A podiatrist is a medical professional specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions affecting the feet, ankles, and lower legs. This type of doctor manages a wide range of issues, including common foot and ankle pain, bunions, numbness in the feet, and skin conditions like plantar warts. Podiatrists also treat congenital conditions like clubfoot and other structural abnormalities that impact the mobility and comfort of children. A podiatrist can prescribe orthotics, perform minor surgical procedures, and offer guidance on footwear, as well as provide care to prevent complications. If you are experiencing foot or ankle discomfort or require specialized care, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to receive expert podiatric treatment tailored to your needs.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact Edward Sharrer, DPM from Premier Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

• Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
• Use innovative methods to treat conditions
• Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
• Correct walking patterns and balance
• Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

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

Tendinopathy refers to irritation or degeneration of a tendon, the tough tissue connecting muscle to bone. It often develops gradually from overuse, repetitive motion, or wearing improper footwear. Commonly affected areas include the Achilles tendon at the back of the ankle and tendons along the foot or leg. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, and tenderness that worsen with activity and ease with rest. Over time, the tendon may weaken, making movement more difficult and increasing the risk of further injury. Early treatment focuses on reducing inflammation and restoring strength through rest, stretching, and targeted exercises. Custom orthotics or supportive footwear can also help relieve strain and improve alignment. If you are experiencing persistent tendon pain or tightness in your foot or ankle, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an evaluation and personalized treatment to promote recovery and prevent recurrence.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Edward Sharrer, DPM of Premier Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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

Foot pain that feels stiff, achy, or swollen may be more than simple fatigue. Arthritis can affect any of the many joints in the foot and ankle, leading to inflammation, limited movement, and discomfort that worsens with activity or changes in weather. Over time, the loss of joint cartilage can make even short walks difficult. A podiatrist can identify whether arthritis is the cause through examination and imaging, then recommend treatments to reduce pain and improve mobility. Custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory therapy, and wearing supportive footwear can help protect the joints and slow progression. Maintaining a healthy weight and staying active with low-impact exercise can also make a difference. If your foot pain is persistent or accompanied by swelling and stiffness, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Edward Sharrer, DPM from Premier Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our podiatrist 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 office located in North Little Rock, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

That sharp tenderness along the edge of your toenail is often a sign of an ingrown toenail, a common issue that causes disproportionate discomfort. The pain, redness, and swelling are clear indicators that your toenail needs expert care to prevent the condition from progressing. The truth is, not all ingrown toenails are treated the same way. For milder cases, your podiatrist may utilize conservative, non-surgical techniques, such as taping or specialized bracing, to guide the nail's growth. However, if the condition is severe, chronic, or shows signs of infection like pus or excessive inflammation, a minor, in-office procedure may be necessary to remove the offending nail portion for immediate and lasting relief. A thorough exam will determine the right path for your foot health. If your ingrown toenail is not improving or is painful and infected, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Edward Sharrer, DPM of Premier Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in North Little Rock, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.