Caring for the Feet When Dealing With Diabetes

Diabetic foot care focuses on protecting the feet from complications caused by long-term diabetes, which can damage nerves and reduce circulation. These changes are often caused by prolonged elevated blood sugar levels that affect blood vessels and sensation. Symptoms include numbness, burning pain, slow healing sores, or frequent infections. The feet may look dry, cracked, or discolored, and they may feel painful in some areas while feeling very little in others. A podiatrist plays an important role by starting with a thorough examination to evaluate skin health, circulation, nerve response, and foot structure. Diagnostic testing may be used to identify risks early. Treatment often begins with preventive care, such as regular monitoring, nail and skin care, and footwear guidance, then moves into wound care and infection management. Consistent podiatric care helps reduce the risk of ulcers and serious complications. If you have diabetic foot care needs, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

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 one of our doctors from Hamilton Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors 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 Brooklyn, New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Diabetic Foot Conditions

Risk Factors for Blisters on the Feet

Blisters on the feet develop when repeated friction, pressure, or moisture damages the outer layers of skin. Common risk factors include poorly fitting shoes, stiff seams, increased walking or running volume, and sudden changes in activity. Excess moisture from sweating can soften skin, making it vulnerable to breakdown, while dry skin may crack and shear. Foot shape concerns like bunions, hammertoes, or prominent bones can increase pressure points, and gait issues can cause uneven rubbing in specific areas. Medical factors also play a role, including diabetes, circulation concerns, and reduced sensation, which can allow skin damage to progress unnoticed. A podiatrist can evaluate footwear fit, foot structure, and walking mechanics, address underlying deformities, and manage skin health. For help dealing with foot blisters, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our doctors of Hamilton Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

  • Bubble of skin filled with fluid
  • Redness
  • Moderate to severe pain
  • Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Brooklyn, New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Treatment Options for Heel Pain

Heel pain can interfere with walking, standing, and daily activities. One of the most common causes of heel pain is strain on the thick band of tissue under the heel, termed the plantar fascia. Among other causes are inflammation near the heel bone, nerve irritation, or structur

al issues that affect how the foot absorbs pressure. A podiatrist performs a detailed exam, reviews activity history, and may use imaging to identify the source of heel pain. Treatment options include custom orthotics to reduce strain, guided stretching programs, activity modification, and medical procedures for persistent symptoms. Addressing alignment or gait problems can reduce repeated stress on the heel and surrounding tissues. Surgery may be discussed when other options do not provide lasting relief. If you experience heel pain that will not go away, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our doctors of Hamilton Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

  • Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
  • Wearing non-supportive shoes
  • Weight change           
  • Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Brooklyn, New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Heel Pain
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