Sesamoiditis is a painful condition involving inflammation of the sesamoid bones, two small bones located beneath the big toe joint. These bones help with movement and bear weight during walking and running. Sesamoiditis is usually caused by repetitive stress, high-impact activities, or wearing shoes that do not provide enough support. Symptoms include pain under the big toe, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bending or straightening the toe. Risk factors include participating in sports like running or dancing, having high arches, or spending long hours on hard surfaces. A podiatrist can diagnose sesamoiditis through examination and imaging, then recommend treatments such as rest, footwear changes, custom orthotics, and stretching exercises to reduce pain and promote healing. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose the problem, and offer appropriate relief and treatment solutions.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Jennifer M. Kern, DPM of South Carolina. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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

Swelling in the feet and ankles can result from a variety of underlying issues that should not be ignored. Common causes include trauma, such as sprains or fractures, which lead to inflammation and fluid buildup. Arthritis can also cause joint swelling and stiffness. Blood vessel blockages may limit proper circulation, while varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency cause fluid to pool in the lower limbs. These conditions can lead to discomfort, limited mobility, and complications if untreated. A podiatrist can help identify the root cause through a detailed evaluation and provide treatment, including footwear advice. If your feet and ankles have become swollen, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer effective relief tips.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Jennifer M. Kern, DPM of South Carolina. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in West Columbia, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A chance of limb loss is a serious concern for people with diabetes, as poor blood flow and nerve damage in the feet can cause even minor injuries to become dangerous. When a person cannot feel a cut or sore due to loss of sensation, it may go unnoticed until it becomes infected. Reduced circulation also means these wounds may not heal properly, which increases the risk of tissue death, and, in severe cases, a surgical remedy. A podiatrist plays a key role in preventing loss of limb by performing regular foot exams, monitoring for signs of infection, and treating wounds early. This may involve cleaning the area, removing dead tissue, or surgery to improve blood flow in the legs or feet. Antibiotic treatment may also be required. Identifying problems like swelling, skin color changes, or non-healing ulcers early can help stop the spread of infection. If you are at risk of diabetic limb loss, it is suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and ongoing treatment.

Diabetic Limb Salvage

Diabetic limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have a foot ulcer and diabetes, consult with Jennifer M. Kern, DPM from South Carolina. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Diabetic Limb Salvage?

Diabetic limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot, that has an infected ulcer, from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.

Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Amputation has been found to lead to higher mortality rates. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated. 

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

Foot cramps that strike during sleep can be sudden, painful, and hard to ignore. They often affect the arch or toes and may last just a few seconds or several minutes. These cramps can be caused by dehydration, low mineral levels, poor circulation, or muscle fatigue from daytime activity. Sleeping with feet pointed or in a tight position may also trigger cramping. Stretching your feet and calves before bed, staying well hydrated, and wearing loose socks at night may help prevent episodes. Gently massaging or flexing the foot can ease the pain when a cramp occurs. If cramps become frequent or repeatedly interfere with sleep, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for appropriate  treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Jennifer M. Kern, DPM from South Carolina. 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 our office located in West Columbia, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.