Tuesday, 04 February 2025 00:00

Poor foot circulation can result from several underlying health conditions. Atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaque in the arteries, is one of the primary causes, as it restricts blood flow to the feet and other extremities. Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, often a result of atherosclerosis, further narrows the arteries, leading to reduced circulation and causing pain, cramping, and numbness. Diabetes also contributes to poor circulation, as high blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves, impairing the flow of blood to the feet. Obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and smoking all increase the risk of poor circulation by putting extra strain on the cardiovascular system. These factors can lead to complications such as slow-healing foot wounds, infections, and even tissue damage. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage 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 Mital Patel, DPM of South Shore Podiatry. Our doctor 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 Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Tuesday, 28 January 2025 00:00

Neuropathies of the feet and ankles following knee injuries involve nerve damage or dysfunction, causing symptoms like pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness. These neuropathies often occur due to trauma or swelling around the knee compressing or stretching nearby nerves, such as the peroneal or tibial nerves. Surgical procedures or prolonged immobility after a knee injury can also contribute by altering nerve pathways or blood flow. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and addressing the underlying cause. Rest, targeted exercise, and medications for nerve pain may be recommended. Orthotics or braces can help improve foot and ankle stability, reducing strain on affected nerves. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be needed to relieve nerve compression. If you experience persistent foot or ankle issues following a knee injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and tailored care plan.

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 Mital Patel, DPM from South Shore 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 Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Wednesday, 22 January 2025 00:00

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Tuesday, 21 January 2025 00:00

A broken ankle occurs when one or more bones in the ankle joint are fractured, usually due to trauma such as a fall, twist, or sports injury. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, bruising, difficulty moving the foot, and an inability to bear weight on the injured leg. Common causes include rolling or twisting the ankle, car accidents, or high-impact sports. Ankle fractures can be classified as simple or complex, and treatment options depend on the type and severity of the break. In some cases, broken bones may protrude through the skin, indicating a more severe fracture. This may require a cast or surgery to realign the bones. For mild fractures, a brace or splint can provide support and immobilize the ankle. A podiatrist can diagnose the fracture, recommend the best treatment, and guide rehabilitation. If you suspect you have broken your ankle, it is suggested that you make an immediate appointment with a podiatrist.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Mital Patel, DPM from South Shore Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

  • Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
  •  Swelling around the area
  •  Bruising of the area
  • Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

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