Peripheral neuropathy in people with diabetes often affects the feet, toes, and ankles, leading to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or reduced sensation. This can make it difficult to detect minor injuries, which may become serious without proper care. For example, a small blister from wearing poorly fitting shoes or a cut from stepping on something sharp can go unnoticed and develop into a diabetic foot ulcer. Ulcers are slow-healing wounds that can become infected, especially when high blood sugar levels restrict blood flow to the feet. Reduced circulation limits the delivery of infection-fighting cells, increasing the risk of complications like gangrene. In cases where gangrene develops, surgery may be required to remove damaged tissue, and, in severe situations, loss of a toe or foot might result. A podiatrist can provide regular foot exams, remove damaged tissue, treat ulcers, and help manage infections before they progress. If you have foot issues caused by diabetes, it is suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist for 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 Dr. Michael T. Hames from Florence Foot 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 Florence, Alabama . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the joint are overstretched or torn, often as a result of twisting the foot awkwardly or rolling the ankle during activity. These ligaments help prevent excessive motion, and, when injured, they can lead to pain, swelling, and bruising. Some people may also notice warmth, redness, or tingling in the area, in addition to reduced movement and difficulty walking or climbing stairs. The severity of an ankle sprain can range from a minor stretch to a complete tear, and this will affect how long it takes for the ankle to recover. Symptoms may not appear immediately and can develop over several days. A podiatrist can examine your ankle to determine the extent of the injury and recommend the appropriate treatment. In some cases, surgery may be needed if the ligament has ruptured. Prompt care can also help prevent long-term problems, such as chronic instability or repeated sprains. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment as quickly as possible.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Dr. Michael T. Hames from Florence Foot 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 Florence, Alabama . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle pain can result from various conditions, with sprains, arthritis, osteoarthritis, and tendinitis being some of the most common causes. A sprained ankle occurs when ligaments are stretched or torn, leading to pain, swelling, and bruising. Arthritis and osteoarthritis cause joint inflammation, resulting in stiffness, swelling, and chronic pain. Osteoarthritis, in particular, wears down cartilage, leading to bone-on-bone friction. Tendinitis occurs when the tendons surrounding the ankle become inflamed, causing pain, swelling, and limited range of motion. The symptoms of ankle pain can vary depending on the cause, but they generally include swelling, tenderness, difficulty moving the ankle, and, in some cases, instability. Activities like walking, running, or standing may become painful or difficult. A podiatrist can diagnose the cause of your ankle pain and recommend treatment, including targeted exercises, medication, orthotics, or, in severe cases, surgery. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Michael T. Hames from Florence Foot Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

Wearing the correct shoe size is essential for maintaining foot health and overall comfort. Shoes that are too tight or too loose can lead to foot conditions that cause pain and discomfort. Neuropathy, which affects nerve function, can be worsened by wearing ill-fitting shoes that create pressure points and reduce circulation. Persistent foot pain may develop due to a lack of proper support, leading to difficulty in walking and standing. Ingrown toenails are a common issue when shoes squeeze the toes, causing the nail to grow into the surrounding skin. Over time, these problems can contribute to a decreased quality of life by limiting mobility and daily activities. If you have foot pain from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and guide you on how to determine your correct shoe size.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Michael T. Hames from Florence Foot Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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

Plantar fasciitis causes pain and inflammation in the thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot. This tissue, known as the plantar fascia, connects the heel to the toes and helps support the arch. Repetitive strain or excessive pressure can cause small tears in the fascia, leading to irritation and discomfort. The pain is often felt near the heel and is typically worse in the morning or after long periods of rest. Risk factors include prolonged standing, high-impact activities, improper footwear, and foot structure abnormalities like flat feet or high arches. Plantar fasciitis can cause severe pain and discomfort, and it may become difficult to complete daily activities. If you have heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat this condition.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Michael T. Hames  from Florence Foot Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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