Items filtered by date: May 2025

Living with diabetes means paying close attention to your feet. This condition can reduce blood flow and damage nerves, making it harder to notice injuries or infections. Small issues like a blister or cut can quickly become serious if left untreated. Many people with diabetes experience numbness, tingling, or burning in their feet, which can lead to missed signs of trouble. Dry skin, changes in foot shape, and foot ulcers are also common. Daily foot checks, wearing clean socks, and well-fitting shoes are essential for protection. A podiatrist can help monitor your foot health and catch problems early before they become dangerous. If you live with diabetes and have noticed any changes in how your feet look or feel, or if you have not had a foot check recently, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation and personalized care plan.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Gerald Erskine, DPM from Seneca Family Footcare. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, called the plantar fascia, becomes irritated or inflamed. This ligament supports the arch and absorbs pressure during walking. Repeated strain from activities like running, long periods of standing, or wearing shoes that lack proper support can lead to small tears where the fascia connects to the heel bone. Symptoms of plantar fasciitis often include sharp pain in the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning or after sitting for long periods. The pain may recede with movement but often returns later in the day. A podiatrist can diagnose plantar fasciitis by examining the foot and reviewing activity history. Treatment options include prescribed orthotics, anti-inflammatory medication, night splints, or, in some cases, corticosteroid injections. Surgery may be considered if other options fail. If you have pain on the bottom of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Gerald Erskine, DPM  from Seneca Family Footcare. Our doctor 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 Ronceverte, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot pain at night can be frustrating, especially when it keeps you from resting. It may come from overuse during the day, tight muscles, or nerve problems. People with plantar fasciitis often feel pain after long periods of rest. Others may have tingling or burning from nerve issues, such as neuropathy. Poor circulation or flat feet can also lead to discomfort once activity stops. Gentle stretching before bed, wearing supportive shoes during the day and elevating your feet at night may help. Still, nighttime pain should not be ignored. If your feet often hurt after dark or disturb your sleep, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Gerald Erskine, DPM from Seneca Family Footcare. 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 Ronceverte, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Poor foot circulation can result from several underlying health conditions and often leads to discomfort and more serious complications, if left untreated. Peripheral vascular disease is a common cause, where narrowed blood vessels reduce blood flow to the limbs, often leading to pain, numbness, or a cold sensation in the feet. Heart disease can also impair circulation by limiting the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently throughout the body, including the lower extremities. Raynaud's syndrome affects circulation by causing the small arteries in the feet to constrict, especially in response to cold or stress, leading to color changes and a feeling of coldness or tingling. Symptoms of poor circulation include swelling, cramping, slow healing wounds, and a heavy or fatigued feeling in the legs and feet. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Gerald Erskine, DPM of Seneca Family Footcare. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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