If you're experiencing ankle pain, you may be suffering from an ankle injury. Sprains, fractures, Achilles tendonitis, and Achilles tendon ruptures are just some examples of potential ankle injuries. Don't wait for care for an ankle injury, as it may worsen over time. We can help!
A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, as the top of the toe moves toward the second toe. This deformity can result from arthritic conditions, genetic disorders, neuromuscular disease, flatfoot, or wearing high heels or tight shoes. Risk factors include family history, foot structure, and prolonged pressure on the forefoot. Bunions can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty finding comfortable footwear. A podiatrist can help by assessing foot alignment, recommending supportive shoes, providing custom orthotics, and offering treatments to relieve pain and slow progression. If bunions are affecting your comfort or mobility, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief tips.
If you are suffering from bunions, contact Thomas Bobrowski, DPM of InStride Crystal Coast Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Bunion?
A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.
Why Do Bunions Form?
Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary
Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions
How Are Bunions Diagnosed?
Podiatrists often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your provider.
How Are Bunions Treated?
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in New Bern, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that causes nerve damage, frequently affecting the feet. It often occurs in people with diabetes due to high blood sugar levels, which can damage both nerves and the small blood vessels that supply them. Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include burning, tingling, numbness, pain, and weakness in the feet, with these sensations often intensifying at night. Peripheral neuropathy can lead to difficulty walking, loss of balance, and a reduced ability to sense pain or temperature in the feet. As feeling diminishes, there is a higher risk of unnoticed injuries that could develop into foot ulcers or become infected. A podiatrist can help manage these issues by conducting a thorough foot exam, checking sensation, and suggesting treatment options. If you are experiencing symptoms of neuropathy in the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for relief and treatment solutions.
Neuropathy
Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Thomas Bobrowski, DPM from InStride Crystal Coast Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.
What Is Neuropathy?
Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.
Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:
Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.
Treatment
To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.
Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in New Bern, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Heel bone fractures, also known as calcaneal fractures, often result from high-impact trauma such as falling from a height or a direct blow to the foot. These fractures can cause severe pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty putting weight on the affected foot. In some cases, the fracture may extend into the joint and damage the cartilage, increasing the risk of arthritis or long-term mobility problems. Stress fractures may also develop in the heel bone from repetitive activity, especially in runners. Diagnosis typically involves X-rays, and a CT scan may be used to evaluate the severity of the fracture. A podiatrist can assess the heel bone fracture, order the necessary imaging, and determine the most effective treatment plan. A podiatrist also monitors healing, manages complications like pressure-related damage, and provides guidance on when to begin bearing weight again. If you experience severe heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.
Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Thomas Bobrowski, DPM of InStride Crystal Coast Podiatry. Our doctor 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?
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 feel free to contact our office located in New Bern, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection, but in severe cases, it becomes more than a simple itch. Cracked, peeling skin, intense redness, swelling, and open sores between the toes or on the soles of the feet can develop. The itching may become painful, and walking can feel uncomfortable. In some cases, blisters or secondary bacterial infections appear, making the condition more serious. Severe athlete’s foot often resists mild creams. A podiatrist can offer stronger antifungal medications, either topical or oral, to target the infection more effectively. Keeping feet clean and dry, changing socks regularly, and disinfecting shoes are essential steps to prevent reinfection. Left untreated, the infection can spread to the toenails or other parts of the body. If symptoms worsen or do not improve with basic care, it is suggested that you seek treatment from a podiatrist.
Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Thomas Bobrowski, DPM from InStride Crystal Coast Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.
What Is Athlete’s Foot?
Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.
Prevention
The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:
Symptoms
Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in New Bern, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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