The body is full of nerves whose main job is to let us touch and feel, as well as to warn us of dangerous conditions. The peripheral nervous system contains nerves in the lower extremities. When these nerves become damaged, they are unable to signal the toes and feet when something goes wrong. This condition is known as peripheral neuropathy. Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy are numbness, pain, and weakness. Causes include excessive use of alcohol, certain types of medication, vitamin B12 deficiency, and heredity. Other causes are infections, such as shingles and Lyme disease, as well as tumors and diabetes. Many diabetics develop peripheral neuropathy, which leaves them unable to detect sores and cuts on the feet. If left unattended, a cut or sore may turn into a diabetic foot ulcer that can become gangrenous and endanger the limb itself. Such diabetic neuropathy is the result of maintaining high levels of blood sugar that damage the nerves serving the feet. If you are experiencing any level of neuropathy in the toes, feet, or ankles, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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 Edward Orman, DPM from Honeygo 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 offices located in Perry Hall, and Fallston, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The plantar fascia is found on the bottom of the foot. It is a long portion of tissue that connects the heel to the toes and can become quite painful if it becomes irritated. A heel injury or gradual wear and tear may lead to developing plantar fasciitis. This foot condition is defined as inflammation or tears that happen to the plantar fascia, which can occur from wearing shoes that do not have adequate cushioning in the heel area. It can also happen to people who stand on hard or uneven surfaces for most of the day, causing excess pressure on the heel and surrounding areas. Many people enjoy running and jogging, and it is helpful to be aware of how this can negatively impact the heels. Pregnant women may develop plantar fasciitis, as a result of the added weight the feet must endure. Temporary relief may be found when the affected foot is elevated, and walking is kept to a minimum. A podiatrist is a specialist that can effectively treat plantar fasciitis, and it is suggested that you contact this type of doctor who can offer you the treatment option that is best for you.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Edward Orman, DPM  from Honeygo Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Perry Hall, and Fallston, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.