Items filtered by date: July 2024

Foot corns, small areas of thickened skin that develop from repeated pressure or friction, have various causes. Wearing ill-fitting shoes that squeeze toes or cause rubbing are common culprits. High heels and narrow shoes can also contribute by concentrating pressure on specific areas of the foot. Additionally, abnormalities in foot structure, such as hammertoes or bunions, may increase the likelihood of developing corns. Finding relief involves addressing the underlying cause, which can include wearing properly fitted shoes with adequate toe room and cushioning to reduce friction and pressure. Pads or cushions placed over corns can provide additional protection and alleviate discomfort. Avoiding excessive rubbing or picking at corns is essential to prevent infection. If corns persist or cause severe pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective treatment options.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of the podiatrists of JE Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctors to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fleming Island and Palm Coast, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

In the world of dance and sports, foot injuries are unfortunately common but manageable with proper care. Dancers, in particular, are prone to conditions like stress fractures, tendonitis, and ankle sprains due to repetitive movements and intense physical demands. These injuries often stem from overuse, improper technique, or inadequate footwear. Relief typically involves gentle stretching and strengthening exercises. However, an accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment plans are key, making a podiatrist's expertise invaluable. This type of foot doctor can offer specialized care and recommend strategies tailored to a dancer's unique needs. If you are experiencing persistent pain or suspect a foot injury, a podiatrist can help you recover effectively and safely, ensuring you can return to your passion for dance with confidence and reduced risk of recurrence. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of the podiatrists from JE Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just 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.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fleming Island and Palm Coast, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle sprains are common injuries classified into three types based on their degree and severity. A first-degree sprain is the mildest form, involving slight stretching or microscopic tearing of the ligament fibers. Symptoms include mild pain, swelling, and stiffness, with little to no instability in the ankle joint. A second-degree sprain is more severe, characterized by partial tearing of the ligament. This type results in moderate pain, swelling, and bruising, with some difficulty bearing weight and noticeable instability in the ankle. The most severe is a third-degree sprain, where the ligament is completely torn. This causes significant pain, swelling, and bruising, in addition to a substantial loss of function and stability in the ankle. Recovery times vary depending on the severity, with mild sprains healing within a few weeks and severe sprains potentially taking several months. If you have suffered a sprained ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what type of sprain you have endured, and offer correct treatment for it. 

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of the podiatrists from JE Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fleming Island and Palm Coast, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Flexible flat feet in children, also known as pediatric flatfoot, is a condition where the arch of the foot collapses upon standing but reappears when sitting or on tiptoes. This common condition often resolves with age, but in some cases, intervention is necessary. Custom orthotics are specially designed shoe inserts tailored to an individual's foot structure. For children with flexible flat feet, these orthotics provide support to the arch, enhance foot alignment, and reduce strain on muscles and ligaments. They can alleviate pain and prevent potential future issues related to improper foot mechanics. The duration for wearing custom orthotics varies, often spanning several months to years, depending on the severity of the condition and the child's growth. Continuous monitoring and adjustments ensure optimal benefits. For personalized advice and to determine if custom orthotics are appropriate for your child, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of the podiatrists from JE Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Fleming Island and Palm Coast, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes. It occurs when this tissue is overstretched or overused, often due to excessive running, standing for long periods, or wearing inadequate footwear. The condition manifests as a sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, particularly noticeable with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of inactivity. Those at higher risk include runners, individuals with high arches or flat feet, people who are overweight, and people who wear shoes with poor arch support. Preventing plantar fasciitis involves wearing supportive footwear, maintaining a healthy weight, and incorporating stretching exercises into daily routines to improve flexibility. Treatment options include rest and stretching exercises, For persistent pain, custom orthotics may be necessary. If you have continued heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of the podiatrists from JE Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fleming Island and Palm Coast, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.