May 2018

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that affects the nerves in the peripheral nervous system. The nerves become damaged and as a result, this type of neuropathy develops. The symptoms that accompany neuropathy include numbness, tingling or a burning sensation and will most often affect the feet. Additional symptoms may include a loss of balance and it’s common to experience weakness. There are several causes that may promote the onset of this ailment, including a vitamin deficiency, kidney failure, shingles, or alcoholism. Additionally, this condition may be the result of certain chemotherapy drugs that are taken. It’s important to have a correct diagnosis performed so the proper medication can be taken to alleviate the symptoms. It is suggested to consult with a podiatrist if your feet are affected by neuropathy.

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. Jeff Brooks from Oceanside Foot & Ankle Center. 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 our office located in Oceanside, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bony protrusion that forms on the side of the foot is referred to as a bunion. It is a misalignment of the bone underneath the big toe, and can be worsened by wearing shoes that are too tight. This ailment can cause severe pain and unwanted corns and calluses may form as a result of the protrusion. There are several ways to obtain temporary relief, including wearing a cushioned pad over the affected area and choosing to wear shoes with adequate room to accommodate the bunion. Additionally, it will benefit the general health of the foot to lose weight if obesity is a factor. For severe bunions, surgery may be the only option for permanent removal and may take several months for a complete recovery. It’s suggested to consult with a podiatrist for additional information about bunions.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, 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.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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 care needs.

A condition referred to as a heel spur is typically caused by repetitive stress placed on the foot. Gradually, a small protrusion forms on the bottom of the heel, and often produces severe pain. As a result, walking may become difficult, which may affect the gait. Research has shown that it is suggested to stop the activity that has caused the heel spur to develop, followed by implementing proper treatment methods. These may consist of injections that to provide relief, in addition to performing stretching techniques that may help in maintaining an accepted level of comfort. Surgery may be an additional option for permanently removing the heel spur and improving the general mobility of the entire foot. Most patients experience heel pain which typically precedes a proper diagnosis, and should not be ignored. Please consider scheduling a consultation with a podiatrist for additional information on how to properly treat heel spurs.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Dr. Jeff Brooks from Oceanside Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Oceanside, CA . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.