Items filtered by date: August 2023

Bunions are bony protrusions at the base of the big toe that can not only be unsightly, but also painful. Managing bunions involves a combination of self care and professional guidance. Begin by wearing well-fitting shoes with ample room for your toes and avoiding high heels and pointy shoes that exacerbate pressure on the bunion. Taking over-the-counter pain relievers can provide temporary relief. Wearing custom orthotic inserts can alleviate discomfort by redistributing pressure. Regularly performing gentle toe stretches and exercises can improve flexibility and strength. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be considered. With a proactive approach, you can successfully manage bunions and maintain your foot health. If the bunion causes persistent pain or interferes with daily activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you additional relief and treatment methods. 

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Gary Cockrell, DPM of Tennessee. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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

Foot neuropathy involves the nerves in the feet that are not working correctly. This can lead to various issues, such as numbness or tingling sensations in the feet, pain or sensitivity when the feet are touched, and muscle weakness, which can affect stability and balance. Additionally, changes in the appearance of the toenails and skin might occur. Without treatment, neuropathy can even lead to sores or cuts on the feet that do not heal properly and infections may develop. The causes of foot neuropathy are diverse. One of the major factors is diabetes, which can damage the nerves over time. If diabetes is involved, it is especially important to keep blood sugar under control, as this can help reduce symptoms. Foot strengthening exercises can help enhance muscle function and stability. To ensure the safety of the feet, it is essential to inspect them regularly. If you experience unusual sensations or notice changes in your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist as soon as possible.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Gary Cockrell, DPM from Tennessee. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

Osteoarthritis is a common degenerative joint disease that affects various joints, including the feet. It occurs when the tissues in the joint break down over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and limited joint motion. The exact cause of osteoarthritis is still unknown, but factors like aging, being overweight, joint injuries, and genetics can increase the risk of developing the condition. In the case of feet, osteoarthritis can lead to bony enlargements and shape changes in the joints, especially in the toes. This can result in pain and limited movement when walking or standing. Over time, the weakening of muscles and ligaments may cause the foot to feel unstable or loose. Also, bits of bone or cartilage may break off and float inside the joint space, contributing to increased pain and inflammation. As the condition worsens, simple tasks like walking or standing can become challenging, and lead to fatigue, sleep problems, and even depression. If you suspect you have osteoarthritis affecting your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Gary Cockrell, DPM from Tennessee. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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

Ballet dancers' feet are an extraordinary sight, both stunning and inspiring. Behind the scenes, these dancers endure challenges that shape their amazing performances. The long hours of practice and the tight ballet shoes they wear can be tough on their feet. Ballet dancers walk on their tiptoes, and this constant friction can lead to blisters and calluses. Yet, they persist, driven by their passion for dance. Ballet dancers often maintain proper foot care by soaking their feet in warm baths and using special pads and bandages. These brave dancers understand that their feet are their foundation. They work hard to keep them strong and healthy, visiting podiatrists when needed. Their dedication and talent shine through each graceful move they make, leaving the world in awe of their commitment to the art of ballet. If you are interested in pursuing this type of dance, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist as one of your healthcare professionals.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Gary Cockrell, DPM from Tennessee. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

Hammertoe can be uncomfortable and unsightly. It is a noticeable foot condition that causes the second and third toes to bend upward at the middle joint. These toes are often difficult to straighten out, and can become painful. Additionally, blisters and corns may form on top of the affected toes where they meet the shoe, and wearing shoes may be uncomfortable. A common cause of hammertoe comes from wearing shoes that are too tight, with inadequate room for the toes to move freely in. A proper diagnosis consists of having a physical examination performed, followed by beginning the correct treatment. Toes may be splinted to keep them straight, and specific toe stretches can be performed. This may be effective in keeping the toes as flexible as possible. If you have developed hammertoe, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can provide you with treatment options that are best for you.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Gary Cockrell, DPM of Tennessee. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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