Flint Office
1303 S. Linden Rd., Suite D
Flint, MI 48532
Diabetic neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes that can cause nerve damage in the feet, toes, and ankles. Elevated blood sugar levels over time can harm the peripheral nerves, leading to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, burning sensations, or sharp pain. Many people experience a gradual loss of sensation, which increases the risk of unnoticed injuries like blisters or cuts. Left untreated, these minor wounds can lead to serious infections, ulcers, and, in severe cases, gangrene or amputation. Reduced muscle strength and coordination from neuropathy may also affect balance and gait, increasing the risk of falls. To prevent complications from diabetic neuropathy, it is important to maintain proper foot care and routine foot inspections. A podiatrist can perform an exam to assess nerve function, detect early signs of problems, and provide treatment for wounds or other foot issues. This foot doctor can also offer advice on footwear to reduce pressure and prevent injury. If you are experiencing symptoms of diabetic neuropathy, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and ongoing 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 one of our podiatrists from Community Podiatry Group. Our doctors 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:
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 Flint, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Tendon and ligament injuries in the feet can cause significant pain and affect mobility, but they differ in nature and origin. Tendon injuries involve the thick bands of tissue that connect muscles to bones, enabling movement. Common tendon injuries include tendinitis, which is inflammation from overuse or strain, and tendon tears, which may result from trauma or repetitive stress. Symptoms often include localized pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected area. Ligament injuries, on the other hand, affect the tissues that connect bones at joints, providing stability. Sprains are the most frequent ligament injuries, occurring when ligaments are overstretched or torn, often from sudden twisting or falls. Ligament injuries can lead to joint instability, bruising, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight. A podiatrist can identify the specific cause of pain through a physical exam and digital imaging. Treatment may include targeted exercises, bracing, or surgery for severe cases. If you have foot or ankle pain related to tendons or ligaments, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.
If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Community Podiatry Group. Our doctors 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
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 Flint, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Psoriasis and athlete's foot are two distinct conditions that can affect the feet, but they differ significantly in cause, symptoms, and treatment. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder causing thick, scaly, and often itchy patches of skin. It is not contagious and may be triggered by stress, genetics, or environmental factors. In contrast, athlete's foot is a contagious fungal infection caused by dermatophytes thriving in warm, damp environments like locker rooms and shoes. It presents as red, itchy, peeling skin, often between the toes. Prevention varies by condition. Psoriasis management includes avoiding triggers and keeping skin moisturized, while athlete's foot requires keeping feet dry, using antifungal powders, and wearing breathable footwear. Treatments also differ. Psoriasis is managed with topical steroids or systemic medications, while athlete's foot responds to antifungal creams. If you are experiencing either of these foot problems, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can diagnose and tailor treatment care effectively.
Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Community Podiatry Group. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.
What Is Athlete’s Foot?
Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.
Prevention
The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:
Symptoms
Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Flint, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Nighttime foot cramps can be a distressing experience, as they interrupt sleep and can cause significant pain. These involuntary muscle contractions often occur due to muscle fatigue, inadequate potassium intake, or low magnesium levels. Wearing poorly fitting shoes, particularly high heels that restrict blood flow or lack proper support, can also contribute to these painful episodes. Unlike restless leg syndrome, which creates an urge to move the legs, foot cramps involve sharp pain and tightening of the muscles. A podiatrist can identify the underlying cause of nocturnal foot cramps and recommend appropriate treatments, such as improving footwear choices, addressing muscle fatigue, or identifying potential deficiencies. They may also suggest a series of exercises designed to strengthen foot muscles or enhance flexibility to prevent future cramps. If you regularly experience painful foot cramps at night, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Community Podiatry Group. Our doctors 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:
Diagnosis
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 Flint, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Common peroneal nerve dysfunction is a condition where damage to the peroneal nerve leads to weakness, numbness, or loss of movement in the lower leg and foot. The peroneal nerve branches from the sciatic nerve and controls muscles responsible for lifting the foot and toes. Dysfunction in this nerve can cause foot drop, making it difficult to lift the foot when walking. Causes include direct trauma, prolonged pressure on the nerve, knee injuries, or underlying conditions like diabetes. Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam, nerve conduction studies, and imaging to assess nerve health and identify any underlying issues. Treatment depends on the severity and may involve targeted exercises to strengthen muscles, braces or splints to support the foot, and in some cases, surgery to relieve pressure on the nerve. Early diagnosis and intervention are essential for optimal recovery and preventing long-term complications. If you have symptoms as described, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Community Podiatry Group. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Rare Foot Conditions
The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist. Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care.
There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:
Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp.
Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.
Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking.
A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Flint, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
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