Kidney disease is a serious condition that can give rise to foot problems, primarily due to nerve and blood vessel damage. Two significant complications related to kidney disease and foot health are circulation issues and altered sensation. These changes can develop gradually, often without noticeable symptoms. One common foot problem associated with kidney complications is a foot ulcer, where the skin breaks down, exposing underlying tissue. Unfortunately, the skin's poor healing ability in some kidney disease patients makes them more susceptible to ulcers or infections, even from minor injuries. These foot ulcers can become infected, and if left untreated, may lead to severe complications, including an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. If you have kidney disease, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist to set up regular screenings and assessments to detect any potential issues early and create a personalized treatment plan.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot Health Center. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Rogers and Berryville, AR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Experiencing sharp pain in the big toe can be a perplexing and discomforting ordeal with diverse underlying causes. One common culprit is gout, a form of arthritis characterized by the buildup of urate crystals in the joints, leading to sudden and intense pain. Ingrown toenails, where the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, can cause sharp pain and inflammation. Another potential reason is a condition known as turf toe, often seen in athletes, where excessive bending of the big toe leads to sprains of the ligaments. Neuromas, benign growths of nerve tissue, can also result in sharp pain, particularly when wearing tight footwear. Arthritis affecting the big toe joint, often seen in conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, may contribute to persistent sharp pain. If you are experiencing pain in your big toe, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer correct treatment options.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot Health Center. Our doctors 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 contact our office located in Rogers and Berryville, AR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Cracked heels, a common foot condition, often arise from dry skin, which can be exacerbated by various medical conditions. For instance, individuals with diabetes may develop neuropathy, a nerve condition that impairs the ability to sweat, leading to increased skin dryness. This lack of perspiration contributes significantly to the development of dry, cracked heels. Similarly, Sjogren’s syndrome, predominantly observed in women, is an autoimmune disorder where the body mistakenly attacks its moisture-producing glands, including those responsible for perspiration. This attack results in notably dry skin, heightening the risk of cracked heels. Additionally, specific skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and fungal infections directly affect the skin's moisture balance. These conditions lead to the skin becoming dry and less elastic, making it more prone to cracking, especially in the heel area, which bears significant weight and pressure during walking and standing. These medical factors underscore the importance of understanding and managing underlying health conditions to prevent or treat cracked heels effectively. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and a determination of whether there is an underlying medical problem, in addition to receiving correct treatment.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot Health Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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

The journey of pregnancy, though miraculous, often brings with it the discomfort of swollen feet and ankles. This common ailment, known as edema, results from increased pressure on blood vessels and the growing uterus, leading to fluid retention. To mitigate this discomfort, expectant mothers can embrace simple yet effective strategies. Elevating the legs when possible aids in fluid circulation, reducing the severity of swelling. Wearing comfortable, supportive shoes and avoiding prolonged periods of standing or sitting can also contribute to relief. Staying well-hydrated supports the body in maintaining a healthy fluid balance. Incorporating gentle exercises, such as walking or prenatal yoga, promotes circulation and minimizes swelling. Additionally, mindful salt intake can prevent excessive fluid retention. By incorporating these nurturing practices into their daily routines, pregnant women can enhance their well-being and navigate the pregnancy with greater comfort and ease. If you suffer from swollen feet and ankles during your pregnancy or have foot pain for any reason, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can guide you toward additional relief strategies.

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 Family Foot Health Center. 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 office located in Rogers and Berryville, AR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.