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How Podiatrists Treat Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Diabetic foot ulcers are open sores that develop when skin breaks down and does not heal properly. Diabetes can damage nerves in the feet, reducing the ability to feel pain from a cut or blister. It can also narrow blood vessels and limit the flow of oxygen-rich blood needed for healing. As a result, a small injury can worsen before a patient notices it. Warning signs include redness, swelling, and drainage. Some ulcers cause pain, while others remain painless because of nerve damage.

Several factors raise the risk of an ulcer. Poor blood-sugar control, a previous ulcer, and reduced circulation can make skin more likely to break down. Foot shape changes can create areas of repeated pressure. Shoes that fit poorly can also cause rubbing or crowd the toes. Without prompt care, an ulcer can become infected and damage deeper tissue, sometimes spreading to a bone or joint. Severe cases can lead to tissue death, hospitalization, or limb loss. Early evaluation gives the foot a better chance to heal and lowers the risk of serious complications.

A podiatrist can examine the sore, measure its depth, and check the foot for infection. The examination also includes testing sensation and circulation. X-rays or other imaging tests can show whether a bone has been affected. Treatment includes cleaning the wound, removing unhealthy tissue, and applying protective dressings. A podiatrist can use padding, a special boot, or a cast to reduce pressure on the ulcer. This pressure relief, called off-loading, gives the damaged area a better chance to close. The podiatrist can also recommend properly fitted shoes and schedule ongoing wound checks. Surgery is sometimes required for advanced damage. If you have diabetes and have developed a foot ulcer, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition. 

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Michael T. Hames from Florence Foot Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

  • Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
  • Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
  • Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

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How to Recognize a Broken Toe

A broken toe can happen suddenly and cause intense pain right away. Dropping a heavy object on the foot is a leading cause. A badly stubbed toe or missed step can also break one of the small toe bones. Repeated impact on hard surfaces can lead to a stress fracture, which is a small crack in the bone. Signs of a broken toe include swelling, bruising, and pain while walking. Some patients hear a cracking or popping sound when the injury happens. Being able to walk does not mean the toe is not broken.

Some toe fractures are more serious than others. A crooked or deformed toe can indicate that the broken bone has moved out of its normal position. An injury that breaks the skin also requires prompt attention. Big-toe fractures can be especially important because the big toe plays a major role in balance and movement. Treatment can include a splint or buddy taping, which secures the injured toe to the toe beside it. More serious fractures can require a cast or surgery. With proper care, many broken toes heal within four to six weeks.

A podiatrist can examine an injured toe and determine the location and severity of the break. Imaging can help show whether the bone remains properly aligned. A podiatrist can stabilize the toe and monitor healing so that the bone does not heal in the wrong position. Proper treatment can also reduce the risk of lasting pain, joint stiffness, or problems involving the toenail. In some cases, arthritis can develop in the injured joint later in life. If you have broken your toe,  it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Michael T. Hames from Florence Foot Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • Throbbing pain
  • Swelling
  • Bruising on the skin and toenail
  • The inability to move the toe
  • Toe appears crooked or disfigured
  • Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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

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How Peripheral Artery Disease Affects Your Feet

Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, develops when arteries in the legs become narrow or blocked. As a result, the feet receive less oxygen-rich blood. PAD can cause aching, cramping, and numbness in the legs and feet. Some individuals also experience weakness. Pain can begin when walking and ease with rest. Warning signs include cold feet and toes, pale skin, and slow-growing toenails. The skin can look bluish, smooth, or shiny. Because symptoms can seem related to aging or inactivity, patients do not seek care until the disease is more severe.

Reduced circulation makes foot injuries harder to heal. A cut can develop into an open sore because the tissue lacks enough blood to repair itself. Watch for wounds on the toes, heels, or ankles that heal slowly. Resting foot pain, skin-color changes, and unusually cool areas also deserve prompt attention. Severe PAD can lead to tissue death, called gangrene, and could require surgery or loss of limb. PAD also raises the risk of heart attack and stroke. Smoking can worsen PAD, so quitting is an important step. Regular exercise can improve circulation and reduce leg pain, but patients should ask their podiatrist to recommend appropriate activities.

A podiatrist can examine the feet for changes that point to poor circulation. The visit can include checking skin temperature, checking for pulses, and examining nails and wounds. A podiatrist can also perform or arrange an ankle-brachial index test. This test compares blood pressure at the ankle with blood pressure in the arm. The results can show whether blood flow to the legs is reduced. A podiatrist can manage wounds and help prevent infection. Early diagnosis protects the feet and supports better overall health. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment and management solutions.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Dr. Michael T. Hames from Florence Foot Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

  • Claudication (leg pain from walking)
  • Numbness in legs
  • Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
  • Paleness of the skin
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
  • Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

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

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Let the Expert Treat Your Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails can be painful and can make wearing shoes or walking uncomfortable. Seek professional help if you believe you've developed an ingrown toenail and be treated safely. 

Understanding Skin Bridging and Ingrown Toenails

An ingrown toenail develops when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. This can cause pain, swelling, redness, and drainage around the nail. Several factors can contribute to an ingrown toenail, including improper nail trimming, tight shoes, and injury to the toe or nail. Fungal infections and increased sweating can also play a role. When an ingrown toenail remains untreated, the surrounding tissue can become irritated and swollen. In rare, advanced cases, excess tissue can grow around the nail and form a bridge across part of it. This condition is called skin bridging. The bridge can develop when long-lasting inflammation causes the tissue around the nail to become thicker and more fibrous.

A podiatrist can examine an ingrown toenail and determine how advanced the condition has become. The examination can include checking the nail edge, surrounding skin, and tissue for signs of inflammation or infection. A podiatrist can also look for excess tissue that has grown around or across the nail. Skin bridging is rare and has been reported in severe, long-standing cases of ingrown toenails. The condition can make the nail difficult to see and can cause significant swelling around the toe. An evaluation is important because treatment depends on the severity of the ingrown toenail and the amount of tissue involved.

A podiatrist can provide treatment based on the severity of the ingrown toenail. Less advanced cases can be treated with professional nail care and treatment of the affected tissue. More advanced cases can require removal of part or all of the affected nail, along with treatment of the nail-producing tissue to reduce the chance of the problem returning. When skin bridging has developed, a podiatrist can remove the excess tissue and treat the underlying nail problem. Prompt evaluation can help prevent an ingrown toenail from progressing into a more complicated condition. If you have symptoms of skin bridging and ingrown toenails, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Michael T. Hames of Florence Foot Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

  • Bacterial infections
  • Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
  • Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
  • Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
  • Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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

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