Causes of Numb Feet

Foot numbness is a loss of feeling in part or all of the foot. It may feel like tingling, pins and needles, or reduced sensitivity. Temporary numbness can happen when pressure affects a nerve. Persistent or recurring numbness deserves attention because it can signal an underlying health problem. Symptoms include weakness, balance changes, or difficulty noticing injuries. Finding the cause early can help protect foot health and movement.

Several conditions can contribute to numb feet. Poor circulation may reduce oxygen reaching nerves and tissues. Nerve damage, known as neuropathy, can interfere with normal sensation. Diabetes is a common cause of peripheral neuropathy. Other conditions linked with foot numbness include thyroid disease, kidney failure, and Lyme disease. Injuries and pressure on nerves can also contribute. Risk factors include diabetes, circulation problems, and nutritional deficiencies.

 

A podiatrist will begin with an evaluation and medical history. The examination may include checking sensation, reflexes, and muscle strength. The podiatrist may also examine footwear, and testing may be recommended to identify the cause. Treatment depends on the diagnosis and may include wearing supportive footwear, protecting areas with reduced sensation, or treating related foot problems. 

 

Numb feet should not be ignored, particularly when numbness continues or occurs with weakness or skin changes. Reduced sensation can make it easier to miss blisters, cuts, or other injuries, so regular foot checks are important. Wear comfortable, properly fitting shoes, and avoid walking barefoot when sensation is reduced. Protecting the feet can lower the chance of complications while the cause is evaluated. If your feet are numb, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer effective management solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Jon McCreary, DPM from Fort Worth Podiatry. 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:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

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 Fort Worth, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Foot Pain

Let the Expert Treat Your Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails can be painful and can make wearing shoes or walking uncomfortable. Seek professional help if you believe you've developed an ingrown toenail and be treated safely. 

Differences Between Corns and Calluses

Corns are small areas of thickened skin that form in response to repeated pressure or friction. Unlike calluses, which tend to cover wider areas, corns usually have a firm center and a more defined shape. They commonly develop on the tops or sides of toes, between toes, or on weight-bearing parts of the foot. A corn can cause tenderness, burning pain, or discomfort when shoes press against it. Redness, warmth, or drainage can signal an infection and should receive prompt medical attention. Corns can be especially concerning for patients with diabetes, poor circulation, or reduced feeling in their feet.

Wearing shoes that are too tight can rub against the toes and create concentrated pressure. High heels may force the toes forward, while loose shoes can let the feet slide and rub. Foot structure can raise the risk of a corn or callus. Bunions, hammertoes, and prominent joints may press against the inside of a shoe. Changes in the way a person walks can place added pressure on one part of the foot. Cutting or scraping a corn without professional guidance is not recommended. It can injure healthy skin and increase the risk of infection.

A podiatrist can examine the affected area and determine whether the growth is a corn or callus. The evaluation includes checking foot shape, shoe fit, and walking patterns. Treatment can involve carefully reducing the thickened skin to relieve pressure. A podiatrist can also provide protective padding or custom orthotics to improve how pressure is distributed across the foot. In some cases, treatment for an underlying bunion or hammertoe can reduce repeated pressure. Regular monitoring is particularly important for patients who have diabetes or circulation problems. If you have developed a painful corn on your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief, treatment, and prevention tips.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Jon McCreary, DPM of Fort Worth Podiatry. 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:

  • Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
  • Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
  • Wearing only shoes that offer support

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 Fort Worth, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Understanding Corns and Calluses

Understanding Broken Foot Injuries

A broken foot occurs when one or more bones in the foot are fractured. This type of injury can happen after a fall, sports injury, or sudden impact. Some fractures occur without the bone breaking through the skin, while an open fracture happens when the broken bone pushes through the skin. Pain, swelling, and difficulty putting weight on the foot can occur after an injury. Some patients also notice tenderness or changes in how the foot looks. The location and type of fracture help determine how serious the injury is and what treatment the foot requires.

A podiatrist can examine the injured foot and determine the location and type of fracture. Imaging can help provide a clearer view of the broken bone and guide treatment. Depending on the injury, treatment can include a splint, cast, or protective shoe. Some fractures require surgery to place the bones in the correct position and support proper healing. A podiatrist can also monitor the foot during follow-up visits and check for changes in pain, swelling, or sensation. A fracture can take several weeks to heal, so professional follow-up is an important part of care.

Certain symptoms after a foot injury require prompt attention. New or worsening pain, a foot that becomes pale or cool, or numbness and tingling in the toes can signal a problem that needs evaluation. A cast or splint that feels too tight also requires attention. A podiatrist can assess these concerns and determine whether the foot is healing as expected. Professional care can also help identify problems that could affect the foot’s function or ability to bear weight. Getting the injury evaluated can provide a clearer understanding of the fracture and the treatment needed for recovery. If you have broken your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Jon McCreary, DPM from Fort Worth Podiatry. 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 our office located in Fort Worth, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment for a Broken Foot

How Pronation and Supination Can Affect Foot Health

Pronation and supination describe the direction the foot rolls while walking or running. Pronation occurs when the foot rolls inward and weight shifts toward the inside of the foot. Supination occurs when the foot rolls outward and weight shifts toward the outside. A small amount of each motion is part of a normal step. Pronation helps the foot absorb shock after the heel reaches the ground. Supination makes the foot firmer as it pushes the body forward. When either motion becomes excessive, pressure can build in certain areas and affect the way a person moves.

These movement patterns can affect more than the feet. Overpronation can place added strain on the arches, heels, and ankles. It can also contribute to discomfort in the knees. Excess supination reduces the foot’s ability to absorb shock and can increase pressure on the outer edge. This can lead to ankle instability, heel pain, or pain in the ball of the foot. Uneven wear on the inner or outer edges of shoe soles can provide a clue. High arches, flat feet, and differences in leg length can influence foot movement. Injuries and repeated stress can also change a person’s gait.

A podiatrist can examine the feet and study how a patient stands and walks. This gait evaluation shows where pressure builds and whether the ankles or knees move out of alignment. The podiatrist can also check joint motion, muscle strength, and shoe-wear patterns. Imaging tests can identify an injury when the examination raises concern. Treatment focuses on improving balance and reducing harmful pressure. A podiatrist can recommend properly fitted shoes with suitable cushioning or stability. Custom orthotics can guide the feet into a better position and distribute weight more evenly. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to track changes and adjust treatment. If you have foot or ankle pain while walking or running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Jon McCreary, DPM from Fort Worth Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

  • Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
  • In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Fort Worth, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about The Importance of Biomechanics in Podiatry

Connect With Us

scroll-to-top