Walking boots are an essential tool in the healing process for foot and ankle injuries, offering critical support and protection. Walking boots are designed to immobilize the foot and ankle, which helps reduce movement and prevent further injury, creating an optimal environment for recovery. The rigid structure of the boot, typically made from materials like plastic or fiberglass, stabilizes the injured area and limits motion. Adjustable straps ensure a snug and secure fit, preventing unnecessary shifting of the foot. By distributing weight evenly, walking boots reduce pressure on the injured areas, minimizing strain and discomfort. Additionally, the boots protect the injured foot from external impacts and bumps, which is especially important during the early stages of recovery. A podiatrist can help guide the use of a walking boot, ensuring proper fit and duration for optimal healing. If you have injured your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for safe and effective care.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of out podiatrists from Alta Ridge Foot Specialist. Our doctors 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Mars Hill, Spruce Pine, and Boone, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the blood, leading to sharp crystals forming in the joints, most commonly in the big toe. This condition often results from diets high in purines, which are found in red meat, shellfish, alcohol, and sugary drinks. Symptoms include sudden, intense pain, redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected joint, which may feel tender even to a light touch. Attacks can come on quickly, often at night, and can last for days or weeks. The affected area may appear shiny or purplish, and feel stiff or hot. A podiatrist can help diagnose gout through physical examination, blood tests, and imaging to detect joint inflammation or uric acid crystals. Managing gout often requires changes in diet and lifestyle, along with medications to reduce uric acid levels and inflammation. This type of doctor can offer guidance on foot care, proper footwear, and prevention strategies. If you are dealing with painful gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this uncomfortable condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of out podiatrists from Alta Ridge Foot Specialist. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Mars Hill, Spruce Pine, and Boone, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Tennis toe is a painful condition caused by repeated trauma to the toenail, typically affecting the big toe. It often results from sudden stops, quick direction changes, or wearing shoes that allow the foot to slide forward during intense activity. The repeated impact can cause bleeding beneath the toenail, resulting in a dark discoloration, swelling, or throbbing pain. If left unaddressed, the pressure may cause the nail to lift or fall off, potentially leading to infection or nail deformity. Athletes who wear tight footwear or shoes that lack adequate support in the toe box are at increased risk. A podiatrist can examine the affected toe, confirm the diagnosis, and determine if nail removal or drainage is necessary. Proper shoe fit and addressing mechanical issues of the foot can help prevent recurrence. If you have toenail problems, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of out podiatrists of Alta Ridge Foot Specialist. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Mars Hill, Spruce Pine, and Boone, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.