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During the Washington state stay at home order, as an allowed medical service, we are open Monday through Friday from 9 A.M. - 3 P.M. for virtual (telehealth) appointments, and for urgent or emergent in office appointments. All entering the clinic are required to wear a mask or bandana or scarf; and to wear gloves. All persons entering the office will be screened at the door for COVID symptoms. We appreciate your cooperation during this difficult time, and look forward to serving you all soon once the restrictions are lifted.

Gig Harbor (253) 858-8100
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Blog | Foot Doctor Gig Harbor WA 98335

Tuesday, 16 August 2022 00:00

All About Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease where the body’s own immune system actually attacks its joints. Antibodies are produced that target the lining around joints called synovium, causing pain, stiffness, and inflammation. Rheumatoid arthritis commonly affects the feet and ankles, eventually damaging the joint, cartilage, and bones. Side effects include anemia, loss of appetite, and fever. RA may also develop in other parts of the body, such as the skin, heart, lungs, eyes, and blood vessels. Symptoms of RA often flare up and then recede, and over time, they can cause joints to deform and shift out of place. Women are more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis than men, and it often starts after the age of 40. Smoking, obesity, and genetics also may be contributing factors. A number of treatment options are available for sufferers of rheumatoid arthritis in the feet and ankles. If you think that you may have RA, seeing a podiatrist for an exam and diagnosis is a good idea.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Dr. James D. McAlexander of Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

  • Swelling and pain in the feet
  • Stiffness in the feet
  • Pain on the ball or sole of feet
  • Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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

Read more about Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Feet
Monday, 15 August 2022 00:00

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Tuesday, 09 August 2022 00:00

Morton’s Neuroma in Cycling

If you feel pain or numbness near the ball of your foot, under your toes, you may have a Morton’s neuroma. People sometimes describe this as feeling like there is a pebble or rock under their toes. Others describe it as a burning sensation, a sharp pain, or numbness in this area of their foot. A Morton’s neuroma is a thickening of the tissue around the nerves leading to the toes. Pain is usually felt between the 3rd and 4th toe or the ball of the foot between the 2nd and 3rd toes. It is a benign condition. A Morton’s neuroma can happen from wearing tight or high-heeled shoes. In cycling, shoes are usually lower volume, and these could pinch the toes together for prolonged periods depending on the length of your ride. This puts cyclists at a higher risk for this problem. Other causes of Morton’s neuroma include foot abnormalities, such as bunions, hammertoes, or flat feet. It can also be caused by repeated trauma from the feet pounding on pavement like in running, and as related to cycling when the foot tilts as it connects with the pedal of the bike. Make sure your cycling shoes are well-fitted. The toe box should be wide enough to allow toes to move freely and with a proper tilt. A wedge can be used to reduce pressure under the first two toes and help to relieve discomfort. If you are a cyclist and are experiencing the kind of pain described above, consider seeing a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and treatment that best suits you.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Dr. James D. McAlexander from Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

  • Achilles Tendonitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains
  • Broken Foot
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Stress Fractures
  • Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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

Read more about Sports Related Foot And Ankle Injuries
Tuesday, 02 August 2022 00:00

The Burning Foot Syndrome

The rare foot condition that is known as Grierson-Gopalan syndrome is also referred to as burning feet syndrome. The symptoms of this ailment include a painful burning sensation on the bottom of the feet that may spread to the lower legs and top of the feet. There are several reasons why this condition may occur, including peripheral neuropathy, which can be common among diabetic patients. This is caused by nerve damage in the feet and may be a reason why burning feet syndrome arises. Morton’s neuroma is generally caused by wearing shoes that are too tight, causing a nerve between the toes to thicken. Additionally, some people undergo complex regional pain syndrome, which may happen after an injury has occurred or if surgery has been performed. It is a rare syndrome, and the burning pain may come from a nerve disorder. Immediate relief may be found when soaking the feet in cold water and elevating the feet to slow down the blood flow. If you have any symptoms of this disorder, it is strongly suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can prescribe the necessary medications for you.

 

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. James D. McAlexander of Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

  • Freiberg’s disease
  • Kohler’s disease
  • Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

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

Read more about Rare Foot Conditions
Tuesday, 26 July 2022 00:00

Should My Plantar Warts Feel Itchy?

There are a variety of skin conditions that affect the feet and can be quite threatening to the vitality of your feet. Plantar warts are one such condition. These warts can develop on the bottom of the feet when an individual is exposed to a form of human papillomavirus (HPV). This generally occurs from person-to-person contact or in warm, moist environments where HPV thrives. Plantar warts can be dangerous, potentially creating holes in the soles of the feet. Some individuals with plantar warts complain that the condition is quite itchy, and some report scratching at their plantar warts. Itchy plantar warts are not unusual. This is because the plantar wart is itself made up of dry skin that is flaking, which can be itchy. There are several things that you might be able to do at home to stop your plantar warts from itching. For example, you might be able to take an oatmeal bath to soothe the affected skin area. Additionally, you can try applying moisturizer to your plantar warts to get them to stop itching. The application of moisturizer can help replenish your feet with much-needed moisture, which can help the itching subside. Please see a podiatrist to learn more about how to treat your itchy plantar warts.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. James D. McAlexander from Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. 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 Gig Harbor, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about All About Plantar Warts
Tuesday, 19 July 2022 00:00

