Items filtered by date: May 2024

Skateboarding is an exhilarating activity that combines skill, balance, and adrenaline. However, it also comes with its fair share of risks, including the potential for ankle injuries. Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments supporting the ankle joint are overstretched or torn, often due to sudden twists or impacts. In skateboarding, these injuries commonly occur when riders land awkwardly after performing tricks or navigating uneven terrain. Factors such as inadequate footwear, lack of protective gear, and insufficient warm-up routines can further increase the risk of ankle sprains. While ankle sprains are typically mild to moderate injuries, they can still cause pain, swelling, and limited mobility, potentially sidelining skaters for weeks or even months. Proper prevention and management strategies, including supportive footwear, using ankle braces or tape, and practicing proper technique, are essential for reducing the risk of ankle sprains while enjoying the thrills of skateboarding. If you have endured an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer both a treatment plan and additional prevention strategies.

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.

Buschke-Ollendorff syndrome is a rare genetic disorder characterized by the presence of skin abnormalities, typically in the form of firm, non-tender, rubbery bumps called connective tissue nevi, and bone abnormalities, such as osteopoikilosis. These can occur on the feet. It is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern, meaning one copy of the altered gene in each cell is sufficient to cause the disorder. While the skin lesions are usually asymptomatic, they can cause cosmetic concerns. Osteopoikilosis often goes unnoticed and does not typically cause symptoms. Diagnosis is usually made based on clinical examination and imaging studies, such as X-rays. Management of Buschke-Ollendorff syndrome involves monitoring for any potential complications and addressing cosmetic concerns. Podiatrists can help by providing supportive care and addressing any foot-related issues that may arise, such as discomfort or deformities associated with osteopoikilosis. If you develop skin abnormalities affecting the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and care.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, 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.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

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

Finding the right shoes for flat feet is important for both comfort and foot health. Flat feet can vary in shape and size, from toes pointing outward to tight Achilles tendons. Experts suggest opting for wide-fit shoes to accommodate your foot shape and avoiding narrow fronts, allowing your toes to spread comfortably. Look for shoes with sturdy soles and heel support to prevent overpronation and protect against potential tendon damage. Custom orthotic inserts can provide personalized support, reduce strain, and help keep your feet aligned. Reinforced heels are essential to safeguard against pressure to protect the Achilles tendon. Consider wearing different types of shoes for various activities, ensuring you have the right support for each occasion. During the summer, prioritize wide, sturdy soles with ample cushioning. While wearing quality shoes is essential, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an examination and tailored advice on managing flat feet.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Kenneth Donovan, DPM from Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor 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 our office located in Charleston, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Feet are remarkable structures comprising 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments. These bones are divided into three groups, consisting of the tarsal bones, which form the back of the foot and ankle, the metatarsal bones, which make up the midfoot, and the phalanges, which form the toes. On average, a person takes approximately 8,000 to 10,000 steps per day, which adds up to about 115,000 miles in a lifetime. Among the many joints in the feet, some of the most essential include the ankle joint, subtalar joint, and metatarsophalangeal joints. These joints work together to provide support, flexibility, and propulsion during movement, allowing us to walk, run, jump, and dance with ease. If you have developed foot pain which may be due to your foot's structure, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can help you with relief solutions.

If you have any concerns about your feet, 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.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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.