Items filtered by date: August 2024

Treating a diabetic foot wound requires careful medical attention to prevent complications and promote healing. A podiatrist starts by cleaning the wound gently with mild soap and water to remove any debris. An antibiotic ointment can then be applied to prevent infection and covered with a sterile bandage. It is important to regularly inspect the wound for signs of infection, such as increased redness or swelling. Managing blood sugar levels is essential, as high glucose can hinder the healing process. Additionally, protect the wound from pressure and friction by using appropriate footwear. Elevating the foot and keeping it dry can also aid in healing. If the wound shows signs of infection or does not improve, seek medical attention promptly from a podiatrist. 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 treat the wound, and 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 Foot and Ankle Center. 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 office located in Egg Harbor Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot pain and swelling can result from various factors, ranging from temporary to serious. Non-serious causes can include prolonged standing, overuse, wearing poorly fitting shoes, or minor injuries. Such pain can resolve with rest, elevation, and proper footwear. However, more serious causes demand attention. Conditions like arthritis, tendonitis, and plantar fasciitis cause persistent pain and swelling, requiring podiatric intervention. Infections, blood clots, or fractures also necessitate prompt evaluation. If foot pain and swelling persist beyond a few days, worsen, or are accompanied by other symptoms such as redness, warmth, or fever, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

One common cause of foot pain is Morton’s neuroma, a thickening of the nerve tissue between the toes. This condition usually affects the space between the third and fourth toes, causing symptoms such as burning pain, tingling, numbness, and a strange sensation like walking on a pebble. Pain is often worsened by wearing shoes that are too tight or have high heels. Morton’s neuroma can be diagnosed through medical history and physical examination. In some cases, imaging studies may be needed to rule out other causes of foot pain. Treatment often includes resting the foot, wearing orthotics, and taking medications to reduce pain. In many cases, surgical intervention is needed. If you have symptoms of Morton’s neuroma, it is suggested you make an appointment with a podiatrist for care and treatment options.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors 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 office located in Egg Harbor Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Achilles tendonitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the largest tendon in the body, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon often results from repetitive stress and overuse. It is particularly common in athletes or individuals who engage in activities involving intense running, jumping, or abrupt movements. Symptoms typically include pain and stiffness along the tendon, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity, and swelling or tenderness. To manage Achilles tendinitis, it is important to reduce activities that cause or increase the pain. Resting and taking anti-inflammatory medications can help alleviate symptoms. Stretching and strengthening exercises for the calf muscles are also beneficial in promoting flexibility and support. Wearing supportive footwear or orthotics can provide additional relief by reducing strain on the Achilles tendon. If you have this condition and it persists or worsens, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Egg Harbor Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.