Items filtered by date: July 2024

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a common issue for individuals with type 2 diabetes, with nearly half experiencing this complication. This condition arises when prolonged high blood sugar levels cause damage to the nerves, especially in the feet and lower legs. Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include numbness, tingling, burning sensations, and muscle weakness, which can progressively disrupt daily activities. A significant concern is “diabetic foot,” where the loss of feeling and poor blood flow can lead to ulcers, infections, and in severe cases loss of limb. Diabetic neuropathy also can increase the risk of falls and fractures due to lack of sensation in the feet, impaired balance and reduced coordination. Factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, obesity, and cholesterol issues can further increase the risk of developing this diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Early detection and proper management are of extreme importance. If you notice unusual sensations in your feet or lower legs, especially persistent numbness or pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can conduct a thorough examination and recommend a personalized treatment plan. 

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 Richard DiBacco, DPM from Podiatry Associates of Erie, Inc.. Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Erie and Meadville, PA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that primarily affects the spaces between the toes. Anyone exposed to the fungus can become infected, not just athletes. Dermatophytes, the fungi responsible for this condition,  thrive in warm, moist environments, making hot, sweaty feet the perfect breeding ground. Symptoms can include redness, cracking, flaking, and itching of the skin, particularly between the toes. Athlete's foot is extremely contagious, spreading through direct contact or via contaminated surfaces like gym locker rooms and communal showers at indoor pools. Risk factors can include eczema, excessive sweating, weakened immune systems, circulation problems, and wearing sturdy, non-breathable footwear. A podiatrist can diagnose athlete’s foot and recommend effective treatments as well as provide preventive measures to keep the infection from recurring. If you have developed an athlete's foot infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Richard DiBacco, DPM from Podiatry Associates of Erie, Inc.. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

Plantar warts are small, grainy growths that appear on the soles of the feet, typically caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV. This virus enters the skin through tiny cuts or abrasions, often in warm, moist environments like public showers, gym locker rooms, or pools. Plantar warts are characterized by their rough texture and may have small black dots on the surface, which are clotted blood vessels. They can cause discomfort or pain, especially while walking or standing. The pressure from bearing weight on the feet can cause the wart to grow inward beneath a hard, thick layer of skin, making it more painful. Common symptoms include a painful, thickened spot on the sole, a rough surface, and difficulty in walking comfortably. If you have developed a plantar wart, it is suggested that you seek prompt attention from a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment techniques.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Richard DiBacco, DPM from Podiatry Associates of Erie, Inc.. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Erie and Meadville, PA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Hallux rigidus, or stiff big toe, is a form of arthritis affecting the joint at the base of the big toe, leading to pain and stiffness. This condition occurs due to the wear and tear of the cartilage in the joint, which can be accelerated by repetitive stress, injury, or genetic predisposition. It commonly affects adults over 30, especially those with a history of foot injuries, or occupations that place significant stress on the feet. Symptoms can include pain and stiffness in the big toe during movement, swelling surrounding the joint, and difficulty in bending the toe. Over time, bone spurs may develop, further limiting motion and causing discomfort. Complications of untreated hallux rigidus can include chronic pain, difficulty walking, and an altered gait, leading to additional foot, knee, hip, or back problems. Prevention involves wearing supportive shoes with a wide toe box, avoiding high heels, and performing foot exercises to maintain flexibility. Treatment options range from non-surgical methods, such as anti-inflammatory medications, orthotics, and targeted stretching exercises, to surgical intervention, in severe cases. If you have a stiff and painful big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Richard DiBacco, DPM from Podiatry Associates of Erie, Inc.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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

Patience and proper care are key to a full recovery from a broken foot. Healing times can vary depending on the location and severity of the break, as well as the patient's overall health and age. Typically, bones take several weeks to mend, with the initial phase focusing on immobilization to ensure proper alignment. During this time, it is important to avoid putting weight on the injured foot to prevent complications. As the weeks progress, gradual weight-bearing activities may be introduced, guided by a podiatrist. Throughout the healing process, specific stretches and other exercises can play an essential role in restoring strength and flexibility. A consistent and careful approach will support the natural healing process, leading to a stronger and healthier foot. If you have broken your foot, it is suggested that you promptly visit a podiatrist who can guide you toward the correct treatment, which may include a walking boot or a cast.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Richard DiBacco, DPM from Podiatry Associates of Erie, Inc.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Erie and Meadville, PA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.