Items filtered by date: August 2018

Research has indicated the connection between increased body mass index, which is also referred to as BMI, and specific foot pain. When obesity is a factor, the feet may undergo pain, which may be a result of the additional weight the feet must endure. Some of these conditions may include plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and tendinitis, all of which may produce severe pain and discomfort. Clinical studies have indicated that three pounds of force the foot endures, while walking for every pound of body weight, may be the reason for the majority of foot pain. If children are obese, the ability to exercise may be compromised, which may make it more difficult to lose the additional weight. There may be several reasons for people to experience obesity, including genetic factors, a lack of knowledge of how the body is affected by food, and not burning calories through proper exercise. If you are affected by obesity, it’s advised to schedule a consultation with a podiatrist for frequent and thorough examinations of your feet.

Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. 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

Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.

Problems & Complications

Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.

Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.

Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot. 

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 How Obesity Affects Your Feet
Monday, 27 August 2018 00:00

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Monday, 27 August 2018 00:00

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Research has indicated the connection between increased body mass index, which is also referred to as BMI, and specific foot pain. When obesity is a factor, the feet may undergo pain, which may be a result of the additional weight the feet must endure. Some of these conditions may include plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and tendinitis, all of which may produce severe pain and discomfort. Clinical studies have indicated that three pounds of force the foot endures, while walking for every pound of body weight, may be the reason for the majority of foot pain. If children are obese, the ability to exercise may be compromised, which may make it more difficult to lose the additional weight. There may be several reasons for people to experience obesity, including genetic factors, a lack of knowledge of how the body is affected by food, and not burning calories through proper exercise. If you are affected by obesity, it’s advised to schedule a consultation with a podiatrist for frequent and thorough examinations of your feet.

Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. 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

Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.

Problems & Complications

Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.

Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.

Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot. 

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 How Obesity Affects Your Feet
Monday, 20 August 2018 00:00

How Does a Broken Toe Happen?

Many bones are located in the foot and they all work together to provide optimum balance necessary to effectively walk and run. If something heavy should fall on your toe or if you fall down, you may experience pain and discomfort due to a broken toe. You may notice the obvious symptoms, which may include bruising and swelling, or continued pain and throbbing. Research has shown the importance of having a proper diagnosis performed, which most likely will include having an X-ray taken. If a broken toe is confirmed, treatment should commence as quickly as possible. This may include taping the toe to the toe next to it, resetting the bone for more severe fractures, or undergoing surgery. Please consult with a podiatrist for advice on how to treat a broken toe.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Summit Podiatry. Our doctors 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

  • Throbbing pain
  • Swelling
  • Bruising on the skin and toenail
  • The inability to move the toe
  • Toe appears crooked or disfigured
  • Tingling or numbness in the 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 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 What to Know About a Broken Toe
Monday, 20 August 2018 00:00

How Does a Broken Toe Happen?

Many bones are located in the foot and they all work together to provide optimum balance necessary to effectively walk and run. If something heavy should fall on your toe or if you fall down, you may experience pain and discomfort due to a broken toe. You may notice the obvious symptoms, which may include bruising and swelling, or continued pain and throbbing. Research has shown the importance of having a proper diagnosis performed, which most likely will include having an X-ray taken. If a broken toe is confirmed, treatment should commence as quickly as possible. This may include taping the toe to the toe next to it, resetting the bone for more severe fractures, or undergoing surgery. Please consult with a podiatrist for advice on how to treat a broken toe.

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. Derek T. Pantiel from Summit Podiatry. 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

  • Throbbing pain
  • Swelling
  • Bruising on the skin and toenail
  • The inability to move the toe
  • Toe appears crooked or disfigured
  • Tingling or numbness in the 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 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 What to Know About a Broken Toe
Monday, 13 August 2018 00:00

Tips for Buying New Sneakers

Before you purchase a new pair of running shoes, there are a few rules you should keep in mind to help you get the best value for your money. It is important that you follow these guidelines, because running shoes are supposed to support your entire body, in addition to your feet. One of the biggest mistakes you can make is to get pulled into the hype of a new sneaker release. Avoid letting a name brand determine the type of shoes you decide to put on your feet.  It is also best to avoid buying running shoes online because it will be nearly impossible to determine how supportive or comfortable the shoes will be on your feet. Another helpful tip to consider when shopping for shoes is to walk around in the store with them on; this will help ensure that they fit comfortably without being too tight.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, 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.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

  • Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
  • Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
  • Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

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 Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type
Monday, 13 August 2018 00:00

Tips for Buying New Sneakers

Before you purchase a new pair of running shoes, there are a few rules you should keep in mind to help you get the best value for your money. It is important that you follow these guidelines, because running shoes are supposed to support your entire body, in addition to your feet. One of the biggest mistakes you can make is to get pulled into the hype of a new sneaker release. Avoid letting a name brand determine the type of shoes you decide to put on your feet.  It is also best to avoid buying running shoes online because it will be nearly impossible to determine how supportive or comfortable the shoes will be on your feet. Another helpful tip to consider when shopping for shoes is to walk around in the store with them on; this will help ensure that they fit comfortably without being too tight.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, 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.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

  • Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
  • Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
  • Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

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 Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type
Monday, 06 August 2018 00:00

Potential Dangers of Diabetic Feet

Being aware of your feet is essential in managing diabetes. Many foot conditions can develop as a result of being diabetic, including bunions, corns, foot ulcers, and blisters. Possible nerve damage may occur as a result of elevated blood sugar levels, and this may encourage a condition that is referred to as diabetic neuropathy to develop. The symptoms of this ailment may include a loss of feeling in the feet, which may often lead to unnoticed cuts and bruises that may be present. Nerve damage may cause the feet to change shape, which indicates a different size shoe should be worn. If this is not adhered to, friction may cause unwanted foot conditions to develop. Cracked skin may often be a gateway for germs to enter the body, and this may be alleviated by utilizing a moisturizing cream or lotion. If you are diabetic, it’s vital to consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible to learn about how to properly take care of your feet.

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 Summit Podiatry. 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 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 Diabetic Foot Care
Monday, 06 August 2018 00:00

Potential Dangers of Diabetic Feet

Being aware of your feet is essential in managing diabetes. Many foot conditions can develop as a result of being diabetic, including bunions, corns, foot ulcers, and blisters. Possible nerve damage may occur as a result of elevated blood sugar levels, and this may encourage a condition that is referred to as diabetic neuropathy to develop. The symptoms of this ailment may include a loss of feeling in the feet, which may often lead to unnoticed cuts and bruises that may be present. Nerve damage may cause the feet to change shape, which indicates a different size shoe should be worn. If this is not adhered to, friction may cause unwanted foot conditions to develop. Cracked skin may often be a gateway for germs to enter the body, and this may be alleviated by utilizing a moisturizing cream or lotion. If you are diabetic, it’s vital to consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible to learn about how to properly take care of your feet.

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 Dr. Derek T. Pantiel from Summit Podiatry. Our doctor 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 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 Diabetic Foot Care

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