Nerve damage in the foot can cause significant pain, often due to irritation of the nerves between the bones of the toes, known as interdigital nerves. This condition is commonly linked to neuromas, which are benign growths that often develop between the third and fourth toes. Factors contributing to formation of neuromas include wearing tight or non-supportive footwear, thinning of the protective fat pad at the ball of the foot, and structural abnormalities that put additional pressure on the nerves. Nerve pain in the foot starts with mild aching, tingling, or burning in the toes. However, it can progress to a constant burning sensation that makes it difficult to wear closed-toe shoes. A podiatrist can offer relief by recommending proper footwear, prescribing custom orthotics, or administering injections to reduce inflammation and pain. In more severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove the neuroma. This may provide pain relief but may also cause numbness. If you are experiencing nerve pain in your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a treatment plan that works best for you.
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 Grand Blanc Family Footcare. 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:
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 Grand Blanc, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Pain in the ball of the foot, known as metatarsalgia, can develop from increased pressure, injuries, or anatomical issues. Metatarsalgia often occurs from running, wearing high heels, or sports that place stress on the forefoot. Conditions like bunions, hammertoes, and high arches can also contribute to the pain by altering the alignment of the metatarsal bones. Additionally, nerve conditions, such as Morton’s neuroma, and issues with the plantar plate ligament can lead to pain and discomfort in the ball of the foot. Symptoms include sharp or aching pain, swelling, or a feeling of stepping on a small object. Addressing this pain requires understanding the underlying cause, which a podiatrist can diagnose through a thorough physical examination and imaging tests, if needed. Treatment may involve modifying footwear, prescribing custom orthotics, or considering other methods that help relieve pressure. If you have pain in the ball of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Grand Blanc Family Footcare. 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:
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 Grand Blanc, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Heel spurs, known medically as calcaneal spurs, are bony protrusions that form on the heel bone, or calcaneus. There are two primary types, which are known as inferior calcaneal spurs, developing on the bottom of the heel, and posterior calcaneal spurs, located at the back of the heel. These spurs often arise from repetitive stress on the foot, commonly from activities that involve running or walking on hard surfaces. Over time, this stress can lead to inflammation of the surrounding tissues, particularly the plantar fascia, resulting in pain and discomfort. Symptoms of heel spurs typically include localized pain, especially during initial steps after resting, and tenderness when pressure is applied to the heel. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose the cause and provide appropriate treatment.
Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Grand Blanc Family Footcare. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.
Heels Spurs
Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.
Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.
Pain
The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.
Treatments
There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Grand Blanc, MI . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Athlete's foot, or tinea pedis, is a common fungal skin infection that loves damp, warm environments. Fungi, which are tiny microorganisms, thrive in these conditions and can cause mild but annoying rashes when they infect the skin. Though typically not dangerous, athlete’s foot can be quite irritating. Symptoms include itching, burning, and redness between the toes or on the soles of the feet. You might also notice peeling or cracking skin, which can sometimes lead to a secondary bacterial infection if left untreated. While athletes are often associated with this condition due to their sweaty feet, anyone can get athlete’s foot. To prevent it, keep your feet dry and clean, and avoid walking barefoot in public showers or pools. If you suspect you have athlete's foot it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment plan.
Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Grand Blanc Family Footcare. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.
What Is Athlete’s Foot?
Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.
Prevention
The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:
Symptoms
Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Grand Blanc, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.
Diabetic foot ulcers require careful management to promote healing and prevent complications. Proper wound care involves keeping the ulcer clean and protected with appropriate dressings. Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels is vital, as stable glucose levels support the body's natural healing processes. Also, maintaining a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals can aid in wound repair. It is also important to relieve pressure on the affected foot by using specialized footwear or offloading devices. Daily foot inspections help catch any changes or infections early. A podiatrist can provide personalized treatment plans, including possible antibiotics or wound care therapies. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage its effects on your feet.
Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Grand Blanc Family Footcare. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Wound Care?
Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic.
What Is the Importance of Wound Care?
While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.
How to Care for Wounds
The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Grand Blanc, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.