Items filtered by date: January 2024

Plantar warts, small growths caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, often appear on the soles of the feet. Unlike common warts, which typically grow on the hands, plantar warts can be painful due to the pressure exerted on the soles when walking or standing. These warts may have a rough, grainy appearance with tiny black dots, which are actually clotted blood vessels. Several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing plantar warts. Close contact with the virus, such as walking barefoot in damp and communal areas like locker rooms, swimming pools, or public showers, can put your feet at risk. Additionally, those with a weakened immune system, such as individuals with diabetes or HIV, are more susceptible to plantar warts. Constantly moist or sweaty feet can provide an ideal environment for the virus to thrive. If you have developed a plantar wart, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide relief with appropriate treatment methods.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Patricia A. Kirk, DPM from Kirk Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

Numb feet, characterized by diminished sensation, often arises from simple factors like nerve compression due to awkward sitting or tight shoes. However, persistent numbness, or neuropathy, can signal serious underlying health concerns. Numbness in the feet typically accompanies sensations such as pain, burning, or tingling, collectively known as paraesthesia. If left untreated, the numbness may progress to weakness and reduced foot control. The causes can be broadly categorized into nerve damage and diminished blood supply. Nerve damage disrupts communication between sensory nerves and the brain, leading to numbness. This breakdown prevents the interpretation of pressure and temperature stimuli. Pins and needles sensations arise when signals are erratic. Causes of nerve damage include temporary nerve compression, where prolonged awkward sitting or tight shoes reduce oxygen and nutrient flow to nerves, resulting in temporary numbness and subsequent pins and needles upon movement. Peripheral neuropathy involves damaged peripheral nerves unable to transmit signals to the central nervous system. It can lead to persistent numbness and is associated with conditions such as diabetes, systemic diseases, and alcoholism. If you experience numbness in the feet frequently, or for long periods, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a full examination and treatment options. 

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 Patricia A. Kirk, DPM from Kirk Podiatry. 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 office located in Lexington, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Podiatrists, specialized healthcare professionals, navigate the intricate landscape of foot and ankle care. Tasked with diagnosing, treating, and preventing a spectrum of conditions, their job encompasses addressing issues like foot deformities, injuries, and disorders related to gait. These specialists employ a diverse set of skills, from conducting thorough examinations and interpreting diagnostic tests to formulating personalized treatment plans. Qualifications for aspiring podiatrists involve completing a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine, or DPM degree, typically a four year program, following an undergraduate degree. Subsequently, a multi year residency allows them to refine clinical skills and gain hands-on experience. Podiatrists must be licensed to practice, meeting the requirements stipulated by each state. Individuals who have foot or ankle issues for any reason should contact a podiatrist who can offer the correct treatment method.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact Patricia A. Kirk, DPM from Kirk Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

• Physical therapy
• Drugs
• Orthotic inserts or soles
• Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

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

Gout, a form of inflammatory arthritis, emerges from the crystallization of uric acid within joints, particularly in the lower extremities. Elevated levels of uric acid, a natural by-product of purine metabolism, lead to the formation of needle-like crystals that trigger intense pain and inflammation, typically affecting the big toe. The primary contributors to gout include a diet rich in purine-containing foods, impaired kidney function hindering uric acid elimination, and a genetic predisposition. Diagnosing gout involves a comprehensive examination, including a detailed medical history, assessment of symptoms, and often the identification of characteristic crystal deposits through joint fluid analysis. The diagnostic process aims to differentiate gout from other joint disorders, ensuring accurate and timely intervention. Recognizing the causative factors and employing precise diagnostic measures are pivotal steps in comprehending and effectively managing gout, a condition that can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. If you have pain in your big toe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat gout. 

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Patricia A. Kirk, DPM from Kirk Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

Foot blisters are defined as fluid-filled sacs that form on the skin, and are often encountered during daily activities or as a result of wearing ill-fitting footwear. They develop as a result of friction or repeated rubbing, which separates the layers of skin, creating a pocket of clear fluid. Several factors can contribute to the formation of foot blisters. Tight or improperly fitting shoes can lead to excessive rubbing, especially while walking or running. Moisture, such as sweat or wet conditions, softens the skin and makes it more prone to blistering. Certain materials consisting of rough socks or shoes, can exacerbate the problem. Additionally, activities that place excessive stress on the feet, like hiking or long-distance running, are common culprits. Understanding the definition and causes of foot blisters can help you take preventive measures. If you have blisters on your feet, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can safely treat them and guide you on blister-prevention tactics. 

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Patricia A. Kirk, DPM of Kirk Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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