Stepping on a nail can lead to serious complications if not treated properly. When a nail punctures the foot, it creates a small but deep wound, allowing bacteria to enter and potentially cause infections like cellulitis, abscesses, or even bone infections. Tetanus, a rare but life-threatening condition, is also a risk if vaccinations are not current. Immediately after the injury, clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water, apply an antiseptic, and cover it with a sterile bandage. Avoid walking on the injured foot to prevent further damage. Seek medical attention even if the wound seems minor. A podiatrist can assess the depth of the injury, remove debris, prescribe antibiotics if needed, and recommend a tetanus booster. If you have a nail puncture wound, it is strongly suggested that you see a podiatrist for proper care.
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.
Buddy taping is a method commonly used to treat minor toe injuries, such as sprains or fractures. This technique involves taping the injured toe to its neighboring toe to provide stability and prevent further movement. The tape helps protect the injured toe while promoting healing by keeping it aligned with the uninjured toe. Symptoms of toe injuries include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the toe. The injury may result from stubbing the toe, dropping something heavy on it, or sports-related accidents. A podiatrist can assess the severity of the injury and determine if buddy taping is appropriate. They will ensure the tape is applied correctly. If the injury is more severe, a podiatrist may suggest a splint or more advanced treatment. If you are dealing with this issue, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.
Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is a Broken Toe?
A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
Swelling
Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
Stiffness
Nail Injury
Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.
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.
Have your feet inspected by a professional before starting a new sport or physical activity. Taking charge of your foot health will keep you in good physical condition and can help you avoid a potential injury, such as a fracture or sprained ankle.
A corn is a thickened, hardened area of skin that forms on the foot due to pressure or friction. If left untreated, a corn can become painful, inflamed, and prone to infection. The symptoms of an untreated corn typically include tenderness, redness, and swelling surrounding the affected area. Over time, corns may become larger making it difficult to wear shoes comfortably. The main causes of corns include wearing ill-fitting shoes that do not provide enough support, excessive pressure from walking or standing, and abnormal foot mechanics like a misalignment of the toes. Untreated corns can lead to complications such as infections, especially if the skin becomes cracked. Corns can be painful. If you have developed a corn, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer appropriate relief and treatment methods.
Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them? Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.
Ways to Prevent Corns There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:
Well-fitting socks
Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
Shoes that offer support
Treating Corns Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctors to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
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 and ankle needs.
