Fixing Heel Fissures

Dry, cracked heels (known as heel fissures) can not only be unsightly, but can often be source of pain and embarrassment. Did you know a podiatrist can remove the dead skin from your feet leaving them soft, smooth and pain free?

While most cracking and splitting is ultimately caused by dry skin, there can be more to the problem than meets the eye. Most dry skin left untreated on the heels leads to thickening of the skin, also known as calluses, which crack and break under pressure. A podiatrist can safely remove the thickened skin, without risking infection, provide you with information on what sort of creams are best for your skin type as well as rule out more serious health conditions. While patients suffering from heel fissures are more comfortable in open backed shoes or flip flops this footwear actually tends to leave the feet exposed to dry air making the problem worse.

Genetics, skin conditions such as psoriasis, obesity, pregnancy, walking gait, ill fitted shoes, climate, diseases and hormone imbalances can all play a role in heel fissures. Some people also have a large fatty pad on the sole of their feet, which requires more elasticity in the skin to expand without cracking making their feet more susceptible to heel fissures.

At home treatments and DIY suggestions can be helpful, but once heel fissures become severe and include deep painful cracking and bleeding infection becomes a big risk. Heel fissures flare up with winter and cause many people pain. Erase your aches by seeing us.

Call for an appointment today! 
West Ashley: 843-225-5575
Mount pleasant: 843-654-8250

Avoid New Year's 'Shoe-icide'

New Year's Eve planning is in full force. It's a great night to dress up, add some extra sparkle and take on the town, but before you buy those sky high heels to go with your perfect dress there are some things you should know.

- 42% of women admitted they'd wear a shoe they liked even if it gave them discomfort.
- 73% admitted already having a shoe-related foot issue.
- High heels don't cause bunions, but they can aggravate them.
- Feet change with age. Over the years a loss of fat in the bottom of the foot makes higher heels less comfortable than they were in your youth.
- The ultra narrow heels of stilettos are particularly risky, pinpointing weight on one area and creating a less stable stance.
- The average woman gets foot pain after a mere hour in pumps.
- Research shows four-inch stilettos can up the amount of pressure on the front of the foot by 30% or more.
- Any heels 3 inches or higher can shorten the Achilles tendon just by wearing them once or twice a week.

Fear The Yoga Mat

Being barefoot when practicing yoga is not only good etiquette to the practice, but also better for your body. Much like with running being barefoot during yoga allows your body to engage in it’s natural stance. However there are precautions...

As with other types of exercise done indoors in groups, yoga has the potential to create a germ-filled environment.  Yoga mats can contract and contain infections from toenail fungus to the common cold. To be safe we suggest you always use your own yoga mat, and clean it properly after each use (whether you felt sweaty or not). Don't go barefoot if you have open sores on your feet, and wash your feet after class to avoid any contamination.

If you are prone to picking up fungus, viruses or bacteria we also suggest looking into Yoga socks. They come in a variety of types and colors and actually enhance performance with no-slip grips.

Countdown is On- Cooper River Bridge Run 2015

The countdown is on...108 days to go until the 2015 Cooper River Bridge Run.

This is one of our favorite events of the year, but we urge participants to be prepared. The bridge run isn't a race to begin blindly- we've compiled some great reads for you as you kick off your training:

Training Schedule
Bridge Run Tips
Bridge Run Preparation Tips
Bridge Run Injury Prevention Tips
Bridge Run Injury Prevention (2)
Barefoot Running Tips
Tips for Running Up Hill

And don't forget to check out the Bridge Run Gear- great holiday gift ideas for the runners on your list!  Shop here.

Make a New Thanksgiving Memory- Join Us For The Turkey Day Run!

Create a new tradition this Thanksgiving by joining Carolina Foot Specialists' Dr. Adam Brown & his family for the 37th Annual Turkey Day Run & Gobble Wobble, downtown Charleston.

One of the best races in the area, the Turkey Day Run, has been held for over 100 years, but wasn't made into a 5k until 1978- marking 2014 as the 37th official year.

Spend your Thanksgiving morning running or walking through historic downtown Charleston and around the beautiful peninsula. The route is primarily flat making it great for all levels, ages and abilities (There is a Children's Fun Run, too!).

