Items filtered by date: June 2025

Minimally invasive foot and ankle surgery offers smaller incisions, less tissue disruption, and often faster recovery, but it still requires careful planning. Before surgery, imaging, physical evaluation, and a clear understanding of goals help ensure the approach fits the patient’s condition. Certain medication may need to be adjusted, and underlying health issues such as diabetes or circulation problems must be considered to lower risks. On the day of the procedure, patients typically experience shorter operating times and less postoperative discomfort compared to traditional surgery. After surgery, early movement, wound care, and following instructions closely all support proper healing. Recovery is usually quicker, but outcomes still depend on proper support and follow-up. If you are considering surgery for a foot or ankle problem, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss right option for right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of BayCity Associates in Podiatry . Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Deciding on limb salvage in diabetic foot cases involves evaluating several serious factors. A life threatening infection that does not respond to treatment may require urgent attention. Severe deformities that cannot be corrected and prevent proper function or healing also influence the decision. Additionally, if blood flow to the foot cannot be restored, tissue may not survive, making salvage unlikely. A podiatrist plays a vital role by assessing the severity of infection, circulation, and structural changes. They collaborate with other specialists to explore all possible treatments before considering limb loss. If you or a loved one is facing complex diabetic foot issues, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist to discuss options and develop the best possible care plan.

Diabetic Limb Salvage

Diabetic limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have a foot ulcer and diabetes, consult with one of our podiatrists from BayCity Associates in Podiatry . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Diabetic Limb Salvage?

Diabetic limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot, that has an infected ulcer, from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.

Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Amputation has been found to lead to higher mortality rates. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated. 

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

Plantar fasciitis causes heel pain due to inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes. The pain is often most intense with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest. Foot orthotics can help treat plantar fasciitis by providing arch support, reducing strain on the plantar fascia, and improving overall foot alignment. They help cushion the heel and distribute pressure more evenly during walking. A podiatrist can diagnose this condition through a physical examination and gait analysis, then make custom orthotics based on your specific needs. If you are suffering from plantar fasciitis, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine which type of orthotics are right for you.

If you are experiencing discomfort in your feet and would like to try custom orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from BayCity Associates in Podiatry . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Custom Orthotics?

Custom orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain. 

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Shoe inserts come in a wide variety and are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality, custom inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you're experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibility of using custom orthotics or shoe inserts. A podiatrist can determine which type of custom orthotic or shoe insert is right for you and help you take the first steps toward being pain-free.

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

Pseudogout is a joint condition that can cause sudden pain and swelling in the feet and ankles. It occurs when calcium pyrophosphate crystals collect in the joints, leading to inflammation that can feel similar to gout. While both conditions involve crystal buildup, gout is caused by uric acid crystals and often targets the big toe, whereas pseudogout typically affects the ankle or midfoot and involves different minerals. The pain from pseudogout may come on quickly and can limit movement, making walking difficult. It tends to affect older adults, especially those with osteoarthritis or joint trauma. Diagnosis often requires imaging and lab tests to confirm the type of crystals present. Treatment for pseudogout include anti-inflammatory medication, joint aspiration, and lifestyle changes to reduce flare-ups and manage symptoms. If foot or ankle pain appears without warning and does not improve, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for proper evaluation and treatment.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from BayCity Associates in Podiatry . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Erie, PA and Meadville, 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, most commonly in the big toe. It often develops suddenly, with intense pain, redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected area. Gout attacks can last from a few days to a couple of weeks, with symptoms often peaking within 24 hours. Triggers include a diet high in purines, especially red meat, seafood, and alcohol. Other causes are dehydration, obesity, and certain medical conditions. The pain can be sharp, throbbing, and severe enough to make even light pressure, like a bedsheet, feel unbearable. A podiatrist can diagnose gout with an exam, joint fluid analysis, or imaging. Treatment may involve anti-inflammatory medication, corticosteroid injections, dietary guidance, and long-term uric acid management. Preventive care is key to reducing the frequency and severity of future flare-ups. If you have developed gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with 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 one of our podiatrists from BayCity Associates in Podiatry . Our doctors 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 Erie, PA and Meadville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.