Struggling With Heel Pain? Custom Orthotics Can Help

Struggling with heel pain? Discover the relief Custom Orthotics can bring. Customized to your foot's unique structure, Custom Orthotics offer targeted support, alleviating pressure points and redistributing weight. This means reduced heel pain and a more comfortable step, every time. Whether you're walking, working, or working out, Custom Orthotics ensure your heels feel cushioned and cared for. Experience the transformative power of Custom Orthotics with us today! Call today for more information.

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

When Your Toenails Start Changing

Toenail fungus does not appear overnight, but once it takes hold, it is hard to ignore. At first, a small white or yellow spot may appear on the toenail. Over time, the nail thickens, turns yellow or brown, and may become brittle, crumbly, or even lift from the nail bed. Some people experience a foul odor, while others feel discomfort when wearing shoes. Treatment takes patience. Mild cases may improve with antifungal creams or medicated nail lacquers, but more stubborn infections often require prescription oral medication or laser treatments. In severe cases, the nail may need to be removed. Prevention is key. Keep feet clean and dry, wear breathable shoes, and avoid walking barefoot in public places like around pools or in locker rooms. Trim nails straight across and disinfect nail clippers. If the infection persists, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can recommend the best course of action.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

  • Warped or oddly shaped nails
  • Yellowish nails
  • Loose/separated nail
  • Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
  • Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about How to Treat Your Toenail Fungus

How Foot Orthotics Can Help Treat Hallux Rigidus

Hallux rigidus, a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the big toe joint, can significantly affect mobility and quality of life. Foot orthotics play a key role in managing this condition by providing proper support and reducing pressure on the affected joint. By redistributing weight away from the big toe, orthotics can help alleviate pain and discomfort during walking or standing. Custom orthotics, in particular, can be designed to limit excessive motion in the toe joint, helping to stabilize the foot and prevent further damage. Additionally, orthotics can improve overall alignment and posture, reducing stress on the surrounding joints. With the right orthotics, individuals with hallux rigidus can experience increased comfort and enhanced mobility, making daily activities more manageable. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can discuss the benefits of custom orthotics with you.

Custom orthotics are specialized shoe inserts created to support and align the feet according to each person’s unique structure and walking pattern. They are an effective way to relieve foot discomfort caused by conditions such as flat feet, high arches, plantar fasciitis, bunions, and heel pain. When the natural alignment of the foot is off balance, it can lead to pressure points, strain, and pain that affect how a person stands, walks, and moves. Orthotics work by redistributing weight evenly and supporting the arch to reduce stress on the muscles, tendons, and joints of the feet and lower legs.

Foot discomfort can develop for many reasons, including wearing improper footwear, long hours of standing, repetitive motion, or underlying structural problems. Over time, this discomfort can extend beyond the feet, contributing to knee, hip, or lower back pain. Custom orthotics help correct these issues by improving alignment and promoting more efficient movement. They are made using precise measurements and imaging to ensure the best fit for each patient, providing targeted support and cushioning where it is needed most.

Unlike generic insoles, custom orthotics are durable, medically designed, and tailored to your specific needs. Whether you are managing chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or simply seeking better comfort and stability, orthotics can make a noticeable difference in how your feet feel throughout the day.

If you are experiencing persistent foot discomfort or fatigue, it may be time to have your feet evaluated by a podiatrist. Call our office today for more information or to schedule an appointment.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL

Read more about Investing in Custom Orthotics Means Investing in Foot Health

Diseases That Can Cause Swollen Feet

Swollen feet can be a sign of underlying health conditions that affect circulation, fluid balance, or inflammation. Heart disease can lead to fluid retention in the lower extremities due to poor circulation and weakened heart function. Kidney disease affects the body’s ability to remove excess fluids, resulting in swelling in the feet and ankles. Liver disease can cause fluid buildup when the liver fails to produce enough proteins to regulate circulation. Additionally, diabetes may lead to swelling due to poor circulation and nerve damage. Severe infections can cause localized swelling as the body responds to inflammation. Arthritis often results in joint swelling and stiffness, making movement painful. If your feet have become swollen, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer appropriate treatment and relief solutions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

  • Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
  • Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
  • Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
  • Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
  • Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Swelling of the Feet

Connect With Us