Fairhope, Brewton, Atmore Phone (251) 928-6768
Although sweating is a natural process, the body’s way of regulating our overall temperature, certain factors may lead to increased sweating. Our bodies have between two to four million sweat glands, and factors such as obesity, being sedentary, caffeine, smoking, and synthetic fabrics can make us prone to sweating. Excessive sweating is also known as a common condition in which glands across our body produce more sweat than usual. See a doctor if you feel that your sweating is flaring up excessively.
If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact one of our podiatrists from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Hyperhidrosis of the Feet
Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.
Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.
Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.
In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.
A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.
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.
Morton’s neuroma is characterized as the thickening of the tissue surrounding the nerves of the toes. Also known as interdigital neuroma, the condition occurs when the nerves of the toes become irritated and inflamed, which can lead to tingling or numbing sensations. Changing any ill-fitting footwear is important for preventing further progression of Morton’s neuroma. Avoid shoes such as high heels and opt for shoe inserts or custom orthotics to reduce pressure on your toes.
Morton’s Neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma contact one of our podiatrists from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.
What Increases the Chances of having Morton’s Neuroma?
Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.
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.
There are many different causes of plantar fasciitis, many of which can be addressed by proper arch supports or custom orthotics. Different causes include tight arches, improper pronation of the feet, and tight calves, all of which can cause inflammation of the plantar fasciia. Stretches for your calf can also help alleviate arch pain. Use a round object like a golf ball to roll under your arch every day, as this is another method to help treat heel pain.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your 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?
· Excessive running
· Non-supportive shoes
· Overpronation
· Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
How Can It Be Treated?
· Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
· Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
· Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
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 care needs.
Stress fractures are injuries commonly caused by strenuous exercise, so it’s important to take breaks during your exercise routines. It is recommended to slowly increase your strength and endurance over time to prevent stress fractures. Stress fractures are caused by the constant pounding that your bones take over a period of time, as muscles become exhausted from strenuous exercise and are unable to protect the bones. Eating a healthy diet can help prevent stress fractures. Calcium and vitamin D are both important in building and strengthening bones.
Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Dealing with Stress Fractures of the foot
The Stress Fractures occur on the foot when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use. Then the Feet lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection the bones receive the full impact of each step. The stress on the feet causes cracks to form in the bones, thus called stress fractures.
What are Stress Fractures?
Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the Feet. Stress factors are most common among:
-runners
-people affected with Osteoporosis
-play tennis or basketball
-gymnastics
-high impact workouts
Symptoms
Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures, and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves in high impact will aggravate pain.
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.
Being a diabetic patient means the risk of neuropathy and the loss of sensation in areas of your body such as the feet. When your feet loses feeling, that means they become at risk for complications like amputation. Neuropathy is caused by severe nerve damage to the feet, which can also “cause changes to the foot structure as the nerves affect muscle function, leading to foot deformities.” Wounds or injuries in the feet may go unnoticed and can become infected. Diabetic patients also have reduced blood circulation, making open wounds more prone to infection.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet contact one of our podiatrists from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. Diabetes can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, including the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels because blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
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.
Read more about Diabetic Foot Care
Exercising as we get older can lead to many different benefits for our bodies. Dr. Harun Durudogan, orthopedic surgeon at Advocate Christ Medical Center, says that “exercise can help strengthen the muscles around the joints and lower the chance of injuries.” Aging means the weakening of bones and muscles and less support for our bodies. It’s important to warm up and stretch before exercising if you are older to avoid injury and joint pain. Exercise can also prevent arthritis and achy joints, so it is recommended for people of all ages.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your Feet contact one of our podiatrists from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
The Elderly and their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet, and can hide many life threating medical conditions.
Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
Shoes that don’t fit properly
Pressure sores
Loss of circulation in legs & feet
Edema & swelling of Feet
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
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.
