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Diabetic Foot Ulcer Management
Diabetic foot ulcers are a serious concern for people with diabetes, as they can lead to severe complications. These ulcers form due to a combination of poor circulation, nerve damage, and impaired wound-healing capabilities, all common in diabetics. To lower the risk of complications, it's important to manage blood sugar levels diligently, as high glucose can further impair healing. Regular inspections of the feet for any cuts, bruises, or changes are essential to catch problems early. Making regular appointments with a podiatrist, or foot doctor, can help with this process. Wearing properly fitting shoes and avoiding walking barefoot can also prevent injuries. If an ulcer does develop, it is important to seek immediate medical attention to treat the wound and any infections. Maintaining cleanliness, applying appropriate dressings, and possibly using antibiotics are typical steps in managing foot ulcers. If you are diabetic and at risk for developing foot ulcers, it is suggested that you add a podiatrist to your care team.
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 Genine Befumo, DPM from University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. 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 Monroe Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Foot Care Tips for Preventing Cracked Heels
Cracked heels can be both painful and unsightly, but with proper foot care they are largely preventable. Begin by keeping your feet clean and moisturized. Regularly washing your feet with mild soap and drying them thoroughly helps prevent bacterial and fungal infections that can worsen heel cracks. Moisturize your feet daily, focusing on the heels, with a rich foot cream or moisturizer containing ingredients like urea or glycerin to hydrate and soften the skin. Exfoliating your heels weekly with a pumice stone or foot scrub helps remove dead skin cells and prevents the buildup of thick, dry patches. Wear properly fitting shoes with adequate support to reduce friction and pressure on the heels, and avoid walking barefoot, especially on hard surfaces. Finally, stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to promote overall skin health. Cracked heels can be an uncomfortable foot condition, and if you have developed this ailment, it is suggested that you seek the help of a podiatrist. This type of doctor can effectively treat cracked heels and offer additional prevention techniques.
If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Genine Befumo, DPM from University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Cracked Heels
It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.
Ways to Help Heal Them
- Invest in a good foot cream
- Try Using Petroleum Jelly
- Ease up on Soaps
- Drink Plenty of Water
Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels
- Moisturize After Showering
- Skip a Shower
- Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
- Don’t Scrub Your Feet
If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Monroe Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Causes of Foot Pain at Night
Foot pain at night can disrupt your sleep and affect your overall quality of life, leaving you restless and uncomfortable. Understanding the underlying causes is crucial for finding relief and improving your well-being. One common culprit is plantar fasciitis, characterized by inflammation of the tissue connecting the heel to the toes. This condition often leads to sharp, stabbing pain in the heel or arch, particularly when getting out of bed in the morning or after long periods of rest. Another potential cause is neuropathy, a nerve disorder that can result from conditions like diabetes or vitamin deficiencies. Neuropathic pain may present as burning, tingling, or shooting sensations in the feet, worsening at night when lying down. Additionally, arthritis, stress fractures, and overuse injuries can contribute to nocturnal foot pain. Identifying the specific cause through proper diagnosis by a healthcare professional is essential for implementing targeted treatment strategies and finding relief from nighttime foot discomfort. If you have foot pain at night, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for care.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Genine Befumo, DPM from University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctor 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 Monroe Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Exploring Gout in the Elderly
Gout, a form of arthritis, presents unique challenges for elderly individuals, necessitating a deeper understanding of its intricacies. Characterized by sudden and severe joint pain, typically in the big toe, gout occurs due to the accumulation of urate crystals in the joints. While gout can affect anyone, its prevalence increases with age, making it a prevalent concern among the elderly population. Various factors contribute to gout development in older adults, including age-related changes in metabolism, chronic health conditions like hypertension and kidney disease, and certain medications commonly prescribed to manage age-related ailments. Dietary habits, particularly rich diets high in purine-containing foods like red meat and seafood, also play a significant role in gout onset and exacerbation. Proper management of gout in the elderly involves a varied approach, encompassing lifestyle modifications, medication adherence, and close monitoring to alleviate symptoms. If you are an elderly person who has had one or more gout attacks, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Genine Befumo, DPM from University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.
