General Podiatry Archives - Page 10 of 17

General Podiatry Archives - Page 10 of 17 - Anderson Podiatry Center Anderson Podiatry Center

How Do You Get Rid Of Heel Spur Pain?

Posted on May 19, 2021July 12, 2025 by admin

Your thinking about heel spur pain is all wrong!

Heels spur pain is one of the most common foot problems. It is a type of pain that often occurs when you first step out of bed in the morning. The pain can be excruciating and can find you limping to the bathroom. It can also happen later in the day. And oftentimes, if you have been active one day, say you went out for a run or a hike or a walk, and it was longer than normal, you can expect the same problem in the morning, but this time it’s worse. It can go on for months or years. But what is really happening inside your foot. This blog will open your eyes to some misconceptions about heel spur pain.

Why do I have a heel spur?

Let’s start with the basics. Many of you have heard of plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a strong fibrous band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot starting in the ball and attaching to the bottom of the heel. With every step you take as the arch flattens the fascia is being pulled. When you are a teenager or child its very flexible like a rubber band but as you get older it loses its elasticity and starts to pull from where it attaches to the heel. So, let’s discuss the actual heel spur. Many patients will have a heel spur on the bottom of the heel on x-ray. This is a calcium deposit that may occur from the constant pulling of the fascia on the heel in this location. It is a bony protrusion that extends from the heel bone towards the toes. Another theory is that there can be microfractures in the heel from the fascia pulling so hard and the spur in a result of the heel bone attempting to repair. So, the most current understanding is that the actual spur is seldom if ever the true source of your pain. It is the result of the fascia pulling from the bone. What is the evidence to support this?

Three reasons to prove your heel spur does not hurt.

Surgery – approximately ten percent of patients we treat have surgery when conservative measures fail. Surgery is performed endoscopically. The surgeon makes one or two small incisions and then releases a portion of the fascia. Patient may ambulate in a cam walker. This procedure allows the fascia to stretch and has an extremely high success rate. Many patients that have this done have a spur that is left. So, its not the spur.

WE’VE BEEN DOING THIS PROCEDURE FOR 30 YEARS.
Regenerative medicine treatments – We now know that the fascia is not inflamed. Dr. Harvey Lemont (DPM)¹ did a study that involved taking specimens of the fascia when he did surgery. Out of 50 specimens only one showed inflammation, fasciitis. Forty-nine of the specimens show degeneration of the fascia. We call this plantar fasciosis. Starting 10 years ago we changed our approach to treatment and have shifted away from the use of cortisone injections to use of regenerative medicine. Currently we use placenta cells as this helps to repair the tissues that are degenerating.
Diagnostic ultrasound– Every patient we see has a evaluation of their heel ultrasound. This is the same technology used for mothers to see their child during pregnancy. The ultrasound will reveal the abnormal thickness and color that is associated with plantar fascia pain. This allows use the grade or rate the severity on the problem. Also the thickness of the fascia is reduced to more normal size after regenerative treatments.

Causes

The causes of heel pain can be multiple. If is often that that a tight calf and Achilles tendon can cause foot pain include heel spur pain. It may also be from improper foot biomechanics such as a foot that over pronates(flattens). Also, it can be from overuse or just the fact that as we get older its believed the fascia loses its elasticity. Also having tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon is thought to cause foot pain including heel pain.

Treatments

For some stretching or using a night splint you may get some relief. Also, some medical advice will be to use anti-inflammatories or do physical therapy. If you are currently doing any activity that involves running or jumping it may be suggested to take some time off these activities. Cortisone injections may also have some benefits. Using over the counter supports may also help.

We found these four treatments have had greatest success.

1. Orthotics – Many podiatrists will recommend shoe inserts that we call orthotics. We are using a scanning technique that allows use to get a very precise measurement of your foot for these to be made.
2. Regenerative medicine – We’ve been having success the use of stem in the form of placenta cell. We’ve been using regenerative medicine to repair the damaged fascia (plantar Fasciosis) for over ten years.
3. Laser – Laser works by repairing the fascial tissue at a cellular level. Helping the energy producing part of the cell called the mitochondria the function better.
4. Shockwave treatment – has also been phenomenally successful. Shockwave comes from the technology called lithotripsy which is used to break up kidney stones. Powerful sound waves are transmitted into the bottom of your heel and the trauma it creates stimulates your own body to want to repair the damaged tissue(fascia). It is believed that your own bodies growth factors and stem then are stimulated to repair the tissues. Finally, to use of laser can also be considered.

Surgery – Finally, if conservative options fail we’ve had great success with surgical treatment. The procedure done endoscopically so we’re able to visualize the fascia through small incisions. The fascia is released so that it can stretch, and patients are able to bear weight in a camwalker.

As you can see, at Anderson Podiatry Center, we offer both conventional and non-conventional, more progressive concepts when it comes to plantar fasciitis, which we like to call plantar fasciosis. We use evidence-based treatments that have been proven with the latest’s science regarding your heel spur pain. And as you can tell from this blog you need to rethink the idea that it is a spur. Because of the multitude of options we have we have a greater chance of avoiding surgery for our patients.

So, if you’re stumbling around, suffering with plantar fascia pain , or what you might be commonly calling now heel spur pain, please give us a call and we’ll consult you to see which direction we should go with your treatment.

¹Lemont, Harvey. “Https://Pubmed.Ncbi.Nlm.Nih.Gov/12756315/.” National Library of Medicine, June 2003, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12756315.

What are the best treatments to straighten painful hammertoes?

Posted on April 27, 2021June 30, 2025 by admin

Hammertoes are an affliction that affects millions of Americans. They can be very painful and disabling – not allowing people to be fully active because of the pain. Hammertoes may also be referred to as mallet toes or claw toes depending on their appearance and seldom affect the big toe.

