Foot & Ankle Conditions

Foot & Ankle Conditions

The following are a list of some of the services we offer to our patients. Please call for an appointment to be evaluated.
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Commonly Treated Foot & Ankle Conditions

  • Achilles Tendinitis

    What is Achilles Tendinitis?


    The Achilles tendon is the strongest tendon in the human body. Its purpose is to connect the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. This tendon is responsible for facilitating all types of movement, like walking and running. Since this tendon provides an enormous amount of mobility to an individual, any injuries inflicted to this tissue should be immediately brought up with a physician to prevent further damage.


    Achilles Tendinitis can result from an injury or over-use. Improper stretching prior to exertion or incorrect form during physical activity can also contribute to the development of tendinitis. Some people, including those that are overweight, with flat feet, tight tendons or arthritis, are particularly prone to tendinitis.


    What are the Symptoms of Achilles Tendinitis?


    Achilles tendinitis can be recognized by the following symptoms: inflammation, dull to severe pain at the back of the heel, thickening of the tendon, and slower movement time. 


    When should you see us and how is Achilles Tendinitis treated? 


    Achilles Tendinitis can become a chronic problem, and it's a lot harder to treat chronic problems than acute injuries.


    Treatment will focus on relieving the pain and preventing further injury. Your doctor may create shoe inserts or a soft cast to effectively immobilize the affected area for a period of time. Prescribed anti-inflammatories may help as well. 


    We will work with you to decrease your chances of re-developing tendinitis. We may suggest custom orthotics to help control the motion of your feet. We may also recommend certain stretches or exercises to increase the tendon's elasticity and strengthen the muscles attached to the tendon.


    If you think you may have tendinitis in your Achilles tendon, our doctors are here for you!


    Visit the online contact page  or call us at (706) 595-8787  for an appointment at our Thomson, Lincolnton and Washington offices.


  • Ankle Sprains

    What is an Ankle Sprain?


    Ankle sprains are caused by an unnatural twisting or force on the ankle bones of the foot, which may result in excessive stretching or tearing of one or more ligaments around the ankle. The severity of the sprain can impact the degree of damage as well as the type and duration of treatment. If not properly treated, ankle sprains may develop into long-term problems.


    What are the symptoms of an ankle sprain?


    Primary symptoms of ankle sprains are pain following a twist or injury with swelling, and bruising to your ankle, sometimes you hear a snap or pop. It is not uncommon to have bruising near your toes.


    When should you see us and how are ankle sprains treated?


    At home treatment includes resting and elevating the ankle and applying ice to reduce swelling. Compressive bandages also may be used to immobilize and support the injury during healing. 


    We certainly recommend seeing us when you initially sprain your ankle to have a comprehensive evaluation. “Waiting it out” can certainly make things worse. Repetitive ankle sprains can cause further damage to your ankle joint including but not limited to cartilage damage, cystic formations and early degenerative joint disease.


    Our doctors at McDuffie Podiatry are well versed in ankle sprains and their treatments both conservatively and surgically.


    Visit the online contact page  or call us at (706) 595-8787 for an appointment at our Thomson, Lincolnton and Washington offices


  • Ankle Arthroscopy

    What is Ankle Arthroscopy?


    Would you benefit from an Ankle Arthroscopy?


    Arthroscopy is used to treat chronic conditions such as arthritis, bone spurs, torn cartilage, torn ligaments, certain types of fractures, joint infection, osteochondral defects, soft tissue impingement, loose bodies, and following athletic injuries. Arthroscopy utilizes a small camera through small incisions that enters your joint to visualize what is occuring. Arthroscopic surgery also allows for more accurate diagnosis of any underlying conditions that may not show up on X-ray, MRI, or CT scan. 


    Arthroscopies are performed as outpatient surgeries and allow patients to recover more quickly, have less scaring, lower chance of infection and bleeding, and can provide immediate pain relief. 


    When should you see us and what can we do for you?


    Have chronic ankle pain? A thorough evaluation and discussion between you and our doctors (hyperlink) is vital to talk about the best treatment course, as well as activity level and recovery goals post-operatively. Though arthroscopic surgery may not be appropriate for everyone, it is a great alternative to many procedures that require a bigger incision and longer recovery periods.


    If you have any questions regarding foot and ankle arthroscopy our doctors  at McDuffie Podiatry are here for you. 


    Visit the online contact page  or call us at (706) 595-8787  for an appointment at our Thomson, Lincolnton and Washington offices


  • Bunions (Hallux Valgus)

    What is a Bunion, do you have one?


    A bunion is an enlargement of the joint at the base of the big toe—the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint—that forms when the bone or tissue at the big toe joint moves out of place. This forces the toe to bend toward the others, causing an often painful lump of bone on the foot. It is caused by a variety of reasons like genetics, injury, and joint diseases. Since this joint carries a lot of the body’s weight while walking, bunions can cause extreme pain if left untreated. The joint itself may become stiff and sore, making even the wearing of shoes difficult or impossible.


