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November 2019

When it comes to foot care, there are a few simple activities you can perform daily to ensure the health of your feet. For starters, it’s important to clean your feet and regularly wash and dry them before putting on shoes and socks. To prevent dryness and possible cracking of the heels or ankles, use a moisturizer daily, preferably one recommended by a podiatrist. Please note, however, to not moisturize between your toes because they will not dry properly. To avoid complications with your toe nails, be sure to cut nails straight across while also avoiding digging into the sides of the nails. Lastly, try to change your shoes everyday. Because the area inside your shoes is dark, wet, and warm, there is a strong chance bacteria and fungus may form if they are not changed regularly. By performing these activities, you may prevent foot odor as well as a variety of conditions such as athlete’s foot and ingrown toenails. If you do experience any issues with your feet, we recommend it is best that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and advised treatment regime.

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 Piedmont Foot & Ankle Clinic. 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 one of our offices located in Cary, Apex, Dunn, and Benson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Everyday Foot Care
Monday, 18 November 2019 00:00

Symptoms of Toenail Fungus

The medical term that is known as onychomycosis is commonly referred to as toenail fungus. It can happen to any part of the toenail, and the frequency of this occurrence may increase with age. A common symptom associated with this type of fungus that may occur is a white or yellow discoloration of the nail. Another system that may arise is the nail becoming thick or brittle, and possibly crumbling. In severe cases, the entire nail may disintegrate, and can look unsightly. This condition is caused by a fungus that lives and thrives in warm and moist environments. These places can consist of public swimming pools, shower room floors, and locker rooms. It is considered to be contagious, so it is beneficial to wear appropriate shoes while in these areas. There are several treatment techniques that may be available, so it is strongly suggested to consult with a podiatrist who can determine the best option for you.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Piedmont Foot & Ankle Clinic. 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 one of our offices located in Cary, Apex, Dunn, and Benson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Monday, 11 November 2019 00:00

How Do Cracked Heels Develop?

Many patients find the skin on the heels may gradually become dry and cracked. Another name for deep cracks in the skin are known as heel fissures. This can occur as a result of wearing shoes that have an open back. These types of shoes can offer minimal support, and may place additional pressure on the heels. Additional reasons why this condition may develop can include pregnancy, obesity, and diabetes. Eating an imbalanced diet may contribute to cracked heels, and it may be beneficial to supplement with vitamins. Research has indicated it may be helpful to drink plenty of water in addition to using a good moisturizer. If you have developed cracked heels, it is suggested that you seek the advice of a podiatrist who can help you to find relief.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Piedmont Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

  • Invest in a good foot cream
  • Try Using Petroleum Jelly
  • Ease up on Soaps
  • Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

  • Moisturize After Showering
  • Skip a Shower
  • Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
  • Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Cary, Apex, Dunn, and Benson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

Monday, 04 November 2019 00:00

Foot Conditions Children May Have

New parents may notice their children are born with flat feet. This is a result of supporting muscles and ligaments that have not fully formed. The arch typically develops as the teenage years approach, and it is generally nothing to be concerned about. Additionally, it is common for children to walk with their toes in or out, and in most cases, will be outgrown. If children frequently participate in sporting activities, you may see blisters on their feet. This can come from wearing shoes and socks that do not fit properly. Children can be susceptible to bunions, especially if it is genetic. A large bump on the side of the big toe may form, and it may cause the second toe to overlap with the one next to it. If you notice anything unusual about your children’s feet, it is advised to consult with a podiatrist who can determine what the best course of treatment is.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Piedmont Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Cary, Apex, Dunn, and Benson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about What to Do to Keep Your Child’s Feet Healthy
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