Causes

Hammertoes can be caused by a shoe that is too tight, so make sure the shoe fits properly. This is especially true if one toe is slightly longer than the adjacent toes. This can push or shove on the toe to deform it. Hammer toes can also be caused by nerve problems that result in muscle weakness such as a drop foot condition or Charcot-Marie tooth disease. However, in most cases the cause could be from an imbalance between the flexor tendons and the extensor tendons that pull the toes up towards you. This imbalance causes the toe to flex.

In the affected toe the area of irritation may be on the tip of the toe, which if flexed too much bears weight rather than the fatty pad that it should rest on. This can be very painful and can result in the development of corn. The reason why is because the toe is resting on skin and bone instead of the fatty pad it should be resting on. When this results in corn, a vicious cycle starts. The toe is never straight, you can trim off the corn or callus, but it keeps coming back time after time.

The other area that can be affected with a hammertoe is the knuckle of the toe. When the toe is flexed, it is also sitting higher than the other toes and may rub against your shoe gear. So selecting a shoe with a deeper toe box and avoiding heels should be considered. There are other cases where a toe may be angulated slightly, which happens a lot on the fifth toe. And this sideways angulation, along with the flexion, creates irritation between the neighboring toe and the corn can result between the two toes. So how does one straighten a hammertoe?

Treatments

Treatment options can vary, including wearing wider shoes or shoes with a deeper toe box. Padding can also be used to help alleviate the pressure in these particular areas. Your doctor may recommend arch supports or shoe inserts. For many, however, these treatment options are a constant battle and may never resolve the problem permanently. Therefore, your doctor may recommend surgery to straighten the toe.

For those that require surgery to straighten the toe here are the three options.

Option 1

For more mild hammertoes, it may involve simply making a small incision on the toe to release the tendon that flexes the toe down. And this can be quite rewarding if the deformity is quite mild.

Option 2

Another treatment option would be to remove the knuckle. The bony joint knuckle is removed in many cases, which allows the toe to be straightened more easily and to stay in this corrected position. By removing the toe joint, the toe still can function, but these toes do not need a joint as they do not bear a load such as a knee. This is oftentimes highly successful for patients.

Option 3

The most aggressive treatment for more severe hammertoes would be the type of surgery where a pin is used. And in some cases, the pin may be kept in but in most cases, they are removed. There are also various types of implants that are placed in the toe to make sure that the toe stays straight. In all of these cases the joint is removed for the placement of the implant. Recovery can vary from a few days in a dressing or up to three weeks in a dressing before returning to shoes.

Overall, when the problem becomes severe and you are constantly having to pad the area or trim off the corn or callus, it’s important to consider the surgical option because for many, this can be the best treatment and has very little risk involved. The risk reward ratio for this tends to be high. So, for many doctors, it is recommended that surgical treatment should be considered. If you’re not satisfied with the treatments that you’ve been carrying on yourself, you may consider visiting Anderson Podiatry Center for further evaluation of the options that we can offer you.

What to Know About Arthritis Foot Care and What You Can Do

Posted on April 8, 2021June 30, 2025 by admin

Arthritis is a very common problem in the foot and ankle area and can occur in different locations. Because the foot has so many bones, there are many joints that can become painful.

Symptoms

First, it is important to understand what the symptoms of arthritis are. Symptoms tend to present as a deep, dull type of pain that occurs when you first get up in the morning, Then after you take a few steps, it can gradually get better. As the arthritis becomes more severe, it can present all the time, particularly when you’re active. Understand that arthritis occurs when the cartilage that lines the joint becomes worn down and thinner. In severe situations it can wear down to bone. Cartilage is very slick- even slicker than ice! It acts that way to let your joints move more easily.

Causes

There are a multitude of causes that can result in arthritis. It could be from gout attacks, where inflammation in the joints destroys the cartilage, or even rheumatoid arthritis, where patients have autoimmune diseases that can affect the joints.

There may have even been an injury to the joint or bone that caused the cartilage to be damaged. This is especially common in the ankle joint in the case of someone who is a chronic ankle sprainer or has had an ankle fracture. All these conditions can be called “secondary arthritis” as they are related to another issue.

For many that suffer from arthritis, it is commonly referred to as primary arthritis, meaning there is no direct cause. As we age from using our joints, the cartilage tends to wear down

Lastly, the most overlooked cause is foot structure. Very few doctors are trained to evaluate foot structure and foot biomechanics. Some foot types, particularly flat feet, might lend themselves to wearing down joints more than feet that have a normal biomechanical structure.

Where does arthritis occur most commonly?

It occurs most commonly in the great toe joint, ankle and midfoot. In the great toe, it will frequently cause a stiff toe joint, referred to as Hallux Rigidus. It can also occur in the midfoot area, halfway between the toes and the ankle in the arch area. This is also more common as we get older. Finally, it can occur in the ankle joint, especially if you have had multiple ankle sprains, or if you have any kind of history of ankle fracture- this lends itself to a greater possibility of having ankle arthritis at some point in your life.

Five things you can do

Avoid inflammatory foods: Foods high in sugars and carbohydrates should be reduced. Why? Because they create inflammation in your body. Breads, sugar and white flour should be avoided. Also watch out for fructose as this is used in many beverages such as fruit juices and is probably worse than just scarfing down a candy bar. Instead of fruit juice, choose to eat the actual fruit as it’s much healthier for you. This will also help keep your weight down.
Exercise: Yes, that is right, keep moving. Maybe if you used to run and it bothers you too much, consider biking or walking. You may want to take on swimming or other activities. Make sure to modify the frequency and duration because motion helps your body create more growth hormones which can help repair your joints.
Consider supplements: Supplements such as Turmeric, Sam-e , Hyaluronic Acid and Collagen may also be effective and help fight inflammation.
Avoid anti-inflammatories: While they may make you feel good today, the long-term effects are negative for your joint health. An exception to this would be if you have an autoimmune disease such as rheumatoid arthritis that is managed by your doctor.
Use more supportive shoes: If you think you may be an overpronator, meaning you have flat feet, supportive shoes should be considered. You may also want to use an inexpensive over the counter arch supports.

