- Warts
- ArthritisRheumatoid Arthritis is a chronic progressive disease that attacks several joints throughout the body. It is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the joints. As a result, the tissue inside the joints, called synovium, starts to thicken and causes pain around the joints. The synovium is responsible for creating a fluid that lubricates the joints to help them move. Approximately 1.5 million people in the United States have Rheumatoid Arthritis. Women are almost three times as likely to have RA compared to men, and it’s disease usually begins between the ages of 30 and 60. People who have a genetic history of RA are more likely to develop the disease.
- Plantar FasciitisPlantar fasciitis is a foot condition that particularly causes a great deal of pain in the heel area. Some patients have described the pain as stabbing and is typically felt in the morning, when first getting out of bed. You may also experience pain with this condition if you stand or sit for long periods of time throughout the day. The development of plantar fasciitis is quite common among runners, those who are overweight, and those who do get enough support from their footwear.
- Medical Weight LossSome signs that point to the development of arthritis include foot pain, stiffness in the joints, swelling, clicking or popping noises, as well as difficulty walking. Since arthritis can cause so much discomfort, it’s important to look into treatment methods that can help alleviate arthritic pain. One step you can take is to invest in comfortable footwear that provides you with optimal support. Shoes with arch support, heel cups, cushioning, and shock absorption are likely to provide you with ultimate comfort while you perform your day to day activities. Your doctor may also advise you to set a weight loss goal if you happen to be obese. Losing weight may help you lessen the pressure that’s being put on your feet. Heat and ice treatments have also been found to help with easing stiffness in the joints.
- Diabetic Foot CareMillions of people are affected with diabetes each year. Diabetes damages blood vessels in all parts of the body, especially the feet. The legs and feet may develop slow blood flow, which causes neuropathy (nerve damage). Once a diabetic patient develops neuropathy, it is important that the feet are well taken care of, or else the lower limbs may have to be amputated. This only happens in drastic cases, but it shows how seriously diabetic foot care should be taken.
- Diabetes Care
- X-Rays
- Wound CareFor information on wound care and wound prevention, we recommend you speak with a podiatrist for professional care and advice.
- Ankle SurgeryFoot and ankle surgery may be performed depending on the severity of the injury. In any case, if you happen to develop a foot condition, it’s always advised you seek the counsel of a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and advised treatment plan. If you notice an abnormal growth, a change in the appearance of your foot or ankle, discomfort while standing or walking, or general foot pain, it would be in your best interest to seek professional help, especially if surgery is the recommended treatment for your case.
- BunionsIf you have arthritis, frequently wear tight fitting shoes such as high heels, and are older in age, it’s very likely that you may develop a bunion. A bony hump at the base of the big toe is the biggest sign that you may have developed this condition. Bunions are often painful and typically cause an extreme amount of discomfort. Because a bunion protrudes on the side of the foot, it’s likely for it to continuously rub against the inside of your shoe. This causes frequent friction and pain, which may cause calluses to form as well.
- GangreneOn a daily basis, diabetic feet must be checked. If you are ever concerned about something, contact your health care professional. You never want to wait until a wound gets too bad to treat. If left untreated, gangrene may develop. Gangrene is a serious infection that can cause in diabetics that can lead to sepsis or amputation. It is also important for diabetics to be on the lookout for ulcers. Ulcers are sores that develop from tissue loss on the skin. They can be quite painful and require intensive treatment. Early treatment and everyday inspection are imperative to staying healthy.
- Ingrown ToenailsSigns that may indicate the formation of an ingrown toenail include redness, pain, swelling of the surrounding skin, possible bleeding or oozing of pus, and an overgrowth of the skin around the nail. The surrounding skin may also feel tender and become swollen or hardened. Most ingrown toenails are diagnosed by a simple physical exam; however, an x-ray may be required to show how deep the nail has grown into the skin of the toe.
