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MLS Treatment for Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a common complication of type 1 and 2 diabetes. It occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the nerves extending from the brain and spinal cord to various body parts, including the feet. This condition primarily affects the peripheral nerves, which control sensations and movements in the arms, legs, hands, and feet. Characteristics of diabetic peripheral neuropathy are numbing and tingling sensations, loss of feeling in affected areas, and burning or shooting pain. Additional symptoms include muscle weakness, coordination problems, or foot and leg complications. Treatment options may consist of medications to manage pain, exercise to improve strength and coordination, and lifestyle modifications to prevent complications. Studies suggest that low-level laser therapy for peripheral neuropathy may improve pain and other symptoms, such as sensory function. Laser therapy has also been shown to increase foot temperature, suggesting improved microcirculation. If you suffer from diabetic neuropathy, make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss which treatment is best for you.
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. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein 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 Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
How Pregnancy Affects Your Feet and Ankles

Pregnancy is a transformative journey, both physically and emotionally. While the focus is often on the growing belly and changing hormones, the feet and ankles quietly bear the burden of these changes also. Swollen feet and ankles, a common pregnancy woe, occur due to increased blood volume and pressure on veins, causing fluid retention. This can lead to discomfort and sometimes pain. Additionally, hormonal shifts can affect ligaments, making them more relaxed and prone to injury. As pregnancy progresses, the arches of the feet may flatten, leading to fallen arches or flat feet. These changes can persist even after childbirth. Fortunately, there are ways to alleviate these issues, such as wearing comfortable, supportive shoes, elevating the feet when possible, and staying hydrated. Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, and it is essential to remember that taking care of your feet and ankles is an integral part of the process. If you would like more information about proper foot care during pregnancy, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can provide you with useful tips.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.
How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?
- Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
- Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
- Wear shoes with good arch support
- Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
- Elevate feet if you experience swelling
- Massage your feet
- Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Definition and Reasons for Developing Hammertoe

Hammertoe, a relatively common foot condition, is often the source of discomfort and inconvenience for many individuals. This deformity occurs when the middle joint of one or more of your smaller toes becomes bent and stuck in an abnormal position. The affected toes often resemble the shape of a hammer, hence the name. Hammertoes can develop for a variety of reasons, including genetics, foot structure, or wearing ill-fitting shoes. High heels and shoes that squeeze the toes together can exacerbate the problem. Hammertoes can lead to pain, corns, calluses, and difficulty finding comfortable footwear. While the condition can be hereditary, early intervention through wearing proper footwear and certain medical treatment can help prevent or alleviate the discomfort associated with hammertoes, allowing individuals to maintain healthier and happier feet. If you are afflicted with hammertoe, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can guide you toward effective relief options.
Hammertoe
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.
Symptoms
- Pain in the affected toes
- Development of corns or calluses due to friction
- Inflammation
- Redness
- Contracture of the toes
Causes
Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible
Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur
Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe
Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe
Treatment
Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it
Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used
Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Is There a Difference Between Flat Feet and Overpronation?

Flat feet and overpronation, although often seen together, are distinct conditions that can exist independently. Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, are characterized by the lack of an arch on the inside of the foot, resulting in the entire sole touching the ground. Overpronation relates to the dynamic movement of the foot during activities such as walking or running. Pronation is the natural inward roll and lowering of the arch when weight is placed on the foot. Overpronation means this movement is excessive, potentially leading to issues due to altered force patterns on the foot and leg. The collapse of the arch when standing can lead to excessive pronation while in motion. Correcting flat feet often involves both raising the arch when standing and controlling pronation during activities such as walking or running. Some individuals may have a normal arch, but still overpronate during high impact activities. Treatment and exercises for flat feet can sometimes overlap with those for overpronation. If you have either of these conditions, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can examine your feet and gait patterns to determine whether you have a problem requiring treatment.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Are Flat Feet?
Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms
- Pain around the heel or arch area
- Trouble standing on the tip toe
- Swelling around the inside of the ankle
- Flat look to one or both feet
- Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Definition, Causes, and Treatment of Clubfoot

