Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that can cause severe pain in and around affected joints, often in the big toe. Gout is most common in older men. Symptoms include swelling, redness, tenderness, and severe pain in the affected joint. This condition, left untreated, can worsen. Gout attacks usually occur on the joint at the base of the big toe, but can affect every other joint in the foot. Many joints can be affected at once. Attacks happen quickly and can become worse. They may subside after a week or take longer to to heal. The primary cause of gout is an accumulation of uric acid in the body. This happens because of the breakdown of chemicals in the body known as purines. Usually, uric acid is secreted through the kidneys and urine, but when it is not, the substance begins to form crystals, which settle around joints, under skin, and even in internal organs. Eventually they find their way into spaces between bones that form a joint and begin to rub against joint linings, causing pain and inflammation. If you feel pain in your big toe, please see a podiatrist who can properly diagnose gout and provide appropriate treatment.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

Big toe arthritis is a form of osteoarthritis, and it causes the joints of the big toe to become inflamed. This usually affects the first metatarsophalangeal, or MTP joint. This condition can cause pain, numbness, and difficulty in walking. Risk factors can include being older, female, obese, and having muscle weakness or joint injuries. This affliction is often diagnosed with an X-ray to see the amount of space between the joints. Less spacing leads to more severe arthritis. The extent of pain, stiffness, and movement of the big toe are also used to gauge the severity of this condition. While one can try physical therapy, rigid orthotics, and cortisone injections to relieve pain, the most effective long-term treatment for this condition is surgery. Surgical treatments for big toe arthritis include a cheilectomy, which involves removing a portion of the bone within the big toe, or fusing the bones in the big toe, which is referred to as arthrodesis. If you suffer from big toe arthritis and have tried other remedies with little or no relief, please consult with a podiatrist to see if you are a candidate for one of these surgeries.

In certain cases, in which the patient suffers from extreme pain or damage in a joint, joint replacement surgery may be deemed useful. If you have constant pain in a foot joint, consult with one of our podiatrists from Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Joint Replacement Surgery?

Over time, joints wear down; this can be exacerbated by diseases and conditions. Joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is when a damaged joint is surgically removed and replaced with a prosthesis. Prostheses, which can be made of ceramic, plastic, or metal, act as joints in lieu of an actual joint. One of the most prevalent causes for joint replacement is arthritis.

Arthritis in the Foot

Arthritis can occur in any joint in the body, including in the feet. Common types of arthritis in the foot are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. The big toe is usually where arthritis occurs in the foot; this is known as hallux rigidus.

Joint Replacement Surgery in the Foot

The most common form of joint replacement in the foot is a first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint placement. MTP joint replacement surgery is designed to treat hallux rigidus. Surgery is not intensive, and recovery occurs within one to two months after the procedure has been done. Overall, joint replacement surgery is a safe and effective way to treat pain in the joint of the foot.

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

Tendons connect muscles with bones. The Achilles tendon—one of the body’s largest tendons—connects the calf muscles with the heel bone. It is an essential component that facilitates movements, such as walking, jumping and running. Athletes engage the Achilles tendon constantly, which makes them more prone to injuring it through overuse. A common Achilles tendon injury among athletes is Achilles tendonitis. Also known as Achilles tendinopathy, this icondition causes pain and swelling in the tendon above the heel bone and, sometimes, ankle stiffness. Podiatrists are experts at diagnosing and treating Achilles tendonitis and other sports injuries that affect the Achilles tendon. Make an appointment with a podiatrist to have your condition diagnosed and treated properly. Left untreated, Achilles tendonitis may lead to degeneration and tearing of the tendon.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors 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 offices located in Mount Pleasant and Charleston, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s foot is a common infection that can affect a wide range of individuals. This fungal infection is caused by ringworm, and it can be spread by walking barefoot on highly trafficked public surfaces like pool sides. It is important to note that the fungus causing ringworm thrives in environments that are both warm and moist which is why athlete’s foot is often developed after walking barefoot in public locker rooms. There are several steps you can take to avoid developing athlete’s foot. First, you might consider wearing socks, shoes, or slippers when walking around the house. If a member of your household has athlete’s foot, the infection can be spread to others through bath mats, floors, and other surfaces. Second, it might be wise to wash and disinfect items that make frequent contact with the feet. Namely, you could diligently wash any towels, socks, or sheets that encountered another person’s bare feet. If you believe that you have athlete’s foot or want to learn more about methods of prevention, contact a podiatrist.

