle Pain
Monday, 26 November 2018 00:00

Several Ways to Develop Ankle Pain

There are several injuries that may be experienced, which can precede uncomfortable ankle pain. These may include falling or tripping in which a fracture can occur, or a medical condition such as ankle arthritis. Throbbing, aching, or feeling a burning sensation may be a few of the noticeable symptoms that many people have, and it may progress gradually or be felt immediately. If you have stepped off a curb unexpectedly, tripped while participating in a sporting activity, or changed direction suddenly while running, you may have endured a form of ankle pain. It’s suggested to speak with a podiatrist as quickly as possible, so a correct diagnosis can be performed and treatment can begin.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Derek T. Pantiel from Summit Podiatry. Our doctor 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 tendinitis
  • 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 one of our offices located in Wilmington, Whiteville, and Burgaw, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

Read more about Ankle Pain

Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

Monday, 19 November 2018 00:00

What Causes an Ingrown Toenail?

A red, tender, and swollen area will appear on the side of the big toe if you are experiencing an ingrown toenail. This uncomfortable condition is typically a result of wearing shoes that fit too tightly, enduring an injury to the toe, or trimming the toenails incorrectly. In more severe cases, there may be an excess of fluid that builds up surrounding the affected area, or the toe could bleed or have pus draining from it. Ingrown toenails develop when the nail grows into the skin on the side of the toe, and pain generally accompanies this ailment. It is suggested to seek treatment as quickly as possible, and this may prevent infection. There are several ways to prevent ingrown toenails from developing, including wearing shoes that fit properly, wearing clean socks, and washing the feet daily. Research has shown that a common treatment method is referred to as a partial nail avulsion, and this involves removing a portion of the infected toenail. If you feel you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is advised to counsel with a podiatrist, so the best treatment option can be determined.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Derek T. Pantiel of Summit Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

  • Bacterial infections
  • Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
  • Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
  • Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
  • Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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

Read more about Ingrown Toenails
Monday, 19 November 2018 00:00

What Causes an Ingrown Toenail?

A red, tender, and swollen area will appear on the side of the big toe if you are experiencing an ingrown toenail. This uncomfortable condition is typically a result of wearing shoes that fit too tightly, enduring an injury to the toe, or trimming the toenails incorrectly. In more severe cases, there may be an excess of fluid that builds up surrounding the affected area, or the toe could bleed or have pus draining from it. Ingrown toenails develop when the nail grows into the skin on the side of the toe, and pain generally accompanies this ailment. It is suggested to seek treatment as quickly as possible, and this may prevent infection. There are several ways to prevent ingrown toenails from developing, including wearing shoes that fit properly, wearing clean socks, and washing the feet daily. Research has shown that a common treatment method is referred to as a partial nail avulsion, and this involves removing a portion of the infected toenail. If you feel you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is advised to counsel with a podiatrist, so the best treatment option can be determined.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Summit Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

  • Bacterial infections
  • Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
  • Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
  • Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
  • Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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

Read more about Ingrown Toenails

Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

Monday, 12 November 2018 00:00

The Feet May Be Affected by Obesity

People who are overweight may experience foot pain that may be indicative of specific foot conditions. Any additional weight the feet endure may lead to inflammation of the plantar fascia, which may lead to the painful and uncomfortable condition known as plantar fasciitis. This particular tendon is located at the bottom of the foot and its main function is to connect the heel bone to the toes. If this should become irritated as a result of extra weight the body carries, daily activities such as walking may prove difficult to accomplish. This may cause an altered style of walking, which may result in imbalance. Falling may occur, which may lead to breaking or spraining an ankle. Additionally, medical conditions may develop that may be linked to obesity including gout, osteoarthritis, or diabetes. If you are afflicted with additional weight gain that may be causing foot concerns, please consult with a podiatrist so proper advice for relief may be obtained.

The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Dr. Derek T. Pantiel from Summit Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.

Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity

  • When the body is overweight, it tries to compensate by changing the way that it moves. An obese person may lean forward and put extra weight on the wrong part of the foot. This puts unnecessary stress on the feet.
  • Obese people are also more likely to develop type II diabetes which is a condition that causes a lot of foot problems. People with diabetes often don’t feel the cuts and sores that they may have on their feet, which can lead to more complicated and severe issues.
  • Plantar fasciitis is another foot condition that can be caused by obesity. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes pain and stiffness while walking and climbing stairs.

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

Read more about Obesity and the Feet
Monday, 12 November 2018 00:00

The Feet May Be Affected by Obesity

People who are overweight may experience foot pain that may be indicative of specific foot conditions. Any additional weight the feet endure may lead to inflammation of the plantar fascia, which may lead to the painful and uncomfortable condition known as plantar fasciitis. This particular tendon is located at the bottom of the foot and its main function is to connect the heel bone to the toes. If this should become irritated as a result of extra weight the body carries, daily activities such as walking may prove difficult to accomplish. This may cause an altered style of walking, which may result in imbalance. Falling may occur, which may lead to breaking or spraining an ankle. Additionally, medical conditions may develop that may be linked to obesity including gout, osteoarthritis, or diabetes. If you are afflicted with additional weight gain that may be causing foot concerns, please consult with a podiatrist so proper advice for relief may be obtained.

The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Summit Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.

Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity

  • When the body is overweight, it tries to compensate by changing the way that it moves. An obese person may lean forward and put extra weight on the wrong part of the foot. This puts unnecessary stress on the feet.
  • Obese people are also more likely to develop type II diabetes which is a condition that causes a lot of foot problems. People with diabetes often don’t feel the cuts and sores that they may have on their feet, which can lead to more complicated and severe issues.
  • Plantar fasciitis is another foot condition that can be caused by obesity. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes pain and stiffness while walking and climbing stairs.

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

Read more about Obesity and the Feet
Monday, 05 November 2018 00:00

Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

Monday, 05 November 2018 00:00

Gout Causes Severe Pain And Discomfort

If you are afflicted with the medical condition referred to as gout, it may be a result of specific lifestyle habits. It will typically affect the joint in the bottom of the big toe, and is considered to be a form of arthritis. It may develop when the uric acid levels in the blood are elevated, and crystals may commonly form in the joints of the feet. This may produce severe pain and discomfort, and performing daily activities that include walking and running may prove to be extremely difficult. In addition to genetic traits contributing as a factor, there are several reasons why excess uric acid may form in the blood. These may include ingesting an overabundance of alcohol, eating too much red meat or shellfish, or having an inadequate amount of vitamin C in your diet. Treatment techniques may include elevating the foot to reduce any swelling, or using anti-inflammatory medicines that may provide moderate relief. If you are afflicted with this condition, it’s strongly suggested to speak with a podiatrist as quickly as possible so a proper diagnosis can be performed and correct treatments options can begin.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Derek T. Pantiel from Summit Podiatry. 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

  • Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
  • Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
  • Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
  • Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

  • Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
  • Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
  • Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
  • Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
  • Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
  • Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

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 one of our offices located in Wilmington, Whiteville, and Burgaw, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Gout
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