Numbness in the feet can range from temporary and harmless to a sign of a more serious condition. Numb feet often result from pressure on nerves, such as sitting with the legs crossed or wearing shoes that lack adequate support, which can temporarily disrupt nerve signals. More persistent numbness may be linked to peripheral neuropathy, a condition that develops when nerves in the feet are damaged, leading to tingling, burning, or loss of feeling. Reduced blood flow is another common cause of numb feet, as conditions like peripheral artery disease may limit oxygen supply to the nerves and tissues of the feet. In some cases, spinal problems, such as a herniated disc, can also interfere with nerve pathways to the feet, causing sensory changes. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause of foot numbness, provide treatment to protect foot health, and help prevent complications. If you are experiencing frequent foot numbness, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam 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 one of our podiatrists from Footcare Now. 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 Elmhurst Jackson Heights, Astoria, Rego Park, and Forest Hills, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Painful ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing discomfort and sometimes becoming infected. This condition is often caused by improper nail trimming, wearing tight or narrow shoes, injury, or genetic factors. Symptoms include redness, swelling, tenderness, and pain along the side of the toenail. In severe cases, pus or drainage may be present, and walking or wearing shoes can become difficult. The affected area may look swollen and inflamed, with the skin appearing irritated or thickened. A podiatrist can diagnose ingrown toenails through a physical examination and assess the severity of any infection. Treatment options include proper nail trimming techniques, antibiotics if infection is present, and, in some cases, minor surgery to remove part of the nail. To relieve pain and prevent complications, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for expert care and advice.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Footcare Now. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Elmhurst Jackson Heights, Astoria, Rego Park, and Forest Hills, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gymnastics places intense demands on the feet and ankles, often leading to injuries from repetitive landings, twisting motions, or sudden impact. Common injuries include sprains from overstretched ligaments, fractures caused by high force landings, and tendonitis from overuse. Stress fractures can also develop when training is intense without adequate recovery time. These injuries may limit performance and cause long-term problems, if not treated properly. A podiatrist can diagnose the specific type of injury, recommend customized treatment, and guide rehabilitation exercises to restore strength and stability. This type of doctor also provides guidance on proper footwear and preventative care. If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain from gymnastics, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can treat these types of injuries, and further guide you on injury prevention.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Footcare Now. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Elmhurst Jackson Heights, Astoria, Rego Park, and Forest Hills, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The posterior tibial nerve that runs down your ankle to your foot is encased in the narrow tarsal tunnel along with tendons and blood vessels. When that nerve becomes compressed by an ankle sprain, arthritis, or overuse, it can become inflamed and painful, causing tarsal tunnel syndrome. Gentle exercises that gradually build strength and flexibility may help reduce swelling and pain. However, it is important to start off slowly, and pace yourself as you do not want to make the situation worse. Before attempting any exercise it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist to determine if you have tarsal tunnel syndrome. In addition this foot doctor can also confirm which exercises are safe for you and suggest a treatment plan that is beneficial for reducing pain and swelling, while helping the ankle heal.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of Footcare Now. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Elmhurst Jackson Heights, Astoria, Rego Park, and Forest Hills, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.