Items filtered by date: August 2024

The brain and spinal cord make up the central nervous system, which, under normal circumstances, communicates with other parts of the body through the peripheral nervous system. When nerves within the peripheral nervous system become damaged and interrupt the complex messaging system with the central nervous system, this is known as peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy can be caused by diabetes, injury, or autoimmune diseases. Sometimes vascular issues, infections, and certain medications can also cause peripheral neuropathy. This condition can cause stabbing or shooting pain, numbness, cramping, or burning in the feet. It can also result in extreme sensitivity to touch, lack of coordination, or clumsiness. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who is adept at diagnosing and managing peripheral neuropathy in the lower extremities.

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 Mansky, DPM from Mansky 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 Hastings, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton's neuroma is a painful condition affecting the ball of the foot, typically between the third and fourth toes. It involves the thickening of tissue surrounding one of the nerves leading to the toes, causing sharp, burning pain, numbness, or a sensation of something being lodged in the foot. To diagnose Morton's neuroma, a podiatrist will perform a physical examination, checking for tenderness and a palpable mass between the toes. Imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI scans may be used for confirmation.  Treatment options include modifying footwear to reduce pressure on the affected area, using orthotic inserts, and administering corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation. In severe cases, surgical removal of the affected nerve may be necessary to alleviate symptoms and restore normal foot function. If you have pain in the ball of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact David Mansky, DPM of Mansky Podiatry. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Selecting the right shoes for restaurant work involves focusing on durability, ease of cleaning, and proper fit. Durability is essential as restaurant workers face demanding conditions, requiring shoes that can withstand frequent use and exposure to spills and stains. Opt for materials that are resilient and capable of enduring the rigors of a busy kitchen. Ease of cleaning is also important, as shoes should be easy to wipe down or wash to maintain hygiene and appearance. Proper fit cannot be overstated, and shoes should offer ample support and cushioning to prevent discomfort and foot fatigue during long shifts. A well-fitted shoe reduces the risk of foot injuries and enhances overall job performance. If you have injured your foot while working, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment options.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact David Mansky, DPM from Mansky Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, causing it to lean inward toward the other toes. This condition, also known as hallux valgus, develops gradually and is often aggravated by wearing tight shoes or genetic predisposition. Bunions can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty fitting into shoes comfortably. Relief methods focus on managing symptoms and preventing further progression. Wearing shoes with a wide toe box and low heels reduces pressure on the bunion. Padded shoe inserts or orthotics can provide additional support and alignment for the foot. If you have developed a painful bunion, it is suggested that you contact this type of doctor who can target specific treatment methods that are right for you, which may include surgery for permanent removal. 

If you are suffering from bunions, contact David Mansky, DPM of Mansky Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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