    What are the symptoms of a bunion?

    • Development of a firm bump on the outside edge of the foot, at the base of the big toe, which can “grow” larger
    • Tenderness, redness, swelling, or pain at or near the toe (bump, great toe) joint.
    • Corns, calluses, “knots” or other irritations caused by the overlap of the first and second toes.
    • Stiffness or restricted motion at the great toe joint.
    • Inflammation and redness (it looks angry).
    • Painful pressure of the great toe against the adjacent or second toe.
    • Callus or thickening of skin on the side of the foot or near the bunion.
    • Pain and swelling that can affect how the big toe joint moves and how you walk with or without shoes. 

    When should you see us and how can we help with your bunion pain?


    Treatment options vary with the type and severity of each bunion, although identifying the deformity early in its development is important in avoiding surgery. Helping you select shoes or orthotics can reduce pain. Medical attention should be sought at the first indication of pain or discomfort because, if left untreated, bunions tend to get larger and more painful, making nonsurgical treatment less of an option.


    A thorough exam, evaluation and x-rays are performed to determine the proper technique that is needed to correct each bunion. Surgery is an option and can include minimally invasive correction, cutting and realigning bones while securing them with screws, plates, etc, or fusing two bones together to remove excess motion or arthritis that may have formed. These procedures all have a different recovery period and will be explained by your doctor. 


    The primary goal of most early treatment options is to relieve pressure on the bunion and halt the progression of the joint deformity. 


    If you have any questions regarding your bunion pain, our doctors at McDuffie Podiatry are here for you! 


    Visit the online contact page  or call us at (706) 595-8787  for an appointment at our Thomson, Lincolnton and Washington offices


  • Charcot Foot

    What Is Charcot Foot?  


    Charcot foot is a serious condition causing weakening of the bones in the foot that can occur in people who have significant nerve damage (neuropathy) from diabetes and other causes. Neuropathy is decreased sensation and limits the ability to feel temperature, pain or trauma. Because of diminished sensation, the patient may continue to walk—making the injury worse. People with neuropathy (especially those who have had it for a long time) are at risk for developing Charcot foot. The bones are weakened enough to fracture, and with continued walking, the foot eventually changes shape. As the disorder progresses, the joints collapse and the foot takes on an abnormal shape, such as a rocker-bottom appearance.


    What are the Symptoms of Charcot foot deformity?

    • The symptoms of Charcot foot may include:
    • Warmth to the touch (the affected foot feels warmer than the other)
    • Redness in the foot
    • Swelling in the area
    • Pain or soreness 

    Why you should see us and how can we help?


    Early diagnosis of Charcot foot is EXTREMELY important for successful treatment and our surgeons have great expertise with this pathology. 


    To arrive at a diagnosis, the surgeon will examine the foot and ankle and ask about events that may have occurred prior to the symptoms. X-rays and other imaging studies and tests may be ordered. Once treatment begins, x-rays are taken periodically to aid in evaluating the status of the condition. It is extremely important to follow the surgeon’s treatment plan for Charcot foot. Failure to do so can lead to the loss of a toe, foot, leg or life. Your surgeon will use a combination of conservative treatment options like immobilization and custom shoes and bracing. Possible surgical treatment options for your pathology will also be presented if you have an unstable foot in a poor position. 


    If you have any questions regarding possible Charcot foot, our doctors at McDuffie Podiatry are here for you!


    Visit the online contact page  or call us at (706) 595-8787  for an appointment at our Thomson, Lincolnton and Washington offices.


  • Custom Scanning for Orthotics and Bracing

    What are Orthotics? 


    Orthotics, also known as orthoses or shoe inserts, are devices inserted into a shoe, ranging from felt pads to custom-made shoe inserts that correct an abnormal or irregular, walking pattern. 


    They help cushion against pain and improve functionality. Feet have a specific biomechanical structure to provide you with a stable and mobile base. If anything isn’t quite right, you can end up with pain over time, making it harder and harder to continue the activities you love. Your footwear is meant to support your foot structures so your lower limbs are protected and enabled function at their best. However, sometimes issues develop anyway and your shoes don’t help—or worse, they contribute to the problem. Orthotics are special inserts that support, cushion, or correct your foot mechanics and relieve your pain.


    Custom orthotics are specialty inserts that are made for your individual feet and unique biomechanical issues. These are prescribed by a physician, and are used to both accommodate and correct painful issues in your feet and ankles. They can be used to manage specific deformities or gait abnormalities, such as: bunions, tendinitis or tendon dysfunction, arthritis, or plantar fasciitis. In general, the design of the orthotic is to accommodate these issues as well as allow the foot to function in a more neutral and proper position


    Custom orthotics can alleviate pain not only in the feet and ankles but also can help hip, knee and back pain by helping alignment issues in the lower extremities.


    Why you should come see us!


    Although over-the-counter orthotics work, custom orthotics are sometimes needed for additional support or a need for a custom fit that the over the counter product can’t give. Therefore, we use a combination of both depending on the patient’s needs. 


