January 2024

Swollen feet are a common companion to the miraculous journey of pregnancy, stemming from a combination of physiological changes and increased demands on the circulatory system. As the body nurtures a growing life within, blood volume surges, causing fluid retention in various tissues, including the feet. Hormonal shifts play a pivotal role, promoting relaxation of blood vessels and allowing for increased fluid accumulation. The expanding uterus exerts pressure on major blood vessels, hindering efficient circulation and contributing to swelling in the lower extremities. Prolonged standing or sitting can exacerbate this swelling, emphasizing the importance of regular movement and elevation of the feet. While edema during pregnancy is typically benign, it is essential to distinguish it from conditions like preeclampsia. If your feet become swollen during your pregnancy, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief methods.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Brian D. Jackson, DPM from Neuhaus Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Columbia and Pulaski, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

For most people over the age of 50, foot pain is a common experience, affecting approximately 20 percent of older adults. Contributing factors include excess weight, inappropriate footwear, and the natural wear and tear associated with aging. However, it is essential not to dismiss foot pain, as research suggests it can compromise balance and foot function, and increase the risk of falls. Distinguishing between muscle soreness from activity and sharp pain originating from bones or joints is important. If experiencing the latter, seeking help from a medical professional is imperative. Several types of foot pain warrant such attention. Stress fractures, prevalent in older adults, manifest as pain during activity that subsides with rest. Persistent heel pain, such as plantar fasciitis, may require evaluation from a podiatrist if it persists despite rest. Psoriatic arthritis, characterized by joint pain and swelling, often accompanied by psoriasis symptoms, requires attention. Neuropathy, frequently linked to diabetes but with various causes, demands investigation for symptoms like tingling, burning, or foot numbness. If you are experiencing persistent or sharp foot pain it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Brian D. Jackson, DPM from Neuhaus Foot and Ankle. Our doctor 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 Columbia and Pulaski, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Onychomycosis, a common fungal infection affecting the nails, unveils itself as a condition that warrants a closer inspection. This ailment, known as a fungal nail infection, targets the toenails or fingernails, causing discoloration, thickening, and brittleness. The infection is often attributed to various fungal strains, primarily dermatophytes, but also yeasts and molds. These fungi thrive in warm and moist environments, making nails susceptible to infection when exposed to such conditions. Several factors contribute to the development of onychomycosis. Trauma to the nails, poor hygiene practices, and a compromised immune function elevate the risk. Additionally, communal spaces, such as public showers and swimming pools, serve as potential breeding grounds for the fungi, facilitating its transmission. If you have developed toenail fungus, it is strongly suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

For more information about treatment, contact Brian D. Jackson, DPM of Neuhaus Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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

Treatment options for stress fractures focus on promoting healing, managing pain, and preventing complications associated with these injuries. Stress fractures typically result from repetitive stress or overuse and require careful attention to facilitate recovery. Rest is a fundamental component, involving the reduction or avoidance of activities that led to the fracture, allowing the affected bone to heal without additional strain. In some cases, immobilization with the use of casts, braces, or walking boots may be necessary to support proper healing. Modifying weight-bearing activities can also alleviate stress on the fracture site, often requiring the use of crutches or assistive devices. Pain management strategies may involve medications to address discomfort and inflammation. Wearing custom orthotic devices or shoe inserts may offer better support and alignment for the affected area, reducing bone stress. Adjusting activity routines, incorporating appropriate warm-up and cool-down exercises, and avoiding excessive exertion are essential in preventing future stress fractures. A balanced diet with sufficient calcium and vitamin D supports bone health and healing. While surgery is rarely needed, it may be considered when conservative treatments prove ineffective at stabilizing the bone. If you have sustained a stress fracture in your feet or ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and personalized treatment plan.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Brian D. Jackson, DPM from Neuhaus Foot and Ankle. Our doctor 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 Columbia and Pulaski, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.