We are truly thankful to live in this great city, and what a better reminder than to spend the morning enjoying its beauty. We hope to see you on the course!

Visit http://www.turkeydayrun.com/ for details and registration. 

Barefoot Therapy, Is It For You?

If you are an endurance athlete, active in sports centered on running or walking, and you are suffering from nagging chronic foot pain then barefoot therapy may be for you.

Dr. Brown began self-studies of this therapy back in 2006 after suffering chronic foot pain following his first marathon. While this course of treatment isn’t for everyone many Carolina Foot Specialist patients have had great success with the program.

We do not recommend anyone heading out to their first 5k barefoot, but a lot is to be said for letting your body self-adjust flaws in your gait and stride. Being barefoot helps to strengthen your feet preventing many injuries. Our best suggestion is to visit a professional before beginning a barefoot regimen. The doctors at Carolina Foot Specialists can aid you on your journey to injury recovery, stronger feet and a future of barefoot training with proper guidance and support. 

How can you get started safely? “Dr. Brown suggests going barefooted for 15 minutes a day inside your house for a week. If all goes well, double it every consecutive week.”

Read more about his journey to Barefoot Therapy via the Postand Courier.

Pain Free is an Option

Are you one of the many individuals suffering from chronic heel pain? Any pain that lasts more than a few consecutive days should be treated by a professional. Don’t let the fear of treatment sway you from coming to see us. No matter the extreme or cause Carolina Foot Specialists will make sure you have the knowledge you need to make the best decisions for your route to being pain free.

What are some options?  

Padding and strapping.
Placing pads in the shoe softens the impact of walking. Strapping helps support the foot and reduce strain on the fascia.

Orthotic devices.
Custom orthotic devices that fit into your shoe help correct the underlying structural abnormalities causing the plantar fasciitis

Injection therapy.
In some cases, corticosteroid injections are used to help reduce the inflammation and relieve pain.

Removable walking cast.

A removable walking cast may be used to keep your foot immobile for a few weeks to allow it to rest and heal.

Night splint.
Wearing a night splint allows you to maintain an extended stretch of the plantar fascia while sleeping. This may help reduce the morning pain experienced by some patients.

Physical therapy.
Exercises and other physical therapy measures may be used to help provide relief.

Call to schedule an appointment today

West Ashley: 843-225-5575

Mount pleasant: 843-654-8250

Treating Calcaneal Apophysitis with Dr. Saffer- Say goodbye to Heel Pain

Last week we spent some time with College of Charleston alumni and former basketball star, Jermel President filming a spot for his streamed broadcast, DAE TV. Jermel approached us to discuss some common issues in student athletes (of all ages and abilities), as well as learn more about sports podiatry in general.

One of our case discussions focused on one of Dr. Saffer's former patients, Aaron Thornton, an active teenager, that was suffering from chronic heel pain. Aaron was diagnosed with Calcaneal Apophysitis (inflammation of the growth plate in the heel) a common issue in kids and young teens, especially those active in athletics.

We most often see this in patients 8 to 14 years old. The growth plate in the heel is not fully developed until the average age of 14, and most high impact athletic habits begin around the age of 8; but this is not to say it doesn't happen in younger or older cases- every one grows at a different rate.

The heel’s growth plate is sensitive to repeated running and pounding on hard surfaces, resulting in muscle strain and inflamed tissue. If a child is very active in sports before his/her growth plate has fully developed Calcaneal Apophysitis is a risk. While some may be prone to this issue due to their foot structure you can minimize the risk by helping your child or teen maintain a healthy weight, wear only properly fitted, supportive shoes that are appropriate for the chosen activity, limit the use of cleated athletic shoes until age 14 and by ensuring they don't endure activity, training or practice above their ability and age.

We are happy to say that after proper evaluation Aaron's case was treated with custom made sports orthotics and he is now back to being a kid and pain free!

If you know a youth suffering with heel pain, let us help. Call to schedule an appointment today
West Ashley: 843-225-5575
Mount pleasant: 843-654-8250

*Catch Dr. Saffer's full interview streaming on November 9th at 7:20pm via DAE-TV.

