Items filtered by date: July 2023

Pronation in children can indicate delays in standing, walking, and running. It refers to the inward roll of a child's ankle, often associated with terms like flat feet, flexible flat foot, pes planus, or overpronation. This issue originates from the heel, where the bone rotates inward, leading to weight shifting and walking on the inner part of the foot. Children with low muscle tone or ligament laxity are more susceptible. Excessive relaxation of ligaments can cause the ankles to roll in, disrupting alignment in the knees, hips, and back, potentially resulting in pain. If your child exhibits pronounced pronation, causing problems such as pain, fatigue, or clumsiness, it is suggested to consult a podiatrist for an examination and appropriate treatment.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Nola Sole Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Having tired muscles in the feet can cause a stress fracture to occur. These muscles can become fatigued by increasing speed and distance too quickly while running, which may cause the inability to absorb shock. The stress can be placed on the foot bones, possibly leading to a stress fracture. A common symptom of a stress fracture can consist of gradual pain while walking or running, which may decrease when activity is temporarily stopped. The area may also feel tender when touched, and this may propel patients to seek medical treatment. This often begins with resting the affected foot, and many people choose to wear a protective boot or cast that can encourage mobility. The average recovery time is between six and eight weeks, and it may help to pursue non-impact activities. If you have foot pain, and fear you may have a stress fracture, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat this condition.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Nola Sole Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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

An ingrown toenail happens when the nail grows into the skin instead of over it. Common reasons for this to occur can be from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or if there is a family history of it. Additionally, people who trim their toenails incorrectly or have injured their toes may develop an ingrown toenail. People who have diabetes can incur poor circulation, which may inhibit normal nail growth, thus increasing the possibility of getting an ingrown toenail. Mild relief may temporarily be found when the affected foot is soaked in warm water, making it easier to gently pull the skin away from the nail. Preventive techniques can include wearing shoes that fit correctly and keeping the feet as dry as possible. If you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can provide you with permanent relief and treatment options.  

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Nola Sole Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

Diabetes is a serious medical condition that can affect the nerves in the feet. Many diabetic patients develop neuropathy, which is the inability to feel cuts and scrapes that have developed on the feet. This can lead to getting infections and foot ulcers, both of which need immediate medical attention. Proper diabetic foot care begins with washing and drying the feet daily, followed by inspecting the soles of the feet for any abrasions. Many people choose to use a mirror to do this, or to ask a family member or caregiver to help them accomplish this. Additionally, it is beneficial for the toenails to be trimmed weekly. It is wise to stop smoking, if applicable, which may help to increase blood flow to the feet. Many diabetic patients know the importance of wearing shoes at all times, which can help to prevent stepping on objects that can damage the skin. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

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 Nola Sole Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially 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

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as 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 our office located in New Orleans, LA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.