    Custom orthotics are made out of higher-grade materials that last longer and are more expensive. When a custom orthotic is necessary, it is crucial that a podiatrist is involved, as the wrong type of orthotic can actually make people feel worse or even cause a different problem. Over-the-counter orthotics typically last about 3-4 months if you wear them everyday. Custom orthotics usually last three to five years – sometimes longer. This depends on the type of activity and the material that the orthotic is made from. Also, the more running one does, the quicker the orthotic will wear out. With children, we usually replace orthotics every two shoe sizes, depending on comfort.


    Our doctors  capture an image of the foot as accurately as possible. There are many ways to do this: plaster casting, pressure scanning, and 3-dimensional camera modeling. Our doctors at McDuffie Podiatry are pleased to offer three-dimensional scanning for the manufacturing of custom foot orthotics! 


    They’re crafted after our team has had a chance to conduct a gait analysis and obtain a mold of your feet, so we can be sure the insert is built to match your needs. These are often used to help treat plantar fasciitis, bursitis, overpronation (flatfoot) problems, oversupination (high arch) and diabetic foot ulcers, among other things.


    Customizations occur and vary based on each patient’s needs. The material needs to be supportive for the foot as well as comfortable enough to wear. Once the device is made, they usually require a break in period. This can take 2 - 4 weeks to become comfortable.


    If you have any questions regarding custom orthotics, our doctors at McDuffie Podiatry are here for you. 


    Visit the online contact page  or call us at (706) 595-8787  for an appointment at our Thomson, Lincolnton and Washington offices


  • Diabetic Foot Education, Evaluation and Treatment

    If you are among one of the millions of people in the United States with diabetes, it is important to visit your podiatrist for regular foot examinations in order to maintain healthy feet and a strong body.


    Diabetes touches every area of your body, including your lower limbs and they are often impacted first.


    Elevated sugar levels damage your blood vessels, which in turn hurts the organs, nerves, and other tissues throughout your body. 

    • Your feet are one of the first places to feel the effect, and remain at high risk for sustaining serious—even life-threatening—complications as a result. Since the fluctuating sugars damage your nerves, you may struggle with nerve pain or be unable to feel small injuries. 
    • Diabetes also compromises your immune system, so problems that do arise are not able to heal as well. 
    • Peripheral neuropathy, ulcers, and amputation are some of the most serious complications that can arise.

    Diabetics are more prone to various foot problems than those without diabetes due to the development of painful nerve damage called peripheral neuropathy. 


    Neuropathy can affect your entire body, but most often the legs and feet are the most prone areas to serious health complications.


    The damage to your nerves can cause the loss of feeling in your feet, making it difficult to detect extreme temperatures and pain as easily, or readily as someone who does not have diabetes. As a result, you could sustain a serious cut or wound and not even notice your foot is injured until an infection begins. Many diabetic foot problems can be prevented in some measure with improved blood sugar control and a strengthened immune system.


    However, diabetes doesn’t have to spell the end for your lower limbs and your activities. Even if you do develop diabetic foot complications, there are ways for you to protect your lower limbs and avoid the potentially life-threatening problems. 


    Here are some helpful tips if you are a diabetic:

    • Inspection:  Perform daily foot checks. This can either be done by having a friend or family member look at all areas of your feet. If you are by yourself, place a large handheld mirror on the floor and check the bottom of the feet this way. 
    • Moisturize your feet daily to avoid itching and cracking of the skin.
    • Shoes: Wear supportive shoes at all times and minimize barefoot walking. Always inspect your shoes prior to putting them on to look for foreign objects that may irritate or cause harm to your feet. Make sure you wear appropriate shoe gear for each season. In the Winter, make sure you wear warm socks and waterproof shoes to prevent frostbite. Your doctor may recommend diabetic shoes if you have certain risk factors. 
    • Medical: Monitor your blood glucose levels routinely and let your primary care physician know if they get elevated. Let your podiatrist know if you begin to experience any burning, tingling, numbness, or changes in the appearance of your feet. Avoid smoking because this decreases blood flow to your feet. Getting proper daily nutrition and exercising are also part of living a healthier diabetic lifestyle.
    • Exams: Make sure you get periodic or routine foot exams by a podiatrist to prevent complications. Having routine care by a podiatrist can prevent and reduce the risk of diabetic foot complications like infections and amputations. Having your foot doctor treat any toenail issues or calluses immediately is highly recommended. Studies have shown that up to 80% of all amputations can be preventable by well-provisioned care. 

    Following these tips for caring for diabetic feet can prevent a dangerous scenario.


    Visit the online contact page or call us at (706) 595-8787 for an appointment at our Thomson, Lincolnton and Washington offices


  • Diabetic Foot Wounds

    A diabetic foot ulcer is an open sore or wound that most commonly occurs on the bottom of the foot in approximately 15 percent of patients with diabetes. Of those who develop a foot ulcer, six percent will be hospitalized due to infection or other ulcer-related complication.