Frightening Shoes For Your Feet

We loved this Halloween spirited blog from SHOES-n-FEET- Enjoy & have a great Halloween! 

Top 5 Most Frightening Shoes For Halloween Feet

The jack o’lanterns have been carved and the candy has been set out – Halloween has finally arrived! By now many of you have put together a costume and are planning to dress up for trick or treating with the kids, a parade in your community or a contest at work.

While Halloween costumes may run the gamut from scary to sweet and store bought to homemade (nothing like quality time with the glue gun!), many of them will no doubt include some special footwear. “The shoes make the outfit” rings especially true when it comes to Halloween!
Since you can’t pull off a perfect ballerina costume without a pair of ballet slippers (a better option than painful pointe shoes), we’ve decided to rank the top five Halloween shoes that are a “trick” to wear – and leave your feet in need of a “treat”!

1. Witch Shoes
Witches are known to be cranky and mean and now we know why - their feet must be screaming in agony! The high heel concentrates pressure on the toes, which are shoved together in a pointed narrow toe box. These shoes cause extra stress on the ball and forefront of the foot. If you come across a witch’s feet, expect to find bunions and hammertoes. A witch’s time would certainly be best spent on mixing potions to ease the aches and pains, rather than on wreaking havoc. No wonder older witches are more evil; after hundreds of years in these shoes, you’d be pretty unpleasant, too.

2. Clown Shoes
 Clowns have the opposite problem than witches: their shoes have too much space. The super-wide toe boxes found on clown shoes can cause feet to slide around in the shoe, resulting in painful blisters. The big shoes may be the key to why clowns are so likely to trip and fall all the time – it’s nearly impossible for them to catch their footing in these. Even worse for clowns with problems with their arches? The strange size and shape of clown shoes make it especially hard to fit for orthotics and insoles. Definitely explains why there are so many sad clowns at the circus.

3. Roman-style Sandals
Found on toga fans, goddesses and gladiators alike, these sandals offer little in the way of arch support. The flat sole causes great strain on the Achilles tendon that run up the back of the heel, and the minimal cushioning provides zero-to-no shock absorption when the feet hit the ground. Wearers should be careful with the laces that crisscross their way past the ankle and up to the calf. Tying them too tight may cut off circulation, especially for those warriors battling to the death in the Coliseum.

4. Go Go Boots
Austin Powers loved women in go go boots, but did they love wearing those shoes? We think not. While we are thankful they have a platform heel, as opposed to a stiletto, the high heel of this retro footwear makes us nervous. They might be a bit more stable, but the benefits of this detail go out the window when the disco dancers start shaking their groove thang. These shoes and the way they fit so tightly on the foot and calf; depending on what material the boots are made of, they may not offer a lot of breathability, resulting in some seriously sweaty and smelly feet.

5. Scuba Diver Flippers
There’s really only one thing to say here: unless you are spending your Halloween underwater along with some costumed mermaids, you shouldn’t be in flippers. You don’t see divers strolling down the sidewalk in their swimfins, do you? Wear these on dry land and you’re asking to trip and fall on your face. Not too even mention the stench that will come from the rubber and your sweaty feet.

Say Goodbye to Soreness with Carolina Foot Specialists

So you walked around at the Fall Festival all day, you ran a long training run or you work on your feet all day, and your feet hurt, it seems normal right? Maybe.

After prolonged time on your feet, especially in ill-equipped footwear or new shoes, your feet may ache, but the discomfort should be temporary and minor. Often we see patients who have had pain in their feet for weeks or even months but disregard the sensation as 'normal'. We recommend seeing a professional if your foot pain lasts more than a few days.

Often chronic pain synonymous with 'sore feet' can be symptoms of Planter Faciitis or a Morton's Neuroma. Planter Faciitis localizes on the heel of the foot where a Morton's Neuroma is felt more on the ball of the foot. Planter Faciitis is more common in patients with arch extremes (ie: flat feet or high arches) but can develop in normal arched feet from over-use or wearing particularly flat, unsupportive shoes such as flip flops. A Morton's Neuroma is caused by nerve irritation commonly on the ball of the foot, often found in women who regularly wear tight, high heeled shoes.

