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How Diabetic Neuropathy Affects the Feet

Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage caused by long-term high blood sugar levels. It most often affects the feet and legs. Nerves are like electrical wires that send messages between the brain and the body. When they are damaged, these messages do not travel correctly. Many people experience numbness, tingling, burning, or sharp shooting pain in their feet. Some lose what is called protective sensation, which means they cannot feel cuts, blisters, or pressure. This can lead to sores, infections, and slow healing. Diabetic neuropathy can also weaken muscles, change foot shape, and affect balance, increasing the risk of falls. Because symptoms may develop slowly, regular foot exams are important. A podiatrist can test sensation, check circulation, identify deformities, and create a treatment plan to reduce pain and lower the risk of ulcers and infection. If you have symptoms of diabetic neuropathy, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

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 New York, NY. 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 New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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When Oral Treatment Is Used for Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, often starts slowly, but can become stubborn, over time. Mild cases may respond to topical care, but thicker, discolored, or spreading infections often need a different approach. Oral treatment is sometimes recommended when multiple nails are involved, the nail is significantly thickened, or previous treatments have failed. These medications work from the inside out, reaching the nail through the bloodstream to target fungus beneath the nail plate. Because nails grow slowly, treatment usually continues for several months while healthy nails replace damaged nails. Oral therapy is not right for everyone and requires proper evaluation, including review of medical history and monitoring, when appropriate. Used correctly, it can improve nail appearance, comfort, and long-term results. If toenail fungus is persistent or worsening, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of New York, NY. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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It's Time for Beautiful Feet

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

When a Small Blister Becomes a Serious Concern

For individuals with diabetes, a simple blister can quickly become a serious foot problem. Blisters often develop from friction caused by tight shoes, moisture, or increased activity. They may appear as clear fluid filled bubbles on the skin, sometimes surrounded by redness or warmth. While a blister might feel mildly tender at first, diabetics may not notice pain or early warning signs because of reduced sensation caused by nerve damage. Slower healing, caused by poor circulation, can allow even a small blister to break open and lead to infection. The skin may look swollen, shiny, or irritated, and drainage or odor can signal a more advanced issue. Careful daily inspection, proper footwear, and keeping feet clean and dry are essential preventive steps. A podiatrist can evaluate the blister, assess circulation and nerve function, provide safe treatment, and recommend protective footwear or custom inserts. If you are diabetic and dealing with foot blisters, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

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 New York, NY. 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 New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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How Rheumatoid Arthritis Affects the Feet and Ankles

Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is an autoimmune condition that causes the immune system to attack the lining of the joints, leading to chronic inflammation. The feet and ankles are commonly affected because they contain many small joints that bear body weight. Persistent swelling, pain, warmth, and stiffness may develop, especially in the morning or after rest. In the midfoot, inflammation can lead to collapse of the arch and difficulty walking. In the hindfoot and ankle, joint damage may cause instability, limited motion, and progressive deformity. Over time, untreated inflammation can significantly affect mobility and quality of life. If you have symptoms of RA in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can monitor joint health, provide supportive orthotics, and recommend appropriate treatment.  

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of New York, NY. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

  • Swelling and pain in the feet
  • Stiffness in the feet
  • Pain on the ball or sole of feet
  • Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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

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