Items filtered by date: January 2023

Circulation problems are caused in the feet when blood is not able to easily reach the feet. Occasionally, poor circulation in the feet can be a contributing cause to a variety of different afflictions of the foot. Namely, poor circulation can sometimes affect the temperature of the feet. This can lead to a condition known as cold feet. As its name suggests, those living with consistently cold feet feel can feel low temperatures in their lower extremities. Poor circulation can cause this condition as a result of an insufficient amount of warm blood traveling to the feet, and the feet may feel abnormally cold. If you are living with poor circulation in your feet, consider the risk of developing cold feet. Contact a podiatrist to answer any of your questions in addition to learning about various treatment options.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Eugene Little, DPM of Foot and Ankle Centers of Ohio. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a lesser-known condition of the foot among the general public. This condition occurs when pressure is applied to the nerves in the ankle, sometimes causing discomfort and pain. When an individual has a case of tarsal tunnel syndrome, there are a number of steps that they might consider taking to treat the condition or mitigate the pain. One of these remedies includes wearing special shoes that are designed to combat the pain caused by tarsal tunnel syndrome. If you suffer from this foot condition, you might consider wearing shoes that relieve foot pain by essentially absorbing shock caused by weight-bearing activities. Shoes that provide extra support to the foot are also ideal for some patients with tarsal tunnel syndrome. For example, shoes that have sufficient arch and heel cushioning can provide needed support to the foot. If you have tarsal tunnel syndrome, consider contacting a podiatrist who can help you address any concerns. Schedule an appointment today.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Eugene Little, DPM of Foot and Ankle Centers of Ohio. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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

Sesamoiditis causes pain in the ball of the foot, specifically under the big toe. The sesamoid bones are located in the tendons of the big toe and may become injured for various reasons. Inflammation can lead to a decreased range of motion, and it is common among people who have sesamoiditis. There are specific stretches and exercises that are helpful in restoring range of motion to a normal level, in addition to strengthening the entire foot. An effective stretch is done by extending the affected leg while sitting down, and curling the big toe under, followed by pulling it back. When the inflammation has mildly subsided, another exercise to perform is done by standing, and rising up on the toes. After holding for several seconds, the number of repetitions can be repeated. If you feel pain or discomfort in the bottom of your foot, please confer with a podiatrist who can determine if it is caused by sesamoiditis and offer correct treatment methods.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Eugene Little, DPM of Foot and Ankle Centers of Ohio. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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

If you have a fractured or broken bone in the feet or big toe, this ought to be taken seriously. A fractured foot can be potentially very painful and can significantly impair one’s ability to engage in physical activities. One important “don’t” associated with fractured feet is not to drive when you have a broken foot. Although it might seem obvious, it bears repeating that driving with a broken foot, especially the right foot, is extremely dangerous because a broken foot may not be able to properly reach and press the gas or brake pedals. On the other hand, an important “do” associated with broken feet is to remember to go to the doctor immediately if you notice any dangerous symptoms due to the fracture. For example, if you notice a dramatic drop in temperature or a feeling of numbness in the affected foot, immediate medical attention ought to be sought. Schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today to learn more about fractured feet. 

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Eugene Little, DPM from Foot and Ankle Centers of Ohio. Our doctor 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 Sidney, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

There may be evidence that kidney disease and the foot condition that is known as gout are connected. Gout is an extremely painful ailment that affects the joints in the big toe. It is caused by excess uric acid in the blood which may happen from eating foods that have high levels of purines. The kidneys break down the uric acid, and existing kidney disease may inhibit the ability to do that. Foods that fall into this category can include shellfish, red meat, excessive amounts of alcohol, and drinks that are made with large amounts of sugar. The uric acid forms crystals in the joints of the toes, often beginning with the big toe. This is known as a gout attack and it generally happens suddenly. In addition to the debilitating pain that often accompanies gout, common symptoms can include a limited range of motion, and the affected toe can become red from inflammation. If you have one or frequent gout attacks, it is strongly urged that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can speak to you about effective prevention techniques. 

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Eugene Little, DPM from Foot and Ankle Centers of Ohio. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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