Pain from both of these conditions can flare up during certain activities, times of day or in conjunction with certain shoes making patients think circumstance is to blame rather than a medical condition. However both can worsen with use if not treated, making conservative and quick treatment more difficult in the long run.

If you have suffered from heel pain, pain on the ball of your foot or overall foot 'soreness' for more than a few consecutive days it is always better to stop in and see us than risk further injury or severity. We will do our best to ensure you are on the right path to being pain free!

www.CarolinaFootSpecialists.net 
843-225-5575

One Size Does Not Fit All

When most people think of orthotics they either think of the elderly population (scooting around in their orthotic white tennis shoes) or everyday WalMart sold shoe inserts (cue 'I'm gellin'). However, many of our patients are surprised at the effectiveness of using a correctly fitted custom orthotic. 

At Carolina Foot Specialists we use a plaster mold, or digital mapping, of your foot (done in a quick office visit) to write a detailed 'prescription' for our fabrication company. Using your actual foot's details and our medical advice (based on your needs) a custom orthotic is created for you, usually within two weeks time. Our prescribed orthotics are a special hybrid of support and cushioning to best suit each individual's needs- visit our website for details on each type of offered orthotic. 

We commonly treat foot conditions such as heel pain, neuromas, high arches, plantar fasciitis and achilles tendonitis with custom orthotics. Our goal is always to do what is best for our patients in the long-term, and many conditions can be conservatively managed with properly made and fitted orthotics. 

Custom orthotics aren't just for serious athletes either; we commonly make dress orthotics for men and women in the business world, too. With most insurances covering the cost of orthotics today there is no reason to live in pain- let us help! 

Make an appointment with Dr. Brown or Dr. Saffer today: 843-225-5575! Located in both Charleston and Mount Pleasant, Carolina Foot Specialists is your go-to for foot and ankle pain.

Who Should You See? Choosing the Best Care for Your Needs.

A common question we get is whether or not one should see a podiatrist or an orthopaedist. While the two practices may seem quite similar the difference is a matter of scope.

An orthopaedic doctor (or surgeon) specializes in bone, joint and nerve problems within the entire body.  In general chronic pain, rheumatic diseases, musculoskeletal injuries and arthritis all are part of the field of orthopaedics. Since this scope of practice is so large most orthopaedic professionals will specialize in a certain disease or part of the anatomy (such as hand surgeons, spinal specialists, pain management centers or arthritis).

In one sense a podiatrist is a form of specialized orthopaedic doctor, focusing on the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. However, along with managing all the aspects of the feet, ankles and lower extremities a podiatrist also manages the dermatology and biomechanics of the foot and ankle. Podiatrists can specialize in many fields as well, including surgery, sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, diabetic care for the feet, ankles and legs.

While a 'foot and ankle orthopaedist' can treat and manage foot and ankle issue pertaining to the bones, soft tissues and joints, your general orthopaedist is likely more adept at managing hips, knees and shoulders; therefore it is often more beneficial for patients to see a Podiatrist who has expert knowledge targeted at your area of concern.

No matter what professional you decide to see make sure they are familiar with the area you are being seen for and you are comfortable in their care. There is never any harm in having a second opinion.  All medical professionals should always put your well being first.

Dr. Saffer and Dr. Brown have offices located in both Charleston and Mount Pleasant and pride themselves on making sure patients are well informed, having the knowledge to make good choices about their foot and ankle care, heel pain, or whatever problem they may face. Their goal is to educate each patient first, then begin a relevant treatment program with the highest quality of care available. Whatever your foot and ankle trouble, Dr. Brown and Dr. Saffer work together to find the answers that will comfort you and bring you relief. Call for an appointment today 843-654-8250 or visit us online at www.carolinafootspecialists.net.

Football, Feet and More

Football season is in full swing, and whether it’s pro ball or pee-wee injuries are likely to occur. Even on the best day, with the most well trained athlete, accidents can happen, but we are here to help!

