Dance is an activity enjoyed by many for fun, recreation, and health benefits. It can be social, performed for an audience, ceremonial, or competitive. However, the diverse range of movements and techniques involved in different dance styles, ranging from ballroom to jazz, ballet to hip-hop and belly dancing, can lead to injuries if not approached with care. Beginners are particularly vulnerable due to inexperience and lack of technique. Additionally, poor fitness, improper posture, and fatigue contribute to the risk of sustaining a dance injury. Over-training and not allowing injuries to heal properly can also lead to chronic issues. To minimize these risks, dancers should warm up thoroughly, stay hydrated, wear appropriate footwear, and not push beyond their limits. Consulting a podiatrist can be beneficial for preventing and managing dance injuries, especially those involving the foot and ankle. If you have sustained a dance injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Edward Sharrer, DPM from Premier Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our podiatrist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

If you have any questions please contact our office located in North Little Rock, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Wearing shoes that are too big or too small can lead to various foot problems. Tight shoes can cause blisters, bunions, and calluses due to constant friction and pressure. On the other hand, shoes that are too loose can result in foot instability, increasing the risk of sprains and strains. To find the right shoe size, measure your feet at the end of the day when they are most swollen. Ensure there is enough room in the toe box for your toes to move freely, and the shoe should fit snugly around the heel without slipping. Trying on shoes with the type of socks you plan to wear with them can also help achieve a proper fit. If you have developed foot conditions from wearing the wrong size shoes, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can treat various foot ailments and provide education for proper foot measurement. 

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Edward Sharrer, DPM from Premier Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our podiatrist will treat your foot and ankle needs.

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:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are 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 our office located in North Little Rock, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Achilles tendon injuries can happen to anyone, but certain factors can increase the likelihood. Changes in training schedules or intensity, such as adding more miles to a running routine or incorporating explosive exercises can strain the Achilles tendon. Sudden switching of playing surfaces or footwear can also contribute to Achilles tendon injury risk. Tight or weak calf muscles, excessive pronation, or the rolling inward of the foot, and chronic ankle instability can place additional stress on the tendon. Regularly wearing high heels can shorten the Achilles tendon, making it more susceptible to injury. Excessive training, particularly running on hills, exposes the tendon to repeated micro-traumas. Increasing age reduces blood supply to tendons, making them more prone to injury. People with high-arched feet and certain types of arthritis are at a higher risk of developing Achilles tendinopathy. If you have suffered an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and expert treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Edward Sharrer, DPM of Premier Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in North Little Rock, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Peripheral neuropathy results from damage to the peripheral nerves, which transmit signals between the central nervous system and the rest of the body. This damage often leads to numbness, tingling, burning, and sharp pain in the feet. Diabetic neuropathy occurs in individuals with diabetes as a result of prolonged high blood sugar levels that damage the nerves. Symptoms in the feet may include a loss of sensation, making it difficult to detect injuries or a feeling of wearing tight socks when barefoot. These symptoms can significantly impact balance and mobility, increasing the risk of falls and infections. Proper management of blood sugar levels, in addition to medications and lifestyle changes, may help to alleviate symptoms of neuropathy. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Edward Sharrer, DPM from Premier Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our podiatrist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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