November 2017

There are a number of health conditions that are affiliated with obesity. Swollen feet and varicose veins are common in obese people. Additionally, painful conditions such as cracked heels can also occur from obesity due to excessive pressure on the area. Obesity generally also contributes to diabetes, which can affect the nerves in the feet. Subsequently, patients are often unable to feel cuts or blisters, which may lead to foot ulcers. Poor balance may occur as a result of strained walking, which typically leads to falls and injury. Additionally, flat feet can develop, which may lead to conditions like plantar fasciitis. Following a healthy diet that is low in sugar may help control obesity. Maintaining a regular exercise program will aid in keeping obesity under control. Typically, obesity leads to feet that are wider than average, so look for shoes that fit properly. A podiatrist can conduct a foot examination and provide tips on obesity and how it affects the feet.

Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Dr. Jeff Brooks from Oceanside Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.

Problems & Complications

Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.

Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.

Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot. 

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

Toenail fungus usually first appears as a yellow or white spot underneath the toenail. The moist environment of the shoes can cause the fungus to grow, and the nail may begin to thicken and possibly crumble, becoming extremely unsightly.  It typically comes from walking barefoot around a public pool, or from the showers in a locker room. Treatment of this fungus may include prescription oral medication, topical creams, or laser treatment. Some patients have tried drug-free remedies that contain antifungal ingredients, however, the efficacy of these treatments is highly contested. For a proper prognosis be sure to consult with a podiatrist.

For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Jeff Brooks of Oceanside Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Oceanside, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A painful condition caused by pressure in the area below the bony part of the ankle is called tarsal tunnel syndrome. Possible symptoms include burning pain and pins and needles sensation in the arch of the foot that may extend into the heel and possibly into the toes. It can occur when the tibial nerve becomes compressed or trapped. Some causes may include rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, running based sports, or a possible a cyst in the tarsal tunnel. Consulting a podiatrist is advised and treatment may include medication and cold therapy, while the ankle is inflamed. Stretching the calf muscles once the inflammation has lessened may also be helpful. Going forward, a rehabilitation program may be necessary for strengthening the foot.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Dr. Jeff Brooks of Oceanside Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor 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 feel free to contact our office located in Oceanside, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.