Foot neuropathy is a condition where nerve damage in the feet leads to various symptoms. The most common causes include diabetes, alcohol abuse, certain medications, and vitamin deficiencies. In some cases, autoimmune diseases, infections, and hereditary conditions may also contribute. Symptoms of foot neuropathy typically include numbness, tingling, or a burning sensation in the feet. Some individuals may experience sharp, stabbing pain or a feeling of pins and needles. Weakness and difficulty walking can occur due to the loss of sensation. The symptoms are often worse at night and can lead to a decreased ability to notice injuries or infections in the feet. Early detection and treatment are vital for managing symptoms and preventing further nerve damage. If you have tingling or burning sensations in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer relief and treatment solutions for neuropathy.

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 Patricia Mcilrath, DPM from Health One Podiatry. 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 Reading, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Basketball players frequently experience ankle sprains due to the physical demands of the sport. The most common type is a lateral ankle sprain. This type of ankle sprain occurs when the foot rolls inward, a movement called inversion, which stretches or tears the ligaments on the outer side of the ankle. High ankle sprains, though less common, are more severe. This ankle sprain involves the syndesmosis, a group of connective tissues that holds the tibia and fibula bones together just above the ankle. High ankle sprains are caused by a twisting motion that separates these bones. Medial ankle sprains occur when the foot rolls outward, termed eversion, which stresses the deltoid ligament on the inside of the ankle. All types of ankle sprains can cause swelling, pain, and instability. A podiatrist can order digital imaging tests to determine the type of sprain, assess its severity, and create a treatment plan to restore ankle function. If you have ankle pain after playing basketball, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Patricia Mcilrath, DPM from Health One Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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

Swollen feet and ankles, also known as peripheral edema, occur when fluid accumulates in the tissues of the lower limbs. This condition may be caused by various factors, including extended periods of standing or sitting, excess body weight, or medical conditions like venous insufficiency, where veins struggle to pump blood effectively. Injuries or infections in the foot or ankle may also lead to swelling due to increased blood flow to the affected area. While peripheral edema is often painless, swelling that is persistent or unusual may indicate underlying issues such as blood clots, lymphedema, or certain hormonal changes. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause of swelling and rule out serious complications. This foot doctor also can recommend ways to improve circulation, manage discomfort, and prevent long-term damage to the feet, toes, and ankles. If you have unusually swollen feet or ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and diagnosis.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Patricia Mcilrath, DPM of Health One Podiatry. Our doctor 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 Reading, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.