March 2022

It is common for elderly people to undergo changes in their circulatory system. This can be a normal part of the aging process as a result of strain on the veins and arteries. Some of the symptoms that are associated with poor circulation include a tingling sensation, pain, and muscle cramps. Additionally, the feet may turn blue or purple, the toenails can become weak, and there can be hair loss on the legs. Mild relief can be found by massaging the feet, staying active, and it can help to refrain from drinking caffeine and alcohol. Poor circulation may be a symptom of an underlying condition. If you have signs of this ailment, it is strongly suggested that you speak with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can properly assess and treat your circulation issues.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Brian D. Jackson, DPM of Neuhaus Foot and Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in Columbia and Pulaski, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The foot condition known as cracked heels can develop for several reasons. These can include a vitamin deficiency, being overweight, and certain fungal conditions. Additionally, people who are diabetic may be more likely to experience cracked heels. This may be a result from a lack of circulation that can often accompany diabetes. Fissures, which are deep cracks in the skin, can cause significant pain and discomfort. Relief may be found when shoes that are worn have a closed back. Additionally, patients have found their skin may soften when a good moisturizer is applied, and it may help to avoid being barefoot. Drinking plenty of fresh water daily may help to reduce the risk of developing cracked heels. If you would like more information about how to prevent the onset of cracked heels, please confer with a podiatrist who can provide you with proper knowledge.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Brian D. Jackson, DPM from Neuhaus Foot and Ankle. Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Columbia and Pulaski, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Some babies are born with a foot deformity called congenital talipes equinovarus, better known as clubfoot. Instead of the foot being straight, it twists inward because the tissues that connect the foot to the leg are shortened. Generally, the heel points downward and the toes point inward; the affected leg is shorter; the Achilles tendon is tight; and the affected foot is shorter and wider than the other foot. This condition is not usually painful, but it can result in other problems as your baby grows older and begins to walk. Causes of clubfoot can include family history, use of tobacco and/or alcohol during pregnancy, and congenital conditions related to spinal cord development. The most common way to treat clubfoot in babies is to stretch the foot and place it in a cast over a period of months. However, in more severe cases, various surgeries may be required. If your baby is born with clubfoot, it is a good idea to seek the advice of a podiatrist who can help to develop a regular treatment program as soon as possible.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Brian D. Jackson, DPM of Neuhaus Foot and Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in Columbia and Pulaski, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

When you feel pain on the outside of your foot, just in front of the ankle, you may have strained the peroneal tendon, which connects the base of the 5th metatarsal bone to the peroneus brevis leg muscle. This injury, often the result of a twisted ankle or other sudden force to the ankle, can result in pain and swelling. It will likely hurt when you try to walk. It is often caused when your foot rolls inward and stretches the tendon on the outside of your foot. The peroneus brevis muscle frequently gets tighter when running, especially on hard roads, increasing the likelihood of it being overstretched. Immediate treatment options include icing the foot to reduce swelling and inflammation, staying off the foot, and taking over-the-counter pain medication. If after a couple of days, the pain continues or worsens, it is a good idea to consult a podiatrist who can examine your foot and suggest further treatment options, based on the severity of the injury.

Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with Brian D. Jackson, DPM from Neuhaus Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:

• Broken bones
• Muscle strains
• Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
• Stress fractures

Symptoms

Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:

• Bruising
• Inflammation/ Swelling
• Pain

Diagnosis

To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.

Treatment

Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Columbia and Pulaski, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Corns are circular areas of raised, thickened skin that can usually be found on or around the toes. They are caused by repetitive friction over an area of skin. Corns can be soft or hard, depending on their location. Soft corns are more likely to form in between the toes, whereas hard corns are more likely to form on the tops or sides of toes. Corns may need medical attention if they are painful or if you have a medical condition like diabetes or a connective tissue disease. With your podiatrist’s approval, you may soak the corns in warm water and file them down with a pumice stone at home. You may also be prescribed a plaster to wear over the corn or a cream to apply to it to soften the thickened skin. For more information about corns, please consult with a podiatrist. 

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Brian D. Jackson, DPM of Neuhaus Foot and Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in Columbia and Pulaski, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.