Black Toenails

Black or darkened toenails are essentially bruised nails and can result from a variety injuries or problems. 

Darkened nails may occur as a result of the toe hitting the end or the top of the shoe toe area. Sometimes, the bruise can lead to a fungal nail infection.

Treatment may include trimming the nail back and applying a topical antifungal medication. If the skin under the nail is ulcerated, a topical antibiotic ointment should be applied.

Diabetic patients should contact our office for evaluation if they experience any change in the color of toenails. The pressure causing the bruised nail may lead to a small sore under the toenail, which can lead to infection.

If you have any questions regarding your feet, please don't hesitate to contact our Family Foot Care at 704-786-4482 or visit our website at http://www.familyfootcare.info/.

High Heels

Women invite foot problems by wearing high heels. 

High heels may contribute to knee and back problems, disabling injuries in falls, shortened calf muscles, and an awkward, unnatural gait. In time, high heels may cause enough changes in the feet to impair their proper function. 

Most women admit high heels make their feet hurt, but they tolerate the discomfort in order to look taller, stylish, and more professional.

There are ways to relieve some of the abusive effects of high heels. Women can limit the time they wear them by alternating with good-quality, oxford-type shoes or flats for part of the day. Keep the heel height to no more than two inches and make sure the fit for the rest of the shoe is good. Varying heel heights whenever possible to wear shoes as low as possible in each situation. For example, there are comfortable and attractive "walking" pumps for women for work and social activities.

Experts say the best shoes for women may be:

• A walking shoe with ties (not a slip-on).
• Shoes with a Vibram-type composition sole.
• A relatively wider heel, no more than a half or three-quarters of an inch in height.

If you need help in finding the right shoe for you and/or your love ones, our InStride Family Foot Care will be glad to help! Contact us at 704-786-4482 or visit our website at http://www.familyfootcare.info/.

Prevention of Diabetic Foot Ulcer

A diabetic foot ulcer can be prevented in a number of ways. 
First and foremost, it is essential that you take control of your diabetes: ensure that your blood sugar is properly managed and you are eating properly. Using medication or insulin is not enough to control your diabetes. Diet and exercise is essential.

There are certain other risk factors that contribute to the formation of diabetic foot ulcers. Foot deformities, such as bunions and hammertoes, and the formation of calluses beneath the foot in areas of pressure can cause the skin to break down and form ulcers. In these cases diabetic shoes, or even custom shoes, are helpful in reducing pressure and protecting the foot. In cases of extreme deformity of the foot, such as charcot, a brace known as an Ankle-foot orthotic is useful in preventing breakdown of the skin.

Everyone who is living with diabetes must have a relationship with a podiatrist to properly assess the risk of developing a diabetic foot ulcer and recommend measures to prevent one from ever occurring.

If you have any questions or concerns about your feet, please don't hesitate to contact our Family Foot Care at 704-786-4482. We have two locations to serve you: 1022 Lee-Ann Drive Concord and 6602 Roberta Road Harrisburg.


  

Pregnancy Foot Care

Pregnant women need to observe good foot health to prevent pain and discomfort.

Since the body undergoes changes and acquires a new weight-bearing stance, women should wear shoes with broad-based heels that provide support and absorb shock. 

Additional body weight also calls for more support, to prevent foot "breakdown."

The expectant mother often experiences more than ordinary swelling of her feet and ankles, which can aggravate existing foot conditions and promote inflammation or irritation. 

Pregnancy also triggers the release of hormones that enhance loose ligaments, which can contribute to foot strain.

• To help overcome these problems, allow time each day to stay off your feet.
• Elevate the feet and legs when you are sitting to help prevent and reduce swelling.
• Don't sit for long periods of time.

If problems do develop, please contact our Family Foot Care office to schedule an appointment at 704-786-4482.

Burning Feet

Burning feet refers to a foot sensation that is most frequently experienced by adults over age 50 and those who are diabetic.

Thyroid dysfunction, gastric restriction in morbidly obese people, and heavy use of alcohol also have been linked with burning feet. Nerve problems, such as neuromas and tarsal tunnel syndrome, may also be associated with the sensation of burning feet.

There are some simple ways to mitigate burning feet:

• Make sure you wear shoes that fit properly and provide support for your unique foot structure.

• Take foot baths daily to treat hot and sweaty feet.

• Wear socks of cotton, versus synthetic, fibers as they are lighter and cooler.

• Avoid long periods of standing

• Try cushioned or shock-absorbing insoles in your shoes to make standing more comfortable.

• In some cases, orthotics may be helpful to correct any underlying mechanical imbalances which may be responsible for your burning feet.

It is not unusual for feet to ache or burn at the end of a long day. However, on an ongoing basis, burning feet can be a symptom of a more serious health problem. 

Please consult our Family Foot Care office and schedule an appointment if you experience persistent burning feet at 704-786-4482 

or visit our website at http://www.familyfootcare.info/.

WALK SOFTLY

Although it is an effective way to burn calories, using a treadmill requires caution. 
Frequent walking at a much higher rate of steps per minute on a sharp incline can result in foot injuries. 
Inflammation of the tissues of the heel, known a plantar fasciitis, is a common result from treadmill use. 
The pressure and friction experienced can also cause Morton’s neuroma, a nerve irritation near the base of the third and fourth toes. 
Other potential issues include tendonitis and blisters. Stretching exercises done prior to a workout can be of benefit. Orthotics or padding for shoes may offer some relief. Also, lowering the incline and speed aggressive treadmill used and maintaining a shorter stride may help in preventing foot injuries.

Whenever your feet hurt, it’s important to find out why. Bearing in mind how much our feet do for us.
If you have any questions regarding your feet, please don't hesitate to contact our InStride Family Foot Care at 704.786.4482. We are located at 1022 Lee-Ann Dr. in Concord.

HINT: When possible, vary your treadmill workouts with training outdoors.

HEEL FISSURES

Heel fissures, or splitting skin, can be unsightly, painful, and potentially hazardous to your health.

Chronic dry skin, athletes’ foot, wearing open back shoes, and cold weather are all contributory factors that can lead to this painful condition.

Walking, which puts pressure on the fissures, causes them to split and become more vulnerable to bacterial invasion, which can lead to infection.

A podiatrist can remove or debride the callusing in the affected area. A topical medication that allows for more successful penetration of the callus may also be suggested.

Reducing the size of the callused tissue helps to accelerate the closure of the fissure.

In additions, applying recommended moisturizers may help alleviate the condition.

As with all conditions your doctor should be consulted to diagnose and treat this condition.
Feet are vulnerable and prone to complaints, but most problems don’t just disappear on their own.

If you have any questions regarding your feet, please do not hesitate to contact our FAMILY FOOT CARE at 704.786.4482 or visit our website at http://www.familyfootcare.info/.

HINT: Prolonged standing, particularly on hard floors, can result in heel fissures.