Diabetes can lead to various foot and toenail issues due to poor circulation, nerve damage, and compromised immune function. Common toenail problems in diabetics include onycholysis, which is a separation of the nail from the nail bed, ingrown toenails, fungal infections, and periungual erythema, which is redness around the nail. These conditions often arise because diabetes weakens the body’s ability to fight infections and heal wounds. Symptoms include pain, swelling, discoloration, or a thickened nail, which may become brittle or discolored. Fungal infections may cause the nail to crumble or thicken, while ingrown toenails can cause tenderness and redness. Treatment may involve antifungal medications, proper nail trimming techniques, or the use of custom orthotics to alleviate pressure. In more severe cases, a podiatrist may recommend medical intervention or even nail removal. Proper foot care, including regular check-ups with a podiatrist, is essential for preventing complications. If you are dealing with these types of issues, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.
For more information about treatment, contact Richard M. Allen, DPM of Idaho. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.
Antifungals & Deterrence
Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.
Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Lewiston, ID. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
Baxter’s nerve entrapment, also known as entrapment of the inferior calcaneal nerve, occurs when this small nerve on the inner side of the heel becomes compressed or irritated. It often results from repetitive strain, flat feet, overpronation, or tight muscles in the foot and ankle. The condition can cause heel pain that mimics plantar fasciitis, along with burning, tingling, or numbness along the inner heel or arch. A podiatrist can diagnose Baxter’s nerve entrapment through a physical examination and imaging tests, and then create a personalized treatment plan using stretching, orthotics, or other therapies to relieve pressure. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat Baxter’s nerve entrapment.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Richard M. Allen, DPM from Idaho. our doctor 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)
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 Lewiston, ID. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome is an unusual form of peripheral neuropathy caused by pressure on the tibial nerve as it travels through the tarsal tunnel near the ankle. This compression can lead to numbness, burning, tingling, and pain in the ankle, bottom of the foot, and toes. A podiatrist can perform a detailed examination and order diagnostic tests, which record electrical activity in muscles and nerves, to confirm the condition. Treatment may include custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory therapy, or surgical release of the nerve, in severe cases. If you have persistent foot or ankle pain with tingling or numbness, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what may be going on.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Richard M. Allen, DPM of Idaho. 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 contact our office located in Lewiston, ID. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
