November 2023

Neuropathy, a condition affecting the peripheral nerves, can significantly impact the feet, leading to a range of distressing symptoms. This disorder arises when nerve damage disrupts the communication between the feet and the peripheral nervous system. The definition of neuropathy in the feet encompasses sensations of tingling, numbness, and pain, often described as a burning or electric shock-like discomfort. Causes of neuropathy are diverse, including diabetes, infections, traumatic injuries, and exposure to toxins. Prolonged high blood sugar levels, common in diabetes, can harm nerves over time, contributing to neuropathic symptoms. Additionally, certain medications and hereditary factors may play a role. Understanding the nuanced definition and causes of neuropathy empowers individuals to recognize symptoms early, and to seek medical attention from a podiatrist. If you have symptoms of neuropathy in the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with this type of doctor who can effectively treat 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 Dr. John C. Lawlor from Florida. 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 one of our our offices located in Cape Coral and LaBelle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot ulcers are a serious concern, especially for the elderly and individuals with conditions such as diabetes that can impair circulation, leading to complications in wound healing. These ulcers come in various forms, with diabetic foot ulcers and neuropathic ulcers, arising from a lack of sensation in the feet, being particularly common. The proper management of these wounds is critical, and it begins with an accurate diagnosis by a qualified podiatrist, who can identify the specific type of ulcer and the best course of treatment. Treatment often involves the use of specialized dressings designed to cater to the specific needs of the wound, aiding in healing and preventing infection. Compression bandages may also be part of the treatment regimen, particularly for ulcers caused by poor venous circulation, which can help to reduce swelling and promote blood flow. For those experiencing recurrent foot ulcers, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for ongoing care. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist can not only address current ulcers but also provide valuable education on foot care, in addition to providing preventive measures to reduce the risk of future foot wounds and ulcers.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Dr. John C. Lawlor from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our our offices located in Cape Coral and LaBelle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Arthritis, a condition characterized by inflammation and stiffness of the joints, can affect various parts of the body, including the toes. When arthritis strikes the toes, it can lead to persistent and often debilitating pain. The most common forms of arthritis that affect the toes are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis, often associated with aging and wear and tear, causes the cartilage in the toe joints to break down, resulting in pain, swelling, and reduced mobility. Conversely, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that attacks the joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and deformities in the toes. This type of toe pain can be particularly challenging, as we rely on our toes for balance and mobility. It can affect daily activities such as walking, standing, and even wearing shoes comfortably. Understanding the nature of this pain is the first step toward finding relief and maintaining a good quality of life. If you have toe pain, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose toe arthritis, and offer appropriate management options.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. John C. Lawlor of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our our offices located in Cape Coral and LaBelle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

An Achilles tendon rupture is a severe and painful injury that affects the Achilles tendon, which is the largest and strongest tendon in the human body. Located at the back of the ankle, this vital band of connective tissue plays a pivotal role in facilitating walking, running, and jumping. When it tears, it can lead to excruciating pain, a loud popping sensation, and the inability to bear weight on the affected leg. The injury often occurs during sports or physical activities that involve sudden, forceful movements. An Achilles tendon rupture is more common among individuals aged 30 to 40, particularly men. It is beneficial to seek immediate medical attention from a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat this painful condition. 

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. John C. Lawlor of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our our offices located in Cape Coral and LaBelle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.