Neuropathy, often silently lurking until later stages of life, can significantly impact foot health. It is a condition characterized by nerve damage, leading to numbness, tingling, and pain in the feet. Causes range from diabetes and infections to injuries and hereditary factors. Neuropathy can manifest in various foot problems, including loss of sensation, burning or shooting pain, and muscle weakness, making simple tasks challenging. Diagnosing neuropathy typically involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and nerve conduction tests to assess nerve function. Prevention strategies include managing underlying conditions like diabetes, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and avoiding prolonged pressure or trauma to the feet. While there is no outright cure for neuropathy, treatments focus on symptom management and slowing its progression. This may involve medications and lifestyle modifications. If you are experiencing symptoms of neuropathy in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a thorough exam and tailored treatment plans.

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 East Ocean Podiatry . 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 Deerfield Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunion, medically termed hallux valgus, is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe. This condition develops when the big toe pushes against the adjacent toe, causing the joint to protrude outward. Bunions can result from various factors, including genetics, wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, and foot injuries. Individuals with certain foot types, such as flat feet or low arches, are more prone to developing bunions. Additionally, occupations or activities that involve repetitive stress on the feet can increase the risk. Bunions are a relatively common foot ailment, affecting millions of people worldwide, with women being more susceptible than men as a result of wearing high heels or narrow shoes that can worsen the condition. While bunions may initially cause mild discomfort, they can progressively worsen, leading to pain, inflammation, and difficulty walking. A bunion can be uncomfortable, and a podiatrist can offer you effective relief strategies. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you consult this type of doctor who can offer appropriate treatment methods.

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

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

Lisfranc fractures or injuries, although rare, can be incredibly painful and often require prompt diagnosis and treatment. These injuries affect the joints in the middle of the foot, and while Lisfranc fractures can sometimes be mistaken for a sprain, they necessitate specialized care from a podiatrist. Causes include sports-related trauma, and everyday accidents like falling down stairs or having an object land on the foot. Among the symptoms are tenderness, swelling, bruising, and severe pain while standing or walking. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and X-rays, with further imaging like CT scans or MRIs sometimes necessary for surgical planning. In some cases, conservative treatment methods like immobilization with a cast or boot may suffice. In more severe cases, surgery may be prescribed, particularly if there are fractures, dislocations, or extensive soft tissue damage. If you are experiencing symptoms of a Lisfranc injury or have recently sustained an injury to your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from East Ocean Podiatry . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

Ingrown toenails, a painful condition where the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, can be managed through a range of treatments depending on severity. Initially, a podiatrist may use conservative approaches, such as soaking the foot in warm water, gently placing cotton underneath the nail to help the nail grow above the skin, and using antibiotic creams. If these methods do not provide relief or if the ingrown toenail grows back, other treatments may be necessary. Podiatrists often perform a minor procedure where part of the nail is removed to prevent it from growing into the skin again. Podiatrists can also perform a minor surgical procedure that involves removing a portion of the nail along with the underlying tissue to reduce the nail's width and prevent future ingrown issues. These treatments aim to relieve pain, correct nail growth, and prevent infection. If you are struggling with an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you seek help from a podiatrist. 

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of East Ocean Podiatry . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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

Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments surrounding the ankle joint are stretched or torn, typically due to sudden twisting or rolling of the foot. Different grades of ankle sprains vary depending on how much ligaments were damaged. Grade 1 sprains involve slight stretching of the ligaments with mild tenderness and swelling. Grade 2 sprains involve partial tearing of the ligaments, leading to moderate pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected ankle. Grade 3 sprains are the most severe, involving complete tearing or rupture of the ligaments, resulting in severe pain, swelling, instability, and sometimes a popping sound at the time of injury. Proper diagnosis and treatment by a podiatrist are important for managing ankle sprains effectively and preventing long-term complications like recurrent injuries. If you suspect an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist today. 

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from East Ocean Podiatry . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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

Pain in the ball of the foot can occur for a variety of reasons. Two common causes are stress fractures from excessive exercise or Morton's neuroma, which is thickened tissue around nerves where the toes and metatarsal bones meet. This results in burning pain that is increased by physical activity or from wearing ill-fitting shoes. Other causes of pain in the ball of the foot, often termed metatarsalgia, are bunions. These bony growths at the base of the big toe can alter weight distribution, forcing more pressure onto the ball of the foot. Symptoms typically include a dull ache, sometimes accompanied by burning, tingling sensations, or numbness in the toes that worsens with standing or walking. While supportive footwear and custom orthotics can help redistribute pressure, in severe cases steroid injections or surgery may be necessary for long-term relief. A podiatrist can conduct a thorough exam of the affected foot to form a diagnosis. This will then allow for a personalized treatment plan to address the underlying cause, ensuring effective pain management and restoring mobility. If you are suffering from pain in the ball of the foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from East Ocean Podiatry . 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:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

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 Deerfield Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis, a leading cause of heel pain, occurs when the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot and connects the heel bone to the toes becomes inflamed. A large number of plantar fasciitis patients experience persistent heel pain. Treatment for this condition often goes beyond rest, and pain relief measures to include strength exercises specifically designed to alleviate stubborn heel pain. These exercises aim to strengthen the muscles surrounding the foot and ankle, improving support for the plantar fascia and reducing the strain on it. A podiatrist may recommend targeted exercises not only to help relieve the immediate discomfort in the heels but also to prevent future episodes of pain. Incorporating these strength exercises into a comprehensive treatment plan means patients are addressing the root causes of plantar fasciitis. If you experience persistent heel pain from plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a personalized treatment plan, which may include performing specific stretches.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of East Ocean Podiatry . 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 office located in Deerfield Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton's Neuroma, a benign tumor that grows in the nerve cells between the third and fourth toe, can be a painful and debilitating condition. Fortunately, a number of effective treatment options are available to relieve discomfort from Morton's neuroma. Conservative measures include wearing shoes with adequate room across the ball of the foot or using foot pads and arch supports. Custom orthotics can provide relief by reducing pressure on the affected nerve. Steroid injections into the painful area also can help alleviate inflammation and pain. In more severe cases, surgical interventions may be considered. Nerve decompression therapy, which involves reducing pressure on the nerves by cutting tendons that press on the nerves, can be effective. In some cases, removal of the affected nerve may be necessary to stop the pain altogether. If you are enduring pain from Morton's neuroma, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to determine the most appropriate treatment based on the severity of your symptoms.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of East Ocean Podiatry . Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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