Diabetic neuropathy affects the nerves in the feet, toes, and ankles due to prolonged high blood sugar levels. This nerve damage can cause numbness, tingling, burning pain, and muscle weakness, making walking more difficult. Since people with diabetic neuropathy may not feel injuries, even minor cuts or blisters can go unnoticed and lead to serious complications, including infections and foot ulcers. Poor circulation, another complication of diabetes, can slow the healing process and increase the risk of added problems. A podiatrist can assess nerve function, monitor for foot deformities, and recommend appropriate footwear to prevent pressure sores. Regular checkups with this type of doctor can help by detecting issues early, reducing the risk of complications that may require wound care or surgery. A podiatrist may also provide guidance on managing calluses, toenail problems, and dry skin to prevent infections. If you struggle with the effects of diabetic neuropathy, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for regular checkups and appropriate care.

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 Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. 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 offices located in Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden and severe pain, swelling, and redness. This condition occurs when the body either produces too much uric acid or cannot eliminate it efficiently. Common causes include a diet high in purine-rich foods, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and underlying medical conditions such as kidney disease. Genetic factors can also contribute to the risk of developing gout. This condition affects millions of people worldwide, with higher prevalence in regions where diets are rich in red meat and seafood. Gout is more common in men but can also affect postmenopausal women. Gout can cause severe pain and discomfort. If you have had one or more gout flare-ups, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and prevention solutions.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toenails change over time, just like the rest of the body. As people age, nails tend to grow more slowly, becoming thicker, harder, and more brittle. Many notice a yellowish or dull appearance, making them harder to trim. Years of pressure from shoes, minor injuries, or underlying conditions like poor circulation and arthritis can cause nails to become misshapen or develop ridges. Fungal infections are more common in older adults, leading to discolored, crumbly nails that may lift from the nail bed. Some people may experience dry, splitting nails due to decreased moisture retention. Thickened nails can press against shoes, causing discomfort or even pain. Regular foot care is essential. Keeping nails trimmed, moisturizing, and wearing well-fitted shoes can help. If your toenails become too thick, painful, or infected, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can provide proper care to keep feet healthy.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.