    Diabetes is the leading cause of nontraumatic lower extremity amputations in the United States, and approximately 14 to 24 percent of patients with diabetes who develop a foot ulcer have an amputation. Research, however, has shown that the development of a foot ulcer is preventable.


    Who Can Get a Diabetic Foot Ulcer?


    • Anyone who has diabetes can develop a foot ulcer. Native Americans, African Americans, Hispanics and older men are more likely to develop ulcers.
    • People who use insulin are at a higher risk of developing a foot ulcer, as are patients with diabetes-related kidney, eye, and heart disease. 
    • Being overweight and using alcohol and tobacco also play a role in the development of foot ulcers.

    How do Diabetic Foot Ulcers Form?


    Ulcers form due to a combination of factors, such as lack of feeling in the foot, poor circulation, foot deformities, irritation (such as friction or pressure), and trauma, as well as duration of diabetes. 


    Patients who have diabetes for many years can develop neuropathy, a reduced or complete lack of feeling in the feet due to nerve damage caused by elevated blood glucose levels over time. 


    The nerve damage often can occur without pain and one may not even be aware of the problem. 


    Your podiatric physician can test feet for neuropathy with a simple and painless tool called a monofilament. 


    Vascular disease can complicate a foot ulcer, reducing the body’s ability to heal and increasing the risk for an infection.

     Elevations in blood glucose can reduce the body’s ability to fight off a potential infection and also retard healing.


    What is the Value of Treating a Diabetic Foot Ulcer?


    Once an ulcer is noticed, seek our care immediately. Foot ulcers in patients with diabetes should be treated for several reasons such as, reducing the risk of infection and amputation, improving function and quality of life, and reducing health care costs.


    Controlling Blood Glucose


    Tightly controlling blood glucose is of the utmost importance during the treatment of a diabetic foot ulcer. Working closely with a medical doctor or endocrinologist to accomplish this will enhance healing and reduce the risk of complications.


    Surgical Options


    A majority of noninfected foot ulcers are treated without surgery; however, when this fails, surgical management may be appropriate. Examples of surgical care to remove pressure on the affected area include shaving or excision of bone(s) and the correction of various deformities, such as hammertoes, bunions, or bony “bumps.”


    Healing Factors


    Healing time depends on a variety of factors, such as wound size and location, pressure on the wound from walking or standing, swelling, circulation, blood glucose levels, wound care, and what is being applied to the wound. Healing may occur within weeks or require several months.


    How Can a Foot Ulcer be Prevented?

    â–  The best way to treat a diabetic foot ulcer is to prevent its development in the first place. Recommended guidelines include seeing a podiatrist on a regular basis. He or she can determine if you are at high risk for developing a foot ulcer and implement strategies for prevention.


    You are at high risk if you:

    • have neuropathy,
    • have poor circulation,
    • have a foot deformity (i.e., bunion, hammertoe),
    • wear inappropriate shoes,
    • have uncontrolled blood sugar.
    • Reducing additional risk factors, such as smoking, drinking alcohol, high cholesterol, and elevated blood glucose are important in the prevention and treatment of a diabetic foot ulcer. Wearing the appropriate shoes and socks will go a long way in reducing risks. 

    If you have any questions regarding your diabetic wound our doctors at McDuffie Podiatry are here for you. 


    Visit the online contact page  or call us at (706) 595-8787  for more information or an appointment at our Thomson, Lincolnton and Washington podiatry offices


  • Diagnostic Musculoskeletal Ultrasound

    Ultrasound is a very effective tool for diagnosing a wide variety of foot and ankle problems, particularly soft tissue problems. Ultrasound uses sound waves on the body in a way much like radar uses sound waves. The waves hit a targeted area and are bounced back to a recording device, which produces an image. Ultrasound is a completely safe, noninvasive, and painless diagnostic procedure.

     

    Common problems for which ultrasound may be prescribed include:

    • Bursitis
    • Heel spurs or plantar fasciitis
    • Injuries of ligaments or tendons
    • Neuromas
    • Presence of foreign bodies
    • Soft tissue masses
    • Tendinitis or tears in a tendon
    • Ganglion Cysts

    Ultrasound is also useful when injecting various areas with steroid and amnion for various conditions.

    • Cortisone or amnion injections may be recommended to help relieve pain and inflammation in a specific area of your body. 

    Ultrasound injections are also effective in treating inflammatory conditions such as:

    • Bursitis
    • Gout
    • Osteoarthritis
    • Plantar fasciitis
    • Psoriatic arthritis
    • Reactive arthritis
    • Rheumatoid arthritis
    • Tendinitis
    • Neuromas/neuritis

     The injections usually comprise of a mixture of corticosteroid medication and a local anesthetic. 


    When the anesthetic wears off you may experience increased discomfort due to the fluid pressure in the area. The corticosteroid may take up to 2 weeks to fully help to bring down inflammation and ultimately relieve pain.

     

    If you have any questions regarding diagnostic ultrasound or ultrasound guided injections our doctors at McDuffie Podiatry are here for you. 