Treatment

Support the foot and ankle: Oftentimes orthotics are recommended as they are custom-made inserts that go in the shoes. They are especially important to help stabilize the bony areas that can lend themselves to arthritis.
Repair and restore the joint: At Anderson Podiatry Center, we do this using stemcell treatment. Regenerative medicine is something we have been using now for over a decade and has been extremely useful for ankle joint problems, great toe joint pain, and pain in the midfoot area and the mid arch. It has proven to show improvement 80-90% of the time.
Block your ability to feel the pain: We do this by shutting off pain signals to the brain. In some cases, especially if the arthritis is in the midfoot or up by the ankle, we can remove one or two branches in the lower leg that block your ability to feel the arthritic pain in your foot or ankle. This is also especially useful and has prevented many patients from going through ankle replacement surgery or ankle fusion surgeries (which have a significant risk factor and recovery time).
Joint surgery: In the worst-case scenarios, when all else fails, there may be a need for revision of a joint by scoping it in the example of an ankle joint. Or finally a joint replacement or fusion.

In summary, if you have these problems, it is important to understand that there’s a lot that you can do to repair your condition. And at Anderson Podiatry Center, we can offer non-surgical approaches and low invasive procedures such as stem cell or nerve resection, which may avoid more major joint replacement surgeries. Do not assume that you have to have an ankle joint replacement or other joints fused to treat your arthritis. Consider the options that you can do first, and if you are still struggling and want to get back to full activity, consider our unique approach.

What Is the Best Treatment for Drop Foot?

Posted on March 16, 2021June 30, 2025 by admin

Drop foot can be a very frustrating problem, and there are many potential causes for it. Before we get into things, it is important to understand what drop foot is. It is the lack of strength to pull your foot or toes upwards, or the ability to move your foot sideways away from your opposite foot. There are approximately five different muscles involved with the weakness that can create drop foot. We won’t be going over these muscle groups in this blog, but it’s important to understand that drop foot can affect both sideways and upwards motion to varying degrees.

When you walk with a drop foot, it may be difficult for your foot to clear the ground. The foot may also want to slap against the ground when your heel hits the floor, or be in such a downward position that you must flex your knee upwards for your foot to clear the ground. This is referred to as a steppage gait and can make walking exceedingly difficult to the point where it has a significant effect on mobility.

What Are the Causes?

Spinal-cord drop foot can be associated with your back, which is referred to as radiculopathy, caused from compression or irritation to the spinal nerves in the lumbar area.
Strokes can be associated with drop foot.
Sciatic nerve trauma, usually caused from hip or knee surgery.
Trauma to the nerves in the leg that stimulate the muscles to contract
Compression of the common peroneal nerve. Compression of this nerve tunnel may be associated with both diabetic and non-diabetic neuropathy. It is often assumed that the drop foot is from a sciatic nerve that was stretched and damaged from hip replacement surgery or knee surgery, because the common peroneal nerve tunnel becomes compressed. Anderson Podiatry Center has successfully reversed drop foot for many patients who were told it was from their back or from damage to the sciatic nerve.

What Is the Common Peroneal Nerve?

The common peroneal nerve is the most overlooked cause of drop foot. It is a branch of the sciatic nerve, and as the sciatic nerve courses down the back of your hamstring area, it divides. One branch goes towards the bottom of the foot, down the back of the calf, and the other branch goes around the outside of your leg, just below the knee.

It’s in this area that the common peroneal nerve tunnel is located. Just beyond the nerve tunnel is the branches that send signals to the leg muscles to contract. When the tunnel is tight, the branches don’t send strong enough signals, and the muscles become weak. This is similar to carpal tunnel syndrome in the hand. This can be the case in diabetes, where there’s compression involved, or non-diabetic neuropathy, because the tunnel can become tight.

At Anderson Podiatry Center, we deal a lot with peripheral nerve disorders and evaluate peripheral nerve issues. Many doctors are not fully trained in the evaluation and treatment of peripheral nerve problems. So, for many of you reading this blog, the potential is that you may have been told there is nothing you can do. You may have had a hip or knee replacement surgery and your sciatic nerve was damaged, which has resulted in drop foot due to the common peroneal nerve.

Treatment

To quickly answer the question as to what the best drop foot treatment is, it’s surgery (especially if the drop foot is significant). If there is high potential that the nerve is compressed, surgery would be the best option because it can give you the most profound improvement.

If there is a delay in surgery, especially after trauma or a surgery that could have caused this, it could lessen the effectiveness of the drop foot surgery. Many say that if you have had a surgery, such as hip replacement, and drop foot occurs, you should wait around six months to a year to see if it improves. However, we strongly disagree with this approach and suggest that if it’s been 2-3 months since surgery, and there is no progression towards improvement, surgery on this nerve tunnel should be performed. Waiting may limit how much improvement the patient gets.

ESTIM: This is a non-surgical treatment that involves multiple visits and electrical stimulation. This is performed with local anesthetic injections, that in combination repair nerve damage and improve circulation to the nerves during treatments.
Tendon transfer surgeries and joint fusions: These surgeries have always been available in conventional surgical training to help stabilize the foot and ankle.
Ankle bracing: there are many types of ankle braces that also may help. In most cases, these are prescribed by the doctor.

