Sports Foot & Ankle Tips

Parents of Athletes

Common Injuries:

Ingrown Toenails
Athlete’s Foot
Tendon Injuries
Ankle Sprains

Ingrown Toenails

By Dr. Devin Grant

Ingrown toenails can be one of the most painful foot conditions to experience especially as an athlete. An ingrown toenail occurs when the border of the nail curves inward into the surrounding skin leading to pain, swelling, redness. Causes of an ingrown nail can range from trauma, improperly cutting the nail, and tight shoes, to name a few.
To remove a painful ingrown toenail your podiatrist will perform a small in-office procedure. This procedure will remove the offending border and uses a chemical to kill that portion of the ingrown nail to prevent it from recurring. By undergoing this easy office procedure, we can dramatically decrease the risk of you developing an ingrown nail again. The procedure itself is simple and the after-care is easy! After numbing, the ingrown toenail procedure takes about 10 minutes to be performed in the office and you leave with simple instructions for 1-2 weeks of home care.

Preventing Tendon & Ligament Injuries

As the beginning of fall sports approaches, it’s important to take certain measures to prevent injuries. Tendon and ligament injuries are among the most common but easily avoided. It’s essential to make sure your athlete is properly warming up, stretching, and cooling down. Minimizing these steps, or skipping them altogether, decreases flexibility and increases chance of injury. You also want to double check that all sports gear fits and functions properly. Whether it’s the right type of soccer cleats, the correct size hockey skates, or the appropriate kind of swimming fin, faulty footwear and equipment can lead to injury.

Another crucial step in preventing injuries is to make sure any increase in activity is done in a gradual and safe way. Make sure to follow the programs set by the coaches and trainers. Modifying or increasing activity can lead to overuse injuries.
Another easy step is to stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water can stave off dehydration which causes muscle fatigue and greatly increases chance of injury. Finally, make sure there is time for plenty of rest.

Recovery is one of the most important aspects of injury prevention. A good night’s sleep and adequate time between practices, games, and meets can help avoid a litany of soft tissue injuries. By taking these steps you ensure the best season for your athletes!

PUTTING YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD!

Raleigh Foot & Ankle Center
3 Locations to Serve You!

Raleigh Wake Forest
3801 Wake Forest Rd., Suite 100
Raleigh, NC 27609
Phone: (919) 850-9111
Fax: (919) 850-2499

Holly Springs Location
1004 Werrington Drive, Suite 300
Holly Springs, NC 27540
Phone: (919) 850-9111
Fax: (919) 850-2499

Henderson Location
451 Ruin Creek Road, Suite 202
Henderson, NC 27536
Phone: (252) 438-4426
Fax: (252) 430-1709

Is PRP Right For Me?

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You may be going crazy, you might have a foot or ankle problem that has not healed and is limiting your life. You may have tried a lot of simple things and had some improvement, but you just can’t get over the hump. You want to exercise, you want to wear normal shoes, you want to be the person you know you are. Platelet Rich Plasma Injection Therapy could be right for you. It is a low risk treatment for those people who can’t get over the hump. Now let me be clear: it involves drawing blood from your arm, separating the healing cells, and injecting them back into your injured area. Yep, it’s a shot. But, with proper numbing medicine and a little TLC, this can be relatively comfortable.

Also, this treatment is not for everyone. Not every foot and ankle problem can benefit from PRP. However, this treatment can be quite beneficial for some common problems such as achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis. If you’ve tried a lot of treatments, been to a lot of doctors, and feel like you’re losing your mind because you can’t be the active, healthy person you want to be, PRP Injection Therapy may just be right for you.

How Do PRP Injections Work?

