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The medical condition that is known as neuropathy can affect the feet. Common symptoms patients experience may include a numbing or tingling sensation, and it is often difficult to feel existing cuts or bruises. People who are diabetic may be prone to developing neuropathy. It is beneficial for these patients to have regular foot examinations, refrain from walking barefoot outdoors, in addition to wearing shoes that fit correctly. Relief may be found when blood glucose levels are properly managed, and healthy eating habits are implemented. If you have symptoms of neuropathy, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to begin the correct treatment 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 Brent Harwood, DPM from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and 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 one of our offices located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
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.
When purchasing shoes, it’s important to make sure you choose the correct size shoe by figuring out the accurate length and width of your foot. This can be found by measuring your foot at the end of the day when the feet are at their largest. It would also be beneficial to wear the same or similar socks while trying shoes on, as this may help to ensure a proper fit. Many shoe stores have a measuring tool that is known as a Brannock device, which can help to determine the correct size of your foot. Some patients prefer to stand on a piece of paper while tracing their feet. Both feet are rarely the same size, and it is suggested to use the size of the larger foot. It is beneficial to choose a style shoe that fits comfortably when tried on and to avoid shoes that have to be broken in. If you would like additional information about how to determine your correct shoe size, please consult with a podiatrist.
Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Brent Harwood, DPM from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Getting the Right Shoe Size
There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.
As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
The condition that is known as an ingrown toenail can cause severe pain and discomfort. It occurs as a result of the side of the nail on the big toe growing into the outer edges of the skin. It can happen from trimming the nail incorrectly, or from wearing shoes that do not have ample room for the toes to move freely in. One of the first symptoms that is noticed can be slight swelling and redness on the side of the nail. If this is not treated promptly, it can become infected, and a discharge may ooze from the impacted area. Some patients have found mild relief when the foot is soaked in warm water. This may help the skin surrounding the ingrown toenail to soften, which may make it easier to gently pull the nail away from the skin. If you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can perform the best treatment for this ailment.
Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Brent Harwood, DPM of Southeast Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.
Causes
You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.
Symptoms
Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.
Treatment
Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
When babies are born, their feet are flexible, and will gradually strengthen as they get older. During their first year, their feet will grow to approximately half of their adult foot size. As walking begins, it is beneficial to have your child walk barefoot while indoors. When the toes grasp the floor, the overall foot becomes stronger. When it is time for your child to walk outside, and the first shoes are purchased, there are important things to look for. The shoes need to be made with breathable materials, in addition to fitting properly with ample room for the toes to move freely in. Many parents observe their child’s walking patterns, as this can help to recognize potential problems. It is advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide useful information about your child’s feet.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Brent Harwood, DPM of Southeast Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.
Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.
Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.
Be watchful for any pain or injury.
Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.
Foot pain is a common ailment among women who are pregnant, and it is triggered for several reasons. This type of pain often develops as a result from the added weight of the growing fetus, hormonal changes, and a possible change of foot structure. The arch may disappear, and this may enable the feet to roll inward. The plantar fascia can become inflamed, and it may be difficult to walk. This is a band of tissue that connects the heels to the toes, and is located on the sole of the foot. Weight gain can add pressure to the plantar fascia, and mild relief may be found when larger shoes are worn that can accommodate the expanding feet. Many pregnant women find it helpful to elevate their feet as often as possible during the day, in addition to limiting salt intake. If you would like additional information about changes in the feet that can occur during pregnancy, please consult with a podiatrist.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Brent Harwood, DPM from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs.
What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.
How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.
Blisters often form on the feet as a defense against damage to the skin. They take the form of fluid filled sacs on the outer layer of the skin of the feet, often developing in response to excess friction. Most commonly, blisters form because of ill-fitting footwear rubbing against the skin. Blisters themselves are wounds that will slowly heal on their own, however they can cause a great deal of discomfort. Other reasons why blisters may form can include sunburns, frostbite, eczema, allergic reactions, viral infections, and bacterial infections. To help heal a blister, it’s best to leave it alone. As stated before, they will heal on their own. It may be beneficial to protect the blister by covering it up with a bandage. Some natural remedies to help heal a blister can include applying aloe vera, as well as green tea, tea tree oil, and eucalyptus oil. For more information on how to help treat a blister, it’s suggested that you speak with a podiatrist.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Brent Harwood, DPM of Southeast Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.
What Are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
How Do Blisters Form?
Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.
Prevention & Treatment
It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.
Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
As many people know, there can be many transitions going into a new job. However, people who go from sitting to standing all day may have to make key adjustments. The first step in caring for your feet is making sure to wear the proper footwear. Shoes should fit your feet well, have cushioning, and mold to your feet. While it may be hard depending on the type of job, it is important to find a balance between sitting and standing, and breaks may be needed when a balance is not possible. However, if pain persists, it is important to consult with a podiatrist. By consulting with a podiatrist early on in the process, further and more severe injuries can be prevented.
While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Brent Harwood, DPM from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Working on Your Feet
Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.
Positive Changes
Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.
Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.
Eliminate Pain
Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.
Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen.
With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