In summary, the two most important aspects about drop foot treatment are:

If you’ve had surgery or an injury, and after the first two to three months you’ve not experienced improvement, do not put yourself in a position where you may lessen the effectiveness of the surgery by waiting. With that being said, we’ve also seen patients, years after a surgery caused by drop foot, that still still see improvement on their mobility from drop foot surgery. When surgery is performed, most patients see significant improvement of their lifestyle, even if they have less than 100 percent improvement of their muscle strength.
If you have neuropathy or back problems, don’t assume that you don’t have compression of the common peroneal nerve. It is commonly associated with diabetic and nondiabetic neuropathies.
To conclude, it is not always the case that surgery is the best treatment, but for those whose mobility is significantly impacted, proper assessment of the common peroneal nerve is important. The recovery time and risks are minimal, compared to other surgical options, and if surgery fails, the other options will always be there. When the drop foot is minimal other options such as ESTIM may be considered. So if you or someone you know suffers from drop foot, please consider the common peroneal nerve tunnel as a potential cause.

The Most Common Foot Problem: Plantar Fasciitis

Posted on March 4, 2021 by admin

We are frequently asked, what is the most common foot complaint? Without a doubt, plantar fasciitis is at the top of the list. Oftentimes, it is referred to as heel pain, or heel spur pain. The symptoms of plantar fasciitis often occur first thing in the morning, as the pain exists on the bottom of the heel and is irritated with those initial morning steps. You may hobble to the bathroom, or to go make some coffee, and after a few minutes the pain wears off. However, as it becomes more severe, you may notice the pain throughout the day, and it can come on gradually or all at once.

Plantar fasciitis is seldom caused by trauma. Although it could be caused by you falling on your foot and striking your heel, in most cases, it’s something that just happens and is unpredictable. Foot biomechanics can also play a role.

While plantar fasciitis is a common foot problem, it rarely occurs in your teenage years or early twenties Why is this? One of the ideas is that the fascia loses its elasticity over time. The fascia runs from the ball of the foot to the heel, where it attaches. With every step you take, as the arch flattens, the fascia pulls from its attachment point (aka the heel). When your foot is not bearing weight, the arch is relatively high, but as soon as your bear weight the arch flattens and pulls on the fascia.

This pain from the common foot problem can become very disabling as it can go on for months, or even years in some cases. It is important to note that an x-ray can sometimes show a heel spur, where the fascia attaches to the heel. The old school idea is that this was the source of the pain, however this is seldom the case. If surgery is ever performed to eliminate your plantar fasciitis (using small incisions to partially release the fascia), nothing is done to the spur. Patients have a remarkably high success rate with this form of surgery, proving that it is not the spur. In fact, the spur could have been created by the fascia pulling from your heel.

What Can You Do For Plantar Fasciitis?

Since plantar fasciitis is one of the most common foot problems, it is also the one that has the most treatment options. It can get confusing because everyone, including your shoe salesman, will claim to have the solution.

But the actual treatment solutions for plantar fasciitis are limited. There are many options that can help a bit, as these are referred to as “band-aid approaches”. These band-aid approaches include anti-inflammatories, icing, and stretching. They are fine to try, and in some cases can help a lot, but it’s important to do these at the earliest stages of your heel pain.

You can also try using supports, and if the shoes you wear for walking, hiking or running are worn down, consider replacing them. If these attempts fail, or if you find yourself having to go back to these approaches time and time again, it may be time to seek professional help.

Orthotics

Orthotics are one of the foundational things that a podiatrist will use. Orthotics help hold and support the foot better so that the fascia does not want to pull away from the heel. It is important that the orthotics being made utilizes either a casting technique, or a digital system by taking a non-weight bearing, impression of your foot. This captures the foot in its ideal functional position in order to get more precise control of your foot. Orthotics minimize how much that fascia is pulling from your heel by supporting your bony structure better.

Stem Cell Treatment

Podiatrists traditionally used cortisone injections to treat plantar fasciitis, but at Anderson Podiatry Center, we still do this on occasion, but recommended the consideration of stem cell treatment. It’s been known from recent studies that the fascia is not truly inflamed, but rather it’s tissue is breaking down and in need of repair. So what better way to do this than with stem cells (we typically use placenta cells).

Shockwave Treatment and Laser

Shockwave sends powerful sound waves into the heel area. This traumatizes the heel, but puts your body into a repairative mode that helps repair the fascia. We also use a treatment called MLS laser which helps by improving the functionality of the mitochondria in your cells to repair the fascia.

Surgery

Surgery is done on occasion, but only after conservative measures have failed. It’s typically done with a scope, and we make a small incision on both sides of the heel. Patients can ambulate immediately, but usually have to wear a movable cast for approximately two-four weeks. Success rate for this is quite high.

If your attempts to remedy your heel pain are not working, it may be time to move on to a more aggressive treatment plan. The longer you wait to see a podiatrist, the more time and treatment options you may need to eliminate the pain.

Three Ways Peripheral Neuropathy Can Affect Your Walking

Posted on February 17, 2021June 30, 2025 by admin

For many, neuropathy becomes a common and difficult part of their life. It’s been estimated that 25-30% of people in the U.S will experience neuropathy at some point in their life. Peripheral neuropathy refers to the nervous system outside of the spinal cord and brain area. It is the nerves that go down into the foot & leg, or into the arms & hands. The symptoms of Peripheral neuropathy can include burning, tingling, numbness, and oftentimes weakness. It usually affects both feet, but not always – which is why peripheral neuropathy can affect walking. There are many nerve fibers directly underneath the skin called sensory nerves, and when these nerves start to die away it inhibits you from feeling pressure, resulting in not being able to feel your feet on the ground. People may also not be able to feel hot and cold on their feet.

