Peripheral neuropathy is a condition resulting from damage to the peripheral nerves, which connect the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. This condition often causes tingling, numbness, and burning sensations, particularly in the feet. Over time, it can lead to muscle weakness, loss of coordination, and heightened sensitivity to touch or pain. Common causes include diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, infections, certain medications, and physical injuries. Poor blood flow and prolonged high blood sugar in diabetic patients can worsen nerve damage, making early intervention vital. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and addressing the underlying cause. Medications, targeted exercises, and lifestyle changes, such as maintaining healthy blood sugar levels or quitting smoking, can slow progression and improve quality of life. If you suspect peripheral neuropathy, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and personalized care.

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 Thomas Vail, DPM from Step Alive Foot & Ankle Center. 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 Findlay, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A high ankle sprain is an injury to the ligaments that connect the tibia and fibula, the two bones of the lower leg, just above the ankle joint. Unlike a regular ankle sprain, which affects the ligaments surrounding the ankle joint, a high ankle sprain involves the syndesmotic ligaments, which help stabilize the lower leg. This type of sprain is less common but often more severe, causing pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. High ankle sprains are typically caused by twisting or rotating the ankle, especially during sports activities like football, skiing, or basketball. A sudden force or impact, such as an awkward fall or tackle, can stretch or tear the ligaments. These sprains are often slow to heal and may require rest, or in severe cases, surgery for recovery. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and effectively treat ankle sprains.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Thomas Vail, DPM from Step Alive Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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

Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel bone, typically as a result of prolonged stress or strain on the foot. The most common cause of heel spurs is plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the tissue that connects the heel to the toes. Other factors that contribute to heel spurs include wearing improper footwear, obesity, repetitive activities that put pressure on the feet, and abnormal foot mechanics such as flat feet or high arches. While heel spurs themselves are often painless, they can lead to complications such as chronic pain, difficulty walking, and inflammation. In some cases, the spur may press on nearby nerves, causing sharp or shooting pain. If left untreated, heel spurs may limit mobility and interfere with daily activities, leading to long-term discomfort and reduced quality of life. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment solutions.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Thomas Vail, DPM from Step Alive Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Findlay, OH . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.