Items filtered by date: January 2025

Long walks can lead to foot pain due to overuse, wearing improper footwear, or lack of preparation. Common issues include blisters from friction, arch pain from inadequate support, and heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis. Without proper care, these minor discomforts can turn into chronic problems. To prevent pain, wear supportive, well-fitted shoes designed for walking. Use moisture-wicking socks to reduce blisters and consider orthotic insoles for added cushioning and arch support. Stretch your feet and calves before and after walking to maintain flexibility and circulation. If pain persists or worsens, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can identify underlying issues, such as misalignment or overpronation, and recommend tailored solutions like custom orthotics or specific treatments.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Kenneth Donovan, DPM from Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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.

Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common fungal infection that affects the toenails, causing discoloration, thickening, and a crumbly texture. The infection occurs when fungi enter the nail through small cracks or injuries, thriving in warm, damp environments such as sweaty shoes or communal showers. Toenail fungus can also develop when the immune system is weakened or when there is an existing medical condition, such as diabetes, that makes the body more susceptible to infections. The most noticeable symptoms include a yellow or white discoloration of the nail, followed by thickening, brittleness, and sometimes an unpleasant odor. In more severe cases, the nail may separate from the nail bed. To diagnose toenail fungus, a podiatrist will typically examine the affected nail and may take a sample for laboratory testing to identify the specific fungus causing the infection. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can effectively treat toenail fungus, which may include prescribed medication.

For more information about treatment, 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.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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.

Seeing a podiatrist is essential for anyone facing foot or ankle discomfort, as these specialists offer targeted expertise in foot health and mobility. From common conditions like bunions and plantar fasciitis to more complex issues, such as fractures or tendon injuries, a podiatrist can provide tailored treatment options. These foot doctors can prescribe custom orthotics, medication, and even surgery when necessary. Diabetic patients, in particular, benefit from regular care from a podiatrist to monitor for potential complications, like nerve damage, infections, or ulcers that may impact their overall health. Additionally, athletes with sports-related injuries often find that podiatrists can support faster recovery and improve performance through specialized treatments. For runners with gait imbalances or older adults dealing with balance issues, a podiatrist can offer measures that improve comfort and stability. If you have foot, toe, or ankle pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to 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.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

• Physical therapy
• Drugs
• Orthotic inserts or soles
• Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

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.

Diabetic foot pain is common among people with diabetes, often stemming from diabetic neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease. Diabetic neuropathy occurs when elevated blood sugar levels damage the nerves in the feet, leading to numbness, tingling, or burning pain. This condition can also reduce the ability to sense injuries, increasing the risk of ulcers or infections. Peripheral vascular disease involves poor circulation caused by hardened arteries. This slows down healing of cuts or sores and may result in more severe complications, such as tissue damage. Both conditions primarily affect the feet, toes, and ankles. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot health, monitor nerve function, and recommend treatment to address pain or prevent complications like ulcers and infections. If you have foot pain as the result of diabetes, it is suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious conditon. 

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 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.

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 our office located in Charleston, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.