Dibaetic Neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy affects approximately 50-70% of those with diabetes, and when severe can result in ulcers and even amputation.It could start with something as simple as a callous that the patient cannot feel. This then creates an ulcer which can become infected. Oftentimes because there is a lack of feeling, the patient has no pain, and therefore no warning signs. If this results in an amputation, the situation can become life threatening. If you do not have diabetes, it is important to know that many people may be prediabetic, and the first signs can be symptoms of neuropathy in the feet. So if you have never been diagnosed with diabetes, but you’re getting neuropathy symptoms, there’s a chance that you could be pre-diabetic.

There are other types of neuropathy including chemotherapy induced neuropathy and alcoholic neuropathy. Aside from diabetic neuropathy, the most common diagnosis patients are given is idiopathic neuropathy – meaning neuropathy from an unknown cause.

What Are The Benefits Of Walking?

The benefits of walking are both mental and physical. Mentally, exercise has been shown to help people emotionally. Exercise can help increase dopamine levels in the brain (dopamine is a neurotransmitter in the brain that is associated with the feel good sensation you have after exercise).It is also thought that exercise can help you sleep better. The importance of sleep has become more apparent as it not only helps you feel better the next day, but can also help with high blood pressure, cancer and diabetes. Walking may also help to keep your weight down, which can have a big impact on controlling your blood sugar levels, blood pressure and even joint arthritis.

So how does peripheral neuropathy affect your walking? To better understand, I’d like to clarify the three ways neuropathy can have an effect on walking.

Number 1 – PAIN

If you are in a lot of pain from the burning and tingling in your feet, maybe you’ll feel uncomfortable to go on a walk. If the pain is mild, you can still go for a walk, but maybe just not as far as you could before. So if your symptoms are not that painful, that’s even more of a reason to consider walking.

If your pain is manageable while you walk, it’s a good idea to gradually increase the frequency and duration each time you walk. One principle to remember is that your body needs rest days. So rather than walking every day for 25 minutes five or six days per week, it may be better to walk four days for 35-45 minutes. Why? It’s thought that those extra minutes (for example, 35 minutes) tend to rev up your metabolism more for a longer period after the aerobic activity. This leads to more calories burned and better cardiac health. If walking is too painful, consider biking, swimming or pool exercises instead.

Number 2 – NUMBNESS

If your nerves are significantly damaged, you may experience numbness in your feet. This also serves as another factor that suppresses your desire to walk. Why? Because your ability to feel your feet on the ground has been reduced.

When your ability to feel your feet on the ground diminishes, you could feel unstable and possibly walk with a wider gait. In some cases you may even shuffle due to the lack of feeling. This can be a challenge, and it might make you even more susceptible to falling. For this scenario it is best to walk on flat surfaces and avoid walking or hiking on irregular terrain.

Number 3 – WEAKNESS

Another symptom caused by peripheral neuropathy is weakness. This ranges from mild to severe in the case of drop foot, which is when it’s difficult to pull your foot or toes upwards. You could also be experiencing what I call “weakfoot”, meaning it’s difficult to push your foot off the ground. Again, it is most important to avoid irregular terrain, so it is important to consider or experiment with other forms of exercise.

If you have weakness or numbness that is not too severe, and you’re able to walk for exercise, then make sure your shoe selection is good. Generally, a shoe with more support (which is called a motion control shoe) should be used. Additionally, keep an eye on your shoes and make sure you do not overwear them to the point that they start to break down.

These are the ways that neuropathy can affect your walking. Please understand that it is important to seek treatment if you’re experiencing neuropathy. Contrary to what conventional medicine says, you do not have to live with it or take medications. At Anderson Center for Neuropathy and Chronic Pain, we can reverse the symptoms of neuropathies with surgical or non-surgical means.

Walking is one of the best forms of exercise for your mental and physical well-being. We hope this blog gives you a better understanding of peripheral neuropathy affect walking and how it impacts exercise regimen.

Treatment for neuropathy in legs and feet Broomfield and Fort Collins. Call or email us today.

Exercises to Improve Walking for People 50+ with Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy can make walking more challenging due to loss of sensation, muscle weakness, and balance issues. However, staying active with gentle, low-impact exercises can improve mobility, reduce discomfort, and enhance overall stability.

Safety Tips Before You Start

Choose a stable surface – Perform exercises near a chair, wall, or countertop for support.
Wear proper footwear – Supportive, non-slip shoes reduce the risk of falls.
Go slow and listen to your body – If you feel pain, dizziness, or weakness, stop and rest.
Exercise at the right time – If neuropathy worsens at certain times of the day (e.g., after long periods of standing), adjust your routine accordingly.
Stay hydrated and take breaks – Dehydration and fatigue can increase fall risks.

1. Gentle Stretching for Flexibility

As we age, muscles naturally become tighter, increasing the risk of falls. Stretching helps keep the legs flexible and reduces stiffness.

Seated Calf Stretch (Safer Alternative)

Sit in a sturdy chair, extend one leg, and gently pull your toes toward you using a towel or band.
Hold for 20-30 seconds per leg.

Ankle Circles (Improves foot mobility)

While seated, lift one foot and slowly rotate your ankle in circles to increase flexibility.
Do 5-10 circles in each direction.

2. Low-Impact Aerobic Exercise for Better Circulation

Aerobic activities increase blood flow and nerve function, helping slow neuropathy progression. Safe options for older adults include:

Seated Marching – Sit tall in a chair, lift one knee at a time in a marching motion. (Great alternative to walking!)
Slow, short walks indoors – Use a walker or cane for added support if needed.
Water aerobics or pool walking – The water provides natural support, reducing strain on joints.
Stationary cycling (with back support) – Helps strengthen legs without impact on the feet.

3. Calf Raises for Strength and Stability

Weak calf muscles can make it harder to lift the heels and maintain balance while walking.

How to do it: Stand near a chair or counter for support. Slowly rise onto your toes, hold for a few seconds, and lower back down.
Modifications: If standing is difficult, try a seated version by pressing the toes down while lifting the heels off the floor.
Reps: Aim for 10-15 repetitions for 2-3 sets.

