January 2024

The phenomenon of numb feet during pregnancy is a common yet often perplexing experience for expectant mothers. The increased pressure on blood vessels and nerves, primarily in the lower extremities, is a key factor contributing to this sensation. As the uterus expands to accommodate the growing baby, it can exert pressure on the pelvic blood vessels, hindering optimal circulation. This reduced blood flow to the feet can result in numbness and tingling sensations. Furthermore, hormonal changes during pregnancy can impact nerve function, amplifying the likelihood of experiencing numbness. While this occurrence is generally harmless, pregnant women must prioritize proper footwear, avoid prolonged periods of standing, and incorporate gentle exercises to promote circulation. If you are experiencing foot pain or numbing sensations during your pregnancy, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can provide you with additional relief methods.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from North Bay Ankle & Foot Center. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

Bunion surgery, medically known as hallux valgus correction, is a procedure aimed at addressing this often painful deformity of the big toe joint. Typically caused by the misalignment of bones, bunions can lead to discomfort, difficulty in shoe-wearing, and decreased quality of life. The surgical process involves making an incision near the affected joint, allowing the surgeon to access and realign the bones and ligaments. In some cases, small screws or plates may be used to secure the corrected alignment. Post-surgery, patients undergo a recovery period during which they are advised to keep weight off the foot and follow a rehabilitation plan. While bunion surgery offers relief from the physical challenges posed by bunions, it is suggested that individuals considering the procedure consult with a podiatrist to determine the most suitable course of action based on their specific condition and overall health. 

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of North Bay Ankle & Foot Center. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Gout, a form of inflammatory arthritis, unfolds as a consequence of the crystallization of uric acid in the joints. Uric acid, a byproduct of purine metabolism, accumulates in the bloodstream when the body either produces too much or eliminates too little of it. This surplus uric acid transforms into sharp crystals, typically depositing in joints, most commonly the big toe. The inflammatory response triggered by these crystals leads to the excruciating pain, swelling, and redness characteristic of gout attacks. Contributing factors to elevated uric acid levels include a diet rich in purine-containing foods, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain medical conditions affecting uric acid regulation. Gout often manifests in intermittent attacks, emphasizing the cyclical nature of the condition. If you have severe pain in your big toe, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat gout.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from North Bay Ankle & Foot Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

Recognizing the symptoms of a broken toe is vital for prompt and effective treatment. The most common indicator is intense pain at the site of injury, often exacerbated by movement or pressure. Swelling and bruising typically accompany the pain, making the affected toe visibly discolored and tender to the touch. Limited range of motion is another hallmark sign, as the injured toe may resist normal movement or cause discomfort when attempting to flex or extend. In some cases, a broken toe may lead to deformity, with the toe appearing misaligned or out of place. Individuals may also experience difficulty walking or bearing weight on the injured foot. While pain and swelling may subside initially, persistent discomfort and difficulty moving the toe are red flags that warrant immediate attention. If you have the above symptoms, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can determine what the best treatment is for you.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from North Bay Ankle & Foot Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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

Embarking on a journey of fitness or leisure requires thoughtful consideration of the right footwear, and understanding the differences between walking and running shoes is pivotal. Walking shoes, designed for a heel to toe rolling motion, prioritize flexibility and stability. Their soles are crafted to absorb shock during the natural heel-strike phase of walking. Conversely, running shoes cater to a more dynamic gait, with features such as enhanced cushioning and support for the midsole and forefront. The structure of running shoes accommodates the impact and propulsion associated with a runner's stride. Recognizing these distinctions ensures that you provide your feet with the appropriate support for the activity at hand. Whether you are strolling through the park or pounding the pavement during a jog, investing in the right footwear not only optimizes performance but also safeguards against potential discomfort or injury, For guidance in choosing the proper walking and running shoes, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with one of our podiatrists from North Bay Ankle & Foot Center. Our doctors can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

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