- Reconstructive SurgeryJust as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
- CornsIf you happen to wear tight fitting shoes or tend to stand for the majority of your day, it’s likely that you may develop a foot condition known as a corn. When frequent friction or pressure is put on the foot, a small, hardened lump may form in that area. A corn may have a yellow hue and can typically be found on the side of the toes, as well as on the bottom of the feet. Though they are generally harmless, corns can often bring many patients discomfort.
- CallusesA person can take care of their feet at home by following the instructions of their physician. Using creams on one’s feet is also an effective way to heal dryness. When using tools to remove calluses, use caution, as severe diabetics may not be able to feel pain on their feet. If any complications arise do not hesitate to call a podiatrist.
- FungusFungal toenails form due to an infection that gets in between either the cracks in the nail or possible cuts on the surrounding skin. When this occurs, it’s likely to discolor and thicken the nail; this makes it hard to care for or trim. The nail itself may also become brittle and could potentially crumble. The fungus under the nail may build over time, separating the nail from the bed and ultimately causing it to fall off if not treated properly.
- Sports MedicinePodiatrists perform foot and ankle surgery to treat a number of different conditions. These may include bunions, heel pain, flat feet, arthritis of the foot or ankle, sports injuries, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, complications due to diabetes, and fractures, to name a few. Again, the need for surgery is dependent upon the type of injury you are experiencing, as well as its severity. This also means that the recovery process for surgery will vary as well. With that being said, most podiatrists will recommend you get plenty of rest, stay off your feet, ice the affected area to reduce swelling, and elevate the affected area.
- Physical TherapyThere are many non-surgical options that can be used to treat this ailment. Some of these options include physical therapy, foot massages, orthotics, bracing, supportive shoes, and steroid injections. Physical therapy is useful because it will help stretch and strengthen the joints in both the foot and ankle to improve joint function. Massages can help improve blood circulation which will be good for the feet. Choosing proper footwear will allow you to walk with comfortability if you are a sufferer from RA. Lastly, bracing will help stabilize the foot joints, limit deformities and decrease pain.
- Flatfoot Correction
- Heel Pain
- Ankle SprainOne of the most common causes of pain felt in the ankle region is a sprain. When ligaments in the ankle are torn or overstretched, an ankle sprain is likely to occur. There are three types of sprains that may develop: mild, moderate, and severe. In the case of a mild ankle sprain, the ankle is stable. The ligaments, however, are stretched. A moderate sprain consists of one or more ligaments being partially torn, and there’s limited movement. Severe ankle sprains include one or more torn ligaments, the ankle being unstable, and an inability to move the foot.
- Orthotics and Prosthetic Therapy
- General PodiatryTo ensure your convenience, below is the information you need about our podiatry offices, including our hours, location, appointment scheduling and insurance acceptance.
- Achilles TendonitisA condition that often results in serious heel pain is known as Achilles tendonitis. This condition may form when the Achilles tendon is damaged as a result of overuse. This particular injury can be very serious, as the Achilles tendon’s main function is to connect the lower half of the calf muscles to the heel bone. If this tendon becomes damaged, it may result in difficulty walking and completing everyday tasks, as well as cause extreme discomfort and pain.
- Ankle InstabilitySports in which ankle sprains commonly occur include soccer, tennis, and cheerleading. Ankle sprains are caused by a tear in the ligament of the ankle, which typically occurs when the foot is rolled in an awkward manner. Ankle sprains are usually accompanied with bruising, swelling, and pain. Those who have sprained an ankle in the past may run the risk of developing chronic ankle instability. Those with this condition will generally feel a persistent pain, swelling, and tenderness in the ankle, and may experience the sensation of the ankle giving way when performing everyday activities.
- Ankle SprainAnkle sprains are a common occurrence for those who are particularly active in sports. Volleyball, basketball, and soccer are just a few of the types of sports that are prone to producing ankle injuries, including ankle sprains. Many athletes have found that compressing the ankle by wrapping it in bandages is an effective method for helping to prevent injury. Exercising using a balance board has also been found useful for strengthening the ankle and increasing its stability.