The most common injuries we see from team sports, like football, are plantar fasciitis, achilles tendonitis, neuromas, stress fractures and capsulitis. One of the most important things for athletes of all levels to remember is not to over-do it. The majority of injuries in athletes are what we call ‘overuse injuries’. 

More often than not injuries start off as small problems, which are easy to self-heal, however these injuries become exaggerated when the proper time-off/rest time isn’t observed.  With team sports it is sometimes hard to sit on the sidelines, but it can be a vast difference in the severity of your injury and your recovery time. 

At the first sign of pain, impact, swelling or chronic soreness it is important to not only seek medical treatment, but to adhere to your recovery plan for the best outcome. This is especially vital in younger athletes in order to avoid chronic or long-term foot and ankle damage. 

Dr. Saffer and Dr. Brown are experts in the fields of sports podiatry, and love working with youth to establish healthy and successful plans for an active future. Come see us today! 

Arches Making You Ache?

Many of those suffering from chronic pain on the balls or heels of their foot are victims of a high arch (aka Cavus Foot). A high arch can be a symptom of your genes, a neurologic disorder or from other medical conditions. The cause of your high arches will determine the course of treatment recommended by our expert staff.

Even the most subtle factors can be signs of a high arch issue: calluses on the ball, heel or side of the foot, pain when standing, chronic ankle sprains or hammer toes are just a few. When you make an appointment to visit us we will view your gait (foot form when walking), muscle strength and general coordination. It is also good to bring in your most commonly worn shoes so we can check for habitual wear and tear giving us a better idea of how you walk on a regular basis.

After determining the root cause of the high arch(es) treatment may entail custom orthotics, recommended shoes, bracing or surgery.

If you are tired of suffering from daily pain or nuisances and think high arches may be your problem- visit us at Carolina Foot Specialists for the best in your foot care.

You can also take our online assessment to pinpoint warning sings of foot and ankle problems.

Underpronating Can Lead to More Ankle Pain

Wondering why you keep spraining your ankle? It could be your shoes!

If you underpronate, your foot tends to roll to the outside when walking or running, you naturally have greater risk of ankle sprains. Not wearing shoes with the correct support for can lead to ankle sprains and stress fractures, torn ligaments and worse. When being fitted for athletic or active shoes make sure your gate is checked when walking and running for the best evaluation of your needs.

A correct assessment for shoes should contain the following:
- Asking questions about you! What will the shoes before, what’s your activity level, past injuries and so forth should all be addressed between you and your fit professional.

- Measurement. You should always have your feet measured for length and width. Feet can change sizes and one foot is always bigger than the other, a new purchase should not be based on your last shoe’s size.

- Gait Analysis. Your fit professional should observe you running and walking, either on a treadmill or designated area. A trained professional will determine your personal movement "map" from this process.  That "map" reveals the programming of everything happening within your body including your levels of mobility, stability, flexibility and functional strength. The analysis of all these different elements taken together is what creates a complete picture of a person's gait, and allows them to better understand the type of footwear you need. (*This is where it is decided on whether you under or over pronate.)

- Arch Analysis. Either by viewing your feet (without shoes) from various angles or by having you step on a arch pad your fit professional should measure your arch to determine the best shoe for you and your chosen activity, as well as the need for inserts and what type.

- Fitting. Try on the shoes with the socks you will most likely use. Run around the parking lot, bend, stretch, stand on your tip toes- move in the shoes and see how they feel. Tell your fit professional about any tight areas, slipping, rubbing or any other complaints- you need to find the shoe right for your foot, but that you also feel good in.

Dr. Brown and Dr. Saffer are both skilled in athletic shoes and fitting and are happy to sit down with you to discuss inserts, if your shoe is right for you and foot tips for your active life!

Find a professional fit equipped store near you with the Runners World Store Finder.

The Dreaded Shin Splints

Shin splints seem like a normal side effect to activity, but the truth is a few simple precautions can stop your pain. Shin splints refer to pain on either side of the leg bone that is caused by muscle or tendon inflammation.

Shin splints are often related to a collapsing arch (flat foot), but may be caused by a muscle imbalance between opposing muscle groups in the leg due to increasing intensity or distance of workouts, or due to a lack of cross training (strengthening all your muscles not just the ones used in your sport).

