Peripheral neuropathy develops when nerves outside the brain and spinal cord become damaged. In the feet, this problem can cause numbness, burning pain, tingling, or weakness. Some people feel like they are wearing socks when barefoot. Others lose feeling in the toes or soles of the feet. Diabetes is one of the most common causes of peripheral neuropathy. Other causes include vitamin deficiencies, certain medications, and cancer treatments. Poor nerve function can affect balance and make walking more difficult. It can also increase the risk of cuts, sores, and infections because people may not feel injuries right away. A podiatrist can examine the feet, test nerve function, and look for skin or circulation problems linked to neuropathy. Treatment includes custom orthotics, wearing protective footwear, and care for wounds or pressure areas. If you have symptoms of peripheral neuropathy in the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

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 our doctors from Foot & Ankle Center of Oklahoma. 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 Oklahoma City and Yukon, OK . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle warm-up exercises are important for preparing the feet and lower legs for activity and reducing the risk of injury. Gentle movement increases blood flow and helps improve flexibility and stability. Achilles tendon stretching involves lengthening the calf muscles by placing one foot behind, and pressing the heel toward the ground. Ankle inversion focuses on turning the sole inward to strengthen supporting muscles, while ankle eversion involves turning the sole outward to improve balance and control. These exercises can support better movement and reduce strain during daily activities or sports. A podiatrist can recommend a personalized routine and ensure proper technique for safe results. If you have injured your ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment solutions, and provide additional guidance on ankle exercises.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact our doctors from Foot & Ankle Center of Oklahoma. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctors to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Oklahoma City and Yukon, OK . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle sprains are common in children, especially during sports, playground activities, or accidental falls. These injuries happen when the ligaments supporting the ankle are stretched or torn, causing pain, swelling, bruising, and trouble walking. While many ankle injuries are true sprains, some more serious conditions can appear  similar at first, including growth plate injuries, fractures, or even tumors. This is why a careful evaluation is important rather than assuming the injury is minor. A podiatrist may assess the ankle through a physical examination, imaging studies, and other diagnostic tools to determine the exact cause of the pain and choose the proper treatment. Early and accurate diagnosis helps prevent delayed healing or long-term problems with stability and movement. If your child has ankle pain, swelling, or difficulty walking after an injury, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact our doctors from Foot & Ankle Center of Oklahoma. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Oklahoma City and Yukon, OK . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition in which the cartilage within the ankle gradually wears down, leading to pain and reduced mobility. This condition often develops after previous injuries, such as fractures or sprains, but it can also result from long-term joint stress or inflammation. Risk factors include aging, excess body weight, repetitive strain, and footwear that fails to support the joint. Common symptoms include stiffness, swelling, tenderness, and difficulty walking or bearing weight. A podiatrist can evaluate joint function, order imaging, and recommend supportive footwear, custom orthotics, and targeted exercises. Early care can slow progression and relieve discomfort. If you have symptoms of ankle arthritis, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact our doctors from Foot & Ankle Center of Oklahoma. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Oklahoma City and Yukon, OK . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.