Tuesday, 05 November 2024 00:00

Foot wounds in diabetics often take longer to heal due to several interconnected factors. Elevated blood sugar levels can impair circulation, reducing blood flow to the extremities and hindering the delivery of essential nutrients and oxygen required for healing. Additionally, diabetes can damage nerves, leading to reduced sensation in the feet, which may cause injuries to go unnoticed and untreated. Furthermore, weakened immune responses in diabetic patients can increase the risk of infections, complicating the healing process. The combination of these factors creates a challenging environment for wound recovery, making it essential for diabetics to monitor their foot health closely. Regular check-ups from a podiatrist and proactive care can significantly reduce the risk of complications. If you have diabetes and have developed a foot wound, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of this type of doctor who can help you to manage this condition.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, 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 Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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.

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Tuesday, 29 October 2024 00:00

Swollen feet in elderly people can arise from several serious health conditions, including kidney or liver diseases, venous insufficiency, and congestive heart failure. These conditions often disrupt the body's ability to manage fluid balance, leading to swelling in the extremities. When blood flow is compromised due to venous insufficiency, fluid may accumulate in the feet and ankles, causing discomfort and limiting mobility. Reduced mobility can create a dangerous cycle, increasing the risk of falls and injuries. Seniors may find it challenging to navigate their surroundings, furthering possible health issues. Timely identification and management of the underlying causes of swelling are critical. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist can ensure appropriate interventions, ultimately enhancing mobility and minimizing fall risks. If you are a senior or are taking care of one, it is suggested that you consult this type of doctor to schedule regular appointments to monitor foot health.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, 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.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

  • Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
  • Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
  • Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
  • Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
  • Shoes that don’t fit properly
  • Pressure sores
  • Loss of circulation in legs & feet
  • Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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.

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Thursday, 24 October 2024 00:00

Custom orthotics are often recommended when pain or fatigue in the foot, bones, joints, ligaments, or tendons interferes with daily activities. These devices that fit into the shoe are tailored to address specific issues, providing targeted support that off-the-shelf solutions often cannot achieve. The need for custom orthotics arises in various situations, such as when foot mechanics are abnormal, leading to conditions like plantar fasciitis, flat feet, or overpronation. Orthotics can also help when pain extends to other parts of the body, such as the knees, hips, or lower back, as a result of improper foot alignment. There are different types of custom orthotics, including soft, semi-rigid, accommodative, and rigid, each designed to meet specific needs. Choosing the appropriate orthotic is key to effectively relieving pain and restoring function. If you are suffering with discomfort in your feet, ankles, or other related body parts, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can determine which type of orthotic is right for you based on your symptoms and the underlying cause of your discomfort.

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.

Read more about Investing in Custom Orthotics Means Investing in Foot Health
Tuesday, 22 October 2024 00:00

Sesamoiditis is an inflammation of the sesamoid bones, which are small bones embedded within the tendons of the big toe. This condition typically arises due to repetitive stress or overuse, often experienced by athletes or individuals who engage in activities that involve pushing off the toes, such as running or ballet. Common symptoms include pain in the ball of the foot, swelling, and tenderness, particularly during movement or when pressure is applied. Affected individuals may also experience difficulty bearing weight or limited range of motion in the big toe. Factors contributing to sesamoiditis include wearing improper footwear, high-impact sports, and foot deformities like high arches or flat feet. Sesamoiditis can cause pain and discomfort, and it may become difficult to complete daily activities. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you appropriate treatment solutions.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact one of our podiatrists of BayCity Associates in Podiatry . Our doctors 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 offices located in Erie, PA and Meadville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Sesamoiditis
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