Common symptoms that are linked to poor circulation can include cold feet, tingling or burning sensations, and swollen feet. There are several reasons why this condition may develop. These can include plaque buildup in the arteries, diabetes, or if there is an existing blood clot. Additionally, patients who smoke, stand for extended periods of time throughout the day, or who are obese may be at risk of developing poor circulation. A diagnosis may consist of testing the blood for elevated glucose levels which may indicate diabetes, as well as performing an ultrasound that can examine your blood vessels. Patients may find moderate relief when compression stockings are worn, which may help to provide a comfortable level of support. If you are suffering from poor circulation, it is advised that you speak to a podiatrist who can offer you proper treatment techniques.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness 
• Numbness or cramping in the legs
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

The cuboid bone is located on the outer edge of the foot, and is responsible for maintaining movement while walking. A sudden injury or gradual decline can cause the cuboid bone to shift, and this can make completing daily activities difficult. Cuboid syndrome occurs when this bone shifts and the surrounding tendons and ligaments become inflamed. Patients who frequently wear high heels can endure a cuboid bone injury, and ballet dancers often notice this is as a common ailment. The pain that is generally felt with this condition is on the outside and sole of the foot, which can cause severe pain and discomfort. If you are afflicted with cuboid syndrome, it is strongly suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment options. 

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, 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.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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

Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that causes thickened, discolored, and brittle nails. It often begins as a white or yellow spot under the tip of the toenail and gradually spreads deeper, leading to nail distortion, crumbling edges, and possible separation from the nail bed. The infected nail may feel rough, emit a foul odor, and cause discomfort or pain when wearing shoes. Causes include exposure to warm, moist environments such as public showers, locker rooms, and around swimming pools, as well as wearing tight shoes or having a history of athlete's foot. A podiatrist can diagnose toenail fungus through a physical exam and by analyzing nail clippings. Treatment options include topical or oral antifungal medications, or in severe cases, removal of the affected nail. Early treatment increases success rates and prevents further spread. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to properly identify and treat toenail fungus.

For more information about treatment, 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.

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 contact our offices located in Duryea and Bangor, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ingrown toenail surgery is a procedure performed to correct a toenail that grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. Common causes include improper nail trimming, wearing tight footwear, trauma, or naturally curved nails. The procedure typically involves removing part or all of the affected nail and, in some cases, treating the nail matrix to prevent recurrence. Risk factors include diabetes, poor circulation, or previous ingrown toenails. Surgery is recommended when conservative care, such as soaking, antibiotics, or protective measures, fails to relieve discomfort. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, which may include minor surgery for removal.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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