Diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage linked to diabetes that commonly affects the feet and lower legs. High blood sugar can damage nerves, causing numbness, tingling, burning pain, and sharp shooting sensations in the feet. Some people lose the ability to feel heat, cold, or injuries, which increases the risk of cuts, blisters, and foot ulcers going unnoticed. Changes in sensation can also affect balance and stability when walking, increasing the risk of falls. Because feeling in the feet becomes reduced, small wounds can develop into serious infections. A podiatrist can examine the feet, check for nerve damage, monitor circulation, and provide treatment to help prevent further complications. Early care is important for protecting foot health and lowering the risk of severe infections or long-term tissue damage. If you have symptoms of diabetic neuropathy, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for expert guidance in managing this condition.

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 Steven Ginex, DPM from Palm Desert 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 Palm Desert, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot pain during pregnancy can result from several natural changes in the body. Weight gain places extra pressure on the feet, while hormonal fluctuations can loosen ligaments and lead to changes in foot structure. Swelling may also occur and contribute to discomfort. Some women may develop flat feet as the arches lower under added strain. Wearing shoes that do not provide proper support can worsen symptoms. Types of foot pain include arch pain, heel pain, and general fatigue. Risk factors include prolonged standing, poor footwear, and increased body weight. A podiatrist can evaluate your feet, recommend supportive shoes or custom orthotics, and provide care to reduce discomfort. If you have developed any type of foot pain during your pregnancy, it is suggested that you consult 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 Steven Ginex, DPM from Palm Desert Podiatry. Our doctor 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 Palm Desert, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle sprains can occur when active children twist or roll the ankle during sports, running, or jumping. An ankle  sprain affects the ligaments, which are strong bands that hold the joint together. A sprain can cause pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. Some children may feel that the ankle is unstable or weak after the injury. Proper care is important because repeated sprains can lead to long-term joint problems. A podiatrist can examine the ankle, check how the joint moves, and order imaging to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment plans focus on restoring strength, flexibility, and balance, which helps support the ankle and reduce the risk of future injury. Guided exercises may be prescribed to improve coordination and safe return to activity. If your child has symptoms of an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Steven Ginex, DPM from Palm Desert Podiatry. 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 take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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

Pain on the inner side of the foot can develop from strain in the muscles and soft tissue that support the arch and big toe. This pain is often linked to overuse, flat feet, and poor arch support in shoes. Sudden increases in activity or direct injury to the foot are other factors. People who stand for long hours at work or spend more time walking and running may notice soreness, swelling, tenderness, or tingling in this area. Because inner foot pain can feel similar to plantar fasciitis or tendon problems, a proper diagnosis is important. A podiatrist can examine the foot, check the arch, test movement, and order X-rays or other imaging tests to determine the cause. Treatment options include custom orthotics, supportive bracing, medication for pain relief, or surgery, in more serious cases. If you have pain on the inner side of the foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Steven Ginex, DPM from Palm Desert Podiatry. Our doctor 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:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

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 Palm Desert, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.