Symptoms
- Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
- Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
- Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
- Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility
Risk Factors
- Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
- Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
- Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
- Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
- Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
- Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout
Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Monroe Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
Distinguishing Between High and Low Ankle Sprains
Understanding the variance between high and low ankle sprains is vital for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Low ankle sprains, commonly known as lateral ankle sprains, affect the ligaments on the outside of the ankle and are prevalent in sudden twists or rolls of the foot. Conversely, high ankle sprains, medically termed syndesmotic sprains, occur when the ligaments connecting the tibia and fibula bones above the ankle joint are stretched or torn. While both injuries cause pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight, high ankle sprains typically involve pain above the ankle and are associated with a longer recovery period. Moreover, high ankle sprains often result from more forceful rotational movements, such as those seen in sports like football or skiing. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can determine what type of sprain it is, and offer appropriate treatment solutions.
Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Genine Befumo, DPM from University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.
What Are the Symptoms?
- Mild to moderate bruising
- Limited mobility
- Swelling
- Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)
Preventing a Sprain
- Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
- Stretching before exercises and sports
- Knowing your limits
Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.
If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Monroe Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
The Impact of Obesity on Children's Feet
Childhood obesity is a pressing concern affecting millions worldwide, with repercussions extending beyond physical health. Among the many adverse effects, the impact on children's feet is often overlooked but significant. Excessive weight places immense pressure on the feet, leading to a range of orthopedic issues. Flat feet, for instance, are common among obese children, as the arches may collapse under the body's weight. This not only causes discomfort but also affects mobility and posture. Furthermore, obesity increases the risk of developing conditions like plantar fasciitis, where the tissue connecting the heel to the toes becomes inflamed due to strain. Over time, untreated foot problems can escalate, hindering a child's ability to engage in physical activities and leading to long-term health complications. Addressing childhood obesity is essential not only for overall health but also for preventing foot-related issues that can impact a child's quality of life. If your child has excess weight and has developed foot conditions, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.
Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Genine Befumo, DPM from University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Obesity and Your Feet
Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.
Problems & Complications
Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.
Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.
Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Monroe Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Minimally Invasive Foot Surgery for Bunions
Minimally invasive foot surgery, known as MIS, involves performing surgical procedures with smaller incisions and specialized instruments, often utilizing advanced imaging technology for precision. This approach reduces tissue damage, postoperative pain, and recovery time compared to traditional open surgery. For bunions, MIS techniques focus on correcting the bony deformity at the base of the big toe with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues. Podiatric surgeons may use small incisions to access and realign the bones, remove excess bone or tissue, and stabilize the joint with screws or other fixation devices. MIS for bunions offers several advantages over open surgery, including faster recovery, reduced risk of complications like infection and scarring, and less postoperative pain. It is particularly suitable for mild to moderate bunions with minimal joint involvement and flexible deformities. However, severe bunions or those requiring extensive bone correction may still require traditional open surgery for optimal outcomes. If you have discomfort from a bunion, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss whether surgery might be a good option for you.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Genine Befumo, DPM of University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. 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 office located in Monroe Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Offloading Practice for Foot Wounds
Offloading practice for foot wounds refers to alleviating pressure and stress on injured or ulcerated areas of the foot. Offloading involves the strategic redistribution of weight to prevent further damage and promote healing. This method is particularly critical for individuals with diabetes or other conditions that affect circulation and reduce sensation in the feet. The essence of offloading lies in its ability to relieve pressure from vulnerable areas, allowing tissues to recover and regenerate without constant irritation or trauma. Offloading practice uses specialized footwear, orthotics, or other assistive devices to encourage healing and helps prevent wounds from getting worse. Additionally, it emphasizes the need for close collaboration between patients, caregivers, and podiatrists to optimize treatment outcomes. If you have diabetes and have a foot wound that has become ulcerated, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist 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 Genine Befumo, DPM from University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctor 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 Monroe Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Arthritis Can Cause Pain in the Feet and Ankles
If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.
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