    Visit the online contact page  or call us at (706) 595-8787  for an appointment at our Thomson, Lincolnton and Washington offices


  • Flat Feet

    What are flat feet?


    Flat feet are a common condition of the foot structure. Flat feet is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed, generally making the sole of the foot completely or almost completely stay in contact with the ground.


    In infants and toddlers, prior to walking, the longitudinal arch is not developed, and flat feet are normal. 


    Most feet are flexible and an arch appears when children begin standing on their toes. The arch continues to develop throughout childhood, and by adulthood most people have developed normal arches.


    Flat feet are generally associated with pronation, a leaning inward of the ankle bones toward the center line. 


    Many people with flat feet do not experience pain or other problems. When pain in the foot, ankle, or lower leg does occur, especially in children, the feet should be evaluated.


    What are the symptoms of flat feet?


    Pain around the heel or arch area, trouble standing on the tip toe, swelling around the inside of the ankle, flat look to one or both feet, and having your shoes feel uneven when worn. 


    A major cause of flat feet is never having developed an arch on your foot.


    Overtime, a lot of stress and trauma to the foot can actually weaken the posterior tibial tendon that runs around the inside of the ankle and helps to support your arch. We call this a painful progressive flatfoot, otherwise known as tibialis posterior tendinitis or adult-acquired flatfoot. This is the reason why some people with flat feet have pain around the inside of their ankle and foot. This condition arises when the tendon becomes inflamed, stretched, or torn. Left untreated, it may lead to severe disability and chronic pain. People are predisposed to tibialis posterior tendinitis if they have flat feet or an abnormal attachment of the tendon to the bones in the midfoot.


    When to see us and what can we do for you?


    Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, icing, physical therapy, supportive taping, bracing, and orthotics are common treatments for painful progressive flatfoot. Note: Please consult your physician before taking any medications. 


    In some cases, a surgery may need to be performed to repair a torn or damaged tendon and restore normal function. In the most severe cases, surgery on the midfoot bones may be necessary to treat the associated flatfoot condition.


    Visit the online contact page  or call us at (706) 595-8787  for an appointment at our Thomson, Lincolnton and Washington offices


  • Foot and Ankle Trauma- Open & Closed Fractures:

    McDuffie Podiatry deals with a high volume of traumatic fractures and other various traumas to the foot and ankle. These include open and closed fractures, crush injuries, dislocations, tendon ruptures, traumatic wounds, compartment syndrome, and soft tissue injuries.


    Treatment for these injuries is based on the severity and type of injury. Treatments can range from immobilization to emergent surgical intervention.


    Fractures or breaks in the bone can also occur through direct or indirect trauma, such as slipping, falling, or having an object land on your foot with force.


    Overuse injuries can lead to significant pain in the ball of the foot, front of your leg, heel, and ankle.


    Early diagnosis and treatment in foot and ankle trauma is essential in achieving the best possible outcome. Depending on the diagnosis, conservative and/or surgical treatments will be available. Our doctors are well trained in foot and ankle injuries/trauma, and will provide the best care possible to ensure a proper recovery to have you back on your feet.


    We take trauma and ER call from University Hospital-McDuffie. We also see emergent trauma and fracture care within the office setting!


    If you have any questions regarding an injury our doctors at McDuffie Podiatry are here for you. 


    Visit the online contact page or call us at (706) 595-8787  for an appointment at our Thomson, Lincolnton and Washington offices


  • Hammertoes

    What is a hammer toe? 


    Hammertoes are painful deformities that frequently form on the second, third, fourth or fifth toe. The condition is often caused by the manner in which they walk, or shoes that do not comfortably fit the deformity.  


    Hammertoes can be formed after wearing shoes that are too narrow or short for the foot or have excessively high heels. 


    Shoes that are not properly sized will force the toes into a bent position for long periods of time, causing the muscles to shorten and toes to bend into the deformity of a hammertoe.


    Hammertoes can also be caused by complications from rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, trauma to the foot, heredity, or a stroke. Pain and difficult mobility of the toes, deformities, calluses, and corns are all symptoms of a hammertoe. 


    What are the symptoms of a hammer toe? 


    Symptoms of hammertoes include:

    • Pain at the top of the toe when pressure is applied
    • Corns on top of the joint
    • Redness
    • Swelling
    • Restricted or painful motion of the joint
    • Pain in the ball of the foot at the base of the toe

    When should you see us and what can we do for you? 


    Someone who suspects they have the symptoms of a hammertoe should consult with us. If the doctor discovers that the affected toes are still flexible, treatment for the hammertoe may simply involve exercise, physical therapy, and better-fitting shoes. Treatment for hammertoes typically involves controlling foot mechanics, such as walking, through the use of customized orthotics. 


    For more serious cases in which the toes have become inflexible and rigid, surgery may be suggested. During the operation, the toe would receive an incision to relieve pressure on the tendons. A re-alignment of the tendons may then be performed by removing small pieces of bone to straighten the toe. In some cases, the insertion of pins is needed to keep the bones in the proper position as the toe heals. The patient is usually allowed to return home on the same day as the surgery. 


