Tingling in the Feet and Diabetic Neuropathy

Tingling in the feet is often one of the first signs of diabetic neuropathy, a nerve problem caused by diabetes. High blood sugar levels can damage the nerves and reduce normal blood flow to the feet. This can lead to tingling, numbness, and burning pain in the feet. Sharp shooting pain, weakness, and unusually hot or cold feet are other symptoms. These symptoms often affect both feet and can become worse at night. When feeling in the feet is reduced, it is harder to notice cuts, blisters, or sores that can lead to infection and ulcers. Poor balance and walking problems may also develop. A podiatrist can examine the feet, test nerve sensation, check circulation, and help prevent serious complications. Regular foot exams are important for people with diabetes. If you have tingling sensations in the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and 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 Barbara J. Aung, DPM from Aung Foot Health Clinic . 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 Tuscon, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

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

Diabetes and Foot Health Awareness

Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects how the body uses glucose. It may lead to elevated blood sugar levels that can damage nerves and blood vessels. This damage often affects the feet by reducing sensation and limiting circulation. Unchecked diabetes increases the risk of complications, such as infections, ulcers, and neuropathy, which may cause numbness, tingling, or pain. Risk factors include poor glucose control, smoking, and inadequate foot care. Prevention focuses on daily foot inspection, proper hygiene, wearing well-fitting footwear, and routine medical care. A podiatrist plays an important role by identifying early warning signs, managing wounds, and providing education. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Barbara J. Aung, DPM from Aung Foot Health Clinic . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

  • Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
  • Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
  • Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

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Types of Athlete’s Foot Infections

Tinea pedis, commonly called athlete’s foot, is a contagious fungal infection that appears in several forms. Interdigital athlete’s foot affects the spaces between toes, causing itching, peeling, and cracks. Moccasin-type spreads across the soles and sides of the foot, leading to dry, thickened skin. Additionally, vesicular athlete’s foot produces painful blisters, while ulcerative forms can create open sores and increase infection risk. Treatment depends on severity, with mild cases responding to over-the-counter antifungal creams, along with good hygiene and moisture control. Severe or persistent infections may require prescription oral medications. Preventive care, such as keeping feet dry, wearing breathable shoes, and avoiding barefoot exposure in public areas, helps reduce recurrence. If symptoms worsen or do not improve, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Barbara J. Aung, DPM from Aung Foot Health Clinic .  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

  • Hydrate your feet by using lotion
  • Exfoliate
  • Buff off nails
  • Use of anti-fungal products
  • Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

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Understanding Foot Structure

The foot is a complex structure made up of bones, ligaments, and joints that work together to support movement and balance. The bones are divided into three main groups. The tarsus forms the rear portion of the foot and includes bones that help absorb shock and provide stability. The metatarsus makes up the midfoot and plays a key role in weight distribution and arch support. Additionally, the phalanges are the toes, which assist with balance and push off during walking, running, and jumping. Ligaments connect these bones and provide essential support to maintain proper alignment. Healthy joints allow smooth and coordinated movement. A podiatrist can help by evaluating foot mechanics and addressing issues. If you have foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer appropriate treatment solutions. 

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Barbara J. Aung, DPM from Aung Foot Health Clinic . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

  • Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
  • In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

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