Diabetic neuropathy often begins in the feet, where nerve damage can cause numbness, tingling, burning, or sharp pain. Some people lose all feeling in their feet, which can make injuries go unnoticed and lead to serious complications. Neuropathy is more likely to develop in people who have had diabetes for a long time or who have poor blood sugar control. Other risk factors include high blood pressure, excess weight, smoking, and complications in the eyes or kidneys. Because neuropathy in the feet may not cause symptoms right away, many people do not realize there is a problem until an ulcer forms or changes in foot shape occur. Muscle weakness from nerve damage can lead to hammertoes, bunions, or other deformities that increase pressure on the skin. A podiatrist can help by testing for signs of neuropathy, monitoring foot health, and offering treatment to prevent further damage. If you have complications from diabetes that are affecting your 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 Chuc Dang, DPM from California . 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 Westminster, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is an infection caused by fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments, such as sweaty shoes or near public pools. It often starts with a small white or yellow spot under the tip of the nail and can spread deeper, leading to thickened, discolored, and brittle nails. Symptoms include nail discoloration, including yellow, brown, or white, as well as nail thickening, crumbling edges, and sometimes a foul odor. The affected nails may become painful or difficult to trim over time. A podiatrist can diagnose toenail fungus by examining the nail and may take a sample for lab testing to confirm the infection. Treatment options range from topical antifungal creams and medicated nail lacquers to oral antifungal medications. Severe cases may require partial or complete nail removal. If you are dealing with this condition, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for evaluation and treatment.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Chuc Dang, DPM of California . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, resulting from small tears and inflammation in the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot. These tiny tears cause pain and stiffness, especially with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged rest. Common causes include overuse, tight calf muscles, flat feet, high arches, or wearing unsupportive shoes. Symptoms include sharp, stabbing pain at the heel, tenderness, and sometimes swelling. A podiatrist can diagnose plantar fasciitis through a physical exam and a review of symptoms. Imaging tests like X-rays may be used to rule out other conditions. Treatment typically includes stretching exercises, custom orthotics, wearing supportive footwear, or anti-inflammatory medications. In some cases, targeted exercises or injections may be recommended. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Chuc Dang, DPM from California . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

Understanding the differences between trail and running shoes is essential for foot health and performance. Trail shoes are designed for rugged terrain. They typically feature rubber outsoles for improved traction, stiffer midsoles for added support, and durable uppers that help keep out debris while providing extra grip. In contrast, traditional running shoes are ideal for paved surfaces. They offer a lightweight design, enhanced cushioning for shock absorption, and breathable materials to keep feet cool. Each shoe type serves a specific purpose, and wearing the wrong shoe can lead to discomfort or injury. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot structure, activity level, and gait to recommend the most appropriate footwear. If you have foot or ankle pain from wearing the wrong type of shoes, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist. This type of doctor can treat various foot conditions, while ensuring your shoes support your movement.

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact Chuc Dang, DPM from California . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

• Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• There should be little to no slipping at the heel
• Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
• Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
• Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

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