    If you have any questions regarding your hammertoes our doctors at McDuffie Podiatry are here for you. 

     

    Visit the online contact page or call us at (706) 595-8787  for an appointment at our Thomson, Lincolnton and Washington offices.


  • Heel Pain

    What is heel pain?


    There are many reasons why you could have heel or arch pain. Trying to self-diagnose this pain could mean that you spend time and money treating the wrong symptoms. In addition, you could be worsening the condition by not having a podiatrist get to the root of what’s causing you so much grief.


    Some of the most common reasons for heel and arch pain include the following:


    Plantar Fasciitis 

    • There is a ligament that runs across the length of the bottom of your foot. This is called the plantar fascia. When it becomes inflamed, it hurts. This condition is known as plantar fasciitis and it is one of the leading causes of heel pain.
    • There are a few at-home treatments you can try to get relief. Stretching your feet, icing the bottom of your feet, or resting from high impact sports are some of the best ways to help your feet feel better. If your feet still hurt, you might need to visit one of our shoe stores to get new shoes that will support your plantar fascia while it heals.
    • If these types of treatment do not help, something else could be contributing to your plantar fasciitis or causing your pain.

    Heel Spurs

    • Heel spurs are another common reason why people suffer from foot pain. Heel spurs, or bone spurs, are small knobs that form on the bottom of your feet. They push into the your heels every time you take a step causing pain and inflammation.
    • Treatment for heel spurs varies. You might be able to relieve your foot pain with just a few stretches and more supportive shoes. If your heel spurs are severe, you might need injections to minimize the inflammation in your foot. In rare cases, surgery is required to remove the spur and give you relief.

    If you have any questions regarding your heel pain our doctors at McDuffie Podiatry are here for you. 


    Visit the online contact page or call us at (706) 595-8787  for an appointment at our Thomson, Lincolnton and Washington offices.


  • Ingrown Toenail

    What is an ingrowing toenail?


    An ingrown toenail occurs when the corners of a nail curl downward and grow into the skin on the edge of the toe, causing pain and swelling.


    What are the causes and symptoms of an ingrown toenail?


    Ingrown toenails may be caused by the following:

    • Improperly trimmed nails
    • Heredity
    • Shoe Pressure; crowding of toes
    • Repeated trauma to the feet and toes from normal activities

    The following symptoms may be present with ingrown toenails:

    • Pain
    • Redness and swelling
    • Drainage 
    • Odor
    • Prominent skin tissue (proud flesh)

    When to see us and what can we do for you?


    People with diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, or other circulatory disorders must avoid any form of self-treatment and seek podiatric medical care as soon as possible.


    Other “do-it-yourself” treatments, including any attempt to remove any part of an infected nail or the use of over-the-counter medications, MUST be avoided. Nail problems should be evaluated and treated by your podiatrist, who can diagnose the ailment, and then prescribe medication or another appropriate treatment.


    You should see us immediately if any drainage or excessive redness is present around the toenail. Also, if a short trial of home treatment has not resulted in improvement of the condition, see your podiatrist. 


    We will likely remove the ingrown portion of the nail and may prescribe a topical or oral medication to treat the infection. If ingrown nails are a chronic problem, your we can perform a procedure to permanently prevent ingrown nails. The corner of the nail that ingrows, along with the matrix or root of that piece of nail, are removed by use of a chemical.

    If you have any questions regarding your painful ingrown toenail  our doctors at McDuffie Podiatry are here for you. 

     

    Visit the online contact page  or call us at (706) 595-8787 for an appointment at our Thomson, Lincolnton and Washington offices!


  • Neuroma

    What is a Neuroma? 


    A neuroma is a painful condition, is a benign growth of nerve tissue which is a thickening of the nerve sheath that surrounds a nerve in the ball of the foot. It most commonly develops between the third and fourth toes, but can occur anywhere in the foot or ankle.


    A neuroma develops as a response to irritation, pressure or injury to a plantar nerve. It is commonly linked to footwear – especially women’s shoes – that put pressure on the toes and don’t provide proper space for them. High-heeled shoes and shoes with narrow toe boxes are common culprits.


    What are the symptoms of a neuroma?

    • Pain in the forefoot and between the toes.
    • Sharp burning, tingling and numbness in the ball of the foot.
    • Swelling between the toes.
    • Pain in the ball of the foot when weight is placed on it.
    • The sensation of standing on a pebble beneath the ball of the foot

    When to see us and what can we do for you?


    Treatment options vary with the severity of each neuroma, and identifying the neuroma early in its development is important to avoid surgical correction. Care should be sought at the first sign of pain or discomfort; if left untreated, neuromas tend to get worse.


    The primary goal of most early treatment regimens is to relieve pressure on areas where a neuroma develops. Your podiatric physician will examine and likely X-ray the affected area and suggest a treatment plan that best suits your individual case.


