Northampton (610) 261-1001


Easton (610) 253-4821

review Edward D. Hutson Jr, DPM on google
review Edward D. Hutson Jr, DPM on google
review Edward D. Hutson Jr, DPM on google

Blog

Heel Pain Can Be Treated!

Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek professional help and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.

Peripheral Neuropathy and the Feet

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that affects the nerves in the feet, toes, and ankles, leading to symptoms such as burning, tingling, numbness, and pain. These symptoms can make it difficult to feel injuries or changes in temperature, which increases the risk of developing blisters, sores, and infections. Over time, untreated infections may lead to serious complications, including changes in foot structure or, in severe cases, the loss of a toe or foot. People with peripheral neuropathy may also experience muscle weakness and balance problems, making them more prone to falls. A podiatrist plays a key role in managing peripheral neuropathy by performing detailed exams to assess nerve function and blood flow in the feet. Monofilament exams and tuning fork evaluations can help determine the extent of nerve damage. A podiatrist can also provide guidance on proper foot care, early treatment for injuries, and strategies to prevent complications. If you have symptoms of peripheral neuropathy that affect your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

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 Dr. Edward D. Hutson from Easton, PA. . 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 our offices located in Easton, and Northampton, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Neuropathy

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Surgery for an Ingrown Toenail

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin causing pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. This condition is most common on the big toe and can occur from improper nail trimming, wearing tight shoes, or injury to the toe. When conservative treatments such as soaking, proper nail care, and antibiotics for infection do not provide relief, ingrown toenail surgery may be necessary. A podiatrist numbs the toe with a local anesthetic during the procedure to ensure comfort. This is followed by carefully removing the portion of the nail that is growing into the skin. In more severe cases, part of the nail bed may also be removed to prevent the nail from growing back into the skin. The area is cleaned and a dressing is applied. With proper care and hygiene, recovery typically takes a few weeks to ensure a successful healing process. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can provide the best treatment solutions which may include surgery.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Edward D. Hutson of Easton, PA. . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

  • Improper toenail trimming
  • Genetics
  • Improper shoe fitting
  • Injury from pedicures or nail picking
  • Abnormal gait
  • Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

Read more about Ingrown Toenails

Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?

Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

Connect with us