Rucking is a form of exercise that involves walking long distances with a weighted backpack, and it can place a heavy burden on the feet and ankles. The added weight increases friction, which often causes blisters and painful calluses. Stress on the arch may lead to plantar fasciitis, a condition where the tissue at the bottom of the foot becomes irritated and sore. Long marches in boots that do not fit well can also damage toenails, sometimes causing them to turn black or fall off. Hot spots and swelling are common after repeated pressure, and, in more serious cases, stress fractures may develop in the bones of the feet. A podiatrist can conduct an exam, provide treatment to reduce foot pain from rucking, and recommend options including surgery, if needed. If you have any of these symptoms after strenuous activities, such as rucking, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment solutions.

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 David Reynolds, DPM from First Podiatry. Our doctor 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 Evansville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Living with diabetes requires careful attention to foot health. High blood sugar levels can damage nerves and blood vessels, leading to decreased sensation and circulation in the feet. Because of this, even a small cut, blister, or sore may go unnoticed, and develop into a serious complication, if not addressed promptly. A diabetic foot exam is a key step in preventing these problems. During the exam, a podiatrist checks the skin for cuts, calluses, infections, or signs of poor healing. They also test for nerve function and circulation to detect early changes that could put you at risk for ulcers or infections. Wearing proper footwear and daily at-home foot checks are often discussed as part of the visit. Regular foot exams can help catch issues before they become severe. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you schedule regular foot exams with a podiatrist to protect your long-term health.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact David Reynolds, DPM from First Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Mallet toe is another name for the foot condition that is known as hammertoe. It is an ailment that prevents the toes from straightening out, and they can bend at a downward angle. The toes that are generally affected are the second, third, or fourth toes, and in severe cases, surgery may be necessary to restore the toes back to a normal position. The reasons many patients develop hammertoe can include wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, an abnormality in the toe muscles and tendons, or medical conditions such as arthritis. Calluses or corns may form on top of the affected toes, and this can be a result of excess friction that is caused by wearing tight shoes. If you notice the first stages of hammertoe developing, it is strongly suggested that you speak to a podiatrist, who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact David Reynolds, DPM from First Podiatry. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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