Items filtered by date: April 2024

Tuesday, 30 April 2024 00:00

Foot Care Tips for Diabetic Paients

Diabetes necessitates meticulous foot care to prevent potential and often severe complications. Prolonged high blood sugar levels can harm blood vessels and nerves in the legs and feet, leading to reduced sensation and inefficient circulation. Consequently, even minor injuries can escalate into severe issues, like infections, ulcers, or amputations. Podiatrists play an essential role in diabetic foot care, offering comprehensive assessments and personalized management plans. They conduct regular foot exams to monitor signs of nerve damage, foot deformities, or ulcers while providing expert guidance on proper hygiene, nail care, and footwear selection. Podiatrists also address concerns about foot health, emphasizing the importance of daily foot checks and prompt treatment for any abnormalities. They can assist in managing foot complications with specialized treatments to promote healing and prevent further deterioration in the lower legs and feet. Collaborating with patients, podiatrists develop personalized strategies for foot protection and risk reduction, stressing the significance of avoiding barefoot walking and quitting smoking to improve circulation. If you have foot problems caused by diabetes, it is suggested that you add a podiatrist to your medical team for regular checkups and treatment. 

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 Kimberly Woodard, DPM from Pinnacle Foot and Ankle Centers, LLC . 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 Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 23 April 2024 00:00

Causes of Black Toenail

After a long walk or a vigorous run, it is not uncommon to notice a toenail that has turned black, blue, or gray, often accompanied by swelling underneath the nail. This phenomenon, known as a black toenail, is typically caused by bleeding beneath the nail, medically termed a subungual hematoma. The most common cause of black toenail is trauma, such as stubbing your toe or dropping something heavy on it. It is also common among runners as the result of repetitive pressure as the toe hits the front of the shoe. A podiatrist can offer treatment options to alleviate discomfort from black toenail and aid in the healing process. For cases where the nail is significantly raised and painful, a procedure called trephination may be recommended, which involves creating a small hole in the nail to relieve pressure and facilitate drainage. Preventing black toenails involves ensuring proper footwear and sock fit, especially during physical activity. Shoes should allow for sufficient toe room to accommodate swelling, while proper lacing techniques can minimize toe trauma. If you have developed a black toenail that is causing pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an exam and the appropriate treatment measures.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Kimberly Woodard, DPM of Pinnacle Foot and Ankle Centers, LLC . Our doctor 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 feel free to contact our office located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Sunday, 21 April 2024 00:00

Gout Pain Can Be Managed

Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.

Tuesday, 16 April 2024 00:00

Big Toe Pain and Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is an inflammation of the sesamoid bones, two tiny bones beneath the big toe joint. These bones are embedded within the tendons that allow the big toe to move. Sesamoiditis typically occurs from overuse or repetitive stress, making it common among athletes and dancers. Symptoms of sesamoiditis include pain in the ball of the foot, especially when walking or running, and swelling or bruising in the area around the big toe. The pain might worsen when the big toe is used, such as when pushing off to jump or take a step. Bending and straightening the big toe may also become difficult. If you have a painful big toe or ball of the foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Kimberly Woodard, DPM of Pinnacle Foot and Ankle Centers, LLC . Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

  • Sudden increase in activity
  • Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
  • Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 09 April 2024 00:00

Managing Clubfoot

Clubfoot is a birth defect that affects approximately one in 1,000 infants in the United States. Features of clubfoot include a high arch, inward rotation of the foot, pointed toes, and stiffness, often accompanied by a tight Achilles tendon. Although the precise cause of what is called idiopathic clubfoot remains elusive, genetic factors are presumed to be influential. Diagnosis typically occurs either prenatally through ultrasound or at birth when the foot is found to be rigid. The Ponseti method, named after Dr. Ignatio Ponseti, stands as a highly effective treatment approach, which involves casting, minimal surgery to the Achilles tendon, and bracing. This method has revolutionized clubfoot management, offering an optimistic prognosis for affected children. With early intervention and consistent adherence to the Ponseti method, children with clubfoot can anticipate restored foot function. They can become active in sports and wear regular shoes. For parents confronted with the diagnosis of clubfoot in their child, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can suggest treatment options. 

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Kimberly Woodard, DPM of Pinnacle Foot and Ankle Centers, LLC . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

  • Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
  • Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
  • Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
  • Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
  • Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
  • Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 02 April 2024 00:00

Symptoms of Foot and Ankle Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease caused by the breakdown of cartilage in the joints. It commonly affects the foot and ankle, causing significant discomfort and mobility issues. Symptoms of foot and ankle osteoarthritis often include pain, stiffness, swelling, and limited range of motion. These symptoms may worsen over time. Contributing factors to the development of osteoarthritis consist of joint wear and tear, previous sprains or fractures, and abnormal foot structure. If you are experiencing persistent foot pain or discomfort, seeking help from a podiatrist is essential. This foot doctor can conduct a thorough evaluation, including a review of your medical history, physical examination, and possibly imaging studies like X-rays or MRI scans to accurately diagnose foot and ankle osteoarthritis. If you have developed osteoarthritis in the feet or ankles, it is suggested that you meet with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Kimberly Woodard, DPM from Pinnacle Foot and Ankle Centers, LLC . Our doctor 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 office located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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