Nerve pain in the feet often develops when nerves become compressed or damaged, leading to discomfort that may interfere with walking and daily activity. Morton’s neuroma, a common cause, occurs when tissue thickens around nerves between the toes, creating burning or stabbing sensations in the ball of the foot. Tarsal tunnel syndrome involves compression of the posterior tibial nerve near the ankle, which can cause tingling, numbness, or shooting pain along the sole. Baxter’s neuropathy results from pinching of a nerve under the arch, sometimes linked to flat feet, heel spurs, or chronic strain. Diabetes can lead to diabetic neuropathy, producing sharp, burning pain or numbness in the toes that may spread up the legs over time. Even conditions such as sciatica may radiate pain into the feet. A podiatrist can diagnose the source of nerve pain and suggest the appropriate treatment, which in some cases may include surgery. If you have symptoms of neuropathy in your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and 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 the podiatrists from Issaquah Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Issaquah, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Excess body weight places added stress on the feet, which can lead to discomfort and reduced mobility. Research shows that carrying higher fat mass is strongly linked to foot pain, while overall body weight can negatively affect how the foot functions during walking and standing. With obesity rates rising across the globe, problems such as plantar heel pain, tendon strain, and joint stress in the feet are becoming more common. This makes awareness and early intervention especially important. Podiatrists play a key role not only in treating foot pain but also in addressing its contributing factors. By working with patients and collaborating with other health professionals, podiatrists can help manage both the mechanical strain on the feet and the broader health issues connected to weight. If you are experiencing foot pain related to weight, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for evaluation and care.

Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact the podiatrists from Issaquah Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.

Problems & Complications

Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.

Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.

Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot. 

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

A black toenail can be concerning because it may develop from a variety of causes, ranging from trauma to underlying health issues. The most common cause of a blackened toenail is injury. Stubbing the toe or repeated pressure from shoes can trap blood under the nail and cause it to darken. Runners often experience this type of injury, sometimes called runner’s toe. Discoloration may also signal a fungal infection, where organisms thrive under the nail and can lead to thickening or brittleness. Ingrown toenails or bacterial infections can cause similar toenail changes. Medical conditions like diabetes, circulation problems, or even vitamin deficiencies may also  contribute to nail darkening. Rarely, melanoma, a form of skin cancer, may appear as a dark streak under the toenail. A podiatrist can examine the toenail and order appropriate tests. Treatment may involve draining trapped blood, addressing infection, or, in severe cases, surgery. If you notice discoloration of a toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact the podiatrists of Issaquah Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Issaquah, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The foot is a remarkably complex structure that allows you to stand, walk, run, and adapt to countless daily demands. Because of this complexity, foot problems require careful evaluation rather than a one-size-fits-all fix. A podiatrist will review your health history, examine your feet in a resting position, and study how they function while walking or standing. This detailed approach helps create a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. Orthotics often play an important role by improving balance, alignment, and comfort. Yet, they are even more effective when paired with other therapies. For example, a podiatrist may recommend targeted exercises to build strength, stretching to reduce tightness, or footwear changes to reduce stress on the foot. Education about proper orthotic use also helps patients get the most benefit from their care and maintain long-term foot health. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment, including the use of custom orthotics.

Custom orthotics play an important role in preventing and treating foot and ankle injuries by providing personalized support that aligns with the unique structure of each foot. These specially designed devices help correct biomechanical imbalances, reduce pressure on sensitive areas, and improve stability during movement. When the feet are properly supported, the risk of developing conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, and ankle sprains can be significantly reduced. Custom orthotics also help relieve discomfort caused by having flat feet, high arches, or uneven leg length, which may contribute to recurring injuries or pain.

Foot and ankle injuries can develop gradually from repetitive strain or occur suddenly during physical activity. Without proper treatment, these injuries can affect mobility and overall quality of life. Orthotics work to redistribute weight evenly across the foot, allowing joints and muscles to function more efficiently. This not only supports recovery from injury but can also prevent future problems by promoting better posture and alignment throughout the lower body.

Unlike over-the-counter inserts, custom orthotics are designed based on a detailed evaluation of each patient’s foot structure, gait, and medical needs. Podiatrists use advanced imaging and diagnostic tools to create orthotics that fit precisely and provide targeted correction. Whether used in everyday footwear or athletic shoes, custom orthotics can improve comfort, enhance performance, and support long-term foot health.

If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain or have sustained an injury that has not improved with rest, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. Call our office for more information or to make an appointment.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Issaquah, WA . 

Nerve problems in the front of the foot come in a few forms, and each can feel different. Interdigital nerve pain may cause burning, pins and needles, or a hot pebble sensation between the toes. Interdigital neuralgia reflects irritation from pressure, wearing tight shoes, or repetitive stress. Morton’s neuroma involves a thickening around the nerve that can send sharp jolts with every step. Morton’s neuralgia highlights the same pathway of pain, but may radiate into adjacent toes. Symptoms often flare in narrow footwear or during long periods of standing. Switching to roomy shoes, using metatarsal pads, and easing aggravating activities can help. When discomfort lingers, imaging and an exam can sort out the exact cause and guide treatment, from orthotics to targeted injections, with surgery reserved for stubborn cases. If forefoot nerve symptoms develop, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with the podiatrists from Issaquah Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Cracked heels are splits in the thickened skin of the heel that can cause pain, bleeding, and discomfort while walking. They are often caused by dryness, prolonged standing, wearing ill-fitting footwear, or excess pressure on the feet. Certain skin conditions can also contribute, including athlete’s foot and plantar warts, which may worsen the problem or lead to infection. Symptoms often include rough skin, fissures, and tenderness. A podiatrist can help by gently debriding thick skin, treating underlying conditions, and recommending proper footwear and moisturizers to restore skin health. If cracked heels are causing pain or interfering with your daily life, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this uncomfortable condition.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact the podiatrists from Issaquah Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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