Nerve pain in the foot can feel sharp, burning, tingling, or electric, and it may point to neuropathy or Morton’s neuroma. Neuropathy often develops gradually, and may be linked to diabetes, injury, or other medical conditions. The feet can feel numb, weak, or overly sensitive, and symptoms are often noticed in both feet. In contrast, Morton’s neuroma involves thickening of tissue surrounding a nerve between the third and fourth toes. Along with shooting pain or tingling into the toes, patients often describe the sensation  as being similar to standing on a pebble. The area may look normal, but squeezing the forefoot can reproduce the discomfort. A podiatrist will perform a detailed examination and may order imaging or nerve testing to determine the exact cause. Treatment can include custom orthotics, shoe changes, medication, or targeted procedures. If you have persistent nerve pain in the foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate care.

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 Graff Foot, Ankle and Wound Care. 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 Plano, Dallas, Prosper, Allen, Garland, Frisco, and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A dancer's ankle is a remarkable structure that provides strength, flexibility, and control while supporting the entire body on tip toes. During movements such as en pointe and plie, the ankle, forefoot, and midfoot must work together with exceptional coordination and stability. Dancers require extra range of motion in the forefoot and midfoot to achieve proper alignment and graceful extension. At peak activity, up to three times body weight can pass through the feet, placing significant stress on bones, ligaments, and tendons. Without proper conditioning and alignment, overuse injuries may develop. A podiatrist can assess biomechanics, recommend supportive care, and guide injury prevention strategies. If you have injured your foot or ankle while dancing, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Graff Foot, Ankle and Wound Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Plano, Dallas, Prosper, Allen, Garland, Frisco, and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Bunions are a common foot deformity that develop when the joint at the base of the big toe becomes misaligned. This causes the tip of the big toe to lean toward the smaller toes, and creates a visible bony bump along the side of the foot. Bunions often cause symptoms such as pain, tenderness, swelling, redness, and difficulty wearing shoes comfortably. Over time, the condition may worsen and limit daily activities. Risk factors include genetics, flat feet, arthritis, prolonged use of tight footwear, and repetitive stress on the foot. Although bunions do not always cause pain, they can interfere with balance and walking. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of the deformity, recommend custom orthotics, footwear modifications, and targeted treatments to relieve discomfort and slow progression. If bunion pain is affecting your quality of life, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Graff Foot, Ankle and Wound Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Podiatrists often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your provider.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Plano, Dallas, Prosper, Allen, Garland, Frisco, and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pregnancy places unique demands on the feet as the body adapts to weight gain, hormonal changes, and shifts in posture. Many women notice swelling in the feet and ankles, heel pain, arch discomfort, and changes in shoe size as ligaments become more flexible. These changes can contribute to flat feet, heel pain, swelling, and increased pressure on the forefoot. Balance may be affected as the center of gravity moves forward, increasing strain on the ankles. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, gait, and joint alignment to identify the source of discomfort. Treatment options include supportive devices, compression therapy, and footwear guidance appropriate to the condition. Monitoring foot health helps reduce pain. If you are experiencing foot pain during pregnancy, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

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 one of our podiatrists from Graff Foot, Ankle and Wound Care. Our doctors 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 our offices located in Plano, Dallas, Prosper, Allen, Garland, Frisco, and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.