Some children develop nerve issues in the feet and legs as a result of other medical conditions affecting their entire body. These nerve problems, known as peripheral nerve disorders, can cause tingling, numbness, weakness, or burning sensations. In children, they may be connected to illnesses such as diabetes, autoimmune disorders, or infections. When these underlying health conditions affect how nerves send signals, it can lead to trouble with walking, balance, or coordination. Early signs are sometimes subtle, like frequent tripping or unexplained foot discomfort. Identifying the root cause is important, as treating the overall condition often improves nerve symptoms. If a child begins to show signs of nerve changes or foot pain without injury, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for further investigation.
Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Dr. Blake Zobell from Utah. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.
Symptoms
Symptoms of PAD include:
Claudication (leg pain from walking)
Numbness in legs
Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
Paleness of the skin
Erectile dysfunction
Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
Coldness in one leg
It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.
Diagnosis
While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.
Treatment
Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Richfield and Ephraim, Utah. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Pregnancy brings many changes to the body, and the feet are no exception. Hormonal shifts, weight gain, and fluid retention can all affect foot health. Common foot issues during pregnancy include swelling, flat feet due to ligament relaxation, and heel pain from added pressure on the arches. Symptoms include aching feet, difficulty fitting into shoes, and pain in the heels or arches, especially after standing or walking for long periods of time. Some women also experience cramping or tingling sensations due to increased pressure on nerves in the lower limbs. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure and provide relief through supportive footwear recommendations, custom orthotics, and techniques to reduce swelling and discomfort. Gentle stretches and foot care tips can also help maintain comfort throughout pregnancy. If you are pregnant and are experiencing issues with your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. Blake Zobell from Utah. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.
How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?
Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
Wear shoes with good arch support
Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
Elevate feet if you experience swelling
Massage your feet
Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Richfield and Ephraim, Utah. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.
A plantar fibroma is a benign growth that forms within the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot. This firm lump usually develops in the arch and may increase in size over time. The exact cause is not always clear, but it may be linked to genetics, repeated trauma, or underlying conditions that affect connective tissue. Symptoms include a noticeable bump in the arch, discomfort when walking or standing, and pain when pressure is applied to the area. A podiatrist can diagnose a plantar fibroma through physical examination and imaging, and offer treatments such as custom orthotics, footwear modifications, or other noninvasive options to reduce pain and improve foot function. If you have a lump in the arch of your foot, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.
A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Blake Zobell of Utah. Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Richfield and Ephraim, Utah. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
