Numbness in the feet can range from temporary and harmless to a sign of a more serious condition. Numb feet often result from pressure on nerves, such as sitting with the legs crossed or wearing shoes that lack adequate support, which can temporarily disrupt nerve signals. More persistent numbness may be linked to peripheral neuropathy, a condition that develops when nerves in the feet are damaged, leading to tingling, burning, or loss of feeling. Reduced blood flow is another common cause of numb feet, as conditions like peripheral artery disease may limit oxygen supply to the nerves and tissues of the feet. In some cases, spinal problems, such as a herniated disc, can also interfere with nerve pathways to the feet, causing sensory changes. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause of foot numbness, provide treatment to protect foot health, and help prevent complications. If you are experiencing frequent foot numbness, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate  treatment.

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 David Reynolds, DPM from First Podiatry. Our doctor 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 Evansville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, commonly affecting the big toe, but also other parts of the foot and ankle. Symptoms include sudden, severe pain, redness, swelling, and warmth surrounding the affected joint. Attacks often occur at night and can last for several days, making walking and wearing shoes uncomfortable. Causes of gout include genetics, a diet high in purines, obesity, certain medications, and underlying health conditions like kidney disease. Visually, the affected joint may appear swollen and red, and the pain is often described as intense and throbbing. A podiatrist can diagnose gout through a physical examination, patient history, and blood tests to measure uric acid levels. Treatment includes medication to reduce inflammation and pain, lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, and, in some cases, joint drainage. To manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact David Reynolds, DPM from First Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

The foot is a complex structure of bones, joints, and ligaments that work together to absorb shock and propel the body forward while running. Each step places up to three times your body weight on your feet, making them vital for balance and stability. Movements such as eversion, where the foot rolls outward, and inversion, where it rolls inward, help adapt to different surfaces and maintain proper alignment. Overuse or improper running form can strain these bones and lead to injuries. A podiatrist can assess your gait, recommend supportive footwear, and provide treatment for pain or instability. If you have foot or ankle pain from running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on effective running form tips.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact David Reynolds, DPM from First Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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