Foot drop, also known as drop foot, is a condition where lifting the front part of the foot becomes difficult, causing it to drag while walking. It results from weakness or paralysis of the muscles that lift the foot, often due to nerve damage, muscle disorders, or brain and spinal cord conditions like stroke or multiple sclerosis. Common causes include peroneal nerve injury, herniated discs, diabetes, or neurological disorders. Anyone can develop foot drop, but it is more likely in those with conditions affecting the nerves or muscles. Symptoms include dragging the toes, difficulty walking, and a steppage gait, where the knee lifts higher than usual. Diagnosis involves a physical exam, imaging like an MRI scan, and nerve conduction studies. Treatments may include braces, targeted exercises, or surgery in severe cases. If you have this uncomfortable condition, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer a personalized approach to manage foot drop effectively.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Brian Shwer, DPM from Southaven Foot Clinic. 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:
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 our office located in Southaven, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments surrounding the ankle joint are overstretched or torn, typically resulting from a twisting motion. This injury often causes immediate pain, swelling, and bruising around the ankle. People with an ankle sprain may experience difficulty walking, putting weight on the affected foot, or moving the ankle. More severe sprains can result in significant instability, where the ankle feels weak or gives way unexpectedly. Repeated or untreated sprains may lead to long-term joint pain or reduced mobility. A podiatrist can diagnose and treat ankle sprains with imaging tests, bracing, or other customized treatments to support healing and restore strength. If you believe you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible so proper healing can begin.
Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Brian Shwer, DPM from Southaven Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.
What Are the Symptoms?
Preventing a Sprain
Treatment of a Sprain
In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.
It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Southaven, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
As people age, the feet undergo various changes that can impact their structure and function. A noticeable change is the flattening of the foot arch. Over time, the ligaments and tendons that support the arch weaken, causing it to collapse. This can lead to discomfort and conditions like flat feet. Additionally, the width of the feet often increases with age due to the loosening of ligaments and the natural spread of the bones. As the foot becomes wider, it may be harder to find properly fitting shoes, leading to discomfort or irritation. The skin on the feet can also lose elasticity, contributing to dryness and calluses. These changes to the feet can affect mobility and overall foot health, making it important to regularly check foot health and seek appropriate footwear for support and comfort. If you are elderly, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and help you to monitor your foot health.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Brian Shwer, DPM from Southaven Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Southaven, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Stress fractures in the feet and ankles are tiny cracks in the bones, usually caused by repetitive force or overuse. While common among athletes, especially runners, dancers, and gymnasts, stress fractures can also impact non-athletes. Factors like sudden increases in activity, improper footwear, or even conditions like osteoporosis can weaken bones, making them more prone to these micro-injuries. Symptoms of a stress fracture include localized pain, tenderness, and sometimes swelling. Pain often intensifies with activity and improves with rest but can become persistent if left untreated. Treatment generally involves rest and limiting weight-bearing activities. For severe fractures, a boot or crutches may be necessary to allow healing. Customized orthotics can help prevent re-injury. If you have sustained a foot or ankle stress fracture, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Brian Shwer, DPM from Southaven Foot Clinic. 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
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 our office located in Southaven, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and redness. This condition most commonly affects the big toe but can occur on any toe. The main causes of ingrown toenails include improper nail trimming, where the nails are cut too short or rounded at the edges, and wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes that put pressure on the toes. Injuries to the toe, such as stubbing, can also lead to an ingrown toenail. Prevention involves trimming toenails straight across to avoid sharp edges that can dig into the skin. Wearing shoes that fit properly and allow for adequate toe room is also essential. Keeping the feet clean and dry, and avoiding excessive pressure on the toes, can further help prevent ingrown toenails and reduce the risk of infection. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is strongly suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can offer you appropriate treatment solutions.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Brian Shwer, DPM of Southaven Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.
Causes
Prevention
Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Southaven, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