    Conservative treatment options include flat shoes with roomy toe boxes, and the use of inserts, pads or cushions. Corticosteroid injections may also provide pain relief. If these options are not successful, surgery may be needed to decompress the nerve or to remove the enlarged portion.


    Your Feet Aren't Supposed to Hurt! If you have any questions regarding a possible neuroma our doctors are here for you!


    Visit the online contact page  or call us at (706) 595-8787 for an appointment at our Thomson, Lincolnton and Washington offices


  • Pediatric Foot and Ankle Care

    Your child’s body is growing every day. With it, his or her feet, gait, and stance develop. If they are developing incorrectly or abnormally, your child could face lifelong difficulty. Correcting children’s foot problems early on is imperative for their long-term health. The good news: these early years—while bones are still rapidly growing—are the best opportunity to make lasting improvements in a young person’s foot and leg health.


    Flat Feet


    Just as the name says, flat feet are when the foot has little to no arch, making it appear flat. The arch is an essential part of the foot for stability and support. Without it, your child is at risk for an ankle sprain, plantar fasciitis (which causes heel pain), and other injuries.


    Sever’s Disease


    Your child loves to play. The field, park, or playground is one of his favorite spots. All of the activity is healthy for your child, but it can put his feet at risk. Repetitive impact and lack of support can cause Sever’s Disease, or pain in the heel it is a common foot condition in children.


    In-toeing or Out-toeing


    Another common foot condition in children is in-toeing or out-toeing. This condition causes your child’s feet to turn inward or outward. It can happen because of a skeletal or neurological disorder. Without treatment, your child is at risk of developing clubfeet, pain in their shin or calf, and other foot conditions.


    Sports Injuries


    Many children play sports and other physical activities as they're growing up. Although they provide excellent training to increase perseverance, teamwork, and poise, they can also be sources of a variety of foot and ankle injuries. It's important to have these injuries evaluated to determine the best treatment options and avoid running the risk of them causing long-term problems.


    When to see us and what can we do for your child?


    Most of the time, your child will not complain about foot problems. It is up to you as a parent to watch for limping, swelling, or difficulty walking. If you think your child might have a problem, give his feet a small squeeze. If this causes your child pain, it’s time to see a podiatrist.


    We understand how difficult it can be to take your child to the doctor. However, without treatment, your child is at risk of other more serious injuries. As soon as you notice an abnormality or foot problem, it is important that you seek treatment right away.


  • Plantar Fasciitis

    What is Plantar Fasciitis?


    Plantar fasciitis is a very common inflammatory condition that involves the plantar fascia (band of tissue) of the foot which extends from your heel to your toes. The plantar fascia is a support structure for the arch of the foot, and an extension of the Achilles tendon. In this condition, the tissue first becomes irritated and progresses into inflammation. Inflammation can occur from trauma, biomechanical issues, poor shoe gear, but most commonly occurs without a specific injury. 


    The most common cause of plantar fasciitis relates to faulty structure of the foot. For example, people who have problems with their arches, either overly flat feet or high-arched feet, are more prone to developing plantar fasciitis.


    What are the symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis?


    People with plantar fasciitis often describe the pain as worse when they get up in the morning or after they’ve been sitting for long periods of time. After a few minutes of walking the pain decreases, because walking stretches the fascia. For some people the pain subsides but returns after spending long periods of time on their feet.


    When to see us and what can we do for you?


    Are you starting your day off on the wrong foot? OUCH! Let us help!


    To arrive at a diagnosis, the foot and ankle surgeon will obtain your medical history and examine your foot. Throughout this process the surgeon rules out all the possible causes for your heel pain other than plantar fasciitis.


    In addition, diagnostic imaging studies such as x-rays or other imaging modalities may be used to distinguish the different types of heel pain. Sometimes heel spurs are found in patients with plantar fasciitis, but these are rarely a source of pain. When they are present, the condition may be diagnosed as plantar fasciitis/heel spur syndrome.


    We will use an array of methods to help you get back to your activity level! 


    Plantar fasciitis is not one size fits all! Most of the time we use a combination of conservative treatments which help get you back to your healthy self!


    If you have any questions regarding possible plantar fasciitis our doctors at McDuffie Podiatry are here for you. 

     

    Visit the online contact page  or call us at (706) 595-8787  for an appointment at our Thomson, Lincolnton and Washington offices


  • Revision Surgery

    Foot and ankle surgery is very common and thousands of procedures are performed daily across the United States. That being said, sometimes surgery does not go as planned and complications arise such as non-healing bones, recurrence, infections and continued pain occur. 


    Our highly trained specialists (hyperlink) have tremendous experience with revisional surgery and helping you reach a reasonable goal with or without more surgery.  


    If you have any questions regarding possible revisional treatments or surgeries our doctors at McDuffie Podiatry are here for you. 


     Visit the online contact page or call us at (706) 595-8787  for an appointment at our Thomson, Lincolnton and Washington offices


  • Sports Medicine

    Sports medicine focuses on the treatment and prevention of injuries involved in athletics, exercise, and other types of physical fitness. Common injuries and problems of the foot and ankle include ankle sprains, tendinitis, shin splints, skin blisters, turf toe, muscle strains, and fractures.


