If you need a more accessible version of this website, click this button on the right.Switch to Accessible Site
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
Same Day Emergency Appointment Available

 

Blog | Foot Doctor Gig Harbor WA 98335

Tuesday, 31 May 2022 00:00

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Injuries of any kind are not fun, and they are particularly frustrating when you enjoy running for exercise or are trying to build your training regimen in preparation for a big race. Though most running injuries happen from overuse, some occur because of falls or other accidents. Common running injuries include knee pain, shin splints, and plantar fasciitis causing heel pain. Thankfully, most running injuries are preventable. Cultivating good habits should be a first step in preventing such injuries. These include doing warm up stretching and strengthening exercises prior to running, wearing good running shoes (and replacing them regularly), building up speed and distance slowly, taking rest days, maintaining good running form, keeping attention and awareness while running, staying properly hydrated, and changing up terrain. If you are a runner and suffer from foot or ankle pain or get injured, a podiatrist can help diagnose the problem and come up with a treatment plan that will help you get back to your sport as quickly as possible.

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. James D. McAlexander of Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

  • Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
  • Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
  • “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
  • Cross-Training is Crucial
  • Wear Proper Running Shoes
  • Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury

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 How to Prevent Running Injuries
Tuesday, 24 May 2022 00:00

Who Is Prone to Getting Sesamoiditis?

The two small bones in the ball of the foot under the joint of the big toe are referred to as the sesamoid bones. One is located on the outside of the foot, and the other is located closer to the center of the foot. Sesamoiditis occurs when the tissue that surrounds the sesamoid bones becomes inflamed and irritated. Sesamoiditis is considered to be a form of tendonitis, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. This generally happens from overuse and repeated pressure that is placed on the forefoot. The sesamoid bones absorb impact, and are responsible for helping the big toe move up and down during activity. Some of the symptoms that are associated with sesamoiditis can include foot pain that does not diminish, and the big toe may become stiff. People with increased chances of developing sesamoiditis include dancers, runners, and women who wear high heels. Effective treatment can begin with stopping the activity that caused this condition, resting the affected foot as often as possible, and possibly taping the big toe. If you have this ailment, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you with treatment options that are right for you.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Dr. James D. McAlexander of Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

  • Sudden increase in activity
  • Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
  • Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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 Sesamoiditis

Some people who are afflicted with arthritis  have found it beneficial to start a walking program. In addition to improving foot care, walking is good for maintaining heart health and strong bones. Additionally, weight loss is a benefit of walking, and this may help to lessen pressure on the joints of the feet. Research has shown that walking may help to reduce inflammation, pain, and stiffness from certain arthritic conditions. It is important to walk frequently, gradually increasing intensity and enforcing a minimum time limit of 30 minutes. Many people choose to split their walking mileage and time between days, and this can make it easier to stick with a walking program. If you would like more information about how walking can help arthritis, please consult with a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, 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.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

  • Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
  • Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
  • Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

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 Arthritic Foot Care

If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.

Tuesday, 10 May 2022 00:00

How to Care for Wounds on the Feet

It is important to maintain proper wound care, and this is especially true in diabetic patients. The body’s healing process may become accelerated when existing wounds are treated correctly. First, the wound needs to be cleaned thoroughly, and this is done by using clean water and mild soap. When gentle pressure is applied, the bleeding will stop. Second, after the wound is clean, it is beneficial to apply an antibiotic ointment to the affected area, followed by covering it with a protective bandage. Serious wounds may require stitches and will need immediate medical attention. People who have diabetes are often careful about checking their feet daily using a mirror, and paying attention to small cuts or bruises on the feet. A podiatrist is often consulted who can treat wounds on the feet, and it is advised that you confer with this type of doctor as quickly as possible to offer you correct treatment options for foot wound care.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, 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.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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 Wound Care
Tuesday, 03 May 2022 00:00

Why Do My Ankles Hurt After a Run?

