Peripheral neuropathy refers to damage to the peripheral nerves, resulting in symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and weakness, often starting in the feet and hands. This condition can be caused by various factors, including diabetes, infections, injuries, and certain medications. Individuals with diabetes are particularly susceptible to neuropathy due to prolonged high blood sugar levels damaging nerves over time. Neuropathy affects people of all ages, though it is more common in older adults. Treatment aims to manage symptoms and address underlying causes. This may include medications to relieve pain and discomfort, and lifestyle changes, such as maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. If you suffer from peripheral neuropathy, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can help you by providing guidance and foot care tailored to your individual needs.

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 Associates in Podiatry. 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 offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Corns on the feet, medically termed keratotic lesions, are areas of thickened skin caused by repeated friction or pressure. They commonly occur on weight-bearing areas like the toes and soles of the feet. Symptoms can include localized pain or tenderness, a hardened or raised bump, and sometimes inflammation or redness. Older individuals are more prone to developing corns due to factors like reduced skin elasticity and altered foot mechanics. There are three main types of corns. Hard corns are small, dense, and are usually found on bony areas. Soft corns are moist and typically form between toes where the skin is moist. Seed corns are tiny and appear on non-weight-bearing areas. Diagnosis is typically made based on clinical examination. Management involves relieving pressure on the affected area, wearing properly fitting footwear, using protective pads or cushions, and sometimes, having the corn removed. If you have persistent or painful corns, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Associates in Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctors to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Freiberg's disease is characterized by cartilage degeneration in the lesser metatarsal heads of the feet, notably affecting adolescent females, though it can occur in both genders later in life. The condition primarily involves the second and third metatarsals. While the exact cause remains unclear, vascular problems, genetic predisposition, and altered biomechanics are common causes. Diagnosis by a podiatrist includes clinical evaluation and imaging confirmation. In many cases X-rays show normal bone formation in early stages and flattened, fragmented metatarsal heads as the disease progresses. Treatment focuses on relieving foot pressure and may involve nonoperative measures such as activity modification and custom orthotic support. Surgical interventions are considered for advanced cases. Outcomes for Freiberg’s disease from both nonoperative and operative management are generally favorable, allowing most patients to resume previous activities. To find out what may be causing metatarsal foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Associates in Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
 

Balance exercises can help seniors prevent falls, leading to serious injuries. As individuals age, balance and stability tend to decline due to muscle weakness and reduced awareness of the body’s movement. These exercises focus on challenging the body's equilibrium through activities like standing on one leg and heel-to-toe walking. By consistently practicing these exercises, seniors can enhance their ability to maintain balance in various situations, such as navigating uneven surfaces or recovering from sudden movements. Additionally, balance exercises promote better posture and body awareness, further decreasing the likelihood of falls. If you are a senior interested in preventing falls, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a discussion of your current situation, and how you can incorporate balance exercises into your daily routine to maintain independence and quality of life as you age.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Associates in Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A Plantar fibroma is a benign growth that develops on the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel to the toes. This condition typically presents as a firm nodule or lump in the arch or ball of the foot, causing discomfort and pain with weight-bearing activities. The exact cause of plantar fibromas remains uncertain, but factors such as trauma, inflammation, or genetic predisposition may contribute to their development. Plantar fibromas can vary in size and may gradually increase in size over time, potentially interfering with normal foot function and mobility. While plantar fibromas are non-cancerous and generally harmless, they can cause significant discomfort and impact daily activities if left untreated. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove the fibroma and restore foot function. If you have noticed a lump or nodule on the bottom of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat a plantar fibroma or whatever else might be going on.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Associates in Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Plantar Fibroma

A plantar fibroma is a fibrous knot in the arch of the foot. It is embedded in the plantar fascia which is a band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. There can be multiple plantar fibromas in the feet at the same time. There are no known causes for this condition. If you have a plantar fibroma, there will be a bump in the arch of your foot that cannot be missed. Any associated pain is most often due to a shoe rubbing against the nodule. Non-surgical options, such as steroid injections, physical therapy, and orthotics should be tried first. Surgery is a last resort and is the only thing that will remove a plantar fibroma entirely. Consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the treatment regimen that is right for you.

What Causes a Plantar Fibroma?

While there are no specific causes identified, a plantar fibroma can possibly come from genetic predisposition or the formation of scar tissue that forms from healing the tears in the plantar fascia.

What Are the Symptoms of a Plantar Fibroma?

There will be a noticeable lump in the arch of the foot that may or may not cause pain. If pain is felt, it is typically because a shoe is rubbing up against the lump or when walking or standing barefoot.

Treatment and Prevention

A plantar fibroma will not disappear without treatment, but it can get smaller and be a non-issue. If pain persists, a podiatrist examines the foot and when the arch of the foot is pressed, pain can be felt down to the toes. An MRI or biopsy might be performed to help diagnose or evaluate the plantar fibroma. The following non-surgical options are generally enough to reduce the size and pain of these nodules:

• Steroid injections
• Orthotics
• Physical therapy to help apply anti-inflammatory creams on the bump 

Surgery is considered if the mass increases in size and the patient continues to feel pain after non-surgical methods are tried.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

It is frustrating to experience foot blisters that keep coming back. Wearing well-fitted shoes and keeping the feet dry are two key prevention techniques for foot blisters. Choose breathable footwear to reduce friction and moisture, common culprits in blister formation. If you have a new pair of shoes, gradually break them in to help your feet adjust and minimize the risk of friction-related blisters. Moisture-wicking socks also help keep the feet dry, further reducing the likelihood of blister formation. Additionally, blister pads and petroleum jelly are friction-reducing products that can offer an added layer of protection from rubbing. Podiatrists, or foot doctors, can inspect your feet for any signs of irritation and address blister-related pain quickly. If you are experiencing foot blisters, it is suggested you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer further prevention tips. 

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Associates in Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Starting your journey as a runner can be a fulfilling endeavor for both physical fitness and mental well-being, but it's important to approach it with caution to avoid injury. Begin by setting realistic goals and pace yourself according to your fitness level. Invest in quality running shoes that provide proper support, cushioning, and fit. To build endurance gradually, try the run-walk-run method, alternating between running and walking intervals. Always warm up before and cool down after each run, with dynamic and static stretches respectively, to prepare your muscles and aid recovery. Increase your mileage gradually to avoid overexertion, aiming for consistency in your running routine with three to four runs per week. Incorporate various types of runs, such as interval training and hill repeats. Listen to your body and take rest days as needed, paying attention to any signs of discomfort or persistent pain. If you sustain an injury from running, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Associates in Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle replacement surgery, a procedure designed to alleviate severe ankle pain and restore function, involves replacing damaged parts of the ankle joint with artificial components. This surgical intervention is typically recommended for individuals with advanced arthritis, significant joint damage, or debilitating pain that has not responded to conservative treatments. During the procedure, the podiatric surgeon removes damaged bone and cartilage from the ankle joint and replaces them with prosthetic components made of metal and plastic, mimicking the natural structure and function of the joint. Ankle replacement surgery aims to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall quality of life for individuals struggling with chronic ankle issues. Following surgery, patients undergo a period of rehabilitation to regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the ankle. If you are experiencing chronic ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if ankle replacement is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Associates in Podiatry. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.