Tips for Proactive Foot Care in Seniors

As an individual ages, it becomes even more essential that they are able to maintain proper foot health. This is because if a senior citizen has significantly unhealthy feet, their freedom and independence will be substantially reduced. However, as an individual ages, they also become more susceptible to experiencing foot afflictions. Therefore, senior citizens who want to take extra care of their health should be proactive in maintaining good foot care. One way to do this is to have a set time daily or once each week to examine the feet. The senior can do this by themselves or by asking for the help of a friend. Simply examine the foot for any noticeable problems including redness, swelling, deformations, or complications in the toenails. Scheduling a kind of regular inspection can be helpful for seniors because it enables them to check for any potential problems before they become exacerbated with time. Additionally, to be proactive, seniors can be sure that the shoes that they are wearing are not restrictive or too tight. Wearing properly fitted footwear is essential when an individual ages because ill-fitting shoes can reduce blood circulation and facilitate other troublesome foot afflictions. If you are a senior, be especially diligent when shoe shopping and ask for assistance in finding the best fitting shoes for you. These are just some of many potential proactive foot care tips for seniors. For more, contact a podiatrist. 

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. James D. McAlexander from Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

  • Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
  • Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
  • Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
  • Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
  • Shoes that don’t fit properly
  • Pressure sores
  • Loss of circulation in legs & feet
  • Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

Read more about Elderly Foot Care

Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

Tuesday, 12 July 2022 00:00

Types of Metatarsal Fractures

Of the 26 bones in the foot, the five long bones that connect the heel to the toes are the most frequently broken. These long bones, called metatarsals, can be injured in two ways: acute fractures and stress fractures.  Acute metatarsal fractures can be caused by direct trauma to the foot, such as dropping something heavy on it or kicking a heavy object. Acute fractures are breaks in the bone. Stress fractures, on the other hand, are hairline cracks in the metatarsal, usually caused by repetitive use or overuse. They are common among runners, basketball players, dancers, and people who carry heavy packs while walking long distances. People with osteoporosis are also at risk for developing stress fractures. Symptoms felt with an acute metatarsal fracture are typically more severe than those from stress fractures. You may actually hear the crack as the bone breaks, and pain is immediate and specific. Movement of the foot will be difficult at best. With stress fractures, the symptoms develop gradually, starting out with general pain over a widespread area, which then becomes more and more noticeable. With either an acute metatarsal fracture or a stress fracture, it is imperative to see a podiatrist as soon as possible for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.  

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. James D. McAlexander from Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

  • Bruising
  • Pain
  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Blue in color
  • Numbness
  • Cold
  • Misshapen
  • Cuts
  • Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

Read more about Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment for a Broken Foot

Running is one of the most popular and widespread forms of exercise. Yet, bunions can often make this activity challenging or even painful. There are a variety of ways that individuals can manage the effects of bunions and continue to run. Bunions are bumps that occur usually on the base of the big toe when the metatarsophalangeal joint is stressed and strained. In some cases, bunions may form at the base of the pinky toe as well. If a runner has developed a bunion that is not causing serious pain, the runner may be able to continue running with wider footwear. Opting for wider running shoes can decrease the extent to which the bunion rubs up against the shoe and further aggravates or inflames the bump. Another way that runners may cope with bunions is by applying ice to the affected area for a short duration of time following the run. Toe spacers and bunion pads may also prove to be useful for runners looking to manage the annoyance of bunions. Bunions are certainly not ideal for runners, but a podiatrist may be able to help you address the affliction and get back on the running trail comfortably again.  

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. James D. McAlexander of Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

  • Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
  • Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
  • Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
  • Orthotics or foot inserts
  • Surgery

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

Read more about What Are Bunions?
Tuesday, 28 June 2022 00:00

Surgery or Buddy Taping?

Falling is a common way to break a toe. Additionally, it can happen if a heavy object falls on it, or from unexpectedly stepping off of a curb. The symptoms are immediate when a broken toe has occurred. These can include bruising, swelling, and the pain can be devastating. If the fracture is severe, the toe may look deformed, and may even protrude from the skin. Many people find it difficult to walk on a broken toe. It is beneficial to seek medical attention when you have a broken toe, as patients who do not receive the correct treatment may develop an infection, or the injury may result in a permanent deformity. If the break is mild, buddy taping may be an effective treatment method. This consists of taping the affected toe to the toe next to it. This is often a successful way to provide stability as the healing process takes place. For severe breaks, surgery may need to be performed to realign the toe. If you believe you have broken your toe, it is beneficial to consult with a podiatrist who can recommend the correct form of treatment for you.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. James D. McAlexander from Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • Throbbing pain
  • Swelling
  • Bruising on the skin and toenail
  • The inability to move the toe
  • Toe appears crooked or disfigured
  • Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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

Read more about What to Know About a Broken Toe
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