Diabetic feet, a manifestation of diabetes-related complications, exhibit distinctive symptoms that demand attention and care. One prevalent sign is peripheral neuropathy, causing tingling or numbness in the feet due to nerve damage. Loss of sensation may lead to difficulty detecting injuries or changes in temperature. Skin changes, such as dryness, cracking, or peeling, are common, while slow healing wounds and ulcers may develop, posing a risk of infection. Changes in foot shape or deformities, including hammertoes, can arise as a result of altered biomechanics. Poor circulation in diabetic individuals may lead to cold feet, color changes, and a weakened pulse. Recognizing these symptoms is vital, as diabetic feet require meticulous care to prevent complications like infections and amputations. Regular foot examinations, proper hygiene, wearing well-fitting footwear, and blood sugar control are paramount for preserving foot health in individuals with diabetes. If you have diabetes, 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 David A. Edmonds, DPM from Advanced Podiatry Associates. 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 offices located in Northampton and Allentown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Morton’s neuroma is a painful and often underestimated condition that affects the ball of the foot, specifically targeting the web space between the third and fourth toes. More prevalent in middle-aged women, this condition can be debilitating, impacting one's daily activities. The discomfort of Morton’s neuroma may start as a subtle ache after walking, standing, or engaging in impact activities, but eventually it becomes more consistent and intense. Morton’s neuroma primarily targets the interdigital nerve, leading to swelling and thickening of the fibrous tissue surrounding the nerve. This compression can result in numbness or a pins and needles sensation in the forefoot. As it progresses, the pain may extend beyond the web space and radiate into the metatarsals. Patients often describe feeling as if there is a pebble or stone in their shoe. This unique sensation is a result of increased swelling and fibrotic thickening around the neuroma, causing an enlargement of the affected area. If you suspect you are experiencing symptoms of Morton's neuroma, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a thorough evaluation and a personalized treatment plan.
Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact David A. Edmonds, DPM of Advanced Podiatry Associates. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.
What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?
Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities
Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Northampton and Allentown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Heel spurs, bony outgrowths that form on the underside of the heel bone, can cause persistent heel pain and discomfort. While non-surgical treatments are often the first line of defense, heel spur surgery may become a consideration when conservative methods fail to provide relief. Heel spur surgery typically involves removing the spur or releasing the plantar fascia, the tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. It is important to note that heel spurs themselves may not always be the sole source of pain. Often it is the associated inflammation and damage to the surrounding tissues that cause discomfort. Surgery is typically considered a last resort, reserved for cases where other treatments have proven ineffective. It is vital for individuals to have a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional to determine the cause of their heel pain and whether surgery is the best course of action. If you have developed a heel spur, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if surgery is a correct treatment option for you.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact David A. Edmonds, DPM of Advanced Podiatry Associates. Our doctor 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 Northampton and Allentown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
