We love to hear (and answer) your questions! Listed are some frequently asked questions from our offices, as well as some we find very informative. Make sure to check out our blog as well, there you’ll find in-depth articles on common feet and ankle problems.

Q: I noticed recently that my child has flat feet. Should it be treated?
A: It is best to have them evaluated. You could be saving your child from future foot problems! If your child plays sports, or is experiencing pain, I would definitely recommend bringing your child in to see us.

Q: How do I know if I should have my bunions fixed or leave them alone?
A: There are two lines of thought on this issue. The younger you are, the better your healing potential. You are also less likely to have other medical conditions or arthritis in the joint that can affect the outcome of the surgery. But, there is always that small possibility that you develop a complication after surgery. So, if it is not hurting, leave it alone. I usually suggest waiting until it starts interfering with what a person wants to do.

Q: I have a history of ingrown toenails. How can I avoid them?
A: I understand people fear ingrown toenails…they hurt. The best way to avoid them is to stop cutting your nail too short.  Make sure your shoes fit correctly. Trauma to your     toe can lead to an ingrown nail. And please, I’m begging you, do not perform “bathroom surgery!” If you suspect your nail is ingrown, call us. The sooner you make the appointment, the sooner you will have relief.

Q: I am diabetic and I have a blister on my foot. Should I be concerned?
A: There is one answer to this question: Yes! A blister on a diabetic foot may indicate a severe infection. Because diabetic feet respond differently than healthy feet, redness, heat, and drainage are usually positive signs of a severe infection. This is one example of something I would consider to be an emergency.

Q: Pedicures…are they really that bad for my toenails?
A: This is a popular question. Although podiatrists all over the country argue this, I have two rules for you: be careful which salon you choose, and give your  toenails a vacation every once in a while. Let them breathe! If you insist on painting your toenails, try to find a “healthy” polish. We carry Dr. Remedy’s Nail Polish in our Roanoke office.

Q: Is there anything I can do for my dry and cracked heels?
A: Blame your parents! This problem is usually hereditary. Taking extra time to moisturize  your feet will help. Apply a cream form moisturizer at least two times a day, wear socks for extra penetration of the cream, and scrub off what the cream has softened using a pumice stone after a shower when your feet are the softest. If your cracked heel is bleeding, schedule an appointment to see us.

Q: By the end of the day my heels are very painful. Is there anything I can do?
A: Heel pain is a very popular issue in our Roanoke office. The most common cause of heel pain is something known as plantar fasciitis: inflammation of a ligament on the bottom of the foot called the “plantar fascia” at its point where it attaches to the heel. How can you stop the pain? Wear shoes all the time; do not walk barefoot! Make sure that your shoes have great arch support. Icing your heels and taking an anti-inflammatory such as Motrin or Advil can also help. Custom orthotics are excellent sources of pain relief. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Feeny to be evaluated. The longer you wait, the more difficult your heel pain may be to treat.

Q: I believe I have fungus on my toenail. How do I know?|
A: A fungal toenail appears thickened, yellowish, sometimes blackish, and is often crumble. You may notice an odor. There are prescription topical medications and oral medications that, with time, can cure fungal infections. You must be patient; nails are slow to clear.

Q: Is there a certain time of day that is best to shop for shoes?
A: Oddly enough, yes! It is best to shop for shoes at the end of the day.  As the day progresses, your feet change in width and length. To prevent injury to your feet caused by an ill-fitted shoe, wait until the evening to go shopping.

Q: I am a runner. How often should I replace my shoes?
A: If you average 25 miles per week, you should replace your shoes every three to four months. The average person needs to change their shoes every six months.