Clubfoot, a congenital condition, impacts the development of a newborn's foot or feet, leading to an abnormal position. The foot is turned inward and downward, resembling the shape of a golf club, hence the name. While the exact cause is not always clear, both genetic and environmental factors can play a role. During pregnancy, abnormal positioning of the baby's feet in the womb can contribute to developing clubfoot. Early treatment of this condition is important and generally begins within weeks of birth. The Ponseti method, a non-surgical approach involving gentle manipulation and casting, is a common treatment. Braces are used to maintain correction after the casting phase. In some cases, surgery may be necessary. Timely intervention and comprehensive treatment enable children with clubfoot to lead active, fulfilling lives. If your child has been born with clubfoot, it is strongly suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can determine what the best course of treatment is to pursue.
Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M of Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Rare Foot Conditions
The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist. Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care.
There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:
- Freiberg’s disease
- Kohler’s disease
- Maffucci syndrome
Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp.
Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.
Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking.
A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Causes of Morton’s Neuroma

Foot pain can significantly impact one's quality of life, limiting activities like walking, exercising, and even playing with your children. Morton's neuroma is an increasingly common condition that arises from the thickening of nerve tissues in the foot due to extreme compression and irritation. The condition stems from compression of the plantar digital nerves and can lead to permanent damage if not treated promptly. Morton's neuroma most often occurs between the third and fourth toes. Women are more susceptible, possibly due to wearing high-heeled shoes. Improper foot biomechanics, like flat feet or high arches, can also contribute by creating instability around the toe joints. Symptoms of Morton's neuroma include pain, tingling, numbness, and burning sensations, often felt between the toes or in the ball of the foot. Swelling is common, particularly between the toes. Tight, narrow-toed shoes can increase nerve stress and make matters worse. Walking, especially on stairs, can further intensify the pain. Non-surgical interventions include custom orthotic shoe inserts, wearing comfortable shoes with room for the toes, and taking anti-inflammatory medication. Early consultation with a podiatrist is suggested for tailored treatment plans and to avoid surgery.
Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M of Florida. Dr. Klein will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.
What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?
- Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
- Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
- Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities
Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Benefits of Wearing Custom Made Orthotics

Custom shoe orthotics offer numerous benefits for people who are seeking enhanced foot comfort and overall well-being. First, they provide personalized support, catering to specific foot anatomy and addressing individual concerns such as arch height, overpronation, or plantar fasciitis. By promoting proper alignment, orthotics can help to alleviate foot and lower body pain, reducing strain on muscles and joints. Additionally, they enhance shock absorption, making daily activities and sports more comfortable with less impact on the feet. Custom orthotics can also improve posture and balance, reducing the risk of injuries related to misalignment. Moreover, they can correct gait issues, making walking and running more efficient and reducing fatigue. Additionally, custom orthotics can prevent and help to correct various foot conditions, making them a valuable investment for those seeking long-term foot health and improved quality of life. If you are seeking more information about custom orthotics, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist.
If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Are Orthotics?
Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.
Over-the-Counter Inserts
Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.
Prescription Orthotics
If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.
If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Plantar Fasciitis and Toe Extensions
Plantar fasciitis is one of the leading foot conditions among Americans causing heel pain. The condition is characterized by the aggravation of the plantar fascia. Depending on your particular case of plantar fasciitis, a medical professional might recommend that you perform any number of stretches to mitigate the pain. For example, a medical professional, such as a podiatrist, might recommend that to combat plantar fasciitis, you can perform toe extensions. This stretch can be performed by putting the affected foot behind the other in a standing position. Then, contract the calf muscles and lift the back heel to essentially extend the toes. If you are someone that is living with plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for an exam and treatment options.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Excessive running
- Non-supportive shoes
- Overpronation
- Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
How Can It Be Treated?
- Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
- Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
- Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Minor Wound Care Methods

A wound is defined as damage to the skin’s surface. Wounds occur when there is a break in the skin due to a cut or scrape. A wound can also be caused by an animal bite and bedridden patients may develop bed sores. For mild wounds, proper wound care can begin with washing the hands, followed by holding a clean cloth on the affected area to help stop the bleeding. It is beneficial to rinse the wound with water and remove any dirt that has lodged inside of it. When the wound is dried, a bandage or gauze can be used to cover it. It is beneficial to change the dressing daily which may help to keep it free of bacteria that may accumulate from daily activities. If you have a wound on your foot, it is strongly suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can treat and monitor the severity of the wound.
Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Wound Care?
Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic.
What Is the Importance of Wound Care?
While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.
How to Care for Wounds
The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Certain Medical Conditions May Cause Cracked Heels

