Ankle Sprains

Ankle Sprains are an important part of the everyday ailments seen in the office. These often occur during sports but can be caused by stepping off a curb wrong. These are often left untreated and can cause long-term ankle pain and problems. If you or someone you know has an ankle sprain they should come into the office ASAP for an evaluation. An x-ray should be taken and then steps to offload the pain and prevent further injury are taken. On rare cases an MRI will be ordered to r/o further injuries such as tendon tears or sprains. Often ankle sprains can be treated conservatively. Another important thing to consider is if you are a frequent ankle sprainer. If that is the case orthotics or braces can help prevent this.

Sever's Disease

A common problem that can be seen in kids is pain on the back of the heel. Often kids will relate they have pain while playing sports or when they wear cleats. Often seen more in boys however this is seen often in girls. The age range is between 8-13 years old. This is a growing pain due to the Calcaneus growth plate fusing together. This is actually not a disease that will affect the rest of your life. But can be painful while that bone is growing. There are lots of ways to treat this condition. Often a custom orthotic is the best treatment option. The goal is to treat the pain and allow the child to continue their normal activities.

In-Grown Toe Nails

I have been getting more and more questions recently on the proper treatment of in-grown nails and where they come from. Well, in-grown nails stem from one or both of the nail borders growing down into the skin. This will often cause pain, redness, swelling and can lead to infection of the toe. Antibiotics will often make the redness go down but will not be the long-term solution to the problem. The only way to cure an in-grown nail is to cut it out. This can be done in the office using a sterile procedure with minimal discomfort to the patient. After the offending nail border is removed a small dressing is applied to the toe and instructions for home are given. This will not affect your walking and you will be able to play sports or walk normally.

Welcome Letter

I want to thank all of my patients and friends who have supported me in opening my office in Cary, NC. I have officially been open since July 1st 2009. It has been an amazing process and one that I learn from each and every day. I hope to bring a new face to the foot and ankle world in the Triangle. I hope that this blog will be a place that people can feel free to ask questions and get real feed back not only from me but from other people with the same ailments to offer support and helpful ideas. This blog can also be a great resource for events taking place in the Triangle. I have opened the Blog with a topic. Once again thank you.

www.trianglefoot.com

Heel Pain

Why do so many people have heel pain and where does it come from?
Answer: Did you know that the research does not support one single answer for heel pain? Everyday I see more and more patients in the office with heel pain. But what is important to understand about heel pain is that many different ailments can be the real problem. It is always best to avoid the running stores as an initial starting point for your foot pain. Why? Well, they can not make an accurate diagnosis and often will just sell you something for the sake of selling. They do not have the x-ray capabilities. Lastly, they are not professionals. So before you think you have plantar fasciitis have a professional give you an accurate diagnosis. It then allows me to tailor a specific treatment plan for you. It may involve numerous different methods of treatment but not everyone can be treated the same.