July 2025

Peripheral neuropathy can significantly impact the health of the feet, making them vulnerable to serious complications. When sensory nerves in the lower extremities are damaged, it can result in the loss of the ability to feel pain, temperature, or pressure, especially in the toes and soles. This loss of sensation in the feet, termed peripheral neuropathy, can lead to unnoticed injuries, such as cuts, blisters, or pressure points from shoes, which may worsen over time. Motor nerve damage can cause muscle weakness or foot drop, which affects walking and balance, increasing the risk of falls or sprains. In more severe cases, muscle wasting in the feet may lead to deformities. A podiatrist can evaluate nerve function, identify pressure areas, and recommend proper footwear or orthotic support to prevent further injury. In advanced cases, a podiatrist may suggest surgery to relieve nerve compression or correct deformities caused by neuropathy. If you have any of these symptoms, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for guidance in managing this condition.

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. John L. Coleman from Florida. 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 office located in Macclenny, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, resulting from small tears and inflammation in the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot. These tiny tears cause pain and stiffness, especially with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged rest. Common causes include overuse, tight calf muscles, flat feet, high arches, or wearing unsupportive shoes. Symptoms include sharp, stabbing pain at the heel, tenderness, and sometimes swelling. A podiatrist can diagnose plantar fasciitis through a physical exam and a review of symptoms. Imaging tests like X-rays may be used to rule out other conditions. Treatment typically includes stretching exercises, custom orthotics, wearing supportive footwear, or anti-inflammatory medications. In some cases, targeted exercises or injections may be recommended. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. John L. Coleman  from Florida. 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 Macclenny, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.