4. Leg Raises to Prevent Falls

As neuropathy weakens the hips and legs, walking can feel unsteady. Strengthening these muscles can improve control and confidence.

Seated Leg Raises (Easiest Version) – Sit in a sturdy chair, straighten one leg, hold for 5-10 seconds, then switch sides.
Standing Side Leg Raises – Holding onto a chair, lift one leg to the side, keeping your torso straight. Lower slowly and repeat 10 times per leg.
Modification: If standing is too difficult, try side leg lifts while seated.

Final Tips for Success

Start with shorter sessions (5-10 minutes) and increase gradually.
Focus on posture – Keep your chest lifted and shoulders relaxed while exercising.
Consider a balance aid – If you feel unsteady, use a cane or walker when doing standing exercises.
Try chair exercises – If standing is difficult, most exercises can be done while seated for safety.

By practicing these exercises regularly, adults 50+ can improve strength, reduce fall risks, and regain confidence in walking despite peripheral neuropathy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is peripheral neuropathy, and how does it impact mobility?

Peripheral neuropathy involves damage to the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, often leading to sensations like burning, tingling, numbness, and weakness in the feet and legs. This nerve damage can hinder your ability to sense the ground, making walking challenging and increasing the risk of instability and falls.

How prevalent is diabetic neuropathy, and what are the potential dangers?

Diabetic neuropathy affects 50-70% of individuals with diabetes, potentially leading to severe complications such as ulcers and amputations. Symptoms often start with numbness, which can mask injuries, allowing them to become serious. Even without a diabetes diagnosis, neuropathy symptoms may indicate pre-diabetes, necessitating early intervention.

What advantages does walking offer for those with neuropathy?

Walking provides numerous benefits, including improved mood, better sleep quality, weight management, and enhanced heart health. It helps regulate blood sugar levels and can reduce the risk of complications like high blood pressure and joint issues. Walking can be a safe and effective exercise with proper precautions.

How can pain from peripheral neuropathy affect walking?

Pain from neuropathy can deter walking, but managing the pain and gradually increasing walking duration can be beneficial. When walking becomes too painful, alternatives such as cycling, swimming, or water aerobics can provide similar health benefits without exacerbating the pain.

What steps should be taken if neuropathy causes numbness or weakness?

Numbness and weakness can compromise balance and safety. It is crucial to walk on smooth, even surfaces and wear supportive shoes to prevent falls. For severe symptoms, consider low-impact activities like swimming or stationary biking to maintain fitness without risking injury. Regular monitoring and appropriate footwear are key to managing these challenges.

Ingrown Toenails: Treatments and Five Things You Can Do

Posted on January 27, 2021July 1, 2025 by admin

Ingrown toenails can be one of the most painful foot conditions one can experience. But did you know that ingrown toenails can sometimes be treated with home remedies? Here, we’ll discuss what you should do and when it is appropriate to seek professional attention for ingrown toenail treatment.

What exactly is an ingrown toenail?

As the name implies, you would assume the nail is cutting into your flesh and getting buried into the skin. However, this is not the case. It simply means the hard nail is being an irritant to the skin next to it and in some cases, it can actually cause a breakdown in your skin. If the toenail is not clean, it is likely that bacteria will get into the skin where the breakdown occurs.

What causes an ingrown toenail?

Tight fitting shoes could start the problem, so make sure you do not wear shoes that are too narrow or too short. Proper sizing is important.

Trauma – If you drop something heavy like a frozen turkey on your toenail it may cause it to injure the flesh around it, thus causing the nail to dig in. You could also lose the nail in which case it may grow back deformed and then grow in.

Congenital nails – Ingrown nails may be caused by genetics factors than most would expect. It is not uncommon to hear patients say they are getting an ingrown nail just like their dad did when he was their age.

Improper trimming – It’s important to be careful when trimming your nails. It is true that you should trim your nails straight across. However, you must be careful not to leave a sharp corner on the nail; it is okay to round that corner slightly in some cases. Also, trimming your nails too short should be avoided.

Fungus – A fungal infection of the nail can deform it. The nail can become more curved and grow in on the side. Or it may be thickened, and this can also cause more pressure in the middle or sides of the nail.

Foot deformities – If you have toes that deviate, such as a hammertoe or a bunion, the nail may grow in as a result of this. The big toe rubbing against the second toe in the case of a bunion, is a great example.

What should you do if you have an ingrown nail?

Early treatment is important. At first, if the pain is minimal with little to no redness along the side of the nail, you should start treatment. Here are some things you can do to control it:

Soak your foot in soapy water three to four times a day for 10-20 minutes. Dry your foot well and apply an antibiotic cream such as Neosporin.

Get out of your closed shoe as much as possible if it is possible.

Try to gently massage the skin, always from the nail edge. Using coconut oil would be ideal when you do this.

If it is just the tip of the nail edge digging in, you might be able to lift the nail up and use dental floss. It is important to consider using waxed floss.

When to seek medical attention?

If you made the attempts I have suggested, and the pain persists, then it is time to get a professional opinion on your ingrown toenail treatment. Also, there is no deadline as to when you can see the doctor. If your toe is very painful; either red, hot or draining pus, you must make sure you call your podiatrist. No amount of the home care I have suggested may help in this situation.

If you are a diabetic or have problems with poor circulation or have a medical condition that has negative effects on your nervous system, you must immediately see a doctor.

What will the doctor do at the office visit?

In a situation where the edge of the nail is digging, the nail edge may need to be removed. A portion of the nail border or borders may need to be removed. When the edge is removed, in most cases, a chemical is applied that kills the cells that form the nail. No sutures and incisions are used, and most patients do not take medication for pain. In most cases, the patient may go back to work the next day and can work full time.

