Nerve damage in the feet, particularly involving the nerves between the toes, may lead to pain in the ball of the foot, also termed metatarsalgia. This type of nerve damage may result in a neuroma, which is a benign thickening of nerve tissue, commonly found between the third and fourth toes. Tight or poorly fitted shoes, reduced fat padding in the foot, and structural foot issues may place excessive pressure on these nerves. Symptoms of neuropathy include a mild ache or tingling in the toes, often becoming more intense with certain footwear. As the condition progresses, a patient may feel persistent burning pain or the sensation of having a pebble inside the shoe. A podiatrist may recommend footwear changes, orthotic devices, or injections. If conservative methods fail, surgery may be required to remove the affected nerve. If you have foot problems related to nerve damage in the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
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. Richard DiMario from Maine. 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:
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 York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing irritation and discomfort. This condition most commonly affects the big toe and can result from improper nail trimming, wearing tight shoes, toe injuries, or inherited nail shapes. Symptoms include redness, swelling, pain along the nail edge, and sometimes infection with drainage or increased tenderness. If left untreated, an athlete's foot infection may worsen and lead to more serious complications. Diagnosis is usually made through a clinical examination of the affected toe. A podiatrist can provide relief by carefully removing the ingrown portion, treating any infection, and offering guidance on proper nail care. Ingrown toenails can cause severe pain and discomfort. If you have developed this condition, it is strongly suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment remedies.
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. Richard DiMario of Maine. 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
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 office located in York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Proper foot care is essential for elderly people to maintain mobility, comfort, and overall health. A daily examination helps detect cuts, sores, or infections early, especially for those with diabetes or circulation issues. Washing the feet with warm water and drying them thoroughly prevents fungal and bacterial infections. Keeping nails trimmed and smooth reduces the risk of ingrown toenails and discomfort. Wearing well-fitted, supportive shoes helps prevent falls and relieves pressure on sensitive areas. Promoting healthy blood flow through regular movement and foot elevation is also important. A podiatrist can assist with routine care, identify potential problems early, and provide treatments that support foot function. If you are elderly, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and guide you on additional foot care tips.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Richard DiMario from Maine. Our doctor 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
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 office located in York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
Symptoms of foot pain may include burning, numbness, swelling, or sharp pain in the toes, heel, or arch. These issues may stem from nerve compression, inflammation, poor circulation, or joint damage. Swollen ankles may follow injuries or may be linked to underlying conditions that restrict fluid movement. Tingling or numbness might point to nerve damage caused by repetitive pressure or complications from medical conditions. Stiffness or intense pain in the morning may suggest inflammation of tissue or tendon problems. Runners or people who stand for long periods may experience increased pain from stress on the bones and soft tissue of the feet. Redness, itching, or rashes may indicate infections or allergic responses. Hard or soft lumps may form on different parts of the foot, often due to cysts or joint deformities. A podiatrist can evaluate these foot pain symptoms, perform diagnostic tests, and recommend medical treatment or surgery, if needed. If you are experiencing foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Richard DiMario from Maine. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Corns are thick, hardened areas of skin that develop on the feet due to repeated pressure or friction, often from wearing tight shoes or abnormal foot mechanics. Unlike callouses, which are broader and form on weight-bearing areas like the soles, corns are smaller, have a hard center, and typically develop on toes or between them. They can feel like you are walking on a pebble and may become painful, especially when wearing shoes. Common symptoms include a hard or raised bump, tenderness, and soreness in the affected area. Corns may be surrounded by inflamed skin and can sometimes lead to infection if not properly treated. A podiatrist can determine the cause of the corns and recommend appropriate treatment. Options include safe removal of the corn, padding to reduce pressure, custom orthotics to improve foot alignment, and guidance on proper footwear. Addressing the root cause helps prevent recurrence. If you are experiencing this condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Richard DiMario of Maine. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.
Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:
Treating Corns
Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
When bunions cause significant pain or disrupt everyday activities, surgery may be recommended after other treatment options have been attempted. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of the bunion and explain whether surgery is warranted. Bunion surgery can offer pain relief, improved alignment, and better stability, but it also involves potential risks. Some surgical options involve removing bone, reshaping the joint, or fusing bones to limit movement and prevent the bunion from returning. Results can depend heavily on the severity of the bunion, the specific procedure used, and how well the foot heals. Risks include infection, nerve damage, joint stiffness, and the possibility that the bunion could recur. Some patients may also experience reduced toe flexibility or have problems wearing certain types of shoes following surgery. If bunions are interfering with your daily activities, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to find out if surgery is an option for you.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. Richard DiMario of Maine. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:
What Types of Surgery Are There?
The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:
Benefits of Surgery
Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.
Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Foot development in babies and toddlers follows a natural progression as they grow and begin to explore their environment. At birth, a baby’s feet are soft, flat, and mostly cartilage, with arches not yet fully formed. As babies start crawling and pulling up to stand, their feet strengthen and begin to take shape. During this stage, barefoot time is ideal for natural development and balance. When toddlers begin walking, soft-soled shoes that allow for flexibility and movement are recommended to protect the feet without restricting growth. As walking becomes more steady, supportive shoes with non-slip soles help provide stability. It is important to choose shoes that fit properly, offer enough room for the toes, and do not interfere with the natural growth and development of the feet. If you have concerns about your child’s foot development, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can address any questions you may have.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Richard DiMario of Maine. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.
Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.
Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.
Be watchful for any pain or injury.
Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.
Selecting the proper shoes for marathon running is essential to ensure comfort, performance, and injury prevention. The ideal running shoe should match your foot type, gait, and running style. It is important to choose a shoe that offers adequate cushioning to absorb impact while providing support and stability over long distance. Trying on shoes later in the day, when feet are slightly swollen, can give a more accurate fit. A snug but not tight fit is key, with enough room in the toe box to accommodate foot movement. Prioritizing comfort and function over style will help you stay focused on your training. If you are considering running in a marathon, it is suggested you confer with a podiatrist who can help you choose shoes that are right for you.
For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Dr. Richard DiMario from Maine. Our doctor can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.
Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes
There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.
You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.
Differences
Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.
Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Richard DiMario, DPM - Default