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November 2022

Tuesday, 29 November 2022 00:00

High Heels and Morton’s Neuroma

Morton’s neuroma is a foot condition that can develop in women who frequently wear high heels. This condition can result from having inadequate room for the toes to move freely in and can cause the nerve between the third and fourth toes to become compressed. Irritation and inflammation may accompany this, which can cause severe pain and discomfort. Patients who have Morton’s neuroma often say the sensation they feel is similar to having a pebble or marble in the shoe, in addition to numbness and tingling. Mild relief may also be found when soft insoles are worn, the feet are elevated, and shoes that are worn have a wide toe area. Existing medical conditions may contribute to Morton’s neuroma. These can include flat feet, bunions, and hammertoes. If you feel you may have this foot condition, it is advised that you speak to a podiatrist who can properly treat this ailment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Chukwuma Ukata, DPM of Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

  • Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
  • Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
  • Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different 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 care needs.

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Tuesday, 22 November 2022 00:00

What Does a Bunion Look Like?

There are a variety of afflictions of the feet that can negatively impact the area around the toes. Bunions are one such foot condition. A bunion is a bony bump that can develop on the side of the foot, particularly on the side of the big toe or on the side of the pinky toe. Many individuals are curious to know what a bunion looks like for good reasons because being aware of this can help you identify a bunion at an early stage. Commonly, a bunion looks like a bulge. When the bunion is located on the side of the big toe, it might look as though the foot bone juts out at an angle. In some cases of bunions, the toes might even look crowded because of the bunion. The big toe might also look like it is turned inward. Contact a podiatrist today for more information about what bunions look like. 

If you are suffering from bunions, 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 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?

Doctors 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 doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

  • Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
  • Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
  • Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
  • Orthotics or foot inserts
  • Surgery

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 care needs.

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Friday, 18 November 2022 00:00

Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?

If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!

Tuesday, 15 November 2022 00:00

Two Methods That Can Determine Shoe Size

Wearing shoes that fit correctly is crucial in maintaining overall comfort while completing daily activities. Many people will try on several pairs of shoes before finding a perfect fit. It is beneficial to properly measure your feet prior to buying shoes, and this can be done by two different methods. Most shoe stores have a Brannock device, and this is generally effective in determining the correct shoe size. If this is unavailable, the foot can be measured while standing on a piece of paper. When the shoes and socks have been removed and the foot is lying flat on the floor, the foot can be traced. The results of the measurement may be more accurate when the foot is traced by someone else. Research has shown it is beneficial to purchase shoes at the end of the day when the feet are at their largest. Additionally, wearing the socks that would be worn with the intended shoes may help to ensure a proper fit. If you have questions and would like more information about how to find out your shoe size, please confer with a podiatrist.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Chukwuma Ukata, DPM from Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

  • Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
  • Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
  • Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
  • Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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.

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As children grow, it is important to create a safe home for them in order to reduce the risk of them falling and injuring themselves. Certain precautions can be useful to aid in this. If you choose to have screened windows, it is important to have them properly installed, as this may prevent children from accidentally falling out. Be mindful to open the window from the top, if possible, so as to bring added safety for children. It is also helpful if existing chairs are removed near the windows to stop the child from climbing up and falling out of the window. Another crucial prevention technique is to ensure children are strapped in while in high chairs, strollers, swings, and infant carriers. This may help to prevent them from attempting to stand up, falling out, and possibly hurting themselves. Research has indicated that baby walkers may be dangerous, and can roll down the steps if the baby moves too close to them. An acceptable alternative may be using a stationary activity center to give the child a chance to stand without possibly falling. If you would like information about how falling can affect children’s feet, and how to safely reduce your child’s chances of falling, please confer with a podiatrist.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Chukwuma Ukata, DPM from Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

  • Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
  • Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
  • Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
  • Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
  • Utilizing a walker or cane
  • Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
  • Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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 care needs.

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Tuesday, 01 November 2022 00:00

Mandatory Education for Podiatrists

People who experience painful or uncomfortable conditions regarding the foot and ankle often seek the advice of a podiatrist. These are doctors that specialize in treating a multitude of disorders concerning the feet. They are trained in diagnosing and treating foot conditions. The extensive schooling that is needed to pursue this type of career consists of obtaining a bachelor’s degree, followed by completing a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine program. This typically takes approximately four years to finish, and then a residency will take place in a hospital for three years. There are tests that must be passed to be licensed in a particular state to practice in. When the above tasks are completed, a podiatrist can choose what type of places to work in. These can consist of hospitals, private or group practices, in addition to extended care facilities. If you are considering pursuing a career in podiatry, it is strongly suggested that you speak with this type of doctor who can help you in determining if this is a right choice for you.

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

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 Garner, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about What is a Podiatrist?
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