Fabry disease is a rare genetic disorder caused by the buildup of a fat-like substance called globotriaosylceramide due to a deficiency of the enzyme alpha-galactosidase A. This buildup affects various parts of the body, including the heart, kidneys, nervous system, and skin. In terms of foot involvement, Fabry disease can cause burning pain, tingling, and numbness, primarily due to nerve damage, or neuropathy in the feet. This discomfort often becomes worse by physical activity or heat. Diagnosis involves blood tests to measure enzyme levels, genetic testing to confirm mutations, and tissue biopsies to detect GL-3 accumulation. Early diagnosis is imperative as symptoms can progress. If you have foot discomfort or neuropathy, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment to help relieve symptoms.
When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact one of our podiatrists from Cascade Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.
Systemic Diseases of the Feet
Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable. Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.
Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.
Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.
Diabetes of the Feet
Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.
Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Yakima and Ellensburg, WA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
When it comes to taking care of our health, we often think about diet, exercise, and regular doctor visits. However, one key area that’s frequently overlooked is foot health. Our feet carry us through life—literally—and their condition has a significant impact on our overall well-being. Ignoring foot health can lead to discomfort, pain, and even affect mobility and quality of life.
In this blog, we’ll discuss why foot health is so essential and share some tips on how you can keep your feet in top shape.
The Importance of Foot Health
Your feet are the foundation of your body, supporting your weight and helping you move around. Any issues with your feet, whether it’s pain, discomfort, or deformities, can have a ripple effect on your overall health. Here’s how:
Foot Pain Affects Mobility
Foot pain caused by conditions such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, or heel spurs can make walking or standing difficult. This pain can limit your ability to exercise, perform daily tasks, and enjoy life to the fullest. Reduced mobility can lead to weight gain, loss of muscle tone, and even joint problems due to changes in the way you walk.
Foot Issues Can Indicate Underlying Health Problems
Sometimes, foot problems are a sign of more serious health conditions. For example, diabetes can cause neuropathy (nerve damage) in the feet, leading to reduced sensation and poor healing of wounds. Circulatory issues may also present as cold or discolored feet. Taking good care of your feet can help you detect and manage these larger health concerns.
Posture and Balance
Your feet are crucial for maintaining balance and proper posture. Misaligned feet, whether due to flat arches or other structural issues, can cause your body to compensate, leading to pain in the knees, hips, and lower back. Poor foot health can disrupt your body’s overall alignment, which impacts everything from how you walk to how you sit.
Tips for Maintaining Healthy Feet
Now that we understand the importance of foot health, let’s look at a few easy ways to keep your feet in good condition:
Wear Proper Footwear
Shoes that fit well and provide the right support can prevent many foot problems. Choose shoes that match the activity—whether it’s running, walking, or standing for long periods. Avoid wearing shoes that are too tight or high heels that can lead to foot deformities like bunions or hammertoes.
Practice Good Hygiene
Regularly washing your feet, trimming your toenails, and moisturizing dry areas can go a long way in maintaining healthy feet. Make sure to dry your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes, to prevent fungal infections like athlete’s foot.
Inspect Your Feet Regularly
Take the time to check your feet for any signs of problems, such as blisters, cuts, or changes in skin color. If you notice anything unusual, like persistent pain or swelling, it’s important to see a foot specialist before the issue worsens.
Stretch and Exercise Your Feet
Like any other part of the body, your feet need exercise to stay strong and flexible. Simple exercises, such as toe curls or stretching the Achilles tendon, can help prevent foot problems and improve your balance and flexibility.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Excess body weight puts extra stress on your feet, which can lead to issues like plantar fasciitis or arthritis. By maintaining a healthy weight, you can reduce the pressure on your feet and lower your risk of developing foot pain or injuries.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’re experiencing ongoing foot pain, discomfort, or notice any abnormalities, it’s important to consult a podiatrist. At Cascade Foot & Ankle, our team of foot health specialists offers comprehensive care for all types of foot and ankle conditions. Whether you’re dealing with heel pain, ingrown toenails, or a sports-related injury, we’re here to help you get back on your feet.
Don’t wait until a small issue becomes a big problem—contact us today to schedule an appointment and ensure your feet stay healthy and strong.
Ankle sprains are common injuries that occur when the ligaments supporting the ankle are stretched or torn. There are three main types, each varying in severity. The most common is the inversion ankle sprain, where the foot rolls inward, causing damage to the lateral ligaments on the outside of the ankle. This often happens during sudden twists or turns in activities like running or jumping. Less common is the eversion ankle sprain, where the foot rolls outward, affecting the medial ligaments on the inside of the ankle. Eversion sprains tend to be more severe and can sometimes be associated with fractures due to the strong ligaments involved. Lastly, high ankle sprains involve injury to the ligaments above the ankle joint, known as syndesmotic ligaments. Each of these are graded by severity. These sprains, common in sports like football and soccer, usually take longer to heal. If you have endured an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis, type and grade of sprain and to obtain proper treatment.
Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Cascade Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.
What Are the Symptoms?
Mild to moderate bruising
Limited mobility
Swelling
Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)
Preventing a Sprain
Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
Stretching before exercises and sports
Knowing your limits
Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.
If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Yakima and Ellensburg, WA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Football players are prone to a variety of foot injuries due to the high-impact nature of the sport. Sprained ankles often result from sudden twists or tackles that stretch or tear ligaments. More severe is a broken ankle, which involves a fracture of one or more of the bones in the ankle joint, requiring extended rest and rehabilitation. Metatarsal fractures occur in the long bones of the foot and can be particularly debilitating, affecting a player’s ability to run and pivot. Lisfranc joint injuries involve damage to the midfoot bones and ligaments, often caused by a direct impact or forceful twist. Additionally, a footballer’s ankle, characterized by persistent pain and swelling, is caused by repetitive stress and trauma. Any of the above injuries can be uncomfortable and temporarily halt playing. If this applies to you, it is suggested that you promptly visit a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose the injury, and offer appropriate treatment methods.
Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from Cascade Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Common Injuries
The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:
Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles Tendon Rupture
Ankle Sprains
Broken Foot
Plantar Fasciitis
Stress Fractures
Turf Toe
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.
Treatment
Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Yakima and Ellensburg, WA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
