Persistent foot pain can be difficult to evaluate when symptoms do not clearly point to one cause. Imaging studies help clarify what is happening internally and support accurate care decisions. The process often begins with standard radiographs, which can identify alignment issues, joint changes, arthritis, and signs of repetitive stress. When those images do not fully explain symptoms, advanced imaging may be considered. Magnetic resonance imaging offers detailed views of muscles, tendons, ligaments, and other soft tissues, making it helpful when findings are unclear. Computed tomography provides sharp detail of bone structure and is useful for stress fractures, joint disease, and congenital connections between bones. In certain situations, nuclear imaging or diagnostic ultrasound can further pinpoint inflammation, injury, or altered tissue behavior. If foot pain persists, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Shalonda Davidson, DPM from Instride Carolina Foot Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Blisters on the feet develop when repeated friction, pressure, or moisture damages the outer layers of skin. Common risk factors include poorly fitting shoes, stiff seams, increased walking or running volume, and sudden changes in activity. Excess moisture from sweating can soften skin, making it vulnerable to breakdown, while dry skin may crack and shear. Foot shape concerns like bunions, hammertoes, or prominent bones can increase pressure points, and gait issues can cause uneven rubbing in specific areas. Medical factors also play a role, including diabetes, circulation concerns, and reduced sensation, which can allow skin damage to progress unnoticed. A podiatrist can evaluate footwear fit, foot structure, and walking mechanics, address underlying deformities, and manage skin health. For help dealing with foot blisters, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Shalonda Davidson, DPM of Instride Carolina Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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

Cracked heels are a common foot condition marked by dry, thickened skin that splits along the edges of the heel. They often develop from a natural loss of skin elasticity with age, making the heels less able to stretch under pressure. Long showers, harsh soaps, and frequently walking barefoot can strip moisture from the skin and worsen dryness. Additional risk factors include prolonged standing, obesity, wearing open-backed shoes, and certain skin conditions. When left untreated, cracked heels may become painful or lead to infection. A podiatrist can evaluate heel health, remove hardened skin safely, and recommend medical grade moisturizers or protective treatments. If this applies to you, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Shalonda Davidson, DPM from Instride Carolina Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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

Peripheral neuropathy affects the nerves that carry messages between the feet and the brain. When these nerves are not working properly, people may experience numbness, tingling, burning, or a pins and needles feeling in the feet or toes. In some cases, sensation becomes reduced, making it harder to feel pain, heat, or pressure. This can increase the risk of unnoticed injuries, skin breakdown, or balance issues. Although causes can vary, peripheral neuropathy is often linked to diabetes, circulation problems, certain medications, or nerve compression. Symptoms may develop gradually and worsen over time, if not addressed. Daily foot checks and wearing supportive footwear are important parts of care. Early evaluation helps reduce complications and protect long-term foot health. If changes in sensation, balance, or foot comfort are noticed, it is suggested that a podiatrist provide guidance on evaluation and treatment options.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Shalonda Davidson, DPM from Instride Carolina Foot Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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