Items filtered by date: June 2025

Proper foot care is vital for individuals living with diabetes, as high blood sugar levels can lead to poor circulation and nerve damage. These issues increase the risk of infections, ulcers, and serious complications. Daily inspection of the feet, gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and wearing protective footwear can help prevent injury. Even small cuts or blisters should be taken seriously. A podiatrist plays a key role by providing routine exams, treating wounds, managing infections, and addressing foot structure problems. Regular visits can prevent complications and support overall foot health. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist to ensure your feet receive the attention they need for long-term safety and wellness.

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.

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn, usually from a sudden twist or fall. Sprains are categorized into grades based on severity, ranging from mild stretching to complete tears. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and limited movement. Aftercare involves rest, compression, elevation, and gradual return to activity. A podiatrist plays a key role in recovery by assessing the injury, providing treatment to reduce inflammation, and guiding rehabilitation exercises to restore strength and stability.  If you have suffered an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to ensure proper healing and support for long-term foot and ankle health.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Kimberly Woodard, DPM from Pinnacle Foot and Ankle Centers, LLC . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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.

Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults and often result from a combination of factors, including poor balance, muscle weakness, vision problems, and foot pain or deformities. Foot issues like bunions, arthritis, or neuropathy can  also affect stability and lead to unsteady walking. Wearing ill-fitting shoes and having an uneven gait can further increase fall risk. Many seniors may feel unsteady or experience a fear of falling, which can lead to reduced physical activity and increased muscle weakening. Symptoms associated with balance problems include dizziness, instability, or difficulty rising from a seated position. A podiatrist can assess fall risk by examining your feet, gait, and footwear. They may recommend custom orthotics, targeted exercises, fall prevention strategies, and appropriate shoes to improve stability. In some cases, treatment of foot pain or correction of deformities can significantly reduce fall risk. If you are at risk for falling, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Kimberly Woodard, DPM from Pinnacle Foot and Ankle Centers, LLC . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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.

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