Pain on the bottom of the foot while walking can result from several conditions affecting the nerves, bones, and soft tissues. Metatarsalgia occurs when the ball of the foot experiences excessive pressure, leading to inflammation and discomfort. Peripheral neuropathy, often linked to diabetes, causes nerve damage that leads to tingling, burning, or sharp pain. Morton's neuroma is a thickening of nerve tissue between the toes, creating a sensation similar to stepping on a pebble. Additionally, sesamoiditis, an inflammation of the small sesamoid bones beneath the big toe, can cause pain with every step. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer effective relief and treatment solutions.
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.
An ingrown toenail develops when the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and potential infection. The big toe is the most common site of an ingrown toenail, and improper nail trimming is a leading cause. Cutting the toenails too short or rounding their edges can encourage the nail to grow into the skin. Wearing tight shoes, repetitive pressure from physical activities, and excessive sweating can also increase the risk. Some people have naturally curved or thick nails that make them more prone to this condition. Ingrown toenails are more common in teenagers and young adults, with males affected more often than females. If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can become infected, making daily activities difficult. A podiatrist can provide treatment, including lifting the nail, trimming properly, or surgery to remove part or all of the affected nail. Proper footwear and trimming nails straight across can help to prevent recurrence. If you have a painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.
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 Richard M. Allen, DPM of Idaho. 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
Improper toenail trimming
Genetics
Improper shoe fitting
Injury from pedicures or nail picking
Abnormal gait
Poor hygiene
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 our office located in Lewiston, ID. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
The Ankle-Brachial Index, or ABI, is a simple, non-invasive test that measures blood flow in the legs compared to the arms. In podiatry, it helps detect peripheral artery disease, or PAD, a condition where narrowed arteries reduce circulation to the feet and ankles. Poor circulation can lead to slow-healing wounds, infections, and an increased risk of ulcers or even limb loss. The test involves taking blood pressure readings at the arm and ankle using a Doppler device. A lower than normal ABI score suggests reduced blood flow, which could mean blocked or narrowed arteries. People with diabetes, a history of smoking, or chronic foot wounds often undergo this test to assess their vascular health. Early detection of circulation issues allows for better management, including lifestyle changes or medical treatment. If you have persistent foot pain, wounds that do not heal well, or cold feet, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who may recommend an ABI test.
Vascular testing plays an important part in diagnosing disease like peripheral artery disease. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, or diabetes, consult with Richard M. Allen, DPM from Idaho. our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Vascular Testing?
Vascular testing checks for how well blood circulation is in the veins and arteries. This is most often done to determine and treat a patient for peripheral artery disease (PAD), stroke, and aneurysms. Podiatrists utilize vascular testing when a patient has symptoms of PAD or if they believe they might. If a patient has diabetes, a podiatrist may determine a vascular test to be prudent to check for poor blood circulation.
How Is it Conducted?
Most forms of vascular testing are non-invasive. Podiatrists will first conduct a visual inspection for any wounds, discoloration, and any abnormal signs prior to a vascular test.
The most common tests include:
Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) examination
Doppler examination
Pedal pulses
These tests are safe, painless, and easy to do. Once finished, the podiatrist can then provide a diagnosis and the best course for treatment.
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.
Constant care and regular evaluation are important for a foot or ankle fracture. If left untreated, foot or ankle fractures can worsen over time and create more serious problems.
Don't wait to be examined if you believe you've experienced a foot or ankle fracture.