Runners can sometimes experience pain in their ankles after running which may be caused by any number of things including overuse. Taking a day off between long runs and increasing mileage by only 10% weekly can give your ankles time to rest and adapt. Ankle instability can also be caused by overpronating, which is when the ankle rolls inward too severely. This stride abnormality often occurs in people with flat feet. You can often compensate for this condition with custom orthotics and special shoes that correct overpronation and give the arch extra support. Another possible cause for painful ankles after a run is your stride. Additionally, excessively long strides can force a runner’s ankles to over-flex repeatedly and weaken the ankle muscles. Strengthening exercises and yoga may help increase mobility in the ankle and build up muscle strength. Contact a podiatrist today if you are experiencing any ankle pain after running. They can examine, diagnose, and treat your painful condition to keep you performing at your best while helping to avoid other injuries from occurring. 

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, 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.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

  • Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
  • Ankle sprains
  • Broken ankles
  • Achilles tendinitis
  • Achilles tendon rupture
  • Stress fractures
  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome
  • Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and 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 Ankle Pain
Tuesday, 26 April 2022 00:00

Two Types of Plantar Warts

It can be easy to notice a plantar wart, which is a small, hardened area on the bottom of the foot. They may have tiny black dots in the center and grow into the foot as a result of the pressure that is exerted by standing and walking. The medical term for this ailment is verruca plantaris, and it is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). It is considered to be contagious, and enters the body through small cracks in the skin of the feet. Research has shown there are two types of plantar warts. A single plantar wart is classified as a solitary plantar wart, though smaller warts may form from it. Mosaic plantar warts are found in clusters and may require more extensive treatment methods. Patients who have compromised immune systems may be susceptible to developing these types of warts, in addition to children and older people. Prevention techniques can include wearing appropriate footwear while in public shower rooms, locker rooms, or swimming pools. If you think you have plantar warts, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide you with correct treatment options. 

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 Plantar Warts
Wednesday, 20 April 2022 00:00

Common Risk Factors for Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the fibrous ligament that stretches from the heel to the toes on the bottom of the foot, called the plantar fascia, becomes strained or even torn. The plantar fascia is prone to injury as it bears the body’s weight while walking and jumping. People who stand at work or overly stress the plantar fascia doing excessive repetitive movements during athletics are more at risk for developing this condition, which is the most common form of heel pain. Other risk factors include having flat feet or high arches, as well as wearing improper shoes or running on hard surfaces. Type 2 diabetes and certain rheumatic disorders are also risk factors. A podiatrist can often diagnose plantar fasciitis with just a physical exam, however, X-rays may also be used to rule out other possible conditions. If you believe you have developed plantar fasciitis, make an appointment with a podiatrist as soon as possible to be properly diagnosed and treated.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

  • Excessive running
  • Non-supportive shoes
  • Overpronation
  • Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

  • Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
  • Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
  • Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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 Plantar Fasciitis
Sunday, 17 April 2022 00:00

Gout Pain Can Be Managed

Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.

Tuesday, 12 April 2022 00:00

Finding the Proper Shoes for Wide Feet

Many people have trouble finding shoes wide enough to fit their feet. Stuffing your feet into shoes that are too narrow can cause numerous problems that include bunions, calluses, hammertoe, and crossover toe, when one toe sits on top of another because they are squeezed too tightly inside the shoe. Thankfully, there are a few things that can help people with wider feet. When shopping, ask if wide sizes are available. Wear the type of sock or foot covering you would be using for that particular shoe. Your toes should not feel cramped, and there should be some space between the tip of the shoe and your toes. If one foot is longer than the other, purchase the size to fit the larger foot. If you are experiencing pain in your feet, it is a good idea to see a podiatrist who can help you determine the cause and offer guidance about footwear.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Dr. James D. McAlexander from Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

  • When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
  • Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
  • Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
  • Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
  • If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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 Getting the Right Shoe Size: To Keep Your Feet Happy
Page 5 of 25
Connect with us