Sciatica is characterized as pain that occurs throughout the back area down throughout the body to the feet. Pain that is associated with sciatica results from inflammation or irritation of the sciatic nerves, which can affect the lower back, the buttocks area, the legs, calves, or feet. There are different degrees of pain, ranging from simple tingling or dull soreness, to stabbing or throbbing aches. Sciatica affects “40% of people” and can be treated with anti-inflammatory drugs, steroid injections or pills, physical therapy, and surgery.
When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly. If you have any concerns about your Feet seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.
Systemic Diseases of the Feet
Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable. Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.
Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.
Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.
Diabetes of the Feet
Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.
Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the 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 and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
The phrase “breaking in your shoes” actually means bad news for your feet. Making your feet adjust to the shape and size of your shoes means prolonged strain and chronic problems. When choosing footwear, make sure to find shoes that fit your feet and optimize comfort. Your footwear should have enough room to allow your feet to wiggle your toes. Try on shoes at the store and walk in them first to see if there is any initial pain to prevent and avoid any long-term issues.
Finding a proper fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.
Proper Shoe Fitting
A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:
Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, proper fitting shoes is vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.
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.
Arthritis is commonly used as a general term to describe a disease that causes inflammation and stiffness of small joints in the body. Included in the arthritis category are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, which are also the “most common types of arthritis, affecting 1.5 million and 27 million Americans, respectively.” Rheumatoid arthritis can develop quickly, usually affecting the small joints, while osteoarthritis develops over time and can affect any joint on the body. Arthritis pain symptoms are sporadic and should be treated immediately.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment,seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves inflammation of different joints in your body, such as in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. On top of 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 and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Rheumatoid arthritis is commonly known as an inflammatory autoimmune disease that leads to swelling in the joints in areas of the body like the hands and feet. Constantly managing your rheumatoid arthritis is vital to reducing the onset of symptoms and the progression of the disease. Rheumatoid arthritis is also suggested to be linked to a higher risk of heart disease, due to drastic changes in lifestyle.
Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your Feet, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.
Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet
Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot area.
Symptoms
- Swelling & pain in the feet
- Stiffness in the feet
- Pain on the ball or sole of feet
- Joint shift and deformation
Diagnosis
Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.
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.
According to the British Journal of Sports Medicine, motion control running shoes may prevent injury for those with flat feet or feet that overpronate. The study included 386 randomly assigned recreational runners aged 18 to 65 years of age. Each group was assigned either a normal running shoe or a motion control shoe for six months’ time. Of all the injuries sustained during the trial period, 32% of regular shoe wearers suffered an injury while 18% of motional control shoe wearers sustained an injury. This showed that motion control helped those with flat feet, but did not have any effect on those with normal pronation.
Runners can still be prone to running injuries even with proper precautions. For more information about treatment, seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.
What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.
Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber, this will help you gain better flexibility.
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.
The US Food and Drug Administration has approved a new form of treatment for patients dealing with non-healing diabetic foot ulcers. Known as the Integra Dermal Regeneration Template, the device works to provide immediate wound closure for an ulcer that has lasted over six weeks. With the use of silicone, cow collagen, and shark cartilage, the device allows cell migration, helping new cells grow.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. Diabetes can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, including the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels because blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
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.
A recent study conducted by the Arthritis Care & Research suggests that smoking or cigarette smoke may possibly lead to lower gout risks. The research indicates, however, that this “27% lower risk” benefit was noted only in men who were lean, non-overweight smokers. Urate levels in the test subjects were “significantly lower” than those who were previous smokers or who have never smoked. Research has never before been done on the correlation between gout and smoking, and the results are new and inconclusive.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.
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 care needs.
Finding the right shoe size is pertinent to one’s foot health. Shoes that are too tight can irritate the feet and create blisters or calluses; shoes that are too loose can also cause tripping. When trying on shoes ensure that you select a pair that has solid foot support, sufficient toe room, and either laces or velcro if you intend to exercise in it.
Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from outheast Podiatry. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.
Getting the Right Shoe Size
There are many people that wear shoes that are ill-fitting, which affects their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to selecting the right pair.
As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat your feet right by choosing the right pair of shoes that can provide them comfort and mobility with minimal pain.
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.
