Items filtered by date: October 2024

Foot pain is a common issue among cyclists, often stemming from improper bike fit or inadequate footwear. One prevalent type of pain is hot feet, which occurs when blood flow is restricted due to wearing tight shoes or poor positioning on the pedals. This sensation can lead to discomfort and fatigue during long rides. Another common complaint is arch pain, often caused by insufficient arch support in cycling shoes, leading to strain on the plantar fascia. Additionally, pain in the ball of the foot, or metatarsalgia, can result from pressure on the forefoot, especially when cycling in a forward-leaning position. Understanding these types of foot pain is essential for cyclists to make necessary adjustments, ensuring a more comfortable and enjoyable riding experience. If you enjoy cycling and have developed foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you advice and relief tips.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Kenneth Donovan, DPM of Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Charleston, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Hammertoes are a deformity where one or more toes become bent at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. This condition often affects the second, third, or fourth toes and can lead to pain, stiffness, and difficulty wearing shoes. Common symptoms include visible toe bending, discomfort, corns or calluses from friction with footwear, and limited range of motion in the affected toes. Hammertoes develop due to muscle imbalances in the foot, often caused by wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, injury, or conditions like arthritis or diabetes. Left untreated, hammertoes can worsen, leading to complications such as open sores, infections, or permanent joint damage. Treatment options vary depending on severity, from conservative approaches such as wearing roomier shoes to surgical correction in more advanced cases. If you have a hammertoe, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist as early intervention can alleviate discomfort and prevent further deformity.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Kenneth Donovan, DPM of Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Charleston, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

If you suffer from arthritis in your feet and ankles, incorporating gentle foot exercises into your routine can help alleviate symptoms like joint stiffness and pain. One effective stretch involves placing a book on the floor and standing on it with just the balls of your feet, keeping your heels on the ground. Lean forward while keeping your knees straight until you feel a stretch in your calves and hold it for 15 to 30 seconds. For ankle mobility, sit in a chair, lift one foot slightly off the ground, and trace the letters of the alphabet in the air. Repeat with the other foot. These exercises can improve flexibility and reduce discomfort. It is also beneficial to get personalized advice. For additional stretches and a tailored exercise plan, confer with a podiatrist. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with this type of doctor to get professional guidance to keep your feet and ankles in optimal condition.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Kenneth Donovan, DPM from Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Charleston, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.