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Dr. Kenneth Rosenthal
Dr. Jonathan C. O’Quinn
Dr. Michael J. Price

(252) 830-1000

Greenville, North Carolina
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Tuesday, 15 April 2025 00:00

Bunions can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling near the big toe joint. While bunions do not go away on their own, gentle exercises may help reduce discomfort, improve flexibility, and slow their progression. One helpful move is the toe stretch where you simply pull the big toe gently into alignment and hold for several seconds. Another is the towel scrunch. This involves placing a towel flat on the floor and using your toes to scrunch it toward you, which can strengthen the foot muscles. Try toe spreading by placing small spacers or your fingers between your toes and holding for a short time. Additionally, rolling a ball under your foot can also ease tension. These exercises should be done daily and combined with supportive shoes and foot care. If you have bunion pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact one of our podiatrists of Eastern Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

  • Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
  • Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

  • Redness and inflammation
  • Pain and tenderness
  • Callus or corns on the bump
  • Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Greenville, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Bunions
Friday, 11 April 2025 00:00

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.

Tuesday, 08 April 2025 00:00

A broken ankle can cause significant discomfort and mobility issues. One of the most noticeable symptoms is intense pain, which often worsens with movement or pressure. Swelling and bruising surrounding the ankle are common due to internal bleeding and inflammation. In severe cases, joint deformity may be present, indicating a misalignment of the bones. Many individuals with a broken ankle find it impossible to bear weight on the affected foot, as any attempt to stand or walk can cause extreme pain. The area may also feel tender to the touch, and the skin might appear discolored. If you have fallen and have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Eastern Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

  • Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
  •  Swelling around the area
  •  Bruising of the area
  • Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Greenville, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Broken Ankle Causes, Differences, Symptoms and Treatments
Tuesday, 01 April 2025 00:00

Cracked heels can be more than just a cosmetic issue, they can become painful, especially when the skin splits deep enough to bleed or become infected. Dry skin, standing for long periods of time, walking barefoot, or wearing open-back shoes often contribute to this problem. In some cases, medical conditions like diabetes or eczema can make the skin even more vulnerable. Treatment focuses on restoring moisture and healing the damaged skin. Regularly applying thick, emollient-rich creams or heel balms helps soften rough areas. Ingredients like urea, salicylic acid, or lactic acid are especially effective in breaking down thickened skin. Gently exfoliating calluses with a pumice stone can also prevent further splitting. In more severe cases, a podiatrist may recommend specialized treatments, debridement, or prescribe stronger topical medications. If you have painful or persistent cracked heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for proper care and lasting relief.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Eastern Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Greenville, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Solutions for Cracked Heels
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