At the other extreme are people with "high arch feet". These feet are very tight-jointed and do not yield enough upon impact. Common rigid foot running injuries are stress fractures, ball of the foot pain, and shin splints.

In addition, wearing the wrong time of athletic shoe for your feet or not replacing shoes at the proper time can also increase the risk of getting shin splints. Proper stretching before and after exercise and sports can help to alleviate the occurrence of shin splints and to reduce the pain in already existing ones.

In severe cases we recommend corrective shoes, or orthotics (corrective shoe inserts) to help prevent shin splints.

As you can see many people across the board suffer from this issue. Being proactive with your footwear and proper stretching can save you a lot of down time, corrective measures, money and pain in the long run. If you are suffering from pain or would like ideas on stretches and preventative measures please contact us today.

Say No to Sprains

Are you prone to sprains in your ankles? A sprained ankle occurs when your ankle ligaments are overstretched. Ankle sprains vary in their severity, from mild "twisted ankle" or "rolled ankle" sprain through to severe complete ligament ruptures, avulsion fractures or broken bones.

Sprains are a common injury in everyone, from your everyday Joe to professional athletes, however constant reoccurring sprains can be a sign of improper shoes, tight calves, a weak tibialis anterior muscle or overuse.

Almost half of all people who sprain their ankle once will experience additional ankle sprains and/or chronic pain. Having a rolled or sprained ankle in the past increases your future injury chance 40-70%. Many people don’t take a sprain as a serious injury, and in result do not allow for full healing and recovery time making ligaments loose and more prone to re-injury. Correct healing time and stretching/strengthening techniques are the key to lessen your chances of multiple injuries.

Visit us, at Carolina Foot Specialists, if you are suffering from any ankle or foot pain. Treatment and correct healing will ensure you a pain free future. Dr. Brown and Dr. Saffer are both experts on sports injuries and helping you get back to your regular routine quickly and safely.

Preparation is Key

It’s the most wonderful time of the year- racing season!
Many of you here in Charleston are beginning your rigorous training schedules for 5ks, 10ks, halves and full marathons. It’s hard to resist the urge to get outside and run as the weather turns nice, but we suggest you make sure your feet are race ready before hitting the pavement. Preparation is always key.

1- Get the right equipment.
This doesn’t mean buying the most expensive, professional running gear, but we always suggest investing in new shoes (or being refitted to make sure yours are correct for your feet) and grabbing some drifit/moisture wicking socks to prevent prolonged moisture as well as blisters.

2- Visit a podiatrist for pre-competition evaluations.
Making sure you don’t have any pre existing conditions is huge, especially when training for a longer endurance event. Discussing your foot form, running strides and any current issues can help Dr. Brown or Dr. Saffer direct you on the best path for safe training.

3- Utilize our Pre and Post Race Physical Therapy.
Strengthening specific muscles and muscle groups as well as proper stretching is vital to not only a successful race day, but also to injury free training.

For upcoming races around Charleston visit here.

Looking for a destination race? Visit here. 

Technology for your Toes

Most people don’t relate technology to the practice of podiatry.  However many tools greatly aid in the advancement of our treatments. At Carolina Foot Specialists we are proud to be able to offer the latest in treatment procedures, technological tools and continuing education for our staff.

Being able to provide our patients with in house digital x-rays and diagnostic ultrasounds have led to a much higher recovery rates and more accurate treatment plans. Diagnostic ultrasounds of the foot and ankle advance the prevention and treatment of wounds, detecting tendon and ligament pathology, and detecting soft tissue lesions and foreign bodies.

Digital x-rays provide instantaneous images for the doctors to review. The data is transferred to a computer where technicians can adjust the image for better quality, magnify the area that needs to be studied, or even decide if the image needs to be retaken.

For those who are concerned about the risks of radiation exposure, these digital
pictures are actually better than traditional X-rays.

Also, having the ability to custom make custom orthotics for individual issues and feet have greatly improved the health and well being of many of our patients.

While a lot of our work stems from knowledge and clinical diagnosis technology has not left podiatry behind. Come by and see us for happier feet and ankles today.