January 2019

Many people may experience poor circulation, and noticeable symptoms may be present in the feet. This condition may be a result of inadequate levels of oxygen and nutrients in the blood, which is normally pumped through blood vessels in the feet. There are many symptoms that are associated with poor circulation, and these may include a numbing sensation in the feet, coldness, and the skin color may appear to look pale blue or red. Patients may be aware of sores that have developed, and may have difficulty in healing properly, which may be a result of insufficient blood supply in the feet. Additionally, the toenails may grow slower than they usually do, and any hair that is present on the toes may not grow at all. If you are experiencing any symptoms relating to poor circulation in your feet, it is strongly advised to speak to a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can properly treat this condition.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

Research has indicated millions of Americans may suffer from the medical condition known as neuropathy. There are several causes for this ailment to develop, including elevated blood sugar levels, autoimmune issues, or specific types of chemotherapy. Neuropathy occurs when the nerves have become damaged, and general symptoms include a numbing or tingling sensation in the feet, in addition to pain and discomfort. A common form of this potentially debilitating condition is referred to as peripheral neuropathy, and patients may experience a loss of balance, which may impact walking. Falling or tripping may be a result of this and following a daily exercise regime may aid in preventing unnecessary falls. Practicing specific exercises that may consist of swimming, tai chi, and strength training movements may be beneficial in controlling this condition. If your feet are affected by neuropathy, it is advised to seek counsel with a podiatrist to determine a proper diagnosis, in addition to beginning the correct 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 Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. 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:

• 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 Canonsburg and McMurray, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Research has shown there may be many foot conditions that can develop as a result of being obese. These may include plantar fasciitis, certain types of arthritis, which may include gout and diabetes. The feet bear the weight of the body, and the tissue that connects the heel to the toes may become inflamed as a result of excess pounds that fall on the heels. This condition may often bring severe pain and discomfort, and it may be beneficial for the feet if excess weight was gradually shed. This can be accomplished by eating fewer calories, followed by incorporating a gentle exercise program into your daily routine. If you are overweight and are experiencing related foot conditions, it is suggested to speak with a podiatrist to learn about how obesity can affect the feet.

Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.

Problems & Complications

Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.

Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.

Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot. 

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

When pregnancy occurs in many women, the body undergoes temporary changes. These may occur in the feet, and she may notice that her feet look differently. The differences may include the disappearance of the arch as the body’s weight increases, leading to the condition that is known as flat feet, in addition to swollen feet and ankles. The skin on the heels can become dry, which may be connected to cracked heels. Hormonal changes can precede hot or burning sensations in the feet and may be enhanced if the mother-to-be is sleep deprived. It may be beneficial to elevate the feet, which may reduce a portion of the swelling, incorporating a gentle exercise program in the daily routine, and drinking plenty of fresh water every day. If you would like additional information about how the feet can become affected as a result of being pregnant, please consult with a podiatrist.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

If you notice your toenails becoming thick and turning a yellowish shade, you may have what is referred to as toenail fungus. Research has shown this fungus may attack nails that have incurred damage, which may have been the result of a weakened immune system, in addition to patients who have diabetes or poor circulation. The symptoms in severe cases of toenails fungus may include pain that is felt in the nail area when shoes are worn, extreme cracks in the skin or an itching feeling in the area surrounding the toenail. This type of fungus is contagious, and it thrives in warm and moist areas that typically include public pools, communal showers, or locker rooms. If you are frequently in these types of places, it is suggested to wear appropriate shoes, which may aid in the prevention of toenail fungus. If you feel you may have this unsightly condition, it is advised to consult with a podiatrist who can offer proper treatment options.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Canonsburg and McMurray, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.