Fairhope, Brewton, Atmore
Phone (251) 928-6768
If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!
Congenital foot conditions are abnormalities that occur in babies at birth and can affect their ability to walk and develop properly. One of the most common conditions is clubfoot, where the foot is turned inward and downward, making it difficult to move the foot into a normal position. Another condition is metatarsus adductus, where the front part of the foot turns inward, resulting in a curved appearance. This condition is usually mild and may resolve on its own as the baby grows. Flat feet, or fallen arches, can also be a congenital condition in babies, where the arches of the feet do not develop fully, causing the whole foot to touch the ground. Additionally, congenital vertical talus, a rare condition, occurs when the foot is rigidly turned upward. If your child has been born with a congenital foot condition, it is strongly suggested that you include a podiatrist on your health care team so the correct treatment can promptly begin.
Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Brent Harwood, DPM of Southeast Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.
What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?
A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.
What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?
Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:
Treatment and Prevention
While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.
Cracked heels are a common concern during winter when cold, dry air strips moisture from the skin. The feet endure constant pressure from body weight, causing the skin on the heels to expand. If the skin is dry and rigid, it can split, leading to painful cracks, called fissures. Unlike other areas of the body, the soles of the feet lack sebaceous glands to lubricate the skin, making them more prone to dryness. Factors like prolonged standing, wearing poorly fitting shoes, or conditions such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, eczema, and athlete’s foot can increase the likelihood of cracked heels. Severe cracks may make walking uncomfortable and even lead to infections if left untreated. A podiatrist can evaluate the condition of your heels, recommend specialized treatments to improve skin hydration, and address any underlying health issues that may be contributing to the problem. This foot doctor can also suggest footwear and preventative measures to maintain healthy feet all year long. If you have painful cracked heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.
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 Brent Harwood, DPM from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctor 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
Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels
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 Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.
Pain in the second toe can arise from less commonly recognized conditions that require professional evaluation. Capsulitis, for instance, involves inflammation of the ligament capsule at the base of the toe. This may be due to improper foot mechanics or excessive pressure on the ball of the foot, and can cause a sensation similar to walking on a marble. Morton’s neuroma, typically associated with the third and fourth toes, can also affect the second toe due to nerve tissue thickening, causing burning pain or numbness. Additionally, structural abnormalities like Morton’s toe, where the second toe is longer than the big toe, can lead to misalignment and strain. Bunions or arthritis in adjacent joints may radiate discomfort to the second toe. A podiatrist can assess these underlying issues to determine the proper treatment. If you have pain in your second toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and effective treatment solutions.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Brent Harwood, DPM of Southeast Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Causes Toe Pain?
Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.
Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
When to See a Podiatrist
Diagnosis
In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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
Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition that causes pain in the heel and along the bottom of the foot. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes, becomes inflamed. The primary symptom of plantar fasciitis is sharp heel pain, especially when taking the first steps in the morning or after prolonged sitting. The pain may decrease after walking but can return after long periods of standing or physical activity. Common causes of plantar fasciitis include overuse, poor footwear, tight calf muscles, and abnormal foot mechanics, such as flat feet or high arches. Additionally, obesity, aging, and activities that place excessive pressure on the feet, like running or standing for long hours, can increase the risk of developing this painful condition. Plantar fasciitis can cause pain and discomfort, and it may be difficult to complete daily activities. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Brent Harwood, DPM from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
How Can It Be Treated?
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Painful deformities, such as hammertoes, can be treated. Stop living with foot pain, and have beautiful feet again!
Gout is a form of arthritis that results in sudden, severe pain, swelling, and redness, often affecting the big toe. It is more common in men, particularly those over the age of 40, although it can affect women, especially after menopause. Gout occurs when excess uric acid builds up in the bloodstream, forming sharp crystals that accumulate in the joints. This typically happens due to dietary factors, such as consuming high-purine foods like red meat, shellfish, and alcohol. Additionally, obesity, dehydration, or certain medical conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes can significantly contribte to developing gout. During a gout attack, the affected joint becomes intensely painful, swollen, and inflamed. While medication can help control symptoms, recurring gout attacks can lead to joint damage over time. A podiatrist can help manage gout by providing treatments like anti-inflammatory medications, dietary guidelines, and customized footwear to reduce joint stress. They can also assist in preventing future flare-ups. If you are experiencing gout symptoms, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Brent Harwood, DPM from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Neuropathy is a condition that can lead to numbness or loss of sensation in the feet, but it can also cause pain. This condition is more likely to develop for those who are diabetic, obese, or with high blood pressure.
Psoriatic arthritis, or PsA, often affects the feet, leading to inflammation and discomfort in the toes, ankles, and heels. Psoriatic arthritis can cause inflammation where tendons or ligaments attach to bones, commonly affecting the Achilles tendon and the plantar fascia. It also may result in dactylitis, or sausage toes, which involves swelling of the entire toe that makes walking and wearing shoes painful. Nail changes, such as pitting or separation from the nail bed, are also common with PsA. It also can lead to joint damage and deformities if left untreated, causing significant limitations in mobility. A podiatrist can provide valuable care by addressing symptoms with treatments aimed at reducing pain and inflammation. Other measures include prescribing orthotics to support affected areas and suggesting ways to help manage the condition effectively. Regular care from a podiatrist can improve comfort, prevent further joint damage, and enhance mobility. If you have foot problems related to psoriatic arthritis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment options.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Brent Harwood, DPM from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.
In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.
Alleviating Arthritic Pain
It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Do you work on your feet all day and find your feet in pain? Don't go to work in pain each day. Your foot pain can be treated, and we can help.
Limb salvage surgery is a medical procedure aimed at preserving a limb that may otherwise require amputation due to severe injury, infection, or complications from conditions such as diabetes. In diabetic limb salvage, the primary goal is to prevent amputation by addressing issues like diabetic foot ulcers, infections, and poor circulation that are common among individuals with diabetes. The procedure typically involves cleaning and debriding infected tissue, improving blood flow through vascular surgery, and sometimes reconstructing damaged bone or soft tissue. In some cases, the surgeon may use skin grafts or other techniques to promote healing. By preserving the limb, limb salvage surgery allows for better functionality and quality of life. Early intervention and ongoing care are essential for a successful outcome, as untreated diabetic complications can lead to more severe consequences. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you manage this condition and discuss the limb salvage procedure with you.
Diabetic Limb Salvage
Diabetic limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have a foot ulcer and diabetes, consult with Brent Harwood, DPM from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Diabetic Limb Salvage?
Diabetic limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot, that has an infected ulcer, from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.
Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Amputation has been found to lead to higher mortality rates. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
