When the common peroneal nerve is injured, it can disrupt the way the foot and leg move or feel. This nerve runs along the outer side of the knee and down the leg, carrying signals that control certain muscles and sensations. Damage can occur from trauma, prolonged pressure, or underlying health issues. People may notice weakness when lifting the foot, numbness, or a tingling sensation along the shin and top of the foot. In some cases, walking becomes difficult due to a condition often called foot drop. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent long term complications. Management may include targeted exercises, bracing, or addressing the cause of the nerve injury. Paying attention to persistent changes in strength or sensation is important. If these symptoms develop, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for evaluation and appropriate treatment.

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 Shawn Echard, DPM from Laurel Podiatry LLC. Our practitioner 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 Greensburg and Somerset, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. It is often triggered by diet, genetics, obesity, or certain medical conditions. Gout most commonly affects the big toe, but can occur in the ankle or other joints, as well. Symptoms of gout include sudden, intense pain, redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected joint. It may feel like a burning or throbbing sensation, and even the lightest touch can be extremely painful. The area may also appear shiny or purple. A podiatrist plays a key role in diagnosing and managing gout. They may conduct a physical exam, take imaging tests, or order lab tests to confirm the condition. Treatment options often include anti-inflammatory medications, lifestyle guidance, and custom orthotics to reduce joint stress. In chronic cases, long-term uric acid management may be needed. If you are experiencing this issue, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist, who can help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Shawn Echard, DPM from Laurel Podiatry LLC. Our practitioner will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

A Jones fracture is a foot injury in athletes and affects the base of the fifth metatarsal bone, located on the outer edge of the foot. This type of fracture is often caused by twisting motions or forceful impact during activities like running, jumping, or pivoting. The location of the break has a limited blood supply, which can lead to slow or incomplete healing. Athletes with high physical demands are more likely to experience delayed union or nonunion of the bone, especially if the fracture is not properly stabilized. While some foot fractures may heal with rest, Jones fractures frequently require surgery to secure the bone with a screw or plate, and encourage proper alignment. Surgery is often the preferred option for athletes as it reduces healing time and lowers the risk of a repeat injury. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of the fracture to determine the most effective treatment. If you experience outer foot pain after a sports activity, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Shawn Echard, DPM of Laurel Podiatry LLC. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Greensburg and Somerset, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Your feet have carried you through countless steps, and regular exercise can help keep them strong, stable, and pain-free. Gentle movement improves circulation, which is especially important as blood flow naturally slows with age. Stretching and strengthening exercises can ease stiffness, support balance, and reduce the risk of falls. Simple actions such as flexing the toes, rolling the ankles, or standing on one foot for a few seconds each day can make a meaningful difference. These small efforts help maintain joint mobility, muscle tone, and flexibility. When the feet stay active, they are better equipped to support your daily life, whether walking across a room or around the block. If you notice cramping, weakness, or changes in how your feet feel during movement, it is suggested you consult a podiatrist for expert guidance.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Shawn Echard, DPM from Laurel Podiatry LLC. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our practitioner to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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