January 2024

Charcot-Marie-Tooth, or CMT disease, a hereditary neurological disorder, affects the peripheral nerves that control muscle movement. This condition is characterized by a gradual degeneration of the nerves, leading to muscle weakness, particularly in the extremities. Symptoms may include muscle atrophy, difficulty with balance and coordination, and a progressive loss of sensation in the feet. As the disease advances, individuals with CMT may experience foot deformities, such as high arches or hammertoes. These structural changes can contribute to difficulties with walking and maintaining a stable gait. Although the severity of symptoms varies, early diagnosis is vital for managing the progression of the disease and implementing interventions. If you have symptoms of CMT, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist, who can help you to effectively manage this condition.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Coastal Foot & Ankle Wellness Center, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in St. Augustine, and Palatka, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
 

Diabetes, a metabolic disorder, can leave its imprint on the feet, serving as an important indicator of the condition. One prominent symptom is neuropathy, a tingling or numbness stemming from nerve damage. This often occurs in the feet, creating a heightened risk of injuries due to diminished sensation. Reduced blood circulation, another hallmark of diabetes, can lead to slow healing of wounds and ulcers on the feet, increasing vulnerability to infections. Changes in skin texture, such as dryness or peeling, may occur, reflecting the impact of fluctuating blood sugar levels. Regular foot examinations, along with meticulous care, become essential for individuals with diabetes to prevent complications. Acknowledging these subtle signs in the feet not only aids in the early detection of diabetes but also prompts timely intervention. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer effective management strategies.

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 Coastal Foot & Ankle Wellness Center, LLC. 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 one of our offices located in St. Augustine, and Palatka, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis, a prevalent foot condition, unfolds as a result of inflammation in the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that spans the bottom of the foot. This inflammation leads to symptoms that are distinctive yet often underestimated. A primary symptom is heel pain, particularly felt during the initial steps after periods of rest. The discomfort may also escalate after prolonged periods of standing or intense physical activity. The causes of plantar fasciitis are commonly rooted in excessive strain on the plantar fascia, due to activities like running, standing for extended periods, or inadequate footwear. Weight gain, tight calf muscles, and certain biomechanical issues can also contribute to the development of this condition. Recognizing the nuanced interplay of symptoms and causes is essential for prompt diagnosis and the implementation of effective strategies to alleviate pain. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan.

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 Coastal Foot & Ankle Wellness Center, LLC. Our doctors 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?

• 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 St. Augustine, and Palatka, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Understanding the risk factors associated with foot stress fractures is pivotal in preemptively addressing this common injury. Repetitive stress on the foot, often incurred through high-impact activities like running or jumping, emerges as a primary catalyst. Insufficient conditioning or abrupt increases in activity levels can amplify the risk, as the bones may not be adequately prepared for the intensified load. Foot anatomy also plays a role, with individuals having high arches or flat feet being more susceptible. Wearing inadequate footwear, and lacking proper support or shock absorption, further heightens the risk. Nutritional deficiencies, especially in calcium and vitamin D, compromise bone strength, rendering them more prone to fractures. Additionally, hormonal imbalances, prevalent in conditions like female athlete triad or among those with irregular menstrual cycles, contribute to bone weakening. If you have incurred a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can treat it accordingly, and offer effective prevention techniques.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Coastal Foot & Ankle Wellness Center, LLC. 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 one of our offices located in St. Augustine, and Palatka, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pain on the top of the foot is a common issue that can often improve within a few weeks. Common causes of top of foot pain include intense or repetitive exercise, wearing tight shoes, and conditions like gout or tendonitis. To alleviate top of foot pain, a podiatrist may recommend rest and elevating the affected foot whenever possible. Wearing shoes that provide ample room for your feet, have a low heel, and a soft sole is recommended for comfort and support. Consider using soft insoles or shoe pads to cushion the affected area. If you are overweight, losing weight may reduce the stress on your feet. Engage in gentle stretching exercises for your feet and ankles to promote flexibility. Avoid engaging in sports or activities that exacerbate the pain, and refrain from prolonged walking or standing. Wearing high heels or tight shoes should also be avoided. If you have this type of pain and it persists, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Coastal Foot & Ankle Wellness Center, LLC. 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 one of our offices located in St. Augustine, and Palatka, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.