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

(252) 830-1000

Greenville, North Carolina

February 2023

Pickleball is a sport that requires the right shoes to be worn and may help to prevent foot pain from developing. Many people choose to wear court shoes, which have smooth soles that can help lateral movement. They are designed with a flared bottom that helps increase stability. Court shoes are generally made with extra padding near the laces, providing additional comfort. These shoes may not be the same size as other shoes you own, so it is beneficial to have your feet measured before making a purchase. People who play pickleball know the importance of wearing the right socks and will often change them because of frequent sweating. It can help to take breaks to rest the feet and may help to avoid foot pain. If you would like additional information about how foot pain can be reduced or prevented while playing pickleball, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Eastern Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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.

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Tuesday, 21 February 2023 00:00

I Think I Broke My Pinky Toe

Though the pinky toe is the smallest toe on the foot, the pain from a break of this toe can be enormous. Such a break can happen from tripping, falling, stubbing, or dropping something on it. A broken pinky toe might become swollen and bruised, and it will likely be sore when walking on it. Sometimes the broken toe can be taped to the toe next to it for extra stability. This is known as “buddy taping,” and a podiatrist should do this so the toe heals properly. If you see that a bone has broken through the skin or the toe looks deformed, it is imperative to get immediate medical attention. Otherwise, the broken toe will not heal in a reasonable time and the pain can worsen. If you have sustained a toe injury of any kind, it is suggested to contact a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment. 

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Eastern Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • Swelling
  • Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
  • Stiffness
  • Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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.

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Thursday, 16 February 2023 00:00

Heel Pain Can Be Treated!

Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.

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A common symptom among pregnant women is swollen feet. It may become worse during the warmer months, and can worsen as the pregnancy progresses. This may be a result of changes in the blood chemistry, causing the fluid to shift into the tissues. The blood becomes thicker to accommodate the growing fetus, pooling in the feet, and can cause the feet and ankles to swell. The medical term for swelling is edema, and it may affect one foot more than the other. There are effective methods that can be implemented that can help to prevent swelling. Reducing sodium intake, frequently elevating the feet, and drinking plenty of water can help to manage swollen feet. Research has shown that many women notice swelling has reduced in their feet approximately 24 hours after delivery, and will continue to improve. If you would like additional relief methods from swollen feet and ankles during pregnancy, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can address any concerns you may have.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from Eastern Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

  • Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
  • Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
  • Wear shoes with good arch support
  • Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
  • Elevate feet if you experience swelling
  • Massage your feet
  • Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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 and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 07 February 2023 00:00

Cracked Heels and the Winter

Cracked heels are not one of the most severe and health-threatening conditions that might affect the feet. However, it is nonetheless an unpleasant and unsightly condition that many individuals will be wise to try to avoid. Cracked heels occur when the skin on the back of the heel becomes tough and the skin creates fissures due to a lack of moisture. Interestingly, cracked heels have a notable relationship with seasonality and temperature. Specifically, when winter arrives and the temperature drops considerably, an individual may be more susceptible to developing cracked heels. This phenomenon can be explained by the fact that it is often dry in cold weather. As a result, this dryness can impact the heels of the feet, reducing existing moisture in the heels. Please contact a podiatrist today if you would like more information about this foot condition.

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.

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