DID YOU KNOW?

Common Myths about Podiatry

Podiatry may be one of the most misunderstood medical fields. Here are five common myths and the truth behind them:

MYTH: Podiatrists only treat conditions with feet and toenails.

FACT: Podatrists treat a range of conditions stemming from below the knee. In addition to more common conditions you'd associate with podiatrists such as fungus, ingrown nails, and bunions, they can also treat ankle sprains, plantar fasciitis, achilles injuries, fractures, and shin splints.

MYTH: I don't usually have foot problems so I don't need to see a podiatrist regularly.

FACT: Like you would schedule regular checkups with your dentist and eye doctor, everyone should have their feet regularly checked by a podiatrist. Not only can they detect potential problems such as ulcers, ingrown nails, and stress fractures, they can also help alleviate common conditions such as foot and leg pain. Since our feet bear the brunt of our weight, it's a good idea to get them checked to make sure our base is stable!

MYTH: I don't need a podiatrist, I can just go to my orthopedist for most of these problems.

FACT: There is a lot of overlap between orthopedics and podiatry, especially when it comes to sprains, strains, and fractures of the lower extremity. However, podiatrists are more specialized in these conditions, and even though they may not be the first provider you think of, it's definitely worth the visit!

MYTH: Running causes toenail issues.

FACT: While running regularly can increase the likelihood of nail problems such as fungus or losing a nail; these can happen to anyone with improperly-fitting shoes. One thing podiatrists can check is the fit of your shoes to make sure they are not causing unnecessary strain or rubbing anywhere.

MYTH: Only those with diabetes have foot problems.

FACT: While a common complication of diabetes is foot problems such as ulcers and neuropathy, these conditions can strike anyone for a multitude of reasons. Neuropathy is a common side of effect of chemotherapy, anyone wearing the wrong sized shoes can get ulcers, and toenail fungus is more common than you'd realize (and easily treated!) The main thing is knowing what to look for, and getting any change in your feet immediately checked out.

Our podiatrists are well trained to treat many conditions, some of which you may not have even realized before reading this post!

< Older Post Newer Post >

Exciting Changes Coming to Central Carolina Foot & Anke!

By Jenell Consorti • June 12, 2024

To Our Valued Patients: On July 1, 2024, Central Carolina Foot & Ankle Associates will be joining the Duke Health Integrated Practice. We are excited to announce Duke Health as the health care provider for our office in North Durham! What does this mean for you? You and your family will continue to have access to the same providers offered at the same convenient location. You will also soon be able to access your appointments via MyChart if you have an existing account, or set up a MyChart account where you can access your appointments, visit history, and billing statements digitally, as well as make payments online. We know where you and your family select to receive health care is an important choice and we consider it a privilege to serve you. With this change, we will no longer be accepting Blue Home insurance as of July 1, 2024. In addition, we would like to announce Dr. Brandon Lee will be joining our practice on July 1, 2024! Dr. Lee comes from the Mayo Clinic and is excited to assist you with all your foot care needs. We look forward to continuing to care for you and your family as a Duke Health practice. If you have any questions, please call our office at 919-477-9333. Thank you for choosing us as your wellness partners. Kind Regards, Central Carolina Foot & Ankle Associates Main Location North Durham- Central Medical Park 2609 N. Duke Street, Suite 301 Durham, NC 27704

Do You Suffer from Athlete's Foot?

By Jenell Consorti • February 9, 2023

Athletes’ foot, or tinea pedis is a condition where there is skin breakdown which allows fungus to enter the skin and cause an infection. Common symptoms seen by people with athletes’ feet are red, bumpy, itching peeling skin with occasional cracking and painful blisters leading to skin breakdown. Initial things people should do is to make sure they are properly changing out their shoes and socks, and then to routinely wash their feet to ensure that their skin is dry, especially in between the toes. If the skin does not improve over a one to two weeks, it is important for the patient to be seen and a proper antifungal prescribed, or further testing of the skin to ensure that there are no further issues. If this is something that is bothering you, do not hesitate to give our office a call and we will be happy to be of assistance.

Get Your Feet Summer Ready!

By Jenell Consorti • June 1, 2022

Show your toes some love with professional-level care!