Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, or JRA, a chronic autoimmune disorder, occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, leading to joint inflammation and damage. While the exact cause remains elusive, genetic predisposition and environmental factors likely play significant roles. Children with a family history of autoimmune diseases are at higher risk, although JRA can affect anyone. Symptoms may include joint stiffness, swelling, and pain, particularly in the feet and ankles. In some cases, JRA can lead to complications like joint deformities and growth problems. Diagnosing this condition involves a thorough evaluation of symptoms, medical history, and physical exams, often supplemented with blood tests and imaging studies. If your child has foot or ankle joint pain, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can collaborate with other relevant healthcare professionals to tailor a treatment plan that can relieve pain, maintain joint function, and prevent deformities.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, 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.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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.

Plantar fibroma, a condition affecting the foot's plantar fascia, is a non-cancerous growth or nodule within the arch. This fibrous tissue thickening can cause discomfort and pain, particularly while walking or standing for prolonged periods. Unlike a cyst or wart, a plantar fibroma feels firm to the touch and typically does not move under the skin. The exact cause of this condition remains unclear, although factors such as trauma or genetics may play a role in its development. Symptoms include a noticeable lump or mass in the arch of the foot, accompanied by tenderness or pain, especially when pressure is applied. Over time, the fibroma may increase in size, potentially affecting mobility and overall foot function. Diagnosis usually involves a physical examination by a podiatrist with treatment options ranging from orthotics and stretching exercises to surgical intervention, in more severe cases. If you have an uncomfortable lump on the sole or arch of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat a plantar fibroma.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, 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.

Plantar Fibroma

A plantar fibroma is a fibrous knot in the arch of the foot. It is embedded in the plantar fascia which is a band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. There can be multiple plantar fibromas in the feet at the same time. There are no known causes for this condition. If you have a plantar fibroma, there will be a bump in the arch of your foot that cannot be missed. Any associated pain is most often due to a shoe rubbing against the nodule. Non-surgical options, such as steroid injections, physical therapy, and orthotics should be tried first. Surgery is a last resort and is the only thing that will remove a plantar fibroma entirely. Consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the treatment regimen that is right for you.

What Causes a Plantar Fibroma?

While there are no specific causes identified, a plantar fibroma can possibly come from genetic predisposition or the formation of scar tissue that forms from healing the tears in the plantar fascia.

What Are the Symptoms of a Plantar Fibroma?

There will be a noticeable lump in the arch of the foot that may or may not cause pain. If pain is felt, it is typically because a shoe is rubbing up against the lump or when walking or standing barefoot.

Treatment and Prevention

A plantar fibroma will not disappear without treatment, but it can get smaller and be a non-issue. If pain persists, a podiatrist examines the foot and when the arch of the foot is pressed, pain can be felt down to the toes. An MRI or biopsy might be performed to help diagnose or evaluate the plantar fibroma. The following non-surgical options are generally enough to reduce the size and pain of these nodules:

• Steroid injections
• Orthotics
• Physical therapy to help apply anti-inflammatory creams on the bump 

Surgery is considered if the mass increases in size and the patient continues to feel pain after non-surgical methods are tried.

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

Diabetic foot ulcers are a serious concern for people with diabetes, as they can lead to severe complications. These ulcers form due to a combination of poor circulation, nerve damage, and impaired wound-healing capabilities, all common in diabetics. To lower the risk of complications, it's important to manage blood sugar levels diligently, as high glucose can further impair healing. Regular inspections of the feet for any cuts, bruises, or changes are essential to catch problems early. Making regular appointments with a podiatrist, or foot doctor, can help with this process. Wearing properly fitting shoes and avoiding walking barefoot can also prevent injuries. If an ulcer does develop, it is important to seek immediate medical attention to treat the wound and any infections. Maintaining cleanliness, applying appropriate dressings, and possibly using antibiotics are typical steps in managing foot ulcers. If you are diabetic and at risk for developing foot ulcers, it is suggested that you add a podiatrist to your care team. 

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 Patricia A. Kirk, DPM from Kirk 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 Lexington, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

While often associated with adults, gout can also affect children, although less frequently. Gout is a type of arthritis characterized by sudden and severe episodes of joint pain, swelling, and inflammation, typically in the big toe. This condition arises due to an accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sharp pain and discomfort. In children, gout may occur as a result of genetic factors, metabolic disorders, or taking certain medications. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as poor diet, obesity, and dehydration can contribute to elevated levels of uric acid in the bloodstream, increasing the risk of gout attacks. Children with underlying health conditions, such as kidney disease or leukemia, may also be predisposed to developing gout. Recognizing the symptoms of gout in children, including joint pain, redness, and swelling, is vital for early diagnosis and management. If your child has symptoms of gout, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective management strategies.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. 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 form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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.

The foot is a marvel of engineering, composed of various intricate parts that work together to support our weight, enable movement, and maintain balance. At the front of the foot lies the toes, which provide stability and aid in propulsion during walking and running. Behind the toes is the ball of the foot, where the metatarsal bones and associated muscles and ligaments help absorb shock and distribute weight. Moving towards the back, we encounter the arch of the foot, composed of longitudinal and transverse arches, which provide spring-like support and flexibility. Anchoring the arches is the heel, or calcaneus bone, serving as the foundation of the foot and absorbing the impact of each step. Surrounding these structures are layers of muscles, tendons, and ligaments, which facilitate movement and maintain stability. Understanding the anatomy of the foot is essential for identifying and addressing issues related to foot health and function, ensuring optimal mobility and well-being. If you have any type of foot pain and are interested in learning how understanding foot structure may provide relief tips, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

If you have any concerns about your feet, 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.

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 office located in Lexington, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.