Items filtered by date: February 2023

Tuesday, 28 February 2023 00:00

Medications May Cause Swollen Feet

Swollen feet are common among older people. They can happen as a result of poor circulation, low protein levels, or leaky blood vessels. Approximately 70 percent of seniors are affected by chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), and the affected veins rely on valves that keep the blood flowing backward. The valves may become less efficient as the aging process occurs, and the blood may remain in the veins longer than it should. Edema, or water retention, may happen as a result of this, and it can affect the feet and ankles. Heart failure may be another reason why the feet may become swollen. Prompt medical attention is often sought if this condition becomes chronic. There are certain medications that may worsen swollen feet. These can include beta blockers, hormonal medicines, and over-the-counter painkillers. If your feet are swollen, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer treatment methods that are correct for you.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, 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.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

  • Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
  • Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
  • Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
  • Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
  • Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently 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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.


 

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Studies show that a large majority of cyclists experience foot pain. While cycling, a great deal of force is generated through the legs, to the feet, and onto the pedals. This can cause burning pain, numbness, and sharp pain in the soles of the feet. The reason for these symptoms is thought to be a result of the nerves between the metatarsal bones coming into contact with the rider’s cleats. If the ride is long, the weather warm, and the shoe inflexible, the pain can become even worse. Experts recommend that one way to help alleviate this type of pain from cycling is to wear different shoes. Wider shoes with looser straps can increase the range of motion in the feet. In contrast, stiffer shoes, while thought to preserve energy, can also increase hot spots and swelling. For help with selecting the proper footwear for cycling or other options for foot pain that cycling may cause, please consult a podiatrist.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from Summit Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

  • Achilles Tendonitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains
  • Broken Foot
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Stress Fractures
  • Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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 Sports Related Foot And Ankle Injuries
Tuesday, 14 February 2023 00:00

The Feet Can Be Hurt by Falling

Research has shown that more than 50 percent of elderly people who fall will endure life-threatening injuries if they are not found shortly after falling. There are various reasons why seniors may fall, including having arthritis, taking multiple medications, or lacking exercise. Additionally, having hypertension may cause the patient to feel light-headed, and this may interfere with balance. There are straightforward methods that can be implemented that may help reduce the risk of falling. Improving the lighting in the household and having regular physical and eye examinations are simple, yet effective practices for limiting falling episodes. Many people choose to have a grab bar installed in the shower and toilet area, in addition to removing worn rugs from the living area. Falling can seriously impact the feet, and it is not to be taken lightly. If you would like more information about effective fall prevention techniques, 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 Summit Podiatry. 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 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 Falls Prevention
Tuesday, 07 February 2023 00:00

Two Types of Flat Feet

People who have flat feet are missing an arch. Most babies are born with flat feet, and the arch generally develops in the teenage years. In cases where this doesn’t happen, the reasons can vary from having an abnormal foot structure to having weak muscles in the feet. This condition is easily noticed while standing on the foot and observing there is little or no arch. Some patients have no symptoms of having flat feet, while other patients may find their feet become achy at the end of the day. Flat feet are grouped into two categories consisting of rigid or flexible. The arch is visible while sitting down in people who have flexible flat feet, and there is no arch at all with rigid flat feet. Children who have flat feet are urged to wear supportive shoes. If you or your child has this condition, please consult a podiatrist who can help you to choose the correct shoes to wear.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Summit Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

  • Pain around the heel or arch area
  • Trouble standing on the tip toe
  • Swelling around the inside of the ankle
  • Flat look to one or both feet
  • Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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 Flat Feet
Thursday, 02 February 2023 00:00

Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?

If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!

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