The foot condition that is known as cracked heels affects approximately 20 percent of adults throughout the country. Severely cracked heels are referred to as fissures, and may bleed and become infected. Cracked heels can happen from frequently wearing shoes that have an open back, or from standing on hard surfaces for most of the day. Having the correct knowledge of why this condition develops can be followed by implementing prevention strategies. These can include washing and drying the feet thoroughly, followed by applying a good moisturizer on them. It is helpful to avoid flip-flops when possible, and instead, it is beneficial to choose a shoe that has a cushioned heel. There may be existing medical conditions that may cause cracked heels to develop. These can include thyroid disorders, poor circulation, and elevated glucose levels. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can offer you correct relief and treatment methods.
Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Cracked Heels
Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.
How Do You Get Them?
Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.
Promote Healing
Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.
Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.
Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.
Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin.
Change in Diet
Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.
Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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Arthritis and Ankle Pain

Ankle pain can be caused by various things. Arthritis is a common reason people may have ankle pain, and can wreak havoc on completing daily activities. Several types of arthritis can affect the ankle. Studies have shown osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and is considered to be a chronic condition. When it affects the ankle, it is found at the point where the ankle meets the shinbone. Typical symptoms of this type of arthritis can consist of pain and stiffness, and the ankle may be difficult to move. The feet and ankles can also be affected by rheumatoid arthritis, which can happen when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the ankle joints. Juvenile arthritis can develop in people who are under the age of 16, who may notice their feet and ankles are painful and swollen. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can determine if arthritis is the cause and offer effective treatment methods.
Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
- Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
- Ankle sprains
- Broken ankles
- Achilles tendinitis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Stress fractures
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Did I Break My Foot?

A broken foot is one of the most common injuries seen in emergency rooms. Broken bones in the foot are usually caused by some type of trauma. Car accidents, dropping something heavy on the foot, and tripping over something are a few causes of fractures in the foot. Runners often experience stress fractures, which are tiny cracks in the bones and are caused by repetitive force. A fall also may cause a broken bone in the foot. Extreme pain and swelling are probably the most common symptoms of a broken foot, in addition to bruising and tenderness when touched. With more severe fractures, a bone may be jutting out of the skin, and immediate medical intervention is imperative. If you feel you may have broken a bone in your foot, it is wise to avoid further damage by keeping the foot immobilized, and avoiding standing or walking on it. An X-ray may be required to determine the location and severity of the broken bone, or bones, depending on the cause. Because the symptoms of a broken or fractured foot bone are similar to sprains, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an examination and appropriate treatment.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein 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 our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Why Does My Big Toe Hurt?

There are various reasons why pain in the big toe can happen. The foot condition that is known as gout causes sharp pain in the joints of the big toe. Many people notice the pain can begin at night, and happens as a result of excess uric acid that collects in the toe joints. Having an ingrown toenail can cause intense toe pain. This condition occurs when the nail grows into the skin of the side of the toe instead of over it, and can be accompanied by swelling, redness, and tenderness. The ligaments in the toe are affected when turf toe happens, and can be a common injury among athletes. A bony lump that forms on the side of the big toe may indicate a bunion has developed. The gradual movement of this toe may cause the other toes to shift toward each other, and larger shoes may need to be purchased. If you have toe pain, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer effective treatment solutions.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M of Florida. Dr. Klein 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 feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
How Psoriasis Can Affect the Feet

Psoriasis is an auto-immune skin condition that can affect many parts of the body, including the feet. When it causes a thickening of the skin covered in scales, it is referred to as plaque psoriasis. Symptoms of plaque psoriasis are itchy, dry, and cracked skin. Toenails may become pitted, cracked, or crumbly, and the affected skin may be painful. Scratching the skin leaves it open to infection. Psoriasis of the feet is referred to as pustular and may be the result of banging or rubbing of the area. This produces an itching sensation that can become quite uncomfortable. While there is no known cure for psoriasis, many treatment options are available, including steroid creams, medicated ointments, and moisturizers. For more information about dealing with psoriasis of the feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.
Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Everyday Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.
It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.