- Arthritic Foot CareArthritis develops when one or more joints become inflamed. When this occurs, it’s very likely for you to develop pain and stiffness in the affected area. Arthritis is typically common in the small joints of the foot as well as the ankle. It’s very possible that arthritis can develop due to previous injuries or traumas from the past. Some of the most common causes for arthritis may include old age, obesity, and genetic factors. It’s also been found that women who wear tight, high-heeled shoes for most of their lives are prone to experiencing foot complications such as arthritis.
- Bunions ProblemsA bunion is a bone deformity usually occurring at the base of the big toe. This is a progressive condition that is made worse by inward pressure from tight shoes. Bunions can be very painful, and in some instances surgery may be necessary to remove them.
- Calluses
- Diabetic Foot CareWilson, NC. As a general and surgical podiatrist, Dr. Blackwell treats a variety of foot and ankle conditions including heel pain and ingrown toenails. He also specializes in diabetic foot care and surgery of the foot.
- Flat FeetOrthotics are especially useful for those with foot pain and those who may have fallen arches. Orthotics may help properly reposition the structures of the foot, easing the pressure and rebalancing the distribution of weight on the feet. Those with arthritic feet or those experiencing pain due to plantar fasciitis may find relief with orthotics, as they also tend to find issues with arch complications. Orthotics are a great way to give your feet extra support, which can come in handy for those who tend to stand or work on their feet for the majority of the day. The next type of patient who made aid in the use of orthotics are those with diabetes. It’s more likely for those with diabetes to develop corns and calluses. When this occurs, the friction of the corn or callus against your footwear can be extremely uncomfortable and painful. Orthotics, in this instance, can be useful in reducing the pressure placed upon the affected areas.
- Fungus Toenails
- Geriatric Foot Care
- HammertoesHammertoes get their name due to the abnormal appearance of the toe, in which it bends down like a hammer. A hammertoe’s shape is formed by a deformed bending in the toe’s middle joint. There are many factors that play into how hammertoes form. Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, jamming, or breaking it, can make the toe more susceptible to developing into a hammertoe. Age and gender also influence the likelihood of getting a hammertoe. Women have also been known to be more likely to develop a hammertoe compared to men. You’re also more likely to develop this condition as you age. Certain diseases, such as arthritis and diabetes, have been known to influence the likelihood of forming a hammertoe.
- Heel SpursSigns that you may have a heel spur include pain felt in the heel region, swelling at the front of the heel, and inflammation. If the affected area also feels warm to the touch, you may be experiencing the symptoms of a heel spur. Heel spurs are extremely uncomfortable and can often lead to a great deal of pain if left untreated. They may develop due to excess body weight, complications with arthritis, wearing poorly fitted shoes, and bruising of the heel.
- Heel Pain
- Foot Pain
- Ingrown ToenailsFor a proper diagnosis and advised treatment plan, we recommend you seek the care of a podiatrist as soon as you notice the warning signs of an ingrown toenail.
- Foot Injuries
- Foot Neuroma
- Foot OrthoticsThe history of studying biomechanics dates back to ancient Egypt at around 3000 B.C., where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded. Throughout the centuries, advances in technology, science, and an understanding of the human body led to more accurate diagnosis of conditions such as corns for example. In 1974, biomechanics garnered a large audience when Merton Root founded Root Lab to make custom orthotics. He proposed that corrections of certain conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area. Due to his research, we still use his basic principle of foot orthotics to this day.
- Plantar FasciitisFor more information about plantar fasciitis, we recommend you consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to discuss a treatment plan.
- Podiatric SurgeryFrom routine checkups to foot surgery, Kendall L. Blackwell, DPM is a podiatrist who is equipped to handle all your foot and ankle needs.