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April 2021

Tuesday, 27 April 2021 00:00

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Athlete’s foot is an infection of the skin on the feet that is caused by a fungus. Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, such as locker room floors, and the fungus that causes athlete’s foot is highly contagious. Does this mean that you should avoid the gym? Not necessarily. Even if you frequent the locker room, there are steps that you can take to prevent a fungal infection. These prevention techniques include wearing flip-flops or other shoes while walking in the locker room, standing on a clean towel while changing to avoid direct contact between your feet and the floor, and washing and drying your feet thoroughly after exercising. If you or someone you know has developed athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you call and schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can help treat this condition and teach you additional preventive measures.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Chukwuma Ukata, DPM from Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

  • Hydrate your feet by using lotion
  • Exfoliate
  • Buff off nails
  • Use of anti-fungal products
  • Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

Read more about How to Deal with Athlete's Foot
Monday, 19 April 2021 00:00

Types of Achilles Tendon Injuries

The Achilles tendon is the band located on the back of the leg and is responsible for connecting the calf to the heel bone. This tendon is responsible for allowing us to rise up on our toes and for us to push off when walking or running. There are 2 main types of injuries that can occur to the Achilles tendon. The first, known as Achilles tendinopathy, occurs when there are tiny tears in the tendon and around it, usually from overuse. The second injury, an Achilles tendon rupture, can cause sudden pain and loss of movement.  This is usually caused by a sudden movement or force that stresses the calf muscle.  Patients who are experiencing pain in their Achilles tendon should consult with a podiatrist because of the potential severity these injuries have. A podiatrist will examine the leg and determine the extent of the injury.  

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Chukwuma Ukata, DPM of Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

  • Inflammation
  • Dull to severe pain
  • Increased blood flow to the tendon
  • Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

  • Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
  • Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

  • Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
  • Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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

Read more about What are Achilles Tendon Injuries
Monday, 12 April 2021 00:00

Diabetes and Children

The summer months is a common time for diabetic families to inquire about proper foot health. Children with diabetes may walk barefoot outside, and a foot infection may occur as a result of a small cut in the skin of the feet. Research has indicated that diabetes may cause neuropathy. This is defined as a numbing sensation in the feet, and it is often difficult to feel cuts, bruises, and scrapes that may have occurred. It is important for parents to properly manage their children’s diabetes, and this may help children to lead more of a normal life. This can be accomplished by having your child receive a yearly foot exam, and it is beneficial to encourage participating in physical activities. If your child has diabetes, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

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 Chukwuma Ukata, DPM from Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. 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 Garner, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about How to Care for Diabetic Foot
Monday, 05 April 2021 00:00

Can Children Get Plantar Warts?

The papillomavirus is responsible for warts in both adults and children. Although pediatric warts are said to be more common, anyone can become affected. Warts are usually not painful unless they occur on the soles of the feet, as is the case with plantar warts. These flat, thick, callus-like warts can grow singularly or even in a cluster, causing a “mosaic” on the bottom of the feet. Sometimes small black dots, which are clotted blood vessels, may be visible within the wart. While warts usually go away after some time, they can be quite tender and stubborn. If your child has developed plantar warts that are painful or persistent, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. A podiatrist can use a variety of medicines and treatments depending on the severity of the warts, your child’s age, medical history, and tolerance for medical procedures.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Chukwuma Ukata, DPM from Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

  • Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
  • Hard or thick callused spots
  • Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
  • Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

  • Freezing
  • Electric tool removal
  • Laser Treatment
  • Topical Creams (prescription only)
  • Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

Read more about What Are Plantar Warts?
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