There is a possibility of a fungal nail. If the nail is not infected and not as severe in many cases, treating the fungus may restore more normal nail growth and therefore reduce the thickness and nail deformity. There are several treatment options the doctor may speak to you about. This includes the use of topicals, oral medication or laser nail treatment. Of these three, laser nail treatment is the most successful. Be aware that not all podiatrists offer to do a laser treatment. So you may consider that when getting a professional opinion of your ingrown nail, especially if you have yellow,thickened and deformed nails.

Now that you know all about ingrown toenail treatment, you will have a more informed plan of action if this happens to you.

Heel and Arch Pain: Revealing the Seven Steps to Take

Posted on January 5, 2021July 1, 2025 by admin

Heel and arch pain can be persistent and painful. The runs and walks you once enjoyed can become a thing of the past; you may start to gain weight, and it can even impede your sleep. The start of the day can be met with extreme pain as you first step down on that heel. It generally affects people physically and mentally.

Considering the function that our feet have, it’s amazing how well they work since they are required to:

Balance the entire body
Adapt to irregularities in terrain
Maintain our balance as we stand
Take on more pressure when we gain weight
Help our body change directions
Function as a shock absorber

Due to these responsibilities, there are a multitude of problems that can cause heel and arch pain.

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis, commonly referred to as heel spur pain, tends to be worse early in the morning when you first stand up. You may find yourself hobbling to the bathroom, but after you’re going about for a few minutes, the pain may to dissipate and get better as the day progresses. This is caused by the fascia, which runs from the ball of your foot to your heel – it often tends to get overstressed therefore causing the tight band of tissue to pull or tear away from the heel. The pain affects directly under the heel where you are bearing weight. Although it is commonly referred to as plantar fasciitis, more recent studies support that it’s not inflamed but rather broken down. So, a term you may hear more of in the future is plantar fasciosis which more accurately describes the condition. It is also now understood that the heel spur you may see on X-ray does not cause the pain, but it is rather the fascia pulling from the same area on the heel bone.

Posterior Tibial Tendonitis

The posterior tibial tendon is a tendon that attaches into the arch of the foot. It’s a very important tendon for stabilizing the foot. If the foot tends to overpronate, which we call flattening, then this tendon can be overworked and this can also frequently cause pain. Particularly, as you get older, the tendon starts to wear down.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can also occur. This may cause burning and tingling and numbness in the arch. It’s less common, but can also be causing pain in the arch.

Arch Pain

If the pain is through the arch it may be from muscle or ligamentous fatigue. This may be caused by a foot that flattens (pronates) over a very high arch which is called a cavus foot.

What causes these problems?

Obesity
Overuse of the arch
Improper and run down shoes

What you can do?

Use ice and rest the area.
Purchase over the counter anti-inflammatories.
Choose over the counter inserts for more support.
Modify your activity by temporarily switching to biking rather than running.
Reduce going barefoot as much as you can. Wearing shoes can offer more support and can reduce pain.
Stretch your calf muscle. If your calf muscle is tight, your ankle can’t flex. It puts more pull and strain on the plantar fascia and other tissues in the arch.
Evaluate your shoes. If they don’t support you enough, you might be due for a new pair.

When should you seek professional help?

If you’ve tried the suggested home remedies and the pain is persisting and/or getting worse, seek medical attention from a foot specialist. It should also be stressed that if you think you injured your foot (either you fell, landed wrong, heard something pop or have significant swelling) seek medical attention immediately.

What is required of you?

A good medical history – Oftentimes your story will tell the doctor the diagnosis.
A physical exam- a lot can be learned from the examination. This can tell the doctor whether the pain is localized or from an overstrained plantar fascia or a tight calf muscle.
Other tests that may be done
- X-rays
- Diagnostic Ultrasound
- MRI

What are the treatments the doctor may discuss with you?

Use of custom-made orthotics to give more precise support to the foot
Cortisone injections
Physical therapy
Immobilization with a cam boot
Stretching and possible use of night splints
Stem cell – regenerative medicine treatment
Laser treatments

If the conservative measures fail and significant heel and arch pain remains, the option of surgery may also be discussed. In the case of plantar fasciitis, conservative measures are usually successful, so rarely does a situation occur where surgery is necessary, but if it is, it is highly successful when performed.

What Are the Benefits of Wearing Orthotics?

Posted on December 23, 2020July 1, 2025 by admin

As a podiatrist, we often recommend orthotic devices as they can be of great benefit for the wearer. Before we dive into the benefits of wearing orthotics, let’s answer the question of what an orthotic is, from a podiatrist point of view.

In today’s world, it seems like everyone is marketing their orthotics. You see them in retail stores, shoe stores, ski shops, and even Facebook ads. As a podiatrist, the whole concept of what an orthotic is has been muddied. My opinion is shared by my colleagues- podiatrists believe there is a non-weight-bearing, neutral-point position of the foot. And so, whatever technique is utilized to fabricate an orthotic, an impression of the foot should be taken in this position.

The foot is positioned at its optimal functional position. Any kind of orthotic that is made from a technique that involves any partial or full weight-bearing, we feel is not done accurately. There are small, torsional abnormalities, sometimes between the front half and rear foot, that are not taken into account when the foot is bearing weight. A podiatrist’s orthotic is much more precise and is able to support and control excessive motion in the foot more accurately. That is not to say that an orthotic made from a weight bearing technique won’t work, but the chances are greatly reduced. It is a common story of patients we treat.

Benefits of Orthotics

I am writing this blog at a time where some advocate barefoot running, or running in minimalist shoes. So hear me out from a foot specialist’s point of view. Outside the office, when someone finds out I’m a podiatrist, I’m often asked what types of shoes are best. Using tact, I’ll make the point that it’s like asking an optometrist what lens prescription they should have. We expect that kind of precision for our eyes, but medicine seems to not think the same rules apply to the feet.

