Pain that radiates throughout a foot can be debilitating. Without treatment by Podiatry in Orange CA, a person’s mobility may become impaired, as the pressure from each step intensifies the discomfort. Pain in the feet may also be a signal of a more serious condition, such as diabetes. Diabetes is a metabolic disorder in which the body is unable to produce enough insulin to suppress rising sugar levels. When high levels of sugar are present for too long, nerve damage, known as diabetic neuropathy, can trigger a burning sensation, numbness or sharp stabbing pains in the feet, arms and legs. Unless diabetes is controlled, permanent damage can take place.
Foot problems can be the result of an accident or injury. Medical conditions such as calluses, corns, bunions, nail fungus, ingrown toenails, hammertoes, plantar warts and athlete’s foot can develop from ill-fitting shoes, or constant moisture exposure. Depending on the problem, the feet may become itchy, cracked, scaly, or the skin may peel. The feet may also develop unsightly bumps or deformities that can be painful to the touch. A foot specialist, at Podiatry in Orange CA, has ways to remove these bothersome ailments. With the use of products such as moleskin, medications like salicylic acid, anti-fungal creams, exercise, and even surgery in some cases, all of these foot conditions can be successfully treated.
Fallen arches are another source of foot pain, since a person who has flat feet will walk unevenly, which improperly puts stress on the hips, legs and lower back. Podiatry in Orange CA can create custom arch supports to correct the distribution of weight on the feet. When placed in a patient’s shoes, these orthopedic appliances can put the pressure on the correct part of the foot, relieving pain in the process. In rare instances, a podiatrist may recommend surgery to correct fallen arches.
Podiatry in Orange CA treats all problems of the feet. Heel spurs, developmental growth issues, and ankle pain are some other conditions that require medical care. If pain in the foot is persistent, or a condition suddenly develops and won’t go away, a podiatrist may be able to help.