PRP injections work by taking a patient’s own blood and spinning it in a centrifuge to isolate an increased number of the healing cells in that patient’s own blood. Following this sterile protocol, these cells are injected, by the doctor, into the injured area. Utilizing an increased number of healing cells in a focused location of injury can improve how healing occurs and how pain is relieved. This treatment is done in an office setting with numbing medicine. This is not a surgery and it is not done in a hospital. It can be a comfortable, safe procedure that allows the patient to continue daily activities. PRP Injection Therapy is rarely covered by insurance, so costs to the patient are likely. Because we are caring for an injured part, control of strain to the area is usually necessary with a supportive shoe insert, an ankle brace, or a removable air cast boot. Treatment results vary, based on what type of injured body part is being treated and how long the condition has been present. Risks associated with this treatment are low. Reactions and side effects are minimal since there is no incision and no general anesthesia, as well as no oral medications needed. Ask a board-certified foot and ankle specialist if PRP Injection Therapy is right for you.

Call 919-850-9111 (for Raleigh and Holly Springs)

http://www.raleighfootandanklecenter.com

Get to Know Your Doctor: Dr. Jordan Meyers

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Photo caption: Dr. Jordan Meyers with NHL legends at a Nashville charity hockey tournament in 2018. Left to Right: Stu Grimson (former NHL hockey player), Steve Rice (former NHL hockey player), Justin Price (former NCAA Division I hockey player) and Dr. Meyers.

When he’s not seeing patients or spending time with his family, Dr. Jordan Meyers can’t wait to lace up his skates and hit the ice. Dr. Meyers played hockey when he was a Pirate at East Carolina University, and he continues to play in an adult recreational league to this day! At the rink, you might spot his biggest fans: his wife Katie and two young daughters, who are the center of his world.

5 Questions With Dr. Meyers:

What’s your favorite part about your job?

Making people feel better and returning them to doing what they love. A lot of the time we are able to do a few simple, easy treatments for patients that really gets rid of their pain fast. I tell patients, “My job is to try and get you better as quick as possible, then have you forget all about me because your pain is gone!” I also truly enjoy getting to know my patients and making friendships. It is really fun for me to connect on a personal level and learn more about them, where they come from, and establish long-lasting relationships.

If you could make one rule everyone had to follow, what rule would you make?

Do something nice for others every single day. If we all did something nice, or made someone feel good about themself every day, this world would be a much better place. “Change starts with you,” as the saying goes, so I challenge everyone to try and lift others up and make them feel great!

What’s your favorite food?

Sushi! That being said, it’s challenging for me to come across food that I don’t like.

What was your first concert?

My parents took me to see Elton John at Walnut Creek when I was 12-years-old. It rained like crazy towards the end. We were muddy and soaking wet, and it was an absolute blast!

Who inspires you to be better?

My family. They are my everything, and I thank God every day for them. I feel this “Hallmark Channel moment” when I see them, where no matter how crazy the day was or what kind of sadness is happening in the world, they make all things feel right. My wife and two girls make me want to be the best version of me that I can be, which challenges me to improve all aspects of my life.

Bonus Question: What have your kids taught you?

Enjoy every simple, little thing. Appreciate the beauty and wonder of even the most basic of things. Take your time, take a step back from the hustle, bustle, and chaos, and truly try to live in the moment. I had no idea how much having children would change my life for the better. They have a way to make every day really special!

Dr. Meyers earned his bachelor’s degree at East Carolina University, attended medical school at Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine in Philadelphia, and completed his advanced foot and ankle surgical training at the University of Louisville Hospital. He is an associate with the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. To learn more about Dr. Meyers, click here.

If you or someone you know is experiencing foot or ankle pain, Dr. Meyers would be happy to help get you back on your feet quickly. Schedule an appointment with him today at (919) 850-9111.

Dr. Jordan Meyers, DPM

Get To Know Your Doctor: Dr. Kirk Woelffer

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Are you a music lover?

Celebrating his 19th year at Raleigh Foot & Ankle Center, Dr. Kirk Woelffer is known for his warm personality and fun sense of humor. He loves his job and it shows. Dr. Woelffer is crazy about cars and sports, and he sings in a classic rock band. He shares these interests with his wife Christina, and their three kids.

