Diabetes can damage nerves in the feet, which reduces the ability to feel pain, heat, or injury. This makes it harder to notice cuts, sores, or blisters, and can lead to serious infections if they are not treated promptly. Poor blood flow, another complication of diabetes, can make wounds slower to heal and more likely to become infected, or turn into ulcers. Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in the toes or feet may be early signs of nerve damage. Other signs include dry or cracked skin, foot ulcers, thickened toenails, and changes in foot shape. People with diabetes should be aware that even minor foot problems can quickly worsen without proper care. A podiatrist can examine the feet, check for signs of nerve damage or reduced circulation, and provide early treatment to prevent complications. If you are  experiencing diabetic foot problems, it is suggested that you  are under the care of a podiatrist for management of this serious 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 Associates in Podiatry, PC. 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 offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Rheumatoid arthritis is known for causing joint pain and inflammation, but it can also lead to nerve damage. Chronic swelling in the joints may compress nearby nerves, especially in the feet and ankles. This pressure can cause symptoms like tingling, numbness, burning sensations, or shooting pains, similar to peripheral neuropathy. Inflammation from rheumatoid arthritis may also directly damage nerves over time, interfering with how signals travel between your feet and brain. This can lead to changes in balance, walking difficulties, and sensitivity to touch. Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation and protecting joint and nerve health through medications, and wearing supportive footwear. If nerve-related symptoms begin or worsen, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for a thorough evaluation and personalized care plan. 

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 Associates in Podiatry, PC. 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 offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Haglund’s deformity, also termed pump bump, refers to a bony enlargement on the back of the heel bone, where the Achilles tendon attaches. Haglund's deformity often leads to heel pain, swelling, and redness in the area, especially when the enlarged bone rubs against tight or rigid shoes. People with high arches, tight Achilles tendons, or a tendency to walk on the outside of their heels may be at a greater risk of developing this problem. It is also seen in runners and people who wear shoes with stiff heel counters, which are designed to hold the heel in place and help maintain the shoe’s shape. A podiatrist can examine the heel and use X-rays or ultrasound imaging to confirm the diagnosis and recommend treatment. In advanced cases, surgery may be needed. If you are experiencing this type of heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Associates in Podiatry, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, as the top of the toe shifts inward. This condition often results from pressure on the foot over time, leading to joint misalignment. Common causes include improper footwear, genetics, flat feet, or certain medical conditions. Symptoms may involve pain, redness, swelling, and difficulty wearing shoes. Risk factors include family history, tight or narrow footwear, and occupations that place stress on the feet. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity, provide pain relief, recommend orthotics, and discuss treatment options. If you notice a growing bump or discomfort at the base of your big toe, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact one of our podiatrists of Associates in Podiatry, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.