    Most sprains and strains or "soft tissue" injuries can be treated conservatively with "P.R.I.C.E." therapy (Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) for several weeks. Special strapping and taping techniques can also be utilized along with different types of bracing to provide support to the injured area as it heals.


    More serious injuries, such as torn ligaments, fractures, and joint dislocations, or problems that do not improve with conservative treatment may require surgery. Podiatrists work closely with physical therapists, athletic trainers, and coaches during the recovery process. The goal of sports medicine diagnostics & treatments is to return to activity in a safe and timely manner and preventing further injuries.


  • Wound Care

    Our doctors at McDuffie Podiatry and Wound Care are board certified experts in dealing with diabetic, venous, traumatic, lymphedema, pressure, and infected wounds. All physicians at our practice have admitting inpatient hospital privileges for emergent needs. We use all of the latest technologies to heal the most difficult and complicated wounds. We also specialize in limb salvage.


    Treatments vary from topical prescription medications, antibiotics, various dressings, offloading techniques, compression therapy, wound vac therapy, and surgical interventions. 


    McDuffie Podiatry and Wound Care is committed to providing personalized, effective and advanced treatments to improve our patient's ability to heal their lower extremity wounds. Lower extremity wounds are often complex and challenging to heal and foot and ankle specialists are a key component to your multidisciplinary wound care team (vascular surgeons, plastic surgeons, infectious disease doctors, diabetes doctors).


    One of the most important aspects of wound care management is having a full understanding of each individual patient. This is achieved by carefully listening to our patients, addressing our patient’s concerns, answering our patient’s questions, reviewing our patient’s past medical history and performing a thorough clinical exam. In doing so, this allows us to accurately assess each patient, determine the goals of treatment and formulate a personalized treatment plan for our patients.


    Not all wounds are created equal and is important to determine the underlying cause of a particular wound that is being treated. Having a full appreciation of our patients and the etiology of a wound permits us to identify and address factors that may be impeding wound healing. Corrective measures are then made to maximize a patient’s wound healing potential. This is done through educating our patients and treating any risk factors that negatively affect wound healing.


    The signs and symptoms of ulcers may include drainage, odor, or red, inflamed, thickened tissue. Pain may or may not be present.


    Diagnosis may include x-rays to evaluate possible bone involvement. Other advanced imaging studies may also be ordered to evaluate for vascular disease, which may affect a patient’s ability to heal the wound.


    Ulcers are treated by removing the unhealthy tissue and performing local wound care to assist in healing. Special shoes or padding may be used to remove excess pressure on the area. If infection is present, antibiotics will be necessary. In severe cases that involve extensive infection or are slow to heal, surgery or other advanced wound care treatments may be necessary.


    If you have any questions regarding a wound on your foot, ankle, leg or thigh, our doctors at McDuffie Podiatry are here for you. 


    Visit the online contact page or call us at (706) 595-8787  for an appointment at our Thomson, Lincolnton and Washington offices


Other Foot & Ankle Conditions We Offer

  • Achilles Tendon Ruptures
  • Acute Trauma Injuries
  • Ankle Fractures/Broken Ankles
  • Ankle Instability
  • Ankle Surgery
  • Arthritis of the Foot and Ankle
  • Athletic Conditions, including turf toe, dance, running injuries, tendinitis and stress fractures
  • Ankle Joint Replacement
  • Athlete’s Foot 
  • Big Toe Joint Replacement
  • Bone Spur Removal
  • Brachymetatarsia
  • Calluses
  • Cavus Foot (High Arch)
  • Clubfoot
  • Complex fractures of the lower leg, ankle, foot, toes
  • Fifth Metatarsal Fractures
  • Flat Foot Reconstruction
  • Foot & Ankle deformity due to Trauma, infection or Diabetes
  • Foot & Ankle Reconstruction
  • Foot & Ankle Sprains
  • Foot and Ankle Fusions
  • Foreign Body Removal
  • Fractures of the foot (talus, calcaneus, cuboid, navicular, cuneiforms, metatarsals, phalanges)
  • Fractures of the heel (calcaneus)
  • Gout
  • Haglund’s Disease
  • Hallux Rigidus (stiff big toe joint)
  • Infections of the Foot and Ankle 
  • Joint Replacement
  • Jones Fracture
  • Lisfranc (mid foot) Injuries
  • Metatarsalgia (Forefoot Pain)
  • Minimally Invasive Surgery 
  • Nail Fungus
  • Neuropathy
  • Post traumatic injury complications (infections, nonunions)
  • Second Opinions
  • Shoe Recommendations
  • Skin Problems 
  • Soft Tissue Masses
  • Sports Injuries 
  • Stress Fractures
  • Tailor’s Bunion
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Tendon Injuries
  • Tendon Repairs
  • Tendinitis
  • Warts
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