Here’s a little more about the man who serves as the official podiatrist for NCFC Professional Men’s Soccer, North Carolina Courage Professional Women’s Soccer and Carolina Ballet.

5 Questions With Dr. Woelffer:

What was your first concert?

Prince, 1984, Minneapolis, Minnesota (where I am from). The Purple Rain Tour. It was awesome! I was 14. My buddy’s mom dropped us off in her cool Dodge van, not minivan, and waited for us in the parking lot until it was over. We were too young to be there– it was perfect!

What’s your favorite part about your job?

Giving people a hope-filled plan for a healthy future. I love seeing people achieving their fitness goals.

What chance encounter changed your life forever?

Meeting Dr. Robert Hatcher. He gave me my job here, and he guided me every step of the way to this great place I LOVE working at every day.

What’s the best thing you got from your parents?

They gave me a philosophy to be positive about everything. They would say, “If you believe you can do it, you probably can.” It even feels good to say it now, as a grown-up!

What skill would you like to master?

I would love to be able to play the piano– I have taken lessons 3 times in my life! Turns out it takes practice. 🙂

Dr. Woelffer earned his bachelor’s degree at St. Olaf College, attended medical school at Des Moines University, and completed his surgical residency at Deaconess Hospital in St. Louis. He is Board Certified in Foot Surgery and Reconstructive Rear-Foot/Ankle Surgery by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery, and he is a Fellow in the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Dr. Woelffer is also an Associate of the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine. To learn more about Dr. Woelffer, click here.

If you or a loved one is experiencing foot or ankle pain, Dr. Woelffer would be happy to come up with a plan to get you back on your feet quickly. Schedule an appointment with him today at (919) 850-9111.

Raleigh Foot & Ankle Center is a division of Foot & Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic, LLC.

Five Storm Safety Tips From Doctors

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Hurricane Florence is being called a “monster storm” which is predicted to bring flooding, high winds, downed trees and power outages to North Carolina. Prevent a trip to the emergency room with these Five Storm Safety Tips from the doctors at Raleigh Foot & Ankle Center.

1. Always wear shoes indoors. “The most common home injuries we treat are centered around being barefoot, so always wear shoes,” said Dr. Jordan Meyers. “If you have an aversion to wearing shoes inside for cleanliness reasons, get an indoor house shoe or slipper.”

2. Put aside stylish shoes and wear sturdy footwear. One of the best ways to prevent a trip to the ER during inclement weather is to make sure your feet and ankles are properly protected. Ditch the cute flip flops. Dr. advised, “When you’re outside on slippery surfaces such as decks and asphalt, make sure you are wearing sturdy shoes with good tread.”

3. Keep a first aid kit and emergency phone numbers handy. “You never know what you may encounter with the threat of high winds, flooding and power outages, said Dr. Alan Boehm. “Have a first aid kit accessible, and remember you can always call 911 for emergencies, even during power outages.”

4. Make sure your kids are protecting their feet. Dr. Kirk Woelffer recommended, “Don’t forget about the children– protected feet are happy feet.”

Raleigh Foot & Ankle Center offers foot and ankle care for all ages with the latest advances in technology to get you back on your feet quickly. Surgeons Dr. Kirk Woelffer, Dr. Alan Boehm, Dr. Jordan Meyers bring over 35 years of trusted medical experience to compassionately care for all your foot and ankle needs in two Triangle locations, with a new Holly Springs satellite office opening in November. For more information call (919) 850-9111 or visit www.RaleighFootAndAnkleCenter.com. Raleigh Foot & Ankle Center is a division of Foot & Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic, LLC

Here We Grow Again: We’re Coming to Holly Springs!

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Raleigh Foot & Ankle Center is pleased to announce the addition of its Holly Springs office in November 2018. The new state-of-the-art podiatry practice will open at 1004 Werrington Drive, Ste. 300 in Main Street Square along G.B. Alford Highway (Hwy 55). The practice will offer foot and ankle care for all ages. Services will include surgical and non-surgical treatment for skin and nail conditions, fractures, sprains, sports injuries, birth deformities, foreign bodies, diabetic foot care and disorders, pediatric conditions, nerve disorders, and wounds.

“Our vision is to serve the community by providing compassionate and progressive foot and ankle care for children, adolescents, and adults,” said Dr. Kirk Woelffer. “And our mission is to provide advanced care through a dedicated, well-trained healthcare team in a friendly, professional setting.”

“We offer the latest advances in technology to get you back on your feet quickly,” said Dr. Alan Boehm. “This includes digital x-rays, Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), ultrasound, 3D scanning for custom molded orthotics, and laser therapy for toenail fungus.”

The Holly Springs office will also feature an onsite nail care salon with medically trained technicians who will perform podiatrist-supervised pedicures for patients, including those with diabetes.

Raleigh Foot & Ankle Center’s surgeons Dr. Kirk Woelffer, Dr. Alan Boehm, Dr. Jordan Meyers, bring over 35 years of trusted podiatry experience. They volunteer at Open Door Clinic, Alliance Medical Ministry, and Project Homeless Connect.

“Holly Springs has seen a tremendous amount of growth, with little increase in available foot and ankle care,” said Dr. Jordan Meyers. “Making time to go to the doctor is challenging enough, so we are excited to provide advanced foot and ankle care a little closer to home for all the great people in Holly Springs and its surrounding areas. This also provides an opportunity for us to not only offer great medical care, but contribute and give back to the community through various avenues of charitable work.”

Raleigh Foot & Ankle Center plans to open the Holly Springs satellite office on November 12, 2018. For more information call (919) 850-9111 or visit www.RaleighFootAndAnkleCenter.com. Raleigh Foot & Ankle Center is a division of Foot & Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic, LLC.

High Blood Pressure? Treat Hypertension with Running

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Has your doctor diagnosed you with hypertension (high blood pressure) and recommended exercise? An easy, inexpensive way to get your body moving is running. As a passionate marathoner who personally has experienced the health benefits of running, Dr. Alan Boehm shares his tips on how to begin a successful running program to get your health back on track. Read his article here.

Dr. Hatcher Announces His Retirement

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It is with a mixture of sadness and heartfelt gratitude, Raleigh Foot & Ankle Center announces the retirement of our founder, Dr. Robert M. Hatcher, DPM. In 1977 Dr. Hatcher established a single-practitioner office, and he steadily built Raleigh Foot & Ankle Center into the thriving practice it is today through hard work, perseverance and prayer. Also, many thanks to Linda Hatcher for her selfless contributions all these years… she wore many hats and expertly managed the magic taking place behind-the-scenes. Thank you, Dr. Hatcher, for creating a great place for foot and ankle care… and an even greater place to work. Congratulations and enjoy every minute of your well-deserved retirement!

Here is a letter from Dr. Hatcher to our wonderful patients:

If you are suffering from foot or ankle pain, we’ll help you get back on your feet quickly. Call Raleigh Foot & Ankle Center today to schedule your appointment with a foot doctor at (919) 850-9111. We serve patients from Raleigh, Cary and Wake Forest, NC as well as Wake County, Johnston County and surrounding areas in and around the Raleigh-Durham Area and the rest of North Carolina. Hablamos Español.

Injury Prevention Made Easy

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Did you know you should ALWAYS wear shoes… even at home? Check out Dr. Jordan Meyers’ easy and practical tips for “Injury Prevention Made Easy.” He provides some great tips for the home, office and gym to keep you from needing emergency podiatric care. Read it here.

Sports Medicine: Stay in the Game

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Sports Medicine can help everyone from gym class heroes to Superbowl stars. Check out Dr. Kirk Woelffer’s tips on how to keep athletes of all ages in the game. He shares great, non-invasive podiatry treatments including custom orthotics and Shockwave which can help you get back on your feet quickly. To read the article, click here.