Peripheral neuropathy occurs when nerves outside the brain and spinal cord become damaged. In the feet, it can change how a person feels touch, pain, and temperature. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, and burning pain. Some patients also notice unusual sensitivity or a feeling that they are walking on a pebble or bunched-up sock. Weak foot muscles can affect balance and increase the risk of falling. Because numbness can hide a cut or blister, a small injury may worsen before the patient notices it.

Diabetes is a leading cause of peripheral neuropathy, especially when blood sugar is not well controlled. Other causes include vitamin deficiencies, nerve pressure, and certain illnesses. Injury and heavy alcohol use can also damage nerves. A podiatrist can review the patient's health history and perform a careful foot examination. Testing can check sensation, muscle strength, and reflexes. The podiatrist can also examine circulation and check for skin damage. Further testing may be needed to identify why the nerves are not working properly. This helps guide care and protect the feet from injury.

Podiatric care focuses on protecting the feet, improving stability, and preventing serious problems. A podiatrist can treat corns, calluses, or wounds that place the skin at risk. Regular nail and skin care can reduce the chance of injury, especially when patients cannot feel their feet clearly. Custom orthotics can improve pressure distribution and make the feet more stable while walking. The podiatrist can also recommend properly-fitted shoes with enough depth and cushioning. When a wound is present, care includes pressure relief, infection control, and close monitoring. Severe infections can threaten the health of the foot, and, in advanced cases, may lead to limb loss. Routine examinations allow the podiatrist to track changes in sensation and spot problems before they become more serious. If you have symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and management tips. 

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 Mitchell Foot & Ankle. 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 Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The Achilles tendon is the thick band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It carries body weight when the foot pushes off the ground while walking or running. Achilles tendon injuries can develop when this tissue becomes irritated, damaged, or torn. Achilles tendonitis can cause pain at the back of the heel, especially while moving the ankle or pushing off the toes. Patients can also experience stiffness, swelling, and tenderness. Symptoms can begin suddenly or gradually, and can become worse after exercise.

Overuse is a frequent cause of Achilles tendon problems. Risk can increase when a person suddenly raises the amount or intensity of exercise. Repeated jumping, running on hard surfaces, and demanding work can also place extra stress on the tendon. Flattened arches and shoes that lack proper support can contribute to the problem. Achilles tendonitis can affect the middle portion of the tendon or the area where it attaches to the heel. A more serious injury is an Achilles tendon rupture, which occurs when the tendon tears partially or completely. Ruptures frequently happen while exercising or playing sports and can greatly limit normal foot movement.

A podiatrist can examine the foot and ankle to determine the location and severity of an Achilles tendon injury. The evaluation can include checking tenderness, swelling, and ankle movement. A podiatrist can also assess foot structure and walking patterns that place added stress on the tendon. Treatment can focus on reducing strain and supporting the tendon as it heals. A podiatrist can recommend appropriate exercises, supportive devices, or changes in activity based on the injury. Severe tendon damage can sometimes require surgery. If you have symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact One of our podiatrists of Mitchell Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetes can affect more than blood sugar. It may damage nerves, blood vessels, and other tissues in the feet. These changes can create diabetic foot complications that range from dryness and irritation to serious ulcers. Symptoms may include numbness, tingling, or changes in skin color. Diabetic neuropathy can reduce sensation. Recognizing changes early is important because a small foot injury can become difficult to heal when diabetes affects circulation and nerve function.

Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage caused by prolonged high blood sugar. Reduced sensation can make it harder to notice blisters, cuts, or burns. Diabetes can cause skin changes, including dryness, cracking, and thickened areas. Poor circulation may limit oxygen reaching injured tissue. Risk factors include uncontrolled blood sugar, long-term diabetes, and foot problems. Wearing poorly fitting shoes or walking with pressure can increase the risk of injury and skin breakdown.

A diabetic foot ulcer is an open wound that may develop after pressure, friction, or unnoticed injury. Ulcers occur beneath the foot or around areas exposed to pressure. A podiatrist will examine the skin, check sensation and circulation, and evaluate the wound. Treatment may involve cleaning and protecting the ulcer, reducing pressure, and monitoring healing. The podiatrist may recommend footwear or wound care and coordinate medical treatment when infection or circulation concerns are present.

Daily foot awareness is important for diabetic care. Examine your feet for wounds, drainage, or skin changes. Avoid walking barefoot, and choose shoes that fit comfortably without creating pressure. Podiatric care can help identify problems before they become serious. If foot complications from diabetes develop, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage 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 Mitchell Foot & Ankle. 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 Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fibromatosis is a non-cancerous condition that develops within the band of tissue along the bottom of the foot. It often appears as a small, firm lump in the arch. It may cause discomfort when walking or standing, especially with pressure. Symptoms include localized pain, a noticeable nodule, and irritation from footwear.  The exact cause of these conditions is not always clear, but risk factors include genetics, repetitive strain, and certain medical conditions. If you notice a lump on the bottom of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management solutions.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact One of our podiatrists of Mitchell Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Plantar Fibroma

A plantar fibroma is a fibrous knot in the arch of the foot. It is embedded in the plantar fascia which is a band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. There can be multiple plantar fibromas in the feet at the same time. There are no known causes for this condition. If you have a plantar fibroma, there will be a bump in the arch of your foot that cannot be missed. Any associated pain is most often due to a shoe rubbing against the nodule. Non-surgical options, such as steroid injections, physical therapy, and orthotics should be tried first. Surgery is a last resort and is the only thing that will remove a plantar fibroma entirely. Consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the treatment regimen that is right for you.

What Causes a Plantar Fibroma?

While there are no specific causes identified, a plantar fibroma can possibly come from genetic predisposition or the formation of scar tissue that forms from healing the tears in the plantar fascia.

What Are the Symptoms of a Plantar Fibroma?

There will be a noticeable lump in the arch of the foot that may or may not cause pain. If pain is felt, it is typically because a shoe is rubbing up against the lump or when walking or standing barefoot.

Treatment and Prevention

A plantar fibroma will not disappear without treatment, but it can get smaller and be a non-issue. If pain persists, a podiatrist examines the foot and when the arch of the foot is pressed, pain can be felt down to the toes. An MRI or biopsy might be performed to help diagnose or evaluate the plantar fibroma. The following non-surgical options are generally enough to reduce the size and pain of these nodules:

• Steroid injections
• Orthotics
• Physical therapy to help apply anti-inflammatory creams on the bump 

Surgery is considered if the mass increases in size and the patient continues to feel pain after non-surgical methods are tried.

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