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 one of our podiatrists from Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists.  Our doctors 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 offices located in Mount Pleasant and Charleston, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A calcium deposit that develops between the heel bone and the arch may be referred to as a heel spur. It is defined as a bony growth and it can cause little pain or the opposite, it may cause severe pain. They can gradually develop as a result of repetitive stress from walking, running, or participating in jumping activities. Additionally, wearing shoes that do not fit correctly may be a reason for a heel spur to develop as well as existing medical issues. Some people have had their heels bruised from an injury, they may have excess body weight, or they may have an abnormal gait or walking style. Heel spurs can have similar characteristics as other foot conditions, including plantar fasciitis and other forms of heel pain. Having an X-ray taken is the way to receive a proper diagnosis. Successful treatment often begins with resting the affected foot as often as possible and performing specific stretching techniques. If you have been afflicted with a heel spur, please confer with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the correct treatment which may include surgery for permanent removal. 

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our offices located in Mount Pleasant and Charleston, SC . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

If you have ugly toenails, the cause might be toenail fungus. Many adults have it, particularly as one ages. This unsightly condition is especially common among those who go barefoot in public swimming areas, locker rooms, and who sweat inside their shoes for many hours in a day. The medical term for toenail fungus is onychomycosis. It is a condition that generally starts out as a white or yellow spot under the nail. While it is easy to ignore in the beginning stages, the toenail later begins to thicken, discolor, and crumble. The longer you wait to treat this, the longer it takes to get rid of it. The fungus that causes toenails to be affected is the same type of fungus that causes athlete’s foot. The two can happen concurrently if the fungus affects the skin around the infected nail. The toenail also may become painful and emit a foul odor. Those with diabetes or a suppressed immune system need to be especially cautious of toenail fungus because it can affect the blood circulation to the feet. If you suspect that you have toenail fungus, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist as soon as possible so that the condition can be treated before it spreads or becomes entrenched to the point of taking years to heal.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors 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 offices located in Mount Pleasant and Charleston, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Although a podiatrist can help you maintain the health of your feet, there are many things that you can do every day to practice proper foot health. For example, people other than those with diabetes might consider incorporating a pumice stone into their foot care routine. However, it is important to know exactly how a pumice stone should and should not be used. Pumice stones can be used on the feet to target and remove dry or dead skin. Most commonly, individuals might use a pumice stone to remove dead skin on the heels and around the toes. To use a pumice stone, soak the feet in warm, soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes. Also be sure to soak the stone, as you do not want to apply a dry stone to the skin. Apply the stone to the target area, using small circular motions, gently applying a small amount of pressure. Importantly, if you apply too much pressure, you might remove too much skin. After application, rinse your skin and the pumice stone then pat your feet dry. You might even finish up the routine by applying a moisturizer to the feet. Contact a podiatrist to see if adding a pumice stone into your daily foot care routine is right for you.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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

Stress fractures of the foot, considered to be overuse injuries, are cracked bones that result from repetitive impact. They are common to runners, especially those whose footwear does not support the foot sufficiently. Women with osteoporosis are also prone to getting stress fractures. A podiatrist can diagnose stress fractures, starting with a medical history of your past injuries, along with a review of your eating habits, exercise regime, and daily activities. X-rays may not be able to detect the hairline fractures until a month or so following the injury, so other types of imaging tests may be necessary. A bone scan may be conducted, calling for a dose of radioactive material given intravenously. However, the results may not be conclusive, because many types of bone problems look alike. An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) test may be administered. This process uses radio waves and a strong magnetic field that create detailed images of the bones. The MRI is considered to be the best indicator of stress fractures, because it shows fractures sooner than an X-ray can, and it also differentiates between bone and soft tissue injuries. An ultrasound test or a CT scan (computed tomography) also can be used to diagnose stress fractures. If you believe the pain in your feet is being caused by a stress fracture, please consult a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

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

People who have flat feet may notice their gait is affected by their abnormal foot structure. The majority of babies are born with flat feet, and the arch generally develops in the teenage years. Adults who have flat feet may have acquired this condition genetically, and certain stretches can be done that may help existing pain and stiffness. There are two shin muscles that contribute to the shape of the arch. An effective stretch is called the “windshield wiper” and can be done by sitting in a chair, followed by lifting the toes toward the shin, and away from the body. After holding this stretch for a few seconds, return to the original position. The toes can be brought up again facing inward toward the body. Many people enjoy practicing the “towel scrunch” by placing their feet on a towel while sitting in a chair. The toes are curled as the towel gets scrunched, and this is continued until the far edge of the towel is under the foot. There are many exercises that can help flat feet, and if you are afflicted with this condition, please consult with a podiatrist.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors 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 offices located in Mount Pleasant and Charleston, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.