Neuropathy is a medical condition that affects the peripheral nerves, most commonly in the feet and legs. It occurs when nerves become damaged and are unable to properly transmit signals between the brain and the body. This can lead to altered sensation, pain, or complete loss of feeling in the affected areas. Neuropathy is a significant concern in podiatry because it increases the risk of foot injuries going unnoticed, which can lead to more serious complications, such as neuropathic ulcers. These are open sores that develop due to repeated pressure or unnoticed trauma in areas with reduced sensation.

Symptoms of neuropathy in the feet often begin gradually and may include tingling, burning sensations, numbness, or sharp shooting pain. Some individuals experience a feeling of walking on pins and needles, while others may notice a complete loss of feeling in parts of the foot. Neuropathic ulcers develop when minor injuries, blisters, or pressure points go unnoticed due to reduced sensation. These ulcers commonly appear on weight-bearing areas, such as the ball of the foot or heel. Because pain signals are diminished, the condition may progress without immediate awareness, increasing the risk of infection.

Risk factors for neuropathy include diabetes, chronic alcohol use, vitamin deficiencies, certain infections, and long-term exposure to toxins. Diabetes is one of the leading causes, as elevated blood sugar levels can damage nerves. Individuals with poor circulation or a history of foot deformities are also at higher risk of developing neuropathic ulcers. Repetitive pressure, ill-fitting footwear, and prolonged standing can worsen the condition and contribute to skin breakdown. Without proper care, neuropathic ulcers can become infected and may lead to more serious complications.

The causes of neuropathy involve damage to the peripheral nerves, which may result from metabolic, infectious, or mechanical factors. When nerve function is impaired, the protective sensation in the feet is reduced, making it difficult to detect injuries. Neuropathic ulcers form when continuous pressure or friction is applied to an area without the natural pain response that would normally trigger protective action. This leads to skin breakdown and open wounds that require specialized care. If you have neuropathy or have developed an ulcer, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat neuropathy foot ulcers.

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 one of our podiatrists  from David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. 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 office located in Duryea, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Big toe pain may be an indication of underlying medical conditions. It may come from various forms of arthritis, including gout, which can cause debilitating pain. Other foot conditions can cause pain in the toes. These can include sesamoiditis, ingrown toenails, turf toe, or a broken toe. The former is an ailment that affects the tendons surrounding the sesamoid bone. It is common among ballet dancers and can occur due to their style of dance. An ingrown toenail happens when the nail grows into the skin instead of over it and can cause severe toe pain if it becomes infected. Turf toe often affects athletes and can happen from jamming the big toe during sporting activities. A broken toe can happen if a heavy object drops on it. There are various methods to treat toe pain, and it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat your type of pain.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. 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 Duryea, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A calcaneal stress fracture is a small crack in the heel bone that develops over time from repeated impact. It often appears as deep heel pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest, though it can become constant if ignored. Swelling and tenderness in the back or bottom of the heel may also be present. This condition is common in runners, athletes, and individuals who suddenly increase activity levels. It happens when the bone is unable to keep up with repeated stress and begins to weaken. A podiatrist can evaluate the heel through examination and imaging to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment focuses on protecting the bone, reducing strain, and guiding a safe return to activity. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat the problem. 

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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

An ankle sprain happens when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn, often after the foot twists awkwardly during walking, sports, or a misstep. While many people assume they should simply rest and wait, proper treatment can help recovery move along more safely. A podiatrist may use specific examination guidelines to decide whether imaging is needed to rule out a fracture. Treatment often includes measures to reduce swelling and discomfort, hands-on techniques to improve joint movement, and supportive bracing or wrapping to protect the ankle while it heals. In many cases, gentle walking is encouraged sooner rather than keeping the ankle completely still for too long, since controlled movement can support recovery. Short-term protection combined with the right treatment plan can help restore strength and stability. If you have ankle pain, swelling, or trouble walking after an injury, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. 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 office located in Duryea, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.