Items filtered by date: February 2025

Neuropathies of the feet and ankles following knee injuries involve nerve damage or dysfunction, causing symptoms like pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness. These neuropathies often occur due to trauma or swelling around the knee compressing or stretching nearby nerves, such as the peroneal or tibial nerves. Surgical procedures or prolonged immobility after a knee injury can also contribute by altering nerve pathways or blood flow. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and addressing the underlying cause. Rest, targeted exercise, and medications for nerve pain may be recommended. Orthotics or braces can help improve foot and ankle stability, reducing strain on affected nerves. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be needed to relieve nerve compression. If you experience persistent foot or ankle issues following a knee injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and tailored care plan.

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 James Torhorst, DPM  from Torhorst Foot and Ankle. 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 Waupaca and Stevens Point, WI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A broken toenail can be painful and distressing. It often occurs after stubbing your toe, dropping something heavy on it, or injuring it during physical activities like running or sports. Symptoms of a broken toenail include pain, swelling, and redness surrounding the nail. In some cases, the nail may turn black and blue, indicating bleeding under the nail, or it may even break off completely. The severity of a broken toenail depends on the type of injury. If the nail is cracked but still attached, treatment usually involves cleaning the area and protecting the nail with a bandage. However, in more severe cases, the nail may need to be removed to prevent infection. A podiatrist can assess the damage and provide proper treatment, including draining any pooled blood or addressing signs of infection like increased redness or swelling. If necessary, this foot doctor may offer guidance on proper nail care during the healing process. If you have a broken toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact James Torhorst, DPM of Torhorst Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

Hiking blisters are an issue for outdoor enthusiasts, often developing on the feet due to friction and pressure. These blisters occur when repeated rubbing or tight footwear causes damage to the skin, leading to the formation of a fluid-filled pocket. The causes of hiking blisters are mainly improper footwear, such as shoes that are too tight or too loose, and wearing socks that do not wick moisture away effectively. Wet feet from sweat or rain can also increase the likelihood of blisters forming. The symptoms of hiking blisters include pain, swelling, and the appearance of a raised, fluid-filled bump. To prevent blisters, it is essential to choose well-fitting shoes that provide proper support, along with moisture-wicking socks that reduce friction. Additionally, applying blister prevention tape or using lubricants can help protect the skin, while keeping feet dry and comfortable is key to avoiding blisters during long hikes. Foot blisters that developed from hiking can cause avid hikers to temporarily stop this activity. If you have developed a problematic foot blister from hiking, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and prevention tips.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact James Torhorst, DPM of Torhorst Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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

Diabetes is a chronic condition affecting how the body processes blood sugar, leading to potential nerve damage and poor circulation. These complications can significantly impact the feet, causing numbness, slow-healing wounds, and infections that may progress to serious issues if untreated. To avoid foot problems, diabetic patients should prioritize daily foot care. Inspect feet for cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling, as reduced sensation might mask injuries. Keep feet clean and moisturized, but avoid applying lotion between toes to prevent fungal infections. Wearing properly fitted shoes is another vital prevention technique. Ill-fitting footwear can cause pressure points and sores, so choose supportive, breathable shoes designed for diabetic foot care. If you have diabetes, regular visits to a podiatrist are suggested. They can treat existing issues, monitor foot health, and provide guidance on preventive measures to keep your feet healthy and active.

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 James Torhorst, DPM from Torhorst Foot and Ankle. 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 offices located in Waupaca and Stevens Point, WI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.