Items filtered by date: October 2023

Flat feet, or fallen arches, are a common condition that can lead to discomfort and pain in the feet, knees, and even the lower back. Walking and standing for long periods can be uncomfortable in people with collapsed arches. Also, due to lack of a supportive arch, there can be substantial pressure on other parts of the foot, causing problems with posture and foot movement. A fallen arch can also strain the ligaments and tendons of the foot and leg. One solution to overcoming the discomfort of having flat feet is wearing orthotic inserts in your shoes. It's important to have an insole that strikes the right balance between rigidity and flexibility. Insoles that are too firm may lack the proper amount of shock absorption, while overly cushioned insoles may not provide the support necessary to counteract flat feet. People with problematic flat feet may wish to consider investing in orthotics that are made especially for their feet. A podiatrist can examine your feet and make molds for orthotics that are individualized for you. Because the feet may need some time to adapt to the changes provided by insoles, it is a good idea to gradually increase the time you wear them in the beginning. For help with flat feet and custom orthotics, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Edward Sharrer, DPM from Crestwood Podiatry and Wound Care Clinic. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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.

Joint replacement surgery is a procedure that involves the removal of damaged or diseased portions of a joint and their replacement with artificial components. This surgery becomes necessary when joints deteriorate due to factors like arthritis, prolonged wear and tear, or underlying medical conditions. The primary objectives of foot or ankle joint replacement surgery are to alleviate pain, enhance joint functionality, and improve mobility. Before considering such surgery, podiatrists typically explore alternative treatments, such as exercise regimens, walking aids like canes or walkers, physical therapy, and medications to manage pain and inflammation. While joint replacement surgery can significantly improve a patient's quality of life, it is not without risks. Potential complications include postoperative infections, blood clot formation, and the eventual erosion of the artificial joint surface, which may require revision surgery after 15 to 20 years. If you are experiencing foot or ankle joint issues that have not responded to more conservative treatment, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss whether joint replacement surgery is a viable treatment option for you.

In certain cases, in which the patient suffers from extreme pain or damage in a joint, joint replacement surgery may be deemed useful. If you have constant pain in a foot joint, consult with Edward Sharrer, DPM from Crestwood Podiatry and Wound Care Clinic. Our podiatrist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Joint Replacement Surgery?

Over time, joints wear down; this can be exacerbated by diseases and conditions. Joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is when a damaged joint is surgically removed and replaced with a prosthesis. Prostheses, which can be made of ceramic, plastic, or metal, act as joints in lieu of an actual joint. One of the most prevalent causes for joint replacement is arthritis.

Arthritis in the Foot

Arthritis can occur in any joint in the body, including in the feet. Common types of arthritis in the foot are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. The big toe is usually where arthritis occurs in the foot; this is known as hallux rigidus.

Joint Replacement Surgery in the Foot

The most common form of joint replacement in the foot is a first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint placement. MTP joint replacement surgery is designed to treat hallux rigidus. Surgery is not intensive, and recovery occurs within one to two months after the procedure has been done. Overall, joint replacement surgery is a safe and effective way to treat pain in the joint of the foot.

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.

Arthritis is characterized by inflammation in one or more joints, leading to pain and stiffness. It is prevalent in the small joints of the foot and ankle, impacting mobility and daily activities. While there is no cure for arthritis, treatment options can help manage symptoms and slow disease progression. The foot and ankle play vital roles in supporting, balancing, and absorbing shock during activities. These areas contain multiple joints and are susceptible to various forms of arthritis like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. Osteoarthritis gradually erodes joint cartilage, causing pain, stiffness, and bone spurs. Risk factors include age, obesity, genetics, and poor foot alignment. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that can start in the foot and ankle, leading to joint inflammation, swelling, and deformity. Genetic and environmental factors can trigger this condition. Gout is a painful inflammation that often affects the big toe joint due to the accumulation of uric acid crystals. It can lead to sudden and severe joint pain. If you have foot or ankle discomfort from arthritis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to determine which kind of arthritis is affecting you.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Edward Sharrer, DPM from Crestwood Podiatry and Wound Care Clinic. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to 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

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate 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 our office located in North Little Rock, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis is believed to be the most common complaint of heel pain. Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a broad band of tissue on the sole that supports the arch. This inflammation can make your heel hurt, swell, or turn red, particularly when getting out of bed in the morning. The causes of plantar fasciitis are varied, often stemming from factors like foot and calf tightness, weak foot muscles, or undue stress on the arch. Excessive running, wearing poorly fitted shoes, and some work actions can make the condition worse. Treatment focuses on addressing the root causes and reducing inflammation. It may involve wearing shoes with better arch support, changing shoe size, and moderating activities that strain the foot. Stretching and strengthening exercises, like towel curls, may help reduce symptoms. If you have developed plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who specializes in managing this condition. 

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Edward Sharrer, DPM  from Crestwood Podiatry and Wound Care Clinic. Our podiatrist 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 our office located in North Little Rock, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Hammertoe surgery is a procedure aimed at correcting a common and often painful foot condition known as hammertoe. This condition causes one or more toe joints to become permanently bent, resembling a hammer. If conservative treatments fail to provide relief, foot surgery may be recommended. Hammertoe surgery comes in different forms, including tendon transfers, joint resections, and fusion, tailored to the severity and type of deformity. It is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, allowing patients to return home on the same day. Recovery time can vary, and patients can expect swelling and discomfort for a few weeks, with full recovery taking several months. Hammertoe surgery boasts a high success rate in relieving pain and correcting toe deformities. However, understanding the facts about hammertoe surgery is the first step towards making an informed decision about your foot health. If you have a hammertoe, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can determine if this type of foot surgery is correct for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Edward Sharrer, DPM of Crestwood Podiatry and Wound Care Clinic. Our podiatrist will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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 and ankle needs.