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Podiatry for Neurological Foot Conditions

Neurological conditions can significantly affect foot health, leading to symptoms such as numbness, weakness, poor coordination, and changes in walking patterns. At Buderim Foot & Ankle, our experienced podiatrists specialise in diagnosing and managing neurological foot and lower limb problems. We provide comprehensive assessments and personalised treatment plans to help improve mobility, prevent complications, and maintain your quality of life.

Below are some of the most common neurological conditions that impact the feet and how our podiatry services can assist.

 

Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition caused by damage to the peripheral nerves, often resulting from diabetes, alcohol abuse, vitamin deficiencies, or autoimmune disorders. It commonly affects the feet and causes symptoms such as tingling, burning, numbness, and muscle weakness. If left untreated, peripheral neuropathy can lead to serious foot complications due to loss of sensation.

How Podiatrists Help:

  • Sensory and motor function testing
  • Regular foot checks to prevent injury
  • Pressure-relieving orthotics and diabetic footwear
  • Education on daily foot care for neuropathy patients

Diabetes Neuropathy & Sensory Changes

Diabetes neuropathy is one of the most common long-term complications of diabetes. High blood sugar levels can damage nerves in the feet, causing reduced sensation, pain, or altered foot structure. These sensory changes increase the risk of foot ulcers, infections, and amputations.

Podiatry Management Includes:

  • Routine diabetes foot care assessments
  • Monitoring for early signs of ulcers or infections
  • Custom orthotic devices to reduce pressure points
  • Advice on safe footwear for diabetic feet

Foot Drop

Foot drop is a neurological condition characterised by the inability to lift the front part of the foot, making walking difficult. It can be caused by nerve injury, stroke, multiple sclerosis, or spinal conditions. People with foot drop often drag their toes or compensate by lifting the knee higher than usual, leading to abnormal gait patterns and increased fall risk.

Podiatry Services for Foot Drop:

  • Gait and mobility assessments
  • Prescription of ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) or supportive braces
  • Collaborative care with physiotherapists and neurologists
  • Footwear recommendations for safety and function

    Parkinson’s Disease

    Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement and balance. Common foot-related issues include shuffling gait, foot stiffness, and reduced step length. These changes increase the likelihood of tripping, falling, and developing pressure areas or calluses.

    Podiatric Support May Include:

    • Biomechanical and postural assessments
    • Orthotics to support balance and gait
    • Footwear advice tailored to Parkinson’s-related mobility issues
    • Routine nail and skin care to prevent secondary issues

      Stroke

      A stroke can lead to weakness, numbness, or spasticity on one side of the body. These changes often result in an unstable gait, altered foot posture, or difficulties with footwear. People recovering from stroke may also struggle with foot hygiene or be at higher risk of pressure injuries.

      Podiatry for Stroke Patients:

      • Muscle strength and gait evaluations
      • Orthotic therapy to support mobility
      • Assistance with safe, supportive footwear
      • Ongoing skin and nail care

      Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)

      Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a rare autoimmune disorder that causes rapid muscle weakness and numbness, often starting in the legs and feet. The condition can lead to temporary paralysis and long-term foot complications such as instability, foot drop, or deformities.

      Role of the Podiatrist:

      • Monitoring for foot structure changes during recovery
      • Recommending orthoses or mobility aids
      • Skin and nail care for patients with limited mobility
      • Preventing pressure injuries and maintaining foot hygiene

        How Podiatrists Assess Neurological Foot Conditions

        Podiatrists play a vital role in the early detection and diagnosis of neurological foot issues. Through detailed neurological assessments; including monofilament testing, reflex testing, muscle strength analysis, and gait observation; we can identify abnormalities in sensation, coordination, and foot mechanics. These assessments allow for timely referrals to neurologists or other specialists if needed.

         

        Managing Neurological Foot Conditions with Podiatry

        Ongoing podiatric care is essential in managing neurological conditions affecting the feet. From creating customised orthotic solutions and advising on proper footwear to providing routine foot care and monitoring for complications, podiatrists help maintain mobility, reduce the risk of falls, and prevent wounds or infections. Whether you are managing diabetes, recovering from a stroke, or living with a chronic neurological condition, our podiatry team can support your foot health every step of the way.

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