There are several screening measures that a podiatrist might use to assess the blood flow in your lower limbs. One such measure is the Ankle-Brachial Index, also known as the ABI test, Segmental Pressure Test, Toe Pressure Test, or Toe-Brachial Index (TBI). To perform this test, the podiatrist will place an inflatable cuff around your arm and calf, foot, or toes and measure your blood pressure in these areas. The doctor will then compare the numbers to each other to determine whether you are at an increased risk of having poor circulation and developing conditions such as peripheral artery disease. This test is fast, simple, noninvasive, and generally painless. To learn more about screening measures that assess the vascular health of your lower limbs, speak with a podiatrist today.

Vascular testing plays an important part in diagnosing disease like peripheral artery disease. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, or diabetes, consult with Anthony Ricciardi Jr., DPM from Foot & Ankle Specialists of Nevada. Our Doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Vascular Testing?

Vascular testing checks for how well blood circulation is in the veins and arteries. This is most often done to determine and treat a patient for peripheral artery disease (PAD), stroke, and aneurysms. Podiatrists utilize vascular testing when a patient has symptoms of PAD or if they believe they might. If a patient has diabetes, a podiatrist may determine a vascular test to be prudent to check for poor blood circulation.

How Is it Conducted?

Most forms of vascular testing are non-invasive. Podiatrists will first conduct a visual inspection for any wounds, discoloration, and any abnormal signs prior to a vascular test.

 The most common tests include:

• Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) examination
• Doppler examination
• Pedal pulses

These tests are safe, painless, and easy to do. Once finished, the podiatrist can then provide a diagnosis and the best course for treatment.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Las Vegas, Nevada . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A foot corn is a thickened area of skin that develops as a protective response to pressure or friction, usually on the toes or soles. Corns form when repeated stress causes layers of skin to build up, leading to a dense, often painful core that presses into deeper tissues. They can cause discomfort while walking, tenderness, and visible hardened skin. Causes include wearing poorly fitting shoes, abnormal gait, or prolonged standing. Risk factors involve foot deformities, high activity levels, and certain occupations. A podiatrist can help by safely removing corns, addressing underlying causes with orthotics or footwear changes, and helping to prevent recurrence. Foot corns can be painful and may cause difficulty in completing daily tasks. If you have developed this uncomfortable condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief solutions. 

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Anthony Ricciardi Jr., DPM of Foot & Ankle Specialists of Nevada. Our Doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Las Vegas, Nevada . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A fracture of the lateral malleolus involves the bony prominence on the outside of the ankle. Symptoms often begin with sudden pain following an injury, such as twisting the ankle or a direct impact. Swelling and bruising usually develop quickly, and bearing weight may be extremely difficult. Some people notice instability or tenderness along the outer ankle, while others may even see a visible change in alignment. Because these signs can resemble a severe sprain, imaging is often required to confirm the injury. Treatment depends on the extent of the fracture and the stability of the joint. Simple breaks may be treated with immobilization and gradual return to activity, while more serious cases can require surgery to restore proper alignment. Targeted exercising is often part of recovery. If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat this condition. 

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Anthony Ricciardi Jr., DPM from Foot & Ankle Specialists of Nevada. Our Doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Las Vegas, Nevada . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Neuropathy is a condition that results from damage to the nerves, often affecting the feet. It can involve sensory nerves, which transmit sensations such as pain, temperature, and touch. Motor nerves control muscle movement, and autonomic nerves regulate involuntary functions like sweating and blood flow. Damage to these nerves can lead to symptoms including numbness, tingling, burning sensations, weakness, balance difficulties, and changes in skin or toenail health. Early recognition and management are vital to prevent complications. A podiatrist can evaluate nerve function, provide treatments to relieve discomfort, recommend protective footwear, and develop a comprehensive care plan. If you have unusual sensations or pain in your feet, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist for an expert evaluation and guidance.

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 Anthony Ricciardi Jr., DPM from Foot & Ankle Specialists of Nevada. 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 office located in Las Vegas, Nevada . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Fungal nail infections are a common condition that can affect one or more toenails. These infections often begin as a small white or yellow spot under the nail and gradually spread. Over time, the nail may become thickened, discolored, brittle, or distorted in shape. Some individuals experience pain or discomfort, especially when wearing shoes or walking. These nail infections are caused by fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments, such as locker rooms, swimming pools, or sweaty shoes. Risk factors include poor foot hygiene, diabetes, a weakened immune system, or previous nail trauma. A podiatrist plays a key role in diagnosing and treating fungal nail infections. Diagnosis may involve examining the nail and taking a sample for lab testing. Treatment options include topical or oral antifungal medications, or in some cases, nail removal. If you suspect a fungal nail infection, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to receive professional care and effective treatment.

For more information about treatment, contact Anthony Ricciardi Jr., DPM of Foot & Ankle Specialists of Nevada. Our Doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Las Vegas, Nevada . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.