If one has excellent foot structure, I’m not opposed to the idea of barefoot running. My point is that it all starts with what foot type you’ve inherited. It has been observed that 70% of people may have feet that overpronate. Pronation is simply the motion that involves the flattening of your feet. The foot will flatten the arch and abduct, or move away from the other foot. A more ideal foot type does not overpronate, and the actual bony structure helps stabilize and support the foot. There is a locking mechanism that takes place in the bones in the midfoot area. Those that have feet that are much more flexible, or pronates more easily, are thought to have a foot where the bones do not lock and support the foot. Therefore, soft tissue needs to. This can cause excessive stress on structures such as tendons, joints, nerves and other soft tissue structures such as fascia. So, how do you know if custom orthotics might be useful? The following are some tips and specific conditions you should know about.

If you keep getting the same type of injury or foot pain over and over, or if you’ve had that injury for an extended period of time, it may be time to look into orthotics. Especially if you’ve already tried resting, anti-inflammatories, and icing the area. This could also be an indication that your foot type lends itself towards having specific issues.

Soft tissue problems

Plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis
- One of the more common problems is plantar fasciitis commonly referred to as heel pain. Orthotics will reduce the stress of the plantar fascia pulling on the bottom of the heel. For Achilles tendonitis the stress on the Achilles will be reduced.
Foot deformities
- Bunions may also be helped with orthotics. If you have an enlargement on the inside of your big toe you may benefit especially in the early stages of the deformity.

Nerve problems

Neuromas and tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Neuromas are a nerve enlargement that can occur in the ball of the foot. If you’re experiencing burning, tingling and numbness on the bottom of your foot, you may have tarsal tunnel syndrome.
Joint pain
- Arthritis in the foot can also be treated with orthotics and it’s a safer, drug free approach. This may include big toe joint pain commonly referred to as Hallux limitus. Also, ankle pain and pain in the small joints in your arch.

Final Thoughts

You may save money as you’ll quit shopping for shoes to solve your foot problems. The orthotic can be taken from shoe to shoe and will neutralize the less optimal shoe as it’s designed precisely for your foot.
You’ll avoid injuries as certain foot structures lend themselves to certain injuries
You could lose weight and sleep better as you become more active.

If you yourself frustrated with your inability to stay active, please consider a consultation with us to truly understand more about the foot structure you have and how it may be the issue that no one has explained to you. There are many benefits of wearing orthotics, so it’s time you discover for yourself!

Get Rid of Embarrassing Nail Fungus with a One-Two Punch Treatment exclusive to Anderson Podiatry Center!

Posted on May 16, 2019July 1, 2025 by admin

What Is Nail Fungus?

As a podiatrist, I have heard nail fungus described in many different ways, and none of them are nice: Gross, icky, thick, brittle, deformed, disfigured, discolored nails are one of the most common foot issues that we see.

In most cases, it is caused by a fungal infection of the nails. Studies have estimated that up to 20-25% of people are affected by fungal nail infections ailment, and up to 35% of diabetics.

Fortunately, in most cases this infection doesn’t cause any other health issues, and remains confined to the toes and even fingernails.

For those that have this infection, the main complaint is cosmetic (most likely due to an ingrown toenail). In some cases, however, the infected nails can lead to chronic pain due to nail thickening, or even chronic ingrown nails.

Do Home Remedies Work?

Over the years, there have been many treatments attempted for this with most of them having rather dismal results. There are more over-the-counter topical treatments for this then I care to count. There’s even more “home remedies.” Unfortunately, these types of treatments rarely help. We don’t see much improvement in appearance, and they don’t cure the infection.

Over-the-counter medication for the treatment of athlete’s foot has also been shown to have little effect.

Treating this infection with oral anti-fungal medication has been shown to have better results than with topical treatments. But, overall, the cure rates with this medication have been disappointing.

A One-Two Punch Treatment That Works!

At Anderson Podiatry Center we treat toenail (and fingernail!) fungus with two very effective treatments that, when combined, very often produce results that patients are extremely happy with:

Laser Treatment A recent advancement in nail fungus treatment is laser therapy. We have been treating nail fungus with the PinPointe laser system for many years and have been very pleased with the results! It is the only laser that is specifically designed to treat nail fungus, vs other multi-use lasers, so it is often extremely effective. It involves direct laser therapy to the nails and directs heat underneath the nail (where the fungus lives) to a temperature that destroys the fungus, but does not burn or harm your toe.For most people, this procedure takes 3-4 treatments, which are spaced out every three months or so. It can take up to a year to fully grow out the infected nail and replace it with healthy nail.
Excusive Topical Treatment We also now use a newly developed, prescription-grade topical treatment that is showing via studies to likely be the most effective topical treatment for fungal nails available. When combined with the laser, we see excellent results.It quickly reduces the yellow discoloration, thickness and brittleness of the nail, so it looks much better while the nail is growing out. Patients love it!

A Final Step

We even add a third (recommended) step: using an anti-fungal nail polish that helps prevent the nail fungus from returning. We want our patients to have clear nails that last.

Don’t Wear Socks To The Beach

So, if you are currently wearing socks to the beach or keeping your hands in your pockets because you are embarrassed by your nails, this treatment is for you. It’s time to ditch the socks and let your little piggy’s and your hands out to play again.

We know nail fungus is embarrassing and frustrating, but the only way to get rid of it is to seek appropriate, effective treatment. With our one-two punch, clear nails can quickly be yours!

Please don’t wait any longer to schedule an appointment. Come visit your podiatrist in Fort Collins or Broomfield for further consultation.

Call us today, and mention this blog for a free phone consult*.

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To learn more about how we treat nail fungus, click here.

*Free consult: Complete new patient appointment and exam not included.