Items filtered by date: December 2023

Foot pain, a discomfort affecting individuals across various walks of life, can trace its roots to a multitude of causes. One common culprit is improper footwear, where shoes lacking proper support or fit can lead to a range of issues. Among them are corns and calluses as well as more severe conditions like plantar fasciitis. Strain and overuse, often associated with prolonged standing or engaging in high-impact activities, can contribute to fatigue and discomfort. Structural anomalies, including flat feet or high arches, may alter foot mechanics and induce pain. Injuries such as sprains, fractures, or ligament tears also play a role, necessitating attention and care. Additionally, arthritis and inflammatory conditions, along with systemic health issues like diabetes, may manifest in foot pain. If you are experiencing any type of foot pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can pinpoint the cause and offer appropriate treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists  from Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . Our doctors 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 Newark, DE . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetic neuropathy, a consequence of prolonged elevated blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes, affects up to 50 percent of those with the condition. Symptoms of diabetic neuropathy range from pain, tingling, and numbness in the extremities to potential onset without noticeable signs. Peripheral diabetic neuropathy is prevalent, causing discomfort in the toes, feet, and hands. Early diagnosis is essential, and a thorough examination by a podiatrist is suggested. This process can include a foot check for sores and ulcers, along with tests such as the monofilament test, nerve conduction tests, and electromyography. Effective management of diabetic neuropathy involves strict control of blood sugar levels through regular monitoring, adherence to an antidiabetic diet, physical activity, and routine blood pressure checks. Medications can also play a vital role in relieving symptoms. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist can help you to manage this condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Common peroneal nerve dysfunction, also known as common fibular nerve dysfunction, involves damage to the peroneal nerve, affecting movement and sensation in the foot and leg. This condition can occur at any age and is a type of peripheral neuropathy, specifically mononeuropathy, where a single nerve is damaged. Causes can range from knee trauma, fibula fracture, tight casts, habitual leg crossing, to pressure during sleep or surgery. It is also seen in individuals with anorexia, autoimmune conditions, diabetes, alcohol use, or inherited disorders like Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. Symptoms include decreased sensation, numbness, tingling in the leg, foot dropping, a slapping gait, toe dragging, and muscle weakness. Diagnosis involves a physical exam, electromyography, nerve conduction tests, MRI, and nerve ultrasound. Potential complications may include reduced walking ability and permanent sensation loss or weakness in the legs or feet. If you have symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss 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 one of our podiatrists  from Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . Our doctors 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 Newark, DE . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Swollen ankles from flying, a condition known as edema, often occurs during long flights. This happens due to a combination of factors such as prolonged immobility, changes in cabin pressure, and dehydration, all of which can lead to fluid retention in the lower limbs. When seated for extended periods of time, gravity causes fluid to pool in the feet and ankles, leading to swelling. The reduced cabin pressure in airplanes can also contribute to fluid accumulation in the body tissues. Additionally, the air inside the cabin is quite dry, and if an individual does not drink enough water, it can lead to dehydration, further exacerbating the swelling. To alleviate this issue, it is advisable to move around the cabin and perform simple leg and foot exercises while seated. Additionally, it is beneficial to wear loose clothing and maintain hydration by drinking plenty of water. Compression stockings can also be helpful in preventing swelling by promoting better circulation in the legs. If you are planning on taking a long flight, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for more personalized advice, particularly if you have underlying health conditions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Newark, DE . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.