Foot pain is a frequent issue for individuals with Parkinson's disease, stemming from the condition’s impact on muscles, nerves, and gait. Muscle rigidity and slowness of movement can alter posture and walking patterns, placing excessive pressure on the feet. Additionally, nerve dysfunction associated with Parkinson’s may contribute to discomfort, numbness, or cramping. Managing foot pain begins with addressing posture and mobility challenges. Stretching exercises, targeting exercises, and wearing supportive, well-cushioned footwear can alleviate strain on the feet. Orthotic inserts may also help redistribute pressure and improve balance. A podiatrist plays a critical role in managing foot pain in Parkinson’s patients. They can provide tailored treatments, such as custom orthotics or foot care routines, and identify any secondary issues like corns, calluses, or infections that may worsen discomfort. If you suffer from foot pain related to Parkinson’s, it is suggested that you schedule regular check-ups with a podiatrist to ensure optimal foot health and mobility.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Matthew McQuaid, DPM from Lake Mendocino 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 offices located in Lakeport and Ukiah, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Nerve pain on the top of the foot is often caused by pressure or irritation from tight shoes or laces. This pressure can compress nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or tingling that may spread to the toes. Activities that involve repetitive movement, such as running or dancing, can worsen the problem, especially when combined with foot mechanics or wearing improper footwear. Bony growths or inflammation can also contribute to nerve pain on top of the foot, also referred to as vamp disease, by pressing against nearby tissues. A podiatrist can identify the root cause of this discomfort through a detailed examination and imaging, if needed. Treatments focus on relieving pressure on the nerves, which may include changes in footwear or adjustments to how shoes are laced. For more persistent cases, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who may recommend surgery to remove bony growths or reduce nerve compression. 

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 Matthew McQuaid, DPM from Lake Mendocino Podiatry. 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:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

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 offices located in Lakeport and Ukiah, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, is a condition where the arch of the foot collapses, causing the entire sole to make contact with the ground. This can lead to discomfort, pain, and increased risk of other foot and joint problems. The condition can be caused by genetics, injury, or conditions such as obesity or aging. Yoga can be an effective way to relieve the discomfort caused by flat feet. Specific stretches help strengthen the muscles of the feet and lower legs, improving support for the arch. Poses such as downward dog, warrior 1, and tree pose focus on enhancing foot stability and flexibility. Additionally, yoga promotes proper alignment and body awareness, which can reduce the strain on the feet and prevent further complications. Regular yoga practice can improve overall foot strength and flexibility, providing relief and potentially preventing the progression of flat feet. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer effective relief tips, which can include specific yoga stretches.

Why Stretching Is Important for Your Feet

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Matthew McQuaid, DPM from Lake Mendocino Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first to determine if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous exercise, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising to ice and rest the foot. It is advised that you then see